Your travel guide to Mauritius

Air travel is preferred by most travelers (see our advice for your flight to Mauritius). Many direct flights connect major cities and European capitals to Mauritius, via Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam airport, the largest airport on the island. You can also fly to Mauritius from Reunion, the Seychelles, the Comoros, the Maldives and Madagascar.

The sea route, relatively convenient for short distances, connects Mauritius to Rodrigue Island and Reunion Island, allowing some travelers to come to Mauritius by boat. Moreover, many cruises in the Indian Ocean make stopovers in Mauritius, which is also a popular destination for many boaters.

6 Must-know info about Mauritius

1. Getting around

To get around the island, you will have several options including the bus, which is both cheaper and more convenient to get to know the population of the island and car rental which gives more freedom in your travels. Cabs, which are mainly used in the city, can take you to your destination, but the price will be higher.

2. Health

Mauritius is a relatively safe destination from a health point of view. However, it is still best to follow basic precautions regarding water and food.

The anti-malaria vaccine is not required for European nationals, although it is mandatory for those coming from geographical areas affected by this disease.

The holidaymaker, who has come to enjoy the sun and the sea, must be careful about sunstroke and dehydration. That is why it is necessary to protect oneself from the sun and to have a bottle of water at hand when walking in the heart of the island.

The systematic use of condoms is recommended for people wishing to have intimate relations with the inhabitants of the island, given the relatively high prevalence of STDs.

3. Accommodations

Mauritius is renowned for the quality of service and comfort of its luxury hotels, most of which are located on the beachfront.

But with its many accommodation options, the traveler will find in Mauritius, a suitable offer, allowing him to spend an unforgettable stay without breaking the bank.

The major hotel chains, present in Mauritius, offer standard rooms that meet international standards.

We would advise Villa rentals, which are increasingly popular with vacationers who travel in groups, are an interesting option, especially in terms of value for money. If you’re looking for breathtaking luxury villas with exceptional services, our top pick has to be Smart Villas Mauritius.

4. Culture

The culture of Mauritius is a clever mix of cultural influences from neighboring islands, like its people, who come from all walks of life. The island’s spicy cuisine is reminiscent of South Indian cuisine. The sega, which is the musical rhythm of the island, is almost the same as in Reunion and Seychelles. Like the natural wealth of the island, the population, multiethnic and multicultural, lives in harmony.

5. Weather and climate

The tropical climate of Mauritius is characterized by beautiful sunshine and a pleasantly warm atmosphere all year round. There are two distinct seasons:

• the rainy season, from December to April,
• the dry season, from May to November.

While the dry season sees some rainy episodes, the intensity of the showers during the rainy season is relatively moderate. As a result, the weather is almost always sunny.

It should also be noted that the geographical location of Mauritius explains why the seasons are reversed compared to those of the northern hemisphere: the heat is at its peak between December and May. This means that the best time to go to Mauritius is undoubtedly from May to November.

6. What to bring to Mauritius

The pleasant warmth that characterizes the days in Mauritius encourages the wearing of light clothing all year round. And since there are no dress restrictions, boys can pack tank tops and shorts, and girls can dress in light blouses, shorts and even mini skirts. This will keep you comfortable in the heat and help you fight off perspiration.

To conclude

Make room for your best swimsuits and the complete beach outfit: wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a pair of flip-flops and a refreshing drink. The same goes for clothing suitable for outdoor activities: hiking gear, walking shoes, windbreaker, repellent products, etc.

In addition, you will need to bring all the important documents that will allow you to travel freely in Mauritius. Finally, remember to bring some covering clothes for visiting sacred places and for urban escapades.