foreign travel advice mauritius

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . 

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• disabled people  
• LGBT+ people  

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated. 

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Mauritius - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Mauritius.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mauritius.

 If you decide to travel to Mauritius: 

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Mauritius.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Duration of stay

No, tourist visa is granted upon arrival

Yellow fever, if traveling from a country with endemic yellow fever

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy port louis.

4th Floor, Rogers House John Kennedy Street Port Louis, Mauritius Telephone: +(230) 202-4400  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(230) 202-4400, press one (1) after the automated greeting Fax: +(230) 208-9534 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for Entry:

• Valid passport with at least one blank page
• Evidence of onward/return travel
• Proof of sufficient funds

No visa is required. On arrival, your passport will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days. 

Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Mauritius website or the nearest Mauritius Embassy or Consulate for further information. 

Customs: 

It is prohibited to bring into Mauritius:

• Drugs, including cannabis and cannabis oil, and drug paraphernalia
• Spear fishing equipment
• Plants and fruits
• Pepper spray, mace, and similar substances

There is a minimum one-month mandatory quarantine for domesticated animals, depending on the country of origin. 

Contact the Embassy of the Republic of Mauritius  for specific information regarding customs requirements. 

Visitors with HIV/AIDS seeking residency or work permits face restrictions. Please verify this information with the Embassy of the Republic of Mauritius before you travel.

Passport and Immigration Office of Mauritius is recommending that any person entering Mauritius/Rodrigues by an international flight/ship should fill in the online " Mauritius All-in-One Travel Digital Form " at most 72 hours prior to undertaking the travel to Mauritius.

The "Mauritius All-in-One Travel Digital Form" is available here .

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites. 

Special Note:  Overseas departments and territories of France (e.g., French Reunion) are not included in the Schengen Agreement. See the Embassy of France  website for further information. 

Safety and Security

Precautions:

• Keep valuables locked in a hotel room safe.
• Be aware of surroundings, especially at night.
• Avoid demonstrations. Even events intended to be peaceful can turn violent.
• Maintain caution at public gatherings and areas frequented by foreigners.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media, and  the Embassy’s Facebook  page and  Website .

Crime: Most criminal activity directed against foreigners is non-violent. Non-violent crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and petty thefts, occur in crowded outdoor shopping areas, including areas that cater to the robust tourist industry, and have occurred near ATMs. Tourists should be alert for petty scams by street vendors and inflated “tourist prices” in markets. Women walking by themselves may be at greater risk for verbal harassment and criminal targeting. Individual violent crimes (serious assaults, murder, rape) are known to occur.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams. 

Victims of Crime:

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the police, followed by the hospital and/or the U.S. Embassy.

Report crimes to the local police by dialing 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +230-202-4400. After hours life and death emergencies: +(230) 202-4400, press one (1) after the automated greeting.

Tourist Police telephone: +230-212-7979. 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport 

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.  Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available on the main island of Mauritius.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. Visitors to Rodrigues or other islands may require evacuation to the main island of Mauritius for urgent care.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs result in prison sentences up to 35 years and heavy fines. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad   and the  Department of Justice  website. 

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information. 

Beach wear: Nudism is not permitted. Topless sunbathing is acceptable on certain beaches.

Phone Service: Cellular phones are widely used on the main islands, though there are coverage gaps in some remote areas. Local SIM cards can be purchased to use with a compatible cell phone. 

Currency: The Mauritian Rupee (MUR) is the official currency. U.S. dollars and euros are also accepted at major tourist hotels or shops. ATMs are available at the international airport and around the major tourist destinations, and malls, but only dispense Mauritian Rupees. Credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in all resorts and generally in urban areas and locations commonly visited by tourists.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details: 

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: While the law does not specifically criminalize consensual same-sex sexual activity, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals may face societal discrimination, harassment, and abuse by families, neighbors, and police. Sodomy is a criminal offense among both same-sex and heterosexual couples, with penalties up to five years’ imprisonment. 

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section six of our  Human Rights report  for further details. 

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Access to transportation, lodging, and public buildings is limited. There are few sidewalks and most buildings lack functioning elevators. 

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips . 

Women Travelers:  See our tips for  Women Travelers . 

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. All care providers expect payment in Mauritian Rupees.

Consult the CDC website for Mauritius prior to travel. 

Medical attention is adequate at major hospitals and private clinics. Emergency ambulance service is available, but of variable quality and speed. 

Recommendations:

• Carry prescription medication in original packaging.
• Verify with the Embassy of the Republic of Mauritius  that your medications are legal before traveling. Drugs such as tranquillizers, hypnotics, narcotics and strong pain killers require prior authorization. 
• Check details with the Mauritius Ministry of Health   

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Hepatitis A
• Typhoid 

Please note that passengers may be quarantined during seasonal plague outbreaks IF travelling from plague-infected countries.

HIV/AIDS: HIV/AIDS prevalence is increasing among the population, especially tied to intravenous drug use.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Yellow fever  vaccination is required for entry if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

See the list of Health Care Providers  on the Embassy Port Louis web page. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Most roads are narrow and uneven, lack guardrails, and are bordered by deep ditches. Night driving is hazardous, particularly on country roads, due to inadequate street lighting, narrow roads, and cyclists riding without lights.

Traffic Laws: A valid U.S. driver’s license is required. For more information, contact the Mauritius Police Force Traffic Branch at +230-211-8434, +230-208-6077 or via email at [email protected] . Drive on the left side of the road. Drivers and all passengers must wear seat belts. Drivers and passengers on motorcycles are required to wear helmets. Babies and toddlers must be placed in child seats. It is illegal to use your phone and drive. Mauritian authorities implemented a zero tolerance drinking and driving law in 2018; anyone planning to drink while out should make alternate arrangements.

Accidents: When no injury has occurred, motorists may exchange information and report details to the authorities. Foreigners should remain at the scene and request the assistance of local law enforcement.

Public Transportation:

Buses: Public and private buses run between main towns between 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. and in

remote areas until 6:00 p.m.

Taxis: Book taxis in advance if traveling at night. Uber is not available in Mauritius.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Mauritius, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Mauritius’ Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .     

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Mauritius should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Security Communications with Industry webpage. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Mauritius . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, mauritius map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

COVID TRAVEL ADVICE AS FROM 1ST OCTOBER 2021

• by Tes Maccmilan
• October 7, 2021

– VACCINATION QUESTIONS –

Who will be allowed entry to mauritius and do i need to be fully vaccinated.

Mauritius is open to all countries, subject to our entry requirements. Passengers must be fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine recognised by the Mauritian authorities to be able to freely explore the island If you are unvaccinated, you may travel to Mauritius but must book a 14-night in-room quarantine stay. All passengers will need to fill out health forms before or during your flight to Mauritius. You will need to hand these completed forms to immigration and health officials on arrival at Mauritius airport.

What does fully vaccinated mean?

Travellers must be fully vaccinated to enter the country without quarantine. They must meet one of the following conditions:

• have an official documentation proving that you have already had COVID-19 and have had a post-infection vaccination 14 days prior to travel (28 days for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine);
• have received a single dose of Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine at least 28 days before travel;
• be a minor aged under 18 years old who is currently exempted from vaccination and travels with his/her family.

If I am vaccinated do I need a PCR test to enter Mauritius?

To enter Mauritius, all travellers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.

If you are staying at a hotel there will be no PCR testing at the airport. Antigen tests will be carried out at the hotel on arrival (day 0) and on day 5. These will be chargeable, subject to your hotel policy.

If you are staying at any other accommodation such as a villa, guesthouse or AirB&B, or returning home you will need to take a free PCR test at the airport on arrival in Mauritius.

Can I travel to Mauritius unvaccinated?

To enter Mauritius, unvaccinated guests must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.

You must book a 14-night quarantine stay in an official quarantine hotel, including meals and transfers. You will be required to stay in your hotel room for 14 nights and meals will be delivered to your room. You will have a PCR test on arrival, day 7 and day 14. The cost for all three PCR tests will be Rs12,000. After a negative PCR test on day 14, you can freely explore the island and move to new accommodation or go home.

What vaccines have been approved?

The National COVID-19 Vaccination Committee in Mauritius has approved the following vaccines for those wanting to enter Mauritius:

AstraZeneca: Covishield AstraZeneca: Vaxzevria Covaxin Johnson & Johnson Moderna Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine Sinopharm Sputnik Sinovac- CoronaVac

Will a digital vaccine passport be available?

For the moment, a vaccine card is valid. The Mauritian government is working on a digital version.

If I’ve had COVID-19 and recovered, do I need to be fully vaccinated to travel to Mauritius?

You need to have an official documentation proving that you have already had COVID-19 and have had a post-infection vaccination 14 days prior to travel (28 days for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine).

Will hotel staff be vaccinated?

