Mauritius Travel Guide

It's been said that "Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and heaven was copied after Mauritius”. And with its brilliant white sands and turquoise-coloured waters, it’s easy to see why this is island luxury at its very best. But there is so much more to this Indian Ocean destination, from historic sights and cultural attractions to national parks and offshore islands home to rare and endemic flora and fauna. 

To help you discover Mauritius, we've rounded up all the important things you need to know before you pack your suitcase and jet off to this island south of the equator.

Mauritius travel guide 

  • What you need to know 
  • The best time to visit 
  • What to pack 
  • Getting around 
  • Currency 
  • Where to stay 

What you need to know before you go

  • Flight time from the UK: Direct flights from London take around 12 hours
  • Currency: Mauritian rupee (Rs) 
  • Language: Mauritian Creole but many people speak English 
  • Time difference: Mauritius is 4 hours ahead of the UK
  • Visas: You don't need a visa to visit Mauritius. When you arrive your passport will be stamped, allowing you to stay in the country for 60 days (that would be quite a holiday!) 

When is the best time to visit Mauritius? 

Mauritius is renowned for its sunny weather and high temperatures, so you should be able to enjoy the subtropical climate no matter what month you go. 

However, holidaymakers tend to flock to this sun-soaked island from October through to December, as this is when the weather is at its very best. You’ll be rewarded with blue skies, gloriously warm temperatures and the opportunity to seek out the many golden beaches dotted along the coast of this idyllic island. 

When should I avoid visiting Mauritius?

While you’ll still enjoy plenty of dry periods, high temperatures and sunny weather, it’s recommended that you avoid visiting Mauritius from January to March if you want the very best experience. These months are the wet cyclone season, which means high winds and heavy rainfall are pretty common.

What to pack for a holiday to Mauritius 

With incredible weather and more sandy shores than you can shake a bucket and spade at, we don’t have to tell you twice to pack your swimsuits. As well as bikinis and swimming shorts, lightweight clothing is highly recommended due to the tropical climate.

Light casual clothes suitable for the sun are essential but remember to bring along some more formal options for dinner. Some of the resorts have dress codes for evening meals, so that means it's time to pull out the LBD and the chinos – if you’re anything like us, you’ll love the excuse to dress up. 

Of course, don’t forget those other warm weather holiday essentials, such as sun cream, a wide-brimmed hat and plenty of insect repellent for those balmy evenings sat outside with a cocktail. 

Getting around Mauritius 

Looking to explore outside your resort? From world-renowned cuisine served up in local restaurants to a range of incredible things to do, you’re free to experience Mauritius with ease, thanks to these convenient transport options. 

Bus

Cheap and cheerful, buses are a very convenient mode of transportation in Mauritius. Typically running from 5:30am to 8pm, they travel everywhere apart from Plaine Champagne and Le Morne Peninsula as these are uninhabited areas. Buses can get very busy, so try to travel light when you head out for the day, rather than packing a large rucksack.

Private taxi 

A taxi is another useful mode of transportation, with plenty of vehicles on stand-by outside the hotels, shopping centres and bus stations. You can book one in advance from the reception desk at your resort or by using the Mauritius Yellow Pages. Make sure to agree to a price before you get in, and don’t be afraid to haggle politely. 

Route taxi 

Save money by opting for a shared ride in a route taxi. These stop at the most popular hot spots across the island and depart once the vehicle is full, making it a great option for those looking to cut back on costs. It’s also perfect for when public transport comes to a standstill later at night. Route taxis are slightly more expensive than a public bus but cheaper than a standard taxi. 

Car hire

If you’re planning on travelling a lot and want the freedom to explore, hiring a car may be a good option for you. You have to have been driving for at least a year and be over the age of 23 to hire a car in Mauritius but it's easy to book a hire car online in advance or at the airport. 

What is the currency in Mauritius?

The main form of currency is the Mauritian Rupee. Although the US Dollar is widely accepted and is good to carry in emergencies, you’ll likely get a much better deal if you pay in the local currency due to the exchange rate. 

Most bank cards are accepted in restaurants and larger shops too, but it’s wise to carry cash just in case as many taxis, markets and smaller independent stores will only accept cash. 

Where to stay in Mauritius

No matter which area of Mauritius you visit, you can be confident you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views, a sprawling coastline and turquoise waters to dip your toe in as well as plenty of bustling bars to dance the night away. Want to know which area of Mauritius is the best for your holiday? We've got you covered! 

Flic en Flac

Located on the west coast, Flic en Flac is home to one of the most renowned beaches in Mauritius. Stretching over 3km, this powder-soft beach is framed by palm trees and hosts plenty of sunbathing space. If you're an avid diver, this is also the ideal place. Book a diving excursion to La Cathédrale, an underwater wonder of natural arches, caves and reefs brimming with tropical marine life. 

 Or explore the town of Flic en Flac itself. Take a stroll through its streets to check out the typical souvenir shops and local eateries serving up the very best in Mauritian cuisine. 

Resorts in Flic en Flac

Balaclava

By far the most popular choice for tourists, Balaclava is a breathtaking destination. The sun-soaked beaches offer a mix of relaxation and exhilarating watersports, both of which you can experience while surrounded by crystal clear waters. For something a little different, seek out the Maritim Equestrian Centre where you can ride horses along the beach, take them for a swim in the water or simply learn how to get in the saddle if you're a beginner. 

Alternatively, head into the city to enjoy everything from shopping to spa days – the Maritim Tropical Flower Spa is popular with tourists and locals. No matter what kind of holiday you want to have, Balaclava delivers. 

Resorts in Balaclava

Belle Mare

With coconut white sands and a smattering of palm trees, Belle Mare is perhaps best known for its wide stretch of picturesque beach. 

Catch sight of friendly stingrays and vibrant marine life on a diving experience or view these incredible creatures from above on a glass-bottom boat tour. 

Explore another side to Mauritius by opting for a tour of the Bras d'Eau National Park, one of three national parks on the island, a huge forested reserve that's home to beautiful flora and fauna. 

Resorts in Belle Mare

Check out our other guides to Mauritius below 

Ready to start planning your holiday? You can find our collection of luxury resorts in Mauritius at a great price on our website. Or call our expert travel team and book your dream holiday today.