Located off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, the idyllic island of Mauritius is a remarkably romantic holiday destination. While it's renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, gorgeous powder-white sand beaches, and a wonderful tropical climate, the island offers much more. Those who venture inland will discover lush, jungle-clad mountains, glistening blue lagoons, impressive rivers and waterfalls, extinct volcanic craters, charming little ramshackle towns and villages, and wonderfully friendly locals. Must-see attractions include the bustling capital of Port Louis with its lively local markets; the remarkable 85 metre-high Chamarel Waterfall; and Eureka, a historic plantation mansion turned museum offering visitors a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Banking and Currency
Currency:
Local currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
Symbol: Rp
ISO code: MUS
Central bank: Bank of Mauritius
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: Rp2000, 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 25
Coins:Rp10, 5, 1
Banking:
Card Transactions:
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Often
Visa: Often
American Express: Sometimes
Diner’s club: Sometimes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: Mondays – Thursdays 08h00 – 15h00; Fridays 09h00 - 17h00
Weekends: *hours
Public Holidays: No
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Air Mauritius
International Airports: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Internation Airport
Domestic Airport: No
Road:
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: No
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
Uber available: No
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: No
Local city bus networks: No
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: No
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: No
Ice: No
Meat: Yes, if well-cooked
Street food: No
Local cuisine: Mauritian cuisine is defined by its diverse cultural history, with African, Chinese, French, Creole and English influences. Must-try dishes include Bol Renversé (“Upside Down Bowl” or “Magic Bowl”), similar to chop suey topped with an omelette or fried egg; and Mauritian curry with wonderful unique sides such as Achard (a pickled vegetable and mustard savoury condiment).
Drinks: Ti' Punch or rum, vanilla tea
Tipping: 10%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 880 mm to 1550 mm
Average temperature: 27°C
Summer
Average Highs: About 30°C
Average Lows: Around 23°C
Winter:
Average Highs: Around 24°C
Average Lows: Approximately 17°C
Best time to visit: Mauritius is an excellent year-round destination in terms of weather, but visiting in autumn or spring will allow you to avoid the crowds of summer and the cooler weather of winter.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Yes
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes, in main towns
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Usually
Cafes: Usually
Shopping malls: Sometimes
Public parks: Sometimes
Libraries: Sometimes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: C/G
Voltage (V): 230
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50
*A Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