All hotel staff, as well as their immediate family, have been vaccinated

– COVID-19 TESTING QUESTIONS –

Will i need a pcr test at the airport.

If you are staying at other accommodation on the island or returning to your home you will be required to take a PCR test on arrival at the airport (day 0). This will be free of charge for all vaccinated guests. A self-administered antigen test will also be required on day 5 of your stay.

To enter Mauritius, you must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.

Will I have to undergo COVID testing during my holiday?

If you are staying at a hotel, antigen tests will be carried out at the hotel on arrival (day 0) and on day 5. These will be chargeable, subject to your hotel policy.

If you are staying at other accommodation on the island, or returning to your home, you will be required to take a PCR test on arrival at the airport (day 0). This will be free of charge for all vaccinated guests. A self-administered antigen test will also be required on day 5 of your stay.

If I need a PCR test, how much will it cost?

Vaccinated travellers staying in accommodation other than a hotel will not have to pay for their PCR test at the airport.

Unvaccinated travellers staying in quarantine hotels will have three tests: on arrival (day 0) , day 7 and day 14 of your quarantine hotel stay. It will cost Rs 12,000 for all three tests

If you need to depart Mauritius early and require an additional test, this will be at an extra cost between Rs 2500 – 3500.

Guests who must take a PCR test during their stay to be able to travel will have to bear the costs incurred.

– TESTING POSITIVE WHILE STAYING IN A MAURITIUS HOTEL –

What if i test positive for covid-19 during my hotel stay.

Positive Antigen test

Any guest who has tested positive via an antigen test will be asked to stay in isolation in a designated room until a PCR test is carried out by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the result is obtained. Quarantine-type room service must be provided during the waiting period.

Guests with a negative PCR test result may return to their room and be considered COVID-19 negative.

Positive PCR test

If the PCR test result is positive, the client must be transferred to the area of the hotel used for COVID-19 positive cases. The Ministry of Health and Wellness, under the responsibility of the RPHS, must be notified and will check whether the guest does not face any medical risk. If such is the case, the person in question must stay in isolation for 10 days without their family if he/she is asymptomatic.

If after the initial 3-day period, the person tested positive for COVID-19 is symptomatic, 3 more days must be added to the self-isolation period after the symptoms have disappeared.

If the COVID-19 positive person shows worrying clinical symptoms or has demonstrated a significant risk of developing a severe case on medical examination, he/she must be hospitalised in the public or private healthcare facility of his/her choice.

Relatives accompanying a positive guest will have to self-isolate for 7 days in the separate designated part of the hotel, according to the quarantine protocols. They will have to undergo a PCR test after 7-day period. If the test result is negative, they will be allowed to move freely around the hotel.

What if I test positive and require hospitalisation?

If a person tests positive during his/her stay, the infected person must self-isolate for at least 10 days in a room in the specific, geographically separated part of the hotel designated for this purpose, without leaving for any reason.

However, hospitalisation will be imperative if required, following the assessment of the person’s medical condition by the Ministry of Health personnel for all SARS-CoV-2 infected patients.

Such a person may be admitted to a treatment centre, public hospital or a private clinic depending on his/her medical condition.

Repatriation is possible but will be determined by the guest’s insurance and airline regulations.

What if someone in my group tests positive?

Relatives of the infected person will undergo self-isolation in a separate part of the hotel. They must not leave their room for at least 7 days after their last contact with the COVID-19 positive person, with a systematic PCR test on day 7.

COVID-19 positive cases must self-isolate in a different room from their accompanying persons.

– INSURANCE QUESTIONS –

Do i need insurance to travel to mauritius.

Travellers must take out a mandatory health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment. Mauritian citizens, resident permit holders and occupational permit holders are exempted.

– CHILDREN AND FAMILIES –

Will children need to do covid testing.

Regardless of the airline, travellers including children and infants must undergo a PCR test 72 hours prior to their departure for Mauritius. An oropharyngeal swab can be collected for children up to 6 years of age. A negative PCR test result is required to be allowed to travel.

Do children need to be vaccinated?

Children under 18 years old are exempted from vaccination. Children over 5 years old must wear masks in the mandatory areas.

Will kids’ and teens’ clubs and babysitting services be available?

Access will be allowed to the kids/teens’ club in compliance with sanitary protocols, with mandatory closing time during the day for full disinfection and compulsory pre-registration.

The number of children will be limited at all times (with a defined maximum number of children per staff member) with a preference for outdoor activities.

Babysitting service is allowed, provided that the babysitter and his/her immediate family members living in the same household have received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days beforehand (28 days if a Johnson & Johnson vaccine).

 – GUEST EXPERIENCE INSIDE THE HOTEL –

How will guests get from the airport to their accommodation.

Passengers will be taken to their hotels by a DMC, a taxi or other means of transportation. Our approved DMCs will run separate transfers for both hotel guests and those staying in a quarantine hotel.

Will guests need to wear a mask?

Yes. Guests will need to wear a mask while moving around the hotel. You won’t have to wear one while relaxing around the pool or on the beach, while seated at the restaurant or bar.

Will dining be affected during my holiday?

Buffets and á la carte meals will be available. Physical distancing measures will be put in place and guests must wear a mask if moving around the restaurant.

Will the spa, golf courses and activities such as watersports be available?

Hotel spas (excluding the hammam and saunas) and in-room treatments are available. The hotel’s fitness room can be accessed in compliance with sanitary protocols, with disinfection after each guest’s visit. The majority of activities, including kitesurfing, scuba diving and windsurfing, will be allowed, subject to sanitary protocols. Golf access will be allowed. The use of golf carts is permitted. Nightclubs are not allowed to operate.

 –  GROUP ACTIVITIES AND FUNCTIONS –

Can i travel in a group or get married.

Group activities will be limited to 100 people. You can get married on the island.

– GUEST EXPERIENCE OUTSIDE OF THE HOTEL –

Can guests explore the island during their holiday.

From 1 October onwards, vaccinated travellers can freely explore the island throughout their stay. Local sanitary protocols must always be followed.

What happens if I arrive just before 1 October 2021?

If you arrive in September, you must abide by the hotel holiday protocols until midnight on the last day of the month. If you would like to explore the island during September, you must stay for seven nights and undergo a PCR test on day 7 within your hotel. If this test is negative, you can move to new accommodation and freely explore the island. From 1 October onwards, you can freely explore the island.

– GENERAL PROTOCOLS ON THE ISLAND –

What are the sanitary protocols when exploring the island.

All travellers must adhere to the local sanitary protocols when exploring the island. These include wearing of face masks, hand sanitising and social distancing.

– TESTING FOR COVID-19 IN MAURITIUS WHILE STAYING IN OTHER ACCOMMODATIONS –

What is the definition of ‘other accommodation’.

‘Other accommodation’ refers to places to stay other than a hotel. This could be a self-catered villa, AirBnB, B&B, guest house or your home if you are a resident of Mauritius.

How do I get my PCR test results?

All vaccinated travellers staying in other accommodation must have a PCR test on arrival at the airport (day 0). After baggage collection you may go to your accommodation and wait for your results. The Ministry of Health and Wellness will call you with your result within 6-12 hours. After a negative test result, you can freely explore Mauritius.

What is the procedure for antigen testing in other accommodation? You will need to conduct a self-administered antigen test on day 5 of your stay. You can purchase an antigen test from a local pharmacy in Mauritius or bring one with you from home. The Ministry of Health and Wellness will conduct random checks on antigen test results.

What if I test positive for COVID-19 during my stay in other accommodation?

If your PCR test is positive and you are asymptomatic, you will have to isolate for 10 days within your accommodation. You will be contacted by the authorities. COVID-19 positive cases must self-isolate in a different room from their accompanying persons.

If your antigen test is positive, you must contact the Ministry of Health and Wellness and isolate for 10 days within your accommodation.

Relatives accompanying a positive guest will have to self-isolate for 7 days.

If a person tests positive during his/her stay, the infected person must self-isolate for at least 10 days.

For emergencies you can contact 8924.

Relatives of the infected person will have to undergo self-isolation for at least 7 days after their last contact with the COVID-19 positive person.

On top of these we invite you to read the latest information from the Airport facilities

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

Passengers are kindly requested to check with their airlines for flight information or for the latest travel advisory before their travel. 

Visit the  website of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority  to get the latest updates about travel requirements…

Travel restrictions valid up to 31 dec 2021.

• Astrazeneca (Vaxzevria Or Covishield)
• Pfizer-Biontech
• Sputnik V, or 
• take a Covid test on arrival at the hotel
• take a Covid test on day 5 at the hotel 
• take a Covid test on arrival at the airport. The  COVID 19 Lab Request form  should be completed for this purpose.
• take a self-administered test on day 5

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS FROM RODRIGUES

Passengers are kindly requested to check with Air Mauritius for flight information or for the latest travel advisory before their travel. 

