mauritius safe place to visit

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Is Mauritius Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Mauritius is a small island located in the Indian Ocean, to the east of Madagascar, northeast of Reunion and southeast of Seychelles.

The obvious beauties of this country are of course its jaw-dropping beaches with white sands and crystal blue waters.

Here, you can enjoy diving and snorkeling to your heart’s content, and since Mauritius is by shallow waters, watching coral reefs, breathtaking underwater topography and a dramatic ocean drop-off can also be on your to-do list.

In turn, when you’re on land, you can choose between hiking, horse riding and golf courses of high-standard.

However, there is another, truly wonderful quality about this island: its wildlife.

The wildlife tourism in Mauritius is gaining in popularity, due to the fact that Mauritius has saved more bird species from extinction than any other country on earth.

Today, you can spot two most beautiful birds of the Indian Ocean – the pink pigeon and the Mauritian kestrel – at different areas of the island.

Expect to see giant tortoises, dolphins, and whales roaming free in Mauritius’ marine environment.

• Warnings & Dangers in Mauritius

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Generally, Mauritius is very safe to visit. It is probably one of the safest countries in Africa to travel to, but it has its dangers. Use your common sense and keep your valuables closely by your side, since the most common type of crime is petty theft.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Transportation is generally safe in Mauritius, though keep an eye out for taxi drivers looking to overcharge their rides. Public transport in Mauritius is mainly reliable.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Pickpockets aren't too common but they do operate. Be especially cautious at Downtown Port Louis and central tourist areas since they do have a slightly higher crime rate. Apart from that, in general, it is not too dangerous when it comes to pickpockets.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

There are several natural disasters that can hit Mauritius. Keep in mind that the cyclone season in Mauritius is from November to May. Cyclones can considerably damage people's properties and Mauritius authorities have a well-structured system of phased warnings. Always follow local advice. Also, watch out for stonefish stings in the water: they aren't common but their sting could be fatal!

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Mauritius is very safe when it comes to kidnapping and mugging: violent crime is extremely rare in this country.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Mauritius' recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

As in any tourist destination, there is a heightened risk of getting scammed. Check every change twice, negotiate everything beforehand and never give your money before you receive the service you're paying for.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women should feel completely safe in this country, even at night. That does not mean you should let your guard down - keep to your wits and your common sense, and do not do anything you wouldn't in your own country.

• So... How Safe Is Mauritius Really?

You can travel to Mauritius and rest assured there is very little risk of something going wrong.

This is a very safe country and, on the whole, its crime rates are very low.

What little crime there is, usually tends to be just petty theft.

As anywhere, things get a little more dangerous after dark, especially at the beach or in secluded areas, so make sure you avoid those areas and keep your valuables in your accommodation.

However safe this country may be, it is best to remain vigilant at all times and exercise the same precaution measures you would in any other destination.

Some other concerns for tourists may be health-related, such as the risk of chikungunya, which is an insect born virus very similar to dengue fever, since this fever occasionally hits Mauritius, particularly during the warmer season lasting from October to May.

Apart from that, be wary of stonefish stings in the water: they aren’t common but can be fatal and it is essential that you obtain urgent medical care if stung.

Also, there have been cases of some reef fish in Mauritius containing a neurotoxin similar, though not identical, to that found in Caribbean reef fish, so it would be best not to eat them.

• How Does Mauritius Compare?
• Useful Information

Many countries need a visa to enter Mauritius, yet for some, it is relatively easy to obtain it - just by arriving at Mauritius' airport, where you get a 60-day visa. Make sure your passport is valid beyond the intended period of stay in Mauritius. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The Mauritian rupee is the official currency in Mauritius. ATMs are widespread throughout the main island but are less common on Rodrigues. Credit cards are widely accepted by establishments such as hotels and restaurants.

Mauritius has a mild tropical maritime climate characterized by two distinct seasons: a warm but humid summer, lasting from November to April and somewhat cool and dry winter, lasting from June to September. The best time to visit this country is the entire period between May and December when the weather is cool, dry and sunny.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is the main and busiest international airport in Mauritius. It is located about 48 km southeast of the capital city of Port Louis.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Mauritius, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Mauritius Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Explore Mauritius

• Best Beaches in Mauritius
• Where to Next?

54 Reviews on Mauritius

Great article, thanks for the tips! Indeed, Mauritius is known for being a tropical island that has long been a haven for honeymoon couples or anyone seeking paradisiacal beaches.

However, there are tourist-targeting scammers and petty crime to be wary of. Do be wary of the fraudulent tour operators, factory outlet scams, taxi driver unofficial guide partnership, long taxi routes, snatch theft, and many more!

