Mauritius

Accommodations in Mauritius, ranging from beachfront resorts to boutique hotels and guesthouses, span from reliable tourist standards to world-class properties.

On rare occasions, circumstances beyond Bench Africa’s control may require a change to the confirmed accommodation. In such cases, every effort will be made to provide advance notice, although up-to-date details about the substitute property may not always be available.

General Information

Mauritius has a relaxed approach to dress, with lightweight, casual clothing being most practical. Loose-fitting cottons or linens are ideal in the warm climate, while swimwear is suited to the beach and pool but not appropriate in towns or villages. A light wrap, sarong, or kaftan is useful for moving between the beach and public areas.

Evenings at resorts may be slightly more refined, with some hotels requesting smart-casual attire for dinner (collared shirts and long trousers for men, dresses or smart separates for women). Outside of resorts, the dress code remains informal.

A wide-brimmed hat or cap and good sunglasses are important for sun protection, and a lightweight rain jacket may come in handy during sudden showers, particularly in the summer months. Comfortable sandals or trainers are useful for exploring towns, botanical gardens, or nature trails, while flip-flops are convenient for the beach.

Laundry services are widely available at resorts and hotels, though it’s best to check turnaround times if you have a tight schedule.

Packing List

Essentials:

• Lightweight, soft clothing (cotton or linen)
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Reusable water bottle
• Good quality sunglasses (polarized if possible)
• Camera, charger, and adaptor
• Travel adaptor for charging devices
• Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
• Sandals and flip-flops
• Swimwear and a cover-up for beach areas
• Light jacket, cardigan, or shawl for cooler evenings
• Lightweight raincoat or umbrella (especially November–April)

Health and Safety:

• Basic medical kit (plasters, painkillers, antiseptic cream, Imodium, etc.)
• Insect repellent (particularly in coastal and forested areas)
• Sunscreen with high SPF, especially for sensitive skin
• Aftersun lotion or aloe vera gel
• Tissues or wet wipes
• Lip balm with SPF

Mauritius has a reliable telephone and mobile network, with international services widely available. Most hotels and resorts provide direct-dial telephones and Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may vary in some areas. Visitors with roaming-enabled mobile phones can access local networks, or a local SIM card can be purchased on arrival for more affordable rates. Internet access is generally good across the island, including in hotels, cafés, and public spaces.

Nestled amidst crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius invites travellers to indulge in the unique blend of tropical beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.

Explore the island’s stunning coastline, where pristine beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Dive into the vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful coral reefs and exotic marine life or embark on a sailing excursion to discover hidden coves and picturesque islets. Venture inland to discover the island’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to rolling hills and sugar cane fields. Hike through the Black River Gorges National Park, home to rare endemic species of flora and fauna, or take a leisurely stroll through the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, renowned for its exotic plant collections and majestic palm-lined avenues. Delve into Mauritius’ rich cultural tapestry, shaped by centuries of colonial history and a fusion of influences from Africa, Europe, and Asia. Explore bustling markets and vibrant towns, where you can sample delicious street food and mingle with friendly locals. Visit historic sites such as Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which bears witness to the island’s history of indentured labour and immigration.

Indulge in the island’s culinary delights, from fresh seafood and tropical fruits to spicy curries and aromatic teas. Experience the warmth of Mauritian hospitality at luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, or charming guesthouses, where you can unwind in style and comfort.

Voltage & Frequency

The standard electricity supply in Mauritius is 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz. Most outlets use the British-style three-pin plug (Type G), though some hotels may also have two-pin sockets. Travellers are advised to bring a universal adaptor.

Socket Types in Mauritius

Type C (European 2-pin)
Type G (British 3-pin)

Mauritius is a family-friendly destination, with many hotels welcoming children and providing facilities such as kids’ clubs, babysitting services, and family-oriented activities.

Health requirements vary from country to country. We recommend you speak to your GP or local Travel Doctor for up-to-date information and advice.

Our Tips for Choosing Insurance

Insurance is a mandatory requirement for your travels, and we strongly advise you to secure Comprehensive Travel Insurance at the time of booking your trip. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the Terms and Conditions outlined in your policy and that you are well informed about your insurance coverage to ensure that you are adequately prepared for any unforeseen circumstances during your travels.