Travel Restrictions valid up to 31 October 2021

Passengers will be allowed to travel to Mauritius, subject to the following conditions:

• Passengers have to wear surgical masks at all times, including during the flight.     
• Body temperature check will be carried out at SSR International Airport and Plaine Corail Airport by the Health Authorities.   
• Any passenger having temperature above 37.8 degrees Celcius and/or any symptoms of COVID 19, will not be allowed to travel.
• Physical distancing of at least 1m should be maintained by all staff and passengers within the Terminal and public areas.
• Only vaccinated passengers will be allowed to travel from Rodrigues to Mauritius. This shall not apply to minors.
• Credits to Mauritius Now
• Topics: covid , Mauritius , on arrival , price , test

Mauritius Experiences Daily

The latest on what’s moving Mauritius – delivered straight to your inbox

An Adventurer’s Guide to Trekking in Mauritius

Cultural Immersion: Learning About the Traditions of Mauritius

A Gastronomic Journey: Must-Try Foods in Mauritius

Discover Paradise: Visit Mauritius Today!

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mauritius travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, mauritius - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Mauritius

Back to top

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs sometimes across the country. Incidents are more frequent in Port Louis, Flic en Flac and Grand-Baie, especially at night.

Theft is frequent in:

• popular tourist areas, including markets and public beaches
• hotel rooms
• at or near street ATMs

During your trip to Mauritius:

• ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents are secure at all times
• avoid walking alone after dark
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• stay in accommodations that have adequate security measures and are registered with the Mauritius Tourism Authority

Violent crime

Although rare, violent crime has occurred, namely:

• sexual assault

Tourists are usually not targeted; however, you could be at the wrong place at the wrong time.

During your trip:

• always be aware of your surroundings, at all times
• avoid poorly lit and isolated areas
• if you're robbed, hand over cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance

Road safety

Road safety can vary considerably across the country.

Accidents are frequent.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary across the country. Some roads are narrow, uneven and poorly lit. Many are bordered by deep ditches and lack guardrails.

Driving can also be dangerous due to:

• stray livestock
• lack of traffic signs
• presence of pedestrians on the road
• drivers not using headlights or using high beams

Driving habits

Local driving habits may pose risks. Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and can be reckless.

Emergency and roadside assistance is limited.

If you chose to drive:

• always drive defensively
• plan your trip in advance, especially if you are visiting a rural area
• ask about insurance coverage options for roadside assistance when you rent a vehicle

Water activities

Certain coastal waters are prone to riptides.

Stonefish stings are unusual but can be fatal.

Aquatic equipment offered at the beach may not meet international safety standards.

• Ensure that your travel insurance covers accidents related to recreational activities
• Respect the areas reserved for swimming
• Always maintain a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• Always respect warning flags advising of dangerous conditions
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Ask about the presence of dangerous species
• Wear swimming shoes to protect yourself from reefs, rocks, corals or sea species

Water safety abroad

Public transportation

Public transportation is reliable across the country.

The light rail service from Port Louis to Curepipe is safe and convenient.

Buses and taxis are available between cities and remote areas. Ride-sharing apps are also available.

Most taxis don’t have meters.

• Only use registered taxis
• Negotiate the fare in advance and ensure that the amount appearing on the receipt matches the fare

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur, and even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in the Indian Ocean. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Mauritian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Mauritius and must contain at least one blank page.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of less than 60 days, with possible extensions Premium tourist visa: valid for 6 months, required prior to arrival Student visa: required Work permit: required, maximum 120 days per year 

A letter of authorization from the inviting organization is required for persons travelling to Mauritius on business.

Health screening

Due to the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease in neighbouring countries you may be subject to a quick thermal scanner screening and/or a health questionnaire at the airports upon boarding or disembarking a plane.

Pre-arrival form

To save you time on arrival, you should complete the Mauritius All-in-One Travel Form prior to arrival.

All in One Travel Form - Government of Mauritius  

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are available in Mauritius, but standards vary. Adequate medical services are available in public hospitals and clinics. Private clinics are often more modern and better equipped, but services can be expensive and upfront payment is generally required.

Travellers requiring specialized care or having sustained serious injury may need to be evacuated.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Some prescription medications may not be available in Mauritius.

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack them in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and lengthy jail sentences, up to 25 years. You must remain in the country until your case is concluded.

Some pharmaceutical drugs are prohibited, and the importation of these drugs could lead to prosecution and a fine.

It's also illegal to own cigarette papers or rolling machines used to make cigarettes.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Mauritian law prohibits some sexual acts between individuals. Those convicted can face up to 5 years of imprisonment.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Mauritius.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mauritius.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mauritius, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Mauritius.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mauritius, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Mauritian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mauritius to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Dress and behaviour

Mauritius has conservative dress and behaviour standards.

Public displays of affection, including holding hands and kissing, are not socially accepted.

Revealing clothing is considered inappropriate.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions
• seek permission from locals before photographing them

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Pornography

Possession and importation of obscene literature and pornographic material is prohibited.

Import Restrictions – Government of Mauritius 

Traffic drives on the left.

You can drive in Mauritius with a valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to four weeks.

• Legal age to drive a vehicle is 18
• Legal age to drive a motorcycle is 17

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene
• report the accident to the local police: 230-208-1212

However, if you feel unsafe:

• drive to the nearest police station or a secure location
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

The country has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Penalties for drinking and driving include:

• heavy fines
• imprisonment
• license suspension

International Driving Permit

The currency is the Mauritian rupee (MUR).

Cyclone season

The cyclone season occurs from November to May.

Severe storms can put you at risk and can hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to Mauritius during this time:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Latest weather and seasonal outlook  - Mauritius Meteorological Services

Mauritius is located near an active seismic zone. Tsunamis may occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of a tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying in Mauritius, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 999 / 112
• medical assistance: 114
• firefighters: 995 / 115

Consular assistance

South Africa, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mauritius, Namibia

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in South Africa, in Pretoria, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Mauritius Travel Tips: Know Before You Go

Latest update: July 24, 2023

Here you’ll find all our tips for booking your trip to Mauritius as well as practical travel tips for your time there.

We were in Mauritius for three weeks and explored all the corners of the island for you.

This post contains all our practical travel tips for your vacation in Mauritius.

You’ll find all our tips for booking your trip to Mauritius as well as practical travel tips for your time there.

Also read our other posts about Mauritius:

What to do in Mauritius? The most beautiful beaches in Mauritius

Who is Mauritius perfect for as a destination?

For many people, Mauritius is the honeymoon destination par excellence and in fact we met many couples spending their honeymoon there.

But Mauritius isn’t just for newlyweds. Mauritius is an ideal destination for people who love dream beaches, because there the island is full of them.

Mauritius is also a great destination for everyone who wants to combine their beach vacation with a bit of sightseeing and culture.

Mauritius has a lot to offer in this regard: colorful temples, huge waterfalls, evergreen national parks, and old colonial buildings. So let’s get one thing straight: Mauritius is definitely very diverse!

The best time to travel to Mauritius

Mauritius is a good destination all year round. Since Mauritius is in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are different from ours. The Mauritian summer coincides with our winter, and vice versa.

But it’s warm and sunny on Mauritius all year round. Even in the coldest months from June to August, temperatures still reach 26 to 28 degrees during the day.

The best time to travel and the peak season for Mauritius is between September and December , when it’s mostly unpleasant and cold back home.

In Mauritius, you can then expect relatively constant daytime temperatures around 30 degrees and the risk of rain showers is relatively low.

European spring from April to June is also a good time to travel. During this time, it’s somewhat cooler in Mauritius than during the peak season from September to December. But then the island isn’t as crowded and the prices for hotels are considerably cheaper.

We were in Mauritius from the end of May to the middle of June and enjoyed bright sunshine and pleasant temperatures almost every day. It hardly ever rained.

There’s a big difference between the east coast and the west coast during this time. Since the wind usually comes from the east, this side is a lot more unpleasant outside the main season and there’s significantly more rainfall than in the west of the island.

In the period from January to March you have to be prepared for more rainy days in Mauritius than in the rest of the year. It’s still warm though. During European summer from the end of June to mid-August, temperatures in Mauritius are at their lowest.

Of course it’s still pleasant enough with daytime temperatures of around the 25 degrees, but it might be a bit cooler than at home.

Booking a vacation in Mauritius

If you want to travel to Mauritius, you have to choose between different options when booking. Either you book your flight and your accommodation separately or you book a package vacation.

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. When you choose a package vacation, you don’t have to worry about a thing and can benefit from cheap package deals.

But if you book separately, you also have the option of trying out different hotels in Mauritius and you can also choose from a wider range of places to stay.

We’ve put together all the information and tips to help you find the option that works best for you.

Flights to Mauritius

The number of direct flights from Europe to Mauritius is still pretty limited.

