Mauritius

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. 



back to top