Won’t go there if u paid me to listen to Muslim speakers . They dont change their ways in other countries but expect to infringe on other customs in your country. They leave our classrooms when our national anthem is played and return afterwards. So disrespectful. Separate prayer rooms in our public schools. Want Merry Christmas sayings to be cancelled at Christmas time. Want loud speakers in our areas regardless of who it disturbs. Stay in your country if you dont like our customs .

We been to Mauritius so many times and it’s paradise on earth we love the people’s the diversity of the island that what make Mauritius paradise crime rates are very low, compared to Italy Spain where we been Robed before ,and people’s in Mauritius are so gentle and kind and Mauritian people’s don’t worry about the racist comments which some individual from western countries trying to creating division ,stay how you are ,strong and with your amazing welcome.god bless Mauritius 🇲🇺

It’s sound you were staying next to a mosque not in a hotel ,if you stay next to a temple you will hear prayers or if you stay next to church you will hear church bell 6am 12pm ,6 pm in Mauritius.its normal,if you can’t afford a hotel 😉

Few Irritations to Rectify

I just came back from Mauritius 22 May – 29 May 2019. I go once a year for a break. Weather was strange for this time of year, early morning sunshine – midmorning rain – afternoon sunshine – evening rain. The northern part has a “relatively new beach” It cost the government millions in Rupees (I assume) WHY ALLOW 4wheel MOTORCYCLES to SPEED up and down that small stretch of sand? – where holiday makers & local people go to for peace and quiet. Then been harrassed by a few inconsiderate youngsters chasing up and down kicking up sand and make nr 8 turns on the beach? My other complaint is: it is a holiday destination….. I don’t want to be woken up in the morning 5 o’clock with a imam singing over a loudspeaker a religious that I do not serve. I don’t care about the religious part – you can serve who you want to- my consern is that noice at THAT HOUR!! NOT ON!! We ALL have WhatsApp NOW – if they have to wake up – download an App and play it via WhatsApp to your own religious community- not to the HOLIDAY MAKERS or disrupt the peace and quiet of other religions! Overall – the people of Mauritius are kind and wonderful

The Azaan (imam singing over a loudspeaker as you said) form part of the Mauritian culture. And Mauritius is known for its cultural diversification. I think that you should have done some research on the neighbourhood of the hotel before booking-We ALL have internet NOW. And yes, the majority of Mauritians are kind and wonderful, as long as you do not make unnecessary remarks that can jeopardise this peaceful atmosphere.

If you don’t like the Iman singing stay with your western culture and stay at home. Don’t take a break, the world is not yours.

Stay at home? There a huge population of muslims every where these days,you cant get away from them

Like cockroaches

Jackie you are very rude and unreasonable. You give Muslims a bad rap. Tourism is an integral part of countries like Mauritius and a PAID visitor should be treated as such. This visitor did not violate anyone and should be given the same respect. Religion should not be practiced in a way that undermines others. We all can get along if we try.

So you better accept that you share the world with people from other religions and learn to coexist instead of bitching about it. The world doesn’t care about your comfort.

🤦‍♀️ until you are like Richard Branson and own your own island paradise, you’ll have to put up with these “irritations” 🤣🤣🤣 ps I think you may be racist

Stop whining and show respect.

Tebra du Plessis. If hearing Imams making the several calls to prayer through the day from dawn to dusk using a loudspeaker annoys you so much then DON’T GO TO A MOSLEM COUNTRY! A few clicks on your pc would tell you what the major faith is in any country.

You’re only visiting, so show some respect for the short time you’re there!

Do you whine about the church bells in your own country clanging? Just as bad as loudspeakers, especially when rung badly as is often the case.

By the way, don`t you know that the dawn call is NOT a wake up call, it’s a call to prayer. If you make yearly visits to Mauritius you should know that by now.

So why should a whole faith change their practices just to please precious you?

Just in case you’re wondering, I’m British and a Christian (though not a very good one) and have lived in and visited Moslem countries.

It is not a ‘muslim country’ since they’re minority ethnic goup there (cca 15%) and majority population are of hindu and Christian religion (cca 80%) so that comment is quite stupid really…so, it seems even more strange that they wake up paying visitors at 5am.

We should respect each other

Oh really? Do u go to stay in hotel or a rented house by the side of mosque.. hotels , most of them , are normally far from residential areas . As far as I know mosque are situated in places easing access to people.. next time u better don’t come if practices of religious activities bother your peace… go where countries are always in fights and get yourself terrorized. For your one day stay in a country you want to bring changes in belief of peoples’ religious values.. hey just mind your thinking

And women were covered in black from head to toe. Quite scary to look at.