A very interesting option is flying with the Arabic airline Emirates . Emirates offers daily flies to Mauritius from several European cities.

If you don’t like long-distance flights, then Emirates is the best option for you, as the flight time of approximately 12 hours is split up into two approximately equal flights of about 6 hours.

Plus you also have the interesting option of taking a longer stopover in Dubai on the inbound or outbound flight to explore the sights of Dubai for a few days.

Current prices for Emirates flights to Mauritius

Booking a package vacation to Mauritius

If you just want to enjoy your vacation without having to deal with booking a flight, a place to stay, or transfer from the airport, then a package deal is a good choice.

There a are a lot of good offers from major European tour operators.

Where to stay in Mauritius: Our tips

The selection of hotels in Mauritius is pretty huge. There are a lot of luxury hotels on the island that really leave nothing to be desired. Of course, they come with a price tag attached, but you generally get what you pay for.

We tested a number of hotels in Mauritius ourselves and want to recommend one hotel per price category in this post.

Pure luxury: The Residence

There are a great many luxury hotels on the east coast of Mauritius, among them The Residence. We were there for three days and absolutely loved it: very nice rooms, excellent service, very good food, and simply an absolute all-round feel-good feeling.

The hotel has its price, but in this case it’s really justified. If you want to treat yourself, the Residence gives you the perfect opportunity to do so.

The Residence Mauritius on booking.com

Mid-range: Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel

“Welcome to your new home.” These were the warm words that welcomed us to the Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel in the northwest of Mauritius. And in fact we felt very welcome and felt very much at home here.

The rooms are new and spacious, the staff is super-friendly, and the beach is also beautiful. The hotel definitely offers great value for money.

Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel

Cheap: Mystik Life Style Hotel

The Mystik Life Style Hotel in the north of the island is a very cheap but good hotel. The hotel is new and very modern. And at that price, you certainly can’t complain.

Mystik Life Style Hotel

What can you do in Mauritius?

Of course you can just easily spend your entire vacation in Mauritius by the beach or pool. This that would be a shame, because Mauritius has more to offer.

Sights and attractions in Mauritius

Mauritius has surprisingly many sights. Since this post would be bursting at its seams if we were to list them all here, we’ve written a more in-depth post where we give you the low-down on all the sights.

Read our post: Our highlights & must-see sights in Mauritius

Activities in Mauritius

Mauritius is an excellent destination for water sports. There are also some very good surf spots in Mauritius. The most famous are Tamarin Bay in the west of the island, and Le Morne in the southwest.

You can also rent out kayaks or stand-up paddles at many hotels in Mauritius.

The underwater landscape of Mauritius is also very worthwhile, so divers and snorkelers will definitely get their money’s worth.

There are some exciting offers for exploring the underwater world of Mauritius, which can all be booked online:

Half-Day Snorkeling Trip with Picnic Lunch Underwater scooter tour

Practical travel tips for your Mauritius travel planning

A post about the best travel tips for Mauritius wouldn’t be complete without practical information for preparing your vacation.

What should you to pack for Mauritius?

Even though it’s warm all year round, you should still make sure to take a warm sweater and long pants. Especially during the off-season from April to August, it can get a bit cooler in the evenings.

Mauritius uses a different power outlet system to most of Europe. Most hotels offer adapters or have also installed standard European outlets in addition to the Mauritian ones. But just to be on the safe side, we still recommend packing a travel adapter .

Sunscreen is also really important. Especially during the peak travel season from September to December, the sun blazes down on Mauritius, and as a pale European you’re very likely to catch a sunburn. You can get sunscreen everywhere on the island, but it’s much more expensive than at home.

Mosquitoes can be a real plague in Mauritius. Especially in the national parks, there are lots of mosquitoes all year round. Malaria or dengue fever aren’t a danger in Mauritius, but mosquito bites are annoying nevertheless. Mosquito repellent is useful in any case, but you can just as easily buy it locally.

Apart from that, there’s nothing special you need for Mauritius. We recommend taking a look at our list of what to pack for Southeast Asia where we show you what we packed on our journeys through Asia. Since the climate in Mauritius is very similar, you can pretty much use the same list.

Money and travel expenses in Mauritius

The official currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). The exchange rate is pretty much exactly 40 MUR to 1 euro. Of course you can find ATMs at the airport and in the larger cities.

Make sure to take a credit card with no foreign transaction fees so you can withdraw money worldwide for free.

Mauritius isn’t a cheap country to visit. You can easily spend a small fortune on the island, but you don’t have to. It’s certainly possible to have a cheap vacation in Mauritius.

To give you an idea of common prices, here’s a short overview:

• Bottle of water (1.5 l) = 20-30 MUR (0.50 to 0.75 euros)
• Bus ticket = approx. 30 MUR (0.75 euros)
• Gas (1l) = approx. 40 MUR (1 euro)
• Simple, local food = 120 to 240 MUR (3 to 6 euros)
• Western food = 200 to 600 MUR (5 to 15 euros)

Tipping in Mauritius

Tipping never used to be all that common in Mauritius. But thanks to all the tourists, it’s becoming more commonplace and a tip is always welcome.

In many hotels you have the possibility to put a tip into a staff tip box, where the tips are shared out among the employees. Of course you’re still free to give individual employees a personal tip if you want.

Taxis and guides are also happy for a tip, as are waiters at the restaurants.

How to get from the airport to your hotel

If you booked your vacation as a package deal, you generally don’t have to worry about your transfer because you’ll be picked up straight from the airport.

If you booked your hotel yourself, there are several ways to get from the airport to the hotel:

Hotel transfer service:  Most hotels offer their own transfer service. Just ask at your hotel. In our experience, hotel transfer services are always the most expensive so we never use them.

Taxi:  You can catch a taxi at the airport. Taxis in Mauritius don’t have meters, i.e. you have to negotiate the price with the driver before you leave.

Book a transfer online:  You can also always book your transfer online. We did it too, and everything went perfectly. Your driver will be there waiting for you holding up a sign and will take you directly to your hotel.

You can book a transfer here

Renting a car in Mauritius

The best way to explore Mauritius on your own is to rent a car. We did that ourselves and were absolutely satisfied.

But watch out: Traffic in Mauritius is on the left-hand side. That means the steering wheel is on the right side of the car, the gear shift is on the left, and the levers for turn signals and windshield wipers are reversed. At first, we always turned on the windshield wiper when we wanted to use the turn signal. But we got the hang of it after a while. Hehe.

If you’re not used to driving on the left-hand side, then we recommend renting a car with an automatic transmission. That way, you won’t have to worry about switching gears on the wrong side and can fully concentrate on steering the car.

Be careful in roundabouts, because you enter and leave them the other way round than you do back home. Sometimes it can also be confusing that many roundabouts are multi-lane and you have to take a different lane depending on the exit you want to take. But you get used to it quickly.

Traffic on Mauritius is generally pretty leisurely and outside the cities the roads are usually deserted. You can drive 40 kph in towns, 90 outside, and 110 on the freeway. You should stick to the speed limits because speed traps are set up all over the place.

An international driving license isn’t required for Mauritius. You can just use you driver’s license from back home.

Information and travel tips for your time there

To round off our travel tip post, we have some information for your time in Mauritius.

Eating and drinking in Mauritius

Mauritian cuisine is characterized by the influences of many immigrants. There are Chinese, Indian, and African influences. Of course, being an island, fish is one of the main items on the menu.

Curries served with fish, meat, or vegetables are typical for Mauritian cuisine. But compared to Indian and Asian curries, we didn’t like the curry dishes on Mauritius as much. But they’re not bad either.

Bread, butter, and a green chili paste are served as an appetizer. The chili paste is very tasty, but also very, very spicy. So be careful the first time you try it!

Mauritius is a sugar cane nation, which automatically also makes it a rum nation. Mauritian rum is considered to be particularly aromatic.

You can also get beer in Mauritius. The local beer brand is called Phoenix and actually doesn’t taste at all bad.

Internet in Mauritius

The Internet in Mauritius is very good. We had very good WiFi at each of our hotels.

We bought a Mauritian SIM card for mobile Internet. There are two major providers on the island: Orange and Emtel. We bought a SIM card from Emtel and paid just over 25 euros for a 25 GB package! We could only dream of that back home.

Language and understanding

The Mauritian population speaks Creole, a dialect of French. If you speak French, you should be able to get by just fine in Mauritius. Most locals also speak good English, so communication isn’t a huge problem.

Do you have more travel tips for Mauritius?

We’ve summarized all our travel tips in this post. Do have any more questions? Then let’s have them! Just leave us a comment!

Of course, we’re always happy for further tips and suggestions.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Mauritius.

Mauritius (PDF 746.94 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services

Call 995 or 115.