Guidelines

It is recommended to ask your hotel or resort to reconfirm all onward flights before departure to ensure the latest flight timings. While most departure taxes, both domestic and international, are included in airline tickets, some smaller or private airports in the region may require local payment.

Currency

The official currency of Mauritius is the Rupee (Rs), which is subdivided into 100 cents.

You Should Know

Full banking services are available in major towns across Mauritius, though some banks and ATMs may charge a commission. Euros are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash in small denominations for convenience.

Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, resorts, and larger shops, but may not be accepted in smaller outlets or local markets. It is recommended to inform your bank before using your card overseas, and using a PIN is generally more secure than a signature. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards, with American Express accepted at some larger establishments. Other cards, such as Diners Club, are rarely accepted.

General Safety

For personal safety in Mauritius, it is advisable to keep doors locked when driving or leaving your accommodation. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and take care when visiting towns after dark. Keep valuables such as passports, cash, and electronics secured, preferably in a hotel safe where available. Displaying expensive items openly is best avoided.

When visiting beaches, swim only in designated areas and follow local safety guidelines. Although most beaches are safe, it’s wise to remain aware of currents and supervise children at all times.

Mauritius offers a wide variety of local souvenirs and crafts. Look for vibrant textiles, sisal bags, wood or stone carvings, unique artwork, handcrafted jewellery, woven goods, and decorative baskets. Bargaining is common at markets and roadside stalls, though not usually in shops, and vendors may quote higher prices for tourists initially.

Cash in Mauritian Rupees is widely accepted, and major credit cards can be used in larger shops or boutiques. When shopping, choosing ethically made and locally produced items supports local communities and sustainable practices.

Tipping is customary in Mauritius, though not as widespread as in the United States or Europe. It is discretionary, a way of expressing gratitude for exceptional service.

To assist with budgeting, the following guidelines are provided in Mauritian Rupee:
Driver (per person per full day): MUR 250
Guide (per person per full day): MUR 450
Hotel porters (per bag): MUR 50
Restaurant (per person per meal): MUR 50
A la carte dining (percentage of bill): 10%

Australian High Commission, Port Louis

2nd Floor, Rogers House
5 President John Kennedy Street
Port Louis, Mauritius
Phone: (+230) 202 0160

Do I need a Visa to Travel to Mauritius?

We do not provide advice on specific visas as regulations are subject to change and can vary from person to person. Please refer to Smart Traveller for the most up-to-date information. We advise checking visa requirements at the time of booking and again before travelling to keep abreast of any changes that may have occurred.

Visa requirements vary between countries, and it is essential that you acquire the appropriate visa for your journey and ascertain whether it can be applied for in advance or on arrival, in which case you will need the exact physical money. Often, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, with a minimum of two blank pages (a double page). You will be required to have onward travel documents and sufficient funds. It is advisable to carry photocopies of all important documents.

It is your personal responsibility to confirm that your passport is valid, contains the necessary visa, and that you have all required travel documents.

You Should Know

• It is important to have two blank pages side by side in your passport for the entry and exit stamps to be issued. If there is insufficient space, entry into the country may be denied.
• Visitors must also be in possession of onward travel documents and have sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.

Please double check entry requirements on Smart Traveller as this may change at any time.

Climate

Mauritius enjoys a subtropical climate, making it comfortable for travel year-round. December to March is ideal for diving, when waters are clearest. June to August is best for surfing, while October to April is suited for big game fishing. The summer months, November to March, are perfect for sun-seekers. Between April and October, the eastern side of the island experiences cooler temperatures and stronger trade winds, with higher rainfall, so the western side tends to offer more favourable weather during this period.

Peak Season: October - April

• The island’s peak season extends from October to April, which is hot, humid and rainy.
• The east coast is more sheltered at this time of the year so it is recommended to travel here at this time of the year.
• This is an excellent for big game fishing, when the large predators feed close to shore.
• December through March is the best time for diving, when the waters are at their clearest

Winter: May – September

• The winter is warm and dry.
• There are fewer mosquitoes
• All hotels drop their rates at this time of year and can be discounted by up to 50%.
• It is recommended to travel to the north and west of the island, which are more sheltered during the winter.
• June through August is the best weather for surfing in Mauritius.