Your ignorance is quite astounding. You’re visiting a country, with a diverse religious population, and then complain when a certain religions normal activity upsets you! Don’t ever go to Turkey will you, as that will really upset you. We loved the early morning calls to prayer. It is beautiful, and an insight to a religions and countries way of life. Muslims are some of the loveliest people you’ll ever wish to meet. Quite frankly, you should be ashamed to have written your review!

Look, Im a Mauritian and Normally if u don’t respect or Love the sound of Azaan, myself It disturbs me a lot but I got used to it because ofc I was born in Mauritius, so even its Noisy, its very blessing, and its shows how multi-cultural our beautiful Mauritius is, there’s not only Azaan but there’s For hindus too as We referred it as prayers.

So as others are saying, if u don’t like it, stay in ur western country. We don’t need people like you to disturb our peace

You should update the temperatures: +10°c in summer specially on the coast. During winter in the center it can drop to 15°c at night. And finaly if you’re on a short budget, consider buying your stuff outside of hotels (~100% difference).

I am a Mauritian by birth and living and working overseas . Coming back after an absence of 3 years those loud screeching noises ( so called religious chanting ) over the loud speakers are overwhelming and extremely irritating. I dearly feel sorry for those tourists who spend a great deal of money for peace and quiet to visit my home country. I did some snooping around and to my surprise 99% of those places were unoccupied and the chanting came out of recording devices. What a letdown!!!!!!!

Do you know what locations are less likely to impacted by this? Thank you!

GANGSTERS PARADISE

I was in Mauritius Jan 2020. It’s not the paradise as it was before. Lots of crime, political scandals, money laundering, religious tensions, road accidents, nepotism, Eviromental disaster, bribe, police brutality, drug mafia , poverty, corruption, (heroin, synthetic) , murders, (Michaela McAreavey murdered on her honeymoon) murder still not solved. Often Mauritian took to the streets to protest. Lots of tourists crimes not published because they want to loose the reputation. A very corrupt country.

Privilege card leave it

I thought he was describing the United States.

Don't force your beliefs

I agree in Christian countries they don’t blast prayers that force everyone to listen Thanks for the warning

These posts are INSANE!!! YOU ARE IN THEIR COUNTRY!!!!! You are a GUEST in THEIR country. If you do not like the culture, DO NOT GO TO THEIR HOME!!!!! You expect them to change their culture in their country to accomodate you and then turn around and say well the Muslims come to the US and want the US to change to accomodate them. Common sense and education people, please go find both. Research a country before you go visit it. There is this great thing called the internet that can tell you everything you want to know about a country BEFORE you visit. Wow, just imagine……

The World belongs to everyone

Hello… you are right!! The world belongs to EVERYONE!!! So, show always respect others regardless of their religion! and whether they live in the western world! Grow up!!! as no one and I mean NO ONE wants to be woken up on any morning at 5 o’clock with any kind of singing over a loudspeaker.

So apparently you can get away with murder in Mauritius….very dangerous and why would you go and put yourself and family at risk from these people. !!

Unsolved murder

This young lady was strangled on her honeymoon in her hotel room in Mauritius. The authorities have failed in 8 years to convict her murderer(s). I would say it is not a particularly safe place for this reason.

Me and my husband were robbed on Mauritius in december 2019 ,Black river gorge national park ,while hiking. On the way back two men came out of the bushes with machete and demanded that we give them everything. So we lost most of our properties and luckily we were not injured ,because we didn’t resist. Only go hiking where most people go and with a guide.

So sorry to hear about your nasty experience. Did you report the fact to the police and the hotel?

The local people in Mauritius are very kind and friendly. Some are rich and many more are poor but this does not affect how humble they all are. I have been all over the island and never experienced any crime whatsoever.

Well said ,fortunately in this world we do have people like you who is honest and have comment sense. 👍

I like Mexico better.

it’s an amazing place. I really enjoyed going to see my family there. for those talking about the 5 am prayer thing, it nearly gave me a heart attack the first few nights but I kinda missed it when I got home.

it’s just part of their culture. but when you go to places like port Luis, where your bag n your front and anywhere you go, always count your change and be very careful when planning touristy things because some tour guides can be dodgy. but like in any country don’t be an idiot and be respectful and you should be fine.

CHANGE OF RELIGION

Very scary to see all the muslems dressed in full head to toe in black clothes at the markets. Most people are ok at all places around island

What on earth is scary about people who live somewhere carrying on with their normal lives?

Differences in Culture

Some things you are not used to could be scary, its normal.