Medical emergencies

Call 114 or 999 for Service Aide Medicale d'Urgence, a free state-run ambulance and emergency service.

Go direct to a hospital.

Call 118 for Darne private clinic.

Call 8924 for the COVID-19 hotline.

Call 999 or visit the nearest police station.

Call 133 for Vacoas Headquarters.

Call 148 for Crime Prevention Unit.

Call 468 0034 or 4680035 for the Police Hotline.

Call 210 3894 for Tourist Police.

Call 686 5500 for Emergency Response Service Headquarters.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions in Mauritius.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Mauritius.

• Cyclone season is from November to May, but cyclones can happen any time. Cyclones can result in heavy rainfall, strong winds and flash flooding. They can also disrupt power and water supplies and can result in airport closures. Stay up to date with local weather conditions. Follow the advice of local authorities. Know how to evacuate from your hotel or cruise ship. Confirm flight timings with your airline or travel provider.
• Crime levels are low, but petty crime occurs, including pickpocketing and bag-snatching. Don't walk alone after dark. Use ATMs in banks, hotels and shops, not on the street.
• Some travellers have been robbed and assaulted in unregistered beachside bungalows. Stay in accommodation that's registered by local authorities.
• There have been reports of taxi scams at the airport. Only use registered taxis marked with a yellow sign and the name of the operating base on the door.
• Rallies and protests occur sometimes. These can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.

Full travel advice: Safety

• There's an increase of dengue  cases in Mauritius. Always protect yourself from mosquito bites. Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle or joint pain, vomiting, a bad headache or a rash.
• Insect-borne diseases including dengue and chikungunya are present. There have been cases of malaria in the past. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. 
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases can include gastroenteritis and hepatitis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you're taking part in high-risk activities.
• The standard of public medical facilities varies. Private doctors or clinics can be expensive. If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences include prison sentences and heavy fines.
• Know and follow local laws. It's illegal to buy counterfeit or pirated goods. It's also illegal to own cigarette papers or rolling machines.
• If you break the law, you may need to stay in Mauritius to wait for your court hearing. Legal cases take a long time to process. 
• Mauritius has conservative dress and behaviour standards. Take care not to offend, especially when visiting rural areas, religious sites, or religious events. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• If you're staying less than 60 days, you can get a 'free of charge visa' on arrival. You'll need to apply for all other visa types before you arrive. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact your nearest Mauritian High Commission or Consulate for the latest details.
• Before you arrive, fill out the  Mauritius All-in-One Travel Digital Form   and keep a printed copy to present to health authorities on arrival. If you haven’t filled out the form, you'll need to complete an Immigration Disembarkation Card on arrival. 
• You won't be allowed to board your flight to Mauritius if you've tested positive for COVID-19 within 7 days of departure.
• Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're coming from a country where yellow fever is present. 
• Face masks are not compulsory but are still recommended in certain situations, including on public transport, health facilities, and ports and airports.  
• Cyclones can result in the airport being closed, which can then cause flight cancellations or delays. Make sure your travel insurance covers this. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance, contact the  Australian High Commission in Mauritius . The High Commission is open to the public for passport, consular and notarial services via appointment only. Appointments can be requested via email. See  Consular Contacts . 
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Crime levels in Mauritius are low. However, petty crime happens and includes:

• pickpocketing
• bag snatching
• street robbery near ATMs

The risk increases:

• in poorly lit city streets
• in secluded areas

Some incidents of assault , rape and murder have occurred, including in resorts. There have also been cases of assault and robbery at unregistered beachside bungalows. 

The rate of crime is higher in downtown Port Louis and in the coastal tourist centres of:

• Flic en Flac

To protect yourself from crime:

• be aware of your surroundings and alert to suspicious behaviour
• watch your belongings on buses and taxis, especially at night
• avoid using ATMs on the street. Use ATMS in banks, shops, hotels or shopping centres 
• don't go out alone after dark or to isolated places, especially on foot
• stay in accommodation that's registered with local authorities
• always keep your vehicle and accommodation locked
• be alert to suspicious behaviour

There have been reports of taxi scams at the airport.

In Mauritius, all registered taxis are clearly marked with a yellow sign and the name of the operating base on the door.

To protect yourself from taxi scams :

• only use registered taxis
• find out what transport services are available at the airport before you travel
• before embarking, check the credentials of the driver and agree on the fare
• book taxis through your hotel or accommodation. Book in advance if you're travelling at night.

Cyber Security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Rallies and demonstrations occur sometimes.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid all crowds and demonstrations
• monitor the media and avoid protest areas
• follow the instructions of local authorities

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tours and adventure activities

Tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities like diving and swimming with dolphins.

Travellers have died in accidents during water-based activities and land-based activities such as ziplining.

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if it is covered in your travel insurance policy
• only use registered operators that have been issued a valid permit
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Cyclone season in Mauritius is from November to May. However, cyclones can occur throughout the year. Cyclones can cause:

• gale force winds
• property damage
• disruptions to services, including power and water
• airport closures

If there's a cyclone or severe tropical storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• ports may close
• shelter may not be available

If a cyclone is approaching or a warning is in place:

• monitor cyclone bulletins from official sources and local media
• follow the advice of local authorities
• know how to evacuate from your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter

The direction and strength of cyclones can change with little warning. It's important to stay up to date with weather conditions and forecasts. 

For up-to-date cyclone information:

• metservice.intnet.mu/
• facebook.com/nationaldisastermauritius
• twitter.com/NDRRMC_MRU
• facebook.com/GIS.Mauritius
• facebook.com/MeteoFranceOceanIndien
• call 8996 from a landline (French)
• call 171 from a mobile phone (French)

Mauritius can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in touch with your friends and family
• ask your tour operator if tourist services at your destination have been affected

Monitor local media and other sources including:

• Mauritius Meteorological Service
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre .

Mauritius can experience high levels of rainfall. This can cause severe floods. Monitor local media and stay up to date on weather conditions and forecasts.

Mauritius can experience tsunamis.

Be alert to warnings. A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake. 

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive tsunami alerts.

To protect yourself from tsunamis, move immediately to high ground if you:

• are advised by local authorities
• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings.

Once on high ground, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away (including if stopovers on the way to your destination are covered)

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Mauritius. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne illnesses occur in Mauritius, particularly in the warmer months from October to May. There has been an increase in the number of cases of dengue since the end of December 2023.

There have been cases of  chikungunya  and malaria in the past.

To protect yourself from these diseases, protect yourself from mosquito bites:

• use insect repellent on all exposed skin, including feet
• wear light-coloured clothing that covers your legs and arms
• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle or joint pain, vomiting, a bad headache or a rash.

HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are a risk, including:

• gastroenteritis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid raw or undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

The standard of medical facilities varies in Mauritius. 

Most public hospitals are modern and well equipped. All doctors speak English and specialised care is available for most injuries and illnesses. Waiting times can be long in public hospitals and services may be limited in small rural hospitals. Foreign patients will generally be charged some fees to cover costs. 

Most travellers go to private doctors or clinics. Services can be expensive and upfront payment is generally required. If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to Reunion Island or South Africa. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

There is no healthcare agreement between Australia and Mauritius.

Make sure your travel insurance covers hospital and medical evacuation. 

Diving accidents

There's only one decompression chamber at Victoria Hospital in Quatre Bornes .

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Check local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Legal cases take a long time to process. If you become involved in a legal matter, you may have to stay in Mauritius until your case is resolved.

• Arrested or jailed

Mauritius has severe penalties for drug offences, including fines and jail terms of up to 60 years.

Carrying or using drugs

In Mauritius, it's illegal to:

• buy counterfeit or pirated goods
• own cigarette papers or rolling machines

Whilst same-sex sexual activity was decriminalised in October 2023, LGBTQI+ people still face discrimination. Consider avoiding public displays of affection.

Mauritian society is conservative. Take care not to offend, and wear non-revealing clothing, especially when visiting rural areas, religious sites, or religious events. Nudism is not permitted. 

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Mauritius recognises dual nationality.

If you're a dual national, we will only be able to assist you in exceptional circumstances.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

Dual nationals

Local customs

Mauritius has conservative standards of dress and behaviour.

Take care not to offend, especially if you visit:

• rural areas
• a shrine, temple, mosque or other religious site
• a religious event

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can’t help you.

If you're staying less than 60 days, a 'free of charge' visa will be provided to you on arrival. For other types of visits, you'll need to apply for a visa before your travel. 

Requests for extensions to Tourist/Business visas and resident permits should be submitted to the Mauritian Passport and Immigration Office (Tel: +230 210 9418 or +230 260 2073 or by email on  [email protected] ).

• Passport and Immigration Office  (Government of Mauritius, English)

Border measures

You should fill out the  Mauritius All-in-One Travel Digital Form   and keep a printed copy to present to health authorities when you arrive in Mauritius. If you haven’t filled out the form, you'll need to complete an Immigration Disembarkation Card on arrival. 

