What currency is used in Mauritius?
Direct Answer
The Mauritian Rupee (MUR) is the official currency. USD, EUR, and GBP are widely accepted in hotels and resorts but not in local shops and markets.
The Mauritian Rupee
The official currency of Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee, abbreviated MUR or Rs. Banknotes are issued in denominations of MUR 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000. Coins are in denominations of 5, 20, and 50 cents, and MUR 1, 5, 10, and 20.
Exchange rate
The Mauritian Rupee floats against major currencies. As of mid-2026, approximate rates are: - USD 1 ≈ MUR 44–46 - EUR 1 ≈ MUR 48–50 - GBP 1 ≈ MUR 56–58 - ZAR 1 ≈ MUR 2.4–2.6
Exchange rates fluctuate — check a live source before travelling.
Where to exchange
- •**Banks and cambios (exchange bureaux):** The best rates are usually at licensed cambios, which you can find in Grand Baie, Port Louis, and the airport arrivals hall. Banks offer competitive rates but may charge fees.
- •**Airport:** The airport cambio at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is convenient on arrival but tends to offer slightly less favourable rates than town cambios. Changing a modest amount at the airport for taxis and tips is practical.
- •**ATMs:** Widely available across the island. MCB and SBM ATMs accept Visa and Mastercard. Your home bank will apply an international transaction fee; some accounts (Wise, Revolut) minimise these charges.
Cards
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, large restaurants, supermarkets, and most tourist-facing businesses. Smaller local restaurants, markets, and street vendors are cash-only. Amex is accepted at larger hotels but not universally.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, 10% is customary if service is not included. Hotel staff, drivers, and guides are typically tipped MUR 50–200 depending on the service. A 15% VAT and occasional service charge may already be included in restaurant bills — check before adding a tip.