What languages are spoken in Mauritius?
Direct Answer
English and French are official. Mauritian Creole (Morisyen) is the everyday language. Hindi, Tamil, and other languages are spoken in specific communities.
Languages of Mauritius
English
Official language of government, law, and education. Used in banks, government offices, tourist areas, and by educated professionals — not widely spoken in casual everyday settings.
French
Dominant language of media, business, and social life. Most newspapers, TV, and commercial signage are in French. Business meetings often default to French.
Mauritian Creole (Morisyen)
Mother tongue of the vast majority of Mauritians — the language of the street, market, and everyday life. Based primarily on French with African, Malagasy, Hindi, and English influences. A few Creole phrases go a long way: *Ki manyer?* (How are you?), *Mersi* (Thank you), *Pa problem* (No problem).
Other languages
Hindi/Bhojpuri (Hindu community), Tamil (Tamil community), Urdu (Muslim community), Mandarin/Hakka (Sino-Mauritian community).
Practical advice
You can live fully speaking only English. Learning some French opens social life significantly. A few Creole phrases are genuinely appreciated.