While no longer compulsory, face masks are recommended in airports and during airport transfers.

You will not be allowed to board a flight to Mauritius if you've tested positive for COVID-19 within 7 days of departure.

If you're arriving from a country known to have malaria, you'll receive a follow-up visit from the Mauritian Health Department. You must do a blood test for the malaria-causing parasite.

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Mauritius if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever.

• Mauritius Travel Advice  (Government of Mauritius, English) 
• Airports of Mauritius
• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 253KB)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Mauritius Rupee (MUR).

Declare all amounts of more than MUR 500,000 when you arrive and depart. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Don't change money on the street. Use banks and official exchange bureaus.

ATMs are common in most towns and in large shopping centres.

You can use credit cards at most hotels, restaurants and large shops.

Ask your bank if your cards will work in Mauritius.

Local travel

Road travel.

The risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident in Mauritius is higher than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• poorly maintained and unlit narrow roads
• pedestrians and stray dogs on roads
• motorcyclists
• deep ditches beside roads
• lack of guardrails

Mauritius has a zero-tolerance policy on alcohol consumption and driving.

If you plan to drive:

• check you have the right insurance cover
• get to know local traffic laws and practices

Driving or riding

Driver's license

To drive in Mauritius, you need to be at least 18 years old and have either:

• a valid Australian driver's licence; or
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Obtain your IDP before leaving Australia.

• Mauritius Police Force Traffic Branch, phone: (+230) 208 1212

Motorcycles

Make sure your insurance policy covers you before riding a motorbike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only registered taxis and limousines. In Mauritius, all registered taxis are clearly marked with a yellow sign and the name of the operating base on the door. Try to book them through your hotel or accommodation.

Book in advance if you're travelling at night.

Public transport

Public transport is operational. While not compulsory, face masks are recommended on public transport.

Transport and getting around safely

Cruise liners visit Mauritius.

There have been no pirate attacks in Mauritius' territorial waters. However,  piracy  is a major threat in the Indian Ocean.

Don't travel within 1000 nautical miles (1852km) off the Somali coast. Sailing vessels are a target for pirates. Read  piracy reports from the International Maritime Bureau.

• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Mauritius' air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Call 114 or 999 for Service Aide Medicale d'Urgence, the public ambulance and emergency service.

Call 118/132 for Darne and Wellkin private clinics. Go directly to a hospital.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact: 

Australian High Commission, Port Louis

2nd Floor, Rogers House

5 President John Kennedy Street

Port Louis, Mauritius

Phone: (+230) 202 0160

The High Commission is open to the public for passport, consular and notarial services by appointment only. Appointments can be requested via email (details below).

General enquiries:  [email protected]

Consular enquiries: [email protected]

Passport enquiries: [email protected]

Website:  mauritius.highcommission.gov.au

Facebook:  Australian High Commission in Mauritius

X (Twitter):  @AusHC_MU

The website provides details about opening hours, any temporary closures to the public, and services offered.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Mauritius?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

• About Mauritius
• Meet the locals
• History of Mauritius

Where To Go?

• Mauritius Map

Explore More...

• Latest News
• Sustainability

Sea & Beaches

Sightseeing.

• VIEW ALL THINGS TO DO

Travel Info

• Travel Advice
• Premium Visa
• Best time to visit
• What’s on?
• Meetings and Incentives
• Destination weddings
• Weddings in Mauritius
• Accommodation

Travelling to Mauritius

• Getting around
• Useful tips

Explore The Island

• Things to do

Plan your Visit

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Where to stay in Mauritius
• Fly over our coastline

Travel information

Mauritius travel advice, what do i need to know, mauritius is open to everyone.

Since 1 July 2022, you no longer have to test for Covid to enjoy a Mauritius holiday. Explore the beauty of our island from the very first day of your stay. Come and feel our island energy!

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

• Mauritius is open to everyone, both vaccinated and unvaccinated
• No testing is needed before flying to Mauritius or on arrival
• You do not need to wear a face mask during your holiday. It is only recommended in airports, during airport transfers, on public transport and in healthcare facilities

THE ALL IN ONE TRAVEL FORM

Prior to travel, it is recommended that all travellers fill out the Mauritius All in One travel form, which you can access via the link below. It will generate a PDF document with a QR Code. Please print a hard copy of this completed form and present it to Health Officials on arrival at Mauritius Airport. If you have not filled out the All in One travel form, foreign nationals must fill out an Immigration Disembarkation Card on arrival at the airport.

Fill out the All in One Travel form and bring a printed copy with you.

Plan your Mauritius holiday

Want to know what to expect at every stage of your Mauritius holiday? Here’s our step-by-step guide.

Pre-Departure

• Plan your holiday to Mauritius, booking flights and your accommodation
• You do not need to book a Covid-19 test before flying to Mauritius
• Prior to travel, it is recommended that all travellers fill out the Mauritius All in One travel form, which you can access via the link below. It will generate a PDF document with a QR Code. Please print a hard copy of this completed form and present it to Health Officials on arrival at Mauritius Airport. If you have not filled out the All in One travel form, foreign nationals must fill out an Immigration Disembrakation Card on arrival at the airport.

All in One Travel Form

Airport & flight

• It is recommended, but not mandatory, to wear a mask covering your nose and mouth throughout the flight, unless eating or drinking. Disinfect your hands regularly.
• Passengers travelling through hubs or making a stopover must take into consideration the COVID-19 protocols in the respective countries

Arrival & transfer

• You will have a temperature check on arrival via thermal camera
• Wearing a face mask at the airport or port is recommended. Regularly sanitising your hands is also recommended
• Testing on arrival is no longer required for travellers
• Present your completed All In One travel form to Health Officials on arrival at Mauritius Airport. If you have not filled out the All In One travel form, foreign nationals must fill out an immigration Disembarkation Card on arrival at the airport
• After baggage collection, you can be taken to your hotel by a DMC, taxi or other means of transportation. Wearing a face mask is recommended in the vehicle.

At your accommodation

• You do not need to take a COVID-19 test on arrival at your accommodation
• It is no longer mandatory to wear a mask during your holiday. We do recommend wearing a mask when at a port, airport, during airport transfers and on public transport. We also recommend wearing a face mask if visiting healthcare settings, such as a hospital or pharmacy.
• If you test positive for COVID-19 and are asymptomatic, you will have to isolate for seven days within your accommodation. You can find out full details via our FAQs page
• All hotel staff, as well as their immediate family, have been vaccinated
• Housekeeping in guest rooms will be carried out in strict compliance with sanitary protocols
• Enjoy activities including watersports, scuba diving, golf courses and fitness centres during your stay
• Kids’ and teens’ clubs within hotels will be open and babysitting services are available, with sanitary protocols in place
• The use of the spa is allowed
• You can explore our beautiful island’s landscapes and attractions from day one of your holiday. We recommend wearing a mask on public transport
• Relax and enjoy your holiday!

If you need to take a PCR test to travel home or onwards to a new destination, you must pay for this. The extra cost will be between Rs 2500 – 3500

Stay in other accommodation

Not staying in a hotel? Whether you’re vaccinated or not, here’s everything you need to know!

Pre-departure

• Plan your holiday, staying in one of the island’s self-catered villas, bungalows, guest houses, B&Bs or your home if you are an island resident
• You will have a temperature check on arrival via a thermal camera
• After baggage collection, you can be taken to your hotel by a DMC, taxi or other means of transportation. Wearing a face mask is recommended in the vehicle. .
• Relax in your accommodation or at your home on the island
• If you test positive for COVID-19 and are asymptomatic, you will have to isolate for seven days within your accommodation.
• You can explore our beautiful island’s landscapes and attractions, abiding by the local sanitary protocols
• Activities such as watersports, scuba diving and golf are allowed
• Spas are allowed
• Guests who must take a PCR test during their stay to travel home or onwards to a new destination must pay the extra cost, between Rs 2500 – 3500

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Subscribe to receive protocols update notifications.

Find a place to stay

Book a hotel, B&B, guest house or villa for your Mauritius holiday.

Subscribe to our newsletter

QUICK LINKS

• Fly over our Coastline
• Meet the Locals

Mauritius Now

• Press / Media Kit
• Privacy Policy
• Website Policy

Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) Port Louis REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS Tel: +230 2031900

*Disclaimer: Information on listed products and services are provided by the operator and were correct at the time of publishing. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through this website. Some websites which are linked to this website are independent from the MTPA and are not under the control of the MTPA. The MTPA does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Travel Guide Mauritius

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Lying 800km east of Madagascar, Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, a volcanic chain extending as far as the Seychelles. Fringed by 160km of sandy beaches and an azure sea, with a backdrop of rugged peaks and shimmering sugar cane, this pear-shaped tropical island is a dream holiday destination. An islander once told Mark Twain that “Mauritius was made first and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius”.

Where to go in Mauritius

Tailor-made travel itineraries for mauritius, created by local experts.

18 days  / from 5200 USD

Delightful Mauritius

Stay in four different areas on this trip - first the South Coast, then the West Coast, then Chamarel in the center of the island, before spending the last few days relaxing on the beach of the popular North Coast. Mauritius has so much more to offer than just gorgeous beaches!

Tailor-made trips for   Mauritius

Thanks to year-round sunshine, the island’s beaches are its key selling point, many lined with world-class hotels, top-notch spas, championship golf courses and gourmet restaurants. But the “pearl of the ocean” is no longer the preserve of the jet set, with an ever-expanding range of accommodation and activities for all tastes and budgets. Watersports are a particular highlight: it’s possible to swim with dolphins in the morning and then go diving, kitesurfing or paddleboarding in the afternoon.

At 45km by 65km, nowhere in the island’s interior is more than 45 minutes’ drive from the sea, and gone are the days when no one ventured more than a mile from their sunlounger. Among the three main mountain ranges surrounding the central plateau – Moka, Black River Chain and Grand Port, the remains of volcanic activity which started thirteen million years ago – there are now numerous outdoor adventures and eco-trails. Then there’s tiny Rodrigues, an eco-paradise scattered with forested ravines, secluded beaches and sandy islands.

Isolated and uninhabited for thousands of years, Mauritius has developed a unique flora and fauna – the most famous of which is the dodo, which helped put this speck in the Indian Ocean on the world map – and it remains one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. The island is surrounded by the world’s third largest coral reef, which shelters a rich marine life, some of the rarest birds fly over ebony trees in the forested interior, and endemic species survive on offshore islands. Mauritius’s national flower, Trochetia boutoniana (Boucle d’Oreille) grows just on a single mountaintop, Le Morne Brabant. Tortoises, which once roamed in their thousands before being loaded onto ships by sailors, have also recently been successfully reintroduced onto Rodrigues.

Diversity is found in Mauritius’s cultural landscape too. Almost four centuries of colonization have left the island with a rich multicultural mosaic of Indian, African, Chinese and French heritage. You’ll find this exotic mix expressed in riotous Indian temples, historic colonial mansions and the hip-wiggling séga .

Mauritius may be small but it takes time to travel across the island – worth bearing in mind when choosing where to stay. Each region has its own vibe, landscape and local weather, and a particular set of activities and attractions. Yet even in the most touristed areas of the country, an off-the-beaten-track gem usually lies nearby.

If you’re looking for buzz, nightlife and plenty of excursions, the tourism hub Grand Baie, or little “St Trop”, in the north is likely to be just the ticket. It has the greatest concentration of hotels, beaches, restaurants and entertainment, and activities ranging from diving to parasailing. For a change of pace, look to nearby, quieter Cap Malheureux, the uninhabited northern islands, or head inland for a stroll through the lovely Pamplemousses Gardens.

The island’s bustling capital, Port Louis, is arguably the “real” Mauritius, with historic buildings and the island’s oldest market squeezed in alongside modern shopping complexes and offices. There are just two hotels here, so few visitors stay overnight, but the slew of restaurants and street-food vendors at lunchtime make it an attractive day-trip.

The east coast is traditionally the island’s most glamorous, with arguably the best white-sand beaches near the villages of Belle Mare and Trou d’Eau Douce. To the south, Lion Mountain overlooks historic Vieux Grand Port, where the French and British once battled for control of the island. Today this coast is a mecca for watersports enthusiasts, while outdoor and eco-adventures can be found inland in the Bambous Mountains or along Grande Rivière Sud Est (GRSE).

By contrast, the rustic south gives a taste of times gone by. From the ancient Dutch capital of Mahébourg to the sleepy fishing village of Baie du Cap, this stretch of coastline is Mauritius’s least developed, with a scattering of hip hotels, unusual rock formations and island-hopping trips that compensate for the lack of good swimming beaches. This is also one of the best places to see Mauritian wildlife, either on a snorkeling trip in the pristine Blue Bay Marine Park or on Île aux Aigrettes, where you can encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and the pink pigeon.

Young families tend to enjoy the calm, shallow beaches of the west coast, particularly around Flic en Flac and Wolmar, where there are plenty of activities and sights nearby. This part of the country has a large Creole community, and as you head south you’ll feel a noted Creole presence around Rivière Noire and Le Morne village. On the island’s southwestern tip, the exclusive Le Morne Peninsula is known for its luxurious hotels and perfect kitesurfing conditions – a contrast to the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain, one of the island’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a poignant reminder of its slave history.

Central Mauritius has a different flavour again. The towns sprawling across the central plateau have little appeal beyond their shops, but explore further and you’ll find hiking opportunities in the lofty Moka Mountains and canyoning at Tamarin Falls. To the southwest is the island’s unmissable nature reserve, Black River Gorges National Park, where hiking trails introduce you to a range of endemic flora and fauna.

Those looking to get away from it all need to head to beautiful Rodrigues, Mauritius’s tiny sister island. Under 20km long and with just one real town, its laidback atmosphere and Creole-style hospitality make for a relaxing break. The island is an off-the-beaten-track paradise for trekkers and the diving is superb, too, with three dive centres offering packages for everyone from beginners to pros.

Top image © leoks/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Mauritius

• Rodrigues Travel Guide
• The west coast Travel Guide
• The south Travel Guide

• Mauritius is around the world’s seventeenth most densely populated country, with just over 1.3 million inhabitants and a density of 644 people per square kilometre.

• The island is remarkable for its interracial harmony . The mixed population is roughly 68 percent Indo-Mauritian, 27 percent Creole, 3 percent Chinese/Sino-Mauritian and 2 percent Franco-Mauritian.

• Hinduism is practised by 48.5 percent of the population; the remainder are mostly Roman Catholic (26.3 percent), Muslim (17.3 percent) and other Christian denominations (6.4 percent).

• One of the world’s newer political success stories, Mauritius has maintained a stable parliamentary democracy since independence, with free elections by the National Assembly.

• Mauritius has one of the highest average annual incomes in Africa, at US$16,100 per capita. Some 87 percent of Mauritians own their homes and all have access to free education and healthcare. Average life expectancy is 75 years.

• As there is little industry on the island, Mauritius has the second cleanest air on earth according to the global air quality ranking issued by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• Mauritius has the third highest number of extinct species of any country in the world. Less than 20 percent of the island’s forest remains, with only 3.3 percent (6574 hectares) under conservation.

• The Mauritian national emblem is the dodo , which can be seen on the coat of arms, banknotes and postage stamps. It’s one of the few countries in the world whose national animal is extinct, eradicated by hunting in the seventeenth century.

Travel advice for Mauritius

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mauritius

• Eating and drinking in Mauritius
• Shopping tips for Mauritius
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Mauritius
• Travel Tips Mauritius for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Mauritius
• How to get to Mauritius
• Getting around Mauritius: Transportation Tips
• Travelling with children in Mauritius
• Best time to visit Mauritius

The Rough Guides to Mauritius and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Mauritius?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

• المملكة العربية السعودية

Useful Tips

Mauritius is a safe holiday destination, easily accessed by air with a lot of great experiences to live. We have gathered some useful information for your stay in Mauritius to take place in the best possible conditions.

• Although the official language is English, Mauritians are fluent in French and Creole.
• Time zone is Universal Time plus four hours (GMT/UTC +4).
• The national currency is the Mauritian rupee, split in 100 cents. One euro is equivalent to about 45 Mauritian rupees.
• The electrical plugs used are the British three-square pin and two round pin plugs. Voltage 220/230V.
• Tips are not mandatory but are welcome based on your appreciation.

At the airport

• If you do not have a pre-arranged transfer, you will easily find a taxi at the airport. Agree on the amount of the trip with the driver before embarking.
• ATMs are available for currency exchange and cash withdrawals.
• Casual outfits (shorts, t-shirts, flip flops) are generally accepted throughout the day. Nevertheless, please dress soberly as you enter places of worship. Before travelling, check with your hotel for evening attire – many have dress codes (pants, no T-shirts, no flip flops).

Accommodation

• When choosing your accommodation, make sure that it is listed with the Tourism Authority to ensure compliance with security standards and measures (http://www.tourismauthority.mu/en/)
• Please use the safe provided by hotels, guest rooms and other tourist residences to keep your valuables, passport and money.
• Be sure to close all room windows and doors when you go out.

At the beach

• Do not purchase products or services from unauthorised persons. If in doubt, ask for their operating licence.
• Always ask for the price before any purchase.
• Watch out for those that are too tenacious.
• Make sure your purse is out of sight and don’t bring valuables with you.
• Beaches are accessible to all in Mauritius, but in front of private residences and hotels, the public can only stand or walk within the high water mark.
• Always ask for the price before any purchase. Bargaining is accepted in markets.