Typical American racism.

Appreciate Cultural Diversity

I have never been to Mauritius, but hope to one day. I am appalled by the insensitive comments made by people who are visitors to someone else’s country. I am a proud Canadian Christian, and what I love most about my country is its cultural diversity. And when I travel, I choose places that are different from my home, so I can experience what others have to offer. Having visited both Dubai and Morocco, I am familiar with the frequent calls to prayer. They remind me I am far from home, and I love it! Please, people, be respectful of others. Focus on the similarities that all humans possess and learn to appreciate the differences. And if you are unable to enjoy a place that is different from what you consider to be ‘perfect’, don’t travel!

BEST PLACE EVER

I’ve been in Mauritius almost one year ago. I love everything there. People are usually very gentle. Ok, somebody tried to scam us, but not so badly. We’ve even been in Cité Kennedy (more or less a ghetto) and nothing happened to us. Obviously better to pay attention, always, but probably less than in the most of European cities.

Wow people can be so nasty…

Anonymous I would love to visit this wonderfully beautiful nation. It sounds from all of younto be a small piece of paradise left of our earth.

Well, I think that after all of this being said, we WON’T be going there at all! Screaming imam at the crack of dawn is not for us! THANK YOU for the advice and saved money!! 🙂

Disappointed.

I found out about this island and became very excited that as a woman of mixed race I could leave the United States and retire somewhere beautiful and get away from the crime and especially racism in America. I am very disappointed with what I am hearing here.

Mauritius has no Muslims.

Don’t talk about muslims in Mauritius. I had never heard a single Muslim guy in Mauritius in news. It’s better to stay away from talking about Muslim here, or you will get fired. Mauritius is safer than Africa. If you talk about muslims, Mauritius will get as dangerous as South Sudan.

Poor geography

Mauritius is in Africa…

Reading to all these comments and complaints, I am 100 percent sure and certain , the beautiful Island of Mauritius is safe to travel and have lovely people It is a one nation with different religious beliefs but no fighting amongst each other , , everyone participates in festivities The world (every one)is welcome in Mauritius Everyone likes to party so is Boris

Church bell ringing and Imam chanting might sound odd to non African because they are use to such but not to an African person who grew up in African. Peace!

ALL Y'ALL SO RACIST

Idfk why you guys always put down other ppl like that bc of their religion. I don’t mean ppl are Muslim or Hindu means they are bombers or criminals shame on u guys. As an atheist, I have all rights to say this and Mauritius is a VERY safe country. I went there with no worries.

Offers many enjoyable activities in a beautiful setting

I’m shocked and embarrassed for the ignorant travelers who are so entitled as to believe an entire country should change their customs for their holiday. Maybe it’s for the best that they don’t return and warn their friends if they are like minded to go elsewhere, somewhere that looks exactly like where they live, where they can eat and drink the same awful food they do at home, and watch the tele and football all day just like they never left home. It’s unlikely that anyone that ignorant will benefit the places they visit, as they likely just spread negativity and bad manners. Hopefully most westerners are respectful of the people and places they visit that have different customs and culture, as that’s the entire point of traveling. This place looks amazing. I’ll have to look into visiting soon!

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• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
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Visit Mauritius: Top 21 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 21 best things to do in mauritius (bucket list).

You’re planning to spend your next holiday in Mauritius and you’re looking for the best things to do during your trip?

You’re at the right place!

Mauritius might be a tiny country, but it’s full of amazing places to visit . Famous for its paradise-like beaches and turquoise waters , Mauritius also offers splendid forest and mountain hikes .

From the beaches of Belle-Mare and Grand Baie , via the church of Cap Malheureux , Le Morne Brabant Mountain, Black River Gorges National Park to the stunning Ile aux Cerfs (Deer Island), you won’t find a dull moment during your stay in Mauritius.

To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this Top 21 things to do and see in Mauritius , accompanied by all my best tips to make the most of your visits.

So, what are the best things to do in Mauritius?

Let’s find out!

1. Flic en Flac beach

2. climb le pouce mountain, 3. ile aux cerfs – deer island, 4. cap malheureux, 5. grand baie, 6. port louis, 7. chamarel and the seven coloured earths, 8. belle mare beach, 9. bras d’eau national park, 10. trou aux biches beach, 11. the tea route, 12. grand bassin, 13. maison eureka, 14. bagatelle mall of mauritius, 15. vallée de ferney, 16. black river gorges national park, 17. the 7 waterfalls trail, 18. the beach at morne brabant, 19. climb to the top of le morne brabant, 20. the pamplemousses botanic garden, 21. more things to do in mauritius, renting a boat in mauritius, you’re traveling in mauritius these articles will help you, visiting mauritius: all best places to visit.

