Practical Guide
Essential Information
Everything you need to know about everyday life in Mauritius.
Basics
Official name
Republic of Mauritius
Capital
Port Louis
Population
~1.26 million
Area
2,040 km²
Independence
12 March 1968
Republic since
12 March 1992
Money & Banking
Currency & Exchange
Exchange rates are approximate and change daily. Always check a live rate before travelling.
Practical Money Tips
ATMs are widely available in towns, shopping malls, and outside most banks. They are scarce in rural areas and outer islands. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most ATMs and at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
Tipping is not mandatory and is not culturally expected the way it is in the US. At restaurants, 10% is appropriate if no service charge is already included. A small tip is appreciated by taxi drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff.
Bargaining is acceptable at the Central Market in Port Louis and at craft markets. It is not appropriate in shops, supermarkets, or restaurants.
Language
Languages of Mauritius
Useful Creole Phrases
Communications
Electricity
Health
Water
Tap water is technically safe to drink in Mauritius. Many visitors prefer bottled or filtered water, particularly in the first few days while adjusting to a new environment.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is present in Mauritius, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which bites during daytime hours. Use insect repellent (DEET-based), especially during and after rain. There is no malaria.
Sun
The UV index in Mauritius reaches 12+ in summer — extremely high. SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential year-round, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours.
Medical Care
Mauritius has excellent private hospitals. Clinique Darné, C-Care Apollo Bramwell, and C-Care Wellkin are all internationally accredited. Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended.
Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry to Mauritius. Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid are routinely recommended. Consult a travel medicine clinic 6–8 weeks before departure.
Pharmacy
Pharmacies (licensed dispensaries) are found in all towns and most large villages. Opening hours typically 8am–6pm Monday to Saturday, with some open Sunday. Prescription medication requires a valid prescription.
Transport
Climate Summary
Summer — November to April
Hot and humid, 28–32°C. Cyclone season. Occasional heavy downpours. Some beaches can be rough during storms. Sea temperature 27–29°C.
Winter — May to October (Best season)
Cooler and drier, 20–26°C. Trade winds. Low humidity. Clear skies. Best time to visit — comfortable outdoor temperatures, calm seas on north and west coasts.
The north and west coasts are drier year-round (in rain shadow from the central mountains). The east coast and plateau are significantly wetter and windier.
Shopping Hours
Public Holidays
Mauritius has 14 public holidays — more than almost any country in the world, reflecting its multicultural calendar.
Religion & Etiquette
Visiting Religious Sites
Dress modestly at Hindu temples, mosques, and churches — cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering Hindu temples and mosques. This is universally observed and non-negotiable. Many temples will have a shoe rack at the entrance. Shorts and sleeveless tops are inappropriate at religious sites.
Photography
Photography is generally welcomed in Mauritius but it is good practice to ask before photographing people, especially at religious sites, markets, or in private settings. Most Mauritians are welcoming and happy to be photographed if asked. Photographing military installations or ports is prohibited.
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