Transportation

• Hitchhiking is not practised in Mauritius
• If you are organising a transport with your accommodation, agree on the rate before confirming your trip.
• Taxis offer tours, but be aware that some proposals may be motivated by commissions guaranteed by some traders.
• Cars drive on the left-hand side in Mauritius, giving way to vehicles coming from the right.
• Visitors holding a valid driver’s licence issued by the relevant authorities have the right to drive while staying in Mauritius.
• There are no dangerous or deadly poisonous animals in Mauritius. There are, however, some species with painful stings, and in some rare cases that cause allergies, such as wasps or bees. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist if this happens.
• The lagoons are protected by the reefs, so no shark attacks to fear. There are nevertheless a few creatures to watch out for, such as stone fish and lionfish whose stings are extremely painful, sea urchins, and jellyfish which are nastily itchy. The presence of these jellyfish is usually indicated as it happens occasionally. It is recommended to see a doctor in all cases.

Sea outings

• When you go out to sea, make sure that the boat you are taking has a registration number beginning with “PC” assigned to those used for commercial purposes.
• Follow the instructions of the skippers and accompanying staff. Wear the required lifejacket or other required equipment at all times and do not ride on the bow of motor boats.
• We are lucky to be able to watch dolphins and whales in our waters, respect them and the environment around when you go out to sea.

Security in your place of residence

• Use the safe provided at your accommodation to store your valuables, passport and money.
• Don’t take all your devices and other objects with you during your outings (computers and other electronics).
• If you misplace your room magnetic key, report it immediately to your place of residence for fast deactivation.
• And in general, don’t leave anything in plain view in your car.

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 999 or 112
• Fire Services: 995 or 115
• SAMU Ambulances: 114
• National Directory: 150
• Tourist Info: 152
• Weather: 171 and 96 for cyclone reports
• Airline information: 603 3030

Travel Advice for Mauritius

Going to Mauritius and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Mauritius? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Mauritius from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Mauritius

The decision to visit to Mauritius is your decision and you are in charge of your personal health and safety whilst in Mauritius.

The content on this page is provided for information only and compiled from travel advice and warnings for Mauritius by governments all over the world to their citizens.

While we strive to provide you accurate travel advice details, it is offered on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This owners of this site does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

Standard Cautions Travellers Need to Remember When Taking a Trip in Mauritius

Crime – Petty crimes such as pick pocketing in a crowded environment to sexual assault and muggings do occur in bigger cities of Mauritius. Ensure that all your personal items, such as passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings whenever in public locations. Be particularly alert if going to sporting occasions and throughout religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists often make use of such celebrations to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also result in disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety to avoid locations where demonstrations and large events are occurring and adhere to the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Mauritius for details on continuous demonstrations in Mauritius.

Scams – Exercise caution in popular tourist locations in Mauritius, where scammers target tourists. If you have actually been scammed in Mauritius, get to a safe area quickly; make note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; alert the cops in Mauritius and acquire a report and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to report the scam; they will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction.

Spiked Food and Drinks – Never ever leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers whilst taking a trip in Mauritius or anywhere else. Watch out for accepting snacks, beverages, chewing gum or cigarettes from unknown acquaintances. These items might have drugs that can put you in danger of sexual assault and robbery.

What is the entry/exit conditions for Mauritius?

Every nation or territory chooses who can get in or exit through its borders, in the same manner Mauritius chooses exactly who enter its territories. The Government of your home country can not intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your Mauritius’s entry or exit requirements.

To learn more about the entry/exit requirement for Mauritius see visa requirements for Mauritius or obtain the current details with the visa office at the Mauritian consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance for Mauritius

Health cover is one of the primary factors visitors get travel insurance policy. It will not avoid you getting ill or seriously injured, though it can prevent you suffering financially. Medical help overseas can be very expensive.

You have to pay for all healthcare you obtain overseas. You can’t expect to get free or subsidised care through your Mauritius’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can not pay, local authorities can arrest you. The government from your home country can’t pay you medical costs for you, loan you cash or get you out of jail.

You need travel insurance for travelling to Mauritius . You also need to make sure you select a plan that is right for you.

Read through the fine print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance provider upfront. If you do not, you might void your travel insurance policy.

Tell your travel insurance provider the activities you intend to do, prior to you go. Many common activities like winter sports are left out in basic plans. You may require to pay added.

Check if you have complimentary credit card travel insurance coverage. Some cards include travel insurance policy cover. Nevertheless, they typically have different conditions than paid plans. Understand the differences.

If you’re visiting Mauritius from a country that has a reciprocatory health care agreement, you still require travel medical insurance. Agreements are limited in what they’ll will cover.

If you have a terminal ailment, you may not have the ability to obtain basic travel insurance. However you might have the ability to find a specialised insurer that covers you for health, mishaps or property problems unrelated to your ailment. Talk to your insurer to find out.

Find out more about obtaining global travel insurance coverage for Mauritius before you go.

© 2021 Government Travel Advice

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

• Latest Articles
• Privacy Policy

UK pledges support for vulnerable communities in Ethiopia

Minister for foreign affairs presents a certificate of a cultural envoy of mongolia to ms. bayartsetseg, a producer of mongol khaan play – ministry..., uk statement to 2024 osce alliance trafficking conference session on targeting vulnerabilities, 60, 16 april 2024, regarding the visit of h.e. mr. hakan fidan, minister of foreign affairs of the republic of türkiye, to qatar /..., minister joly meets with belarusian opposition leader sviatlana tsikhanouskaya, mauritius travel advice.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advises against all but essential travel to:

• the whole of Mauritius based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks

From 4am on Saturday 9 January, visitors arriving into the UK who have been in or transited through Mauritius in the previous 10 days will not be permitted entry. British and Irish nationals, longer-term visa holders and permanent residents arriving in the UK from Mauritius on or after 4am on 9 January will need to self-isolate along with their households on their return. Check the latest guidance for England , Northern Ireland , Scotland and Wales .

The FCDO is not advising those already travelling in Mauritius to leave at this time. Travellers should follow the advice of the local authorities on how best to protect themselves and others, including any measures that they bring in to control the virus. You should contact your tour operator or airline if you have any questions about your return journey.

From 1 January onwards those with residence rights includes: holders of Indefinite Leave to Remain; holders of existing leave to enter or remain (i.e those with biometric Residence permits) or an entry clearance/visa that grants such leave e.g. students, workers, etc (excluding visit visas); holders of EU Settlement Scheme (“EUSS”) leave; those who have rights of entry under the Withdrawal Agreements (including returning residents with a right of residence under the EEA Regulations and EEA frontier workers); family members of EEA nationals with rights under the Withdrawal Agreement.

All travel to Mauritius remains subject to entry restrictions

The Government of Mauritius has, in response to the COVID-19 situation, advised that individuals who have been in the UK within the previous 14 days will not be allowed entry to Mauritius. On 25 January 2021, the Government of Mauritius announced that this measure will be in force until at least 28 February 2021.

Since 1 October, to enter Mauritius, you must:

• Book airline travel and accommodation via the official Mauritian Tourism Promotion Agency website .
• Undergo a period of “in room” quarantine in a government-approved hotel on a full board basis for 14 days on arrival.
• Take a COVID-19 test no more than 7 days before your departure for Mauritius and demonstrate a negative test result on entry.
• Take a COVID-19 test on the day of arrival, and on day 7 and day 14 of your stay. If at any point, you receive a positive test result, you will be transferred to a public medical facility for treatment.

See Entry requirements for more information before you plan to travel.

Preparing for your return journey to the UK

If you’re returning to the UK from overseas, you will need to:

Check our advice on foreign travel during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and sign up for email alerts for this travel advice.

If you’re planning travel to Mauritius, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section .

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance .

Around 140,000 British tourists visit Mauritius every year. Most visits are trouble free.

The tropical cyclone season in Mauritius usually runs from November to May. See Natural disasters

You don’t need a visa to enter Mauritius. On arrival, your passport will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days. You’ll need to be able to provide evidence of onward or return travel. See Visas

Drug trafficking carries severe penalties. See Local laws and customs

Terrorist attacks in Mauritius can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

Editor Picks

Guterres welcomes creation of transitional council in haiti to choose new leaders, nigeria first country to introduce ‘revolutionary’ meningitis vaccine, rape, murder and hunger: the legacy of sudan’s year of war, latest news, popular categories.

• India 10143
• United Nations 7619
• United States 4920
• European Union 3527
• United Kingdom 3038
• Canada 1852
• Turkey 1844
• Greece 1741
• El Salvador 1339
• Saint Lucia 1247
• Panama 1158

© ForeignPolicyWatchdog.com. All Rights Reserved.

Speech: Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS): UK...