In order to help you plan your stay in Mauritius, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 1 week in Mauritius – How to visit Mauritius in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mauritius – The definitive guide to visit Mauritius in 10 days!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mauritius – The perfect 14, 15 or 16 days itinerary in Mauritius

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

This is one of the most touristy towns and beaches on the west coast of the island . Flic en Flac is an unmissable spot during your trip to Mauritius.

This coastal town boasts an impressive number of luxury hotels , as well as restaurants, clubs, and bars facing the public beach.

The Flic en Flac beach is very long , stretching over several kilometers. Turquoise sea and white sand are, of course, part of the experience, with a broad tree-covered area where you can set up in the shade.

Mauritian families often gather here over the weekend, so if you want to avoid the crowd, opt to visit during the week.

At the beginning of the beach, several food trucks and vendors offer snacks , fruits, and drinks to enjoy – which is a delightful experience when seated facing the ocean, either before or after an afternoon swim.

When the sea is calm, the water is transparent, and with a snorkel and mask, you can see lots of colorful fish .

Several diving centers also offer day sessions for scuba diving (the package includes a training phase in a pool, then an excursion in open sea with an instructor).

You can also try out several water activities and take a boat tour in the lagoon .

If you enjoy evening fun, you’ll find various restaurants and nightclubs across from the beach.

Le Pouce (Le Pouce in French, litteraly “the thumb”) is the third highest mountain in Mauritius (reaching 812 meters). Its peak resembles a raised thumb , which is how it got its name.

Visible from Port Louis, you can access it from the town of Saint Pierre .

You can drive straight to the foot of the mountain , (there’s parking right before the trailhead) and start the climb on your own. Otherwise , the climb to Pouce is organized from the Les Allées d’Helvetia shopping center in Saint-Pierre.

You can reach it by bus. From there, a guide takes you to Le Pouce and guides you to the top (you need to reserve in advance at your hotel or with a travel agency).

The climb is pretty easy, accessible to all, and will take half a day to go up and down, with pauses to take in the view.

After about 1 to 1.5 hours of walking in the tropical forest, you’ll arrive at a very broad meadow, dominated by Le Pouce’s peak .

It’s ideal to picnic here, with a wonderful view of the surroundings.

The ascent to the peak will take an additional 15 minutes and it’s here that the most challenging part of the adventure starts: it’s very steep, and you’ll really need to clamber over rocks to reach the top.

Be careful as some areas are quite dangerous. I wouldn’t recommend children under 14 or those with a fear of heights to attempt this final part.

The peak often gets quite windy and you need to stay focused. From the summit, you’ll get to enjoy an exceptional panorama of Mauritius and the surrounding small islands.

It’s truly a wonderful hike to undertake during your trip to Mauritius !

Do you dream of white sandy beaches, azure blue skies, and crystal-clear waters ?

Well, you’ll find your slice of paradise on the Ile aux Cerfs as the locals call it, wich means Deer Island. Situated on the East coast, within the lagoon of Trou d’Eau Douce , this idyllic island is one of the country’s most beautiful tourist sites, and a crowd-pleaser for visitors.

To get to Ile aux Cerfs, it’s a boat ride, no two ways about it . From Trou d’Eau Douce beach, taxi boats shuttle back and forth to the island every 20 to 30 minutes.

Once you reach Ile aux Cerfs, you’ll easily spend half a day . Let me tell you straight away, if you were picturing a deserted island, you’ve got the wrong idea. The island is heavily touristy and really caters to fun and water activities.

You can bask on the stunning white sand beaches , go kayaking, sailing, parasailing, and even play some golf.

Restaurants and bars on the island make it possible to have lunch or dinner right there. I personally tried the Marsala restaurant, specializing in Indian cuisine, and boy, was it a treat!

You can also opt for a longer excursion departing from, say, Pointe Jérôme or Trou d’Eau Douce by catamaran. The boat trip amidst the transparent sea and surrounding tiny islands is nothing short of magical!

To book your excursion, it’s as easy as clicking the following buttons:

• Full-day cruise with a barbecue leaving from Pointe Jérôme:
• Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs from Trou d’Eau Douce:

In my opinion, Cap Malheureux beach is one of the most beautiful spots in Mauritius . Easily recognizable by its bold red church set against the azure blue sky and sea, it’s truly a piece of heaven.

When you’re visiting the north of Mauritius , stop here and spend half a day. Enjoy the picturesque beach, take a leisurely stroll around, and go for a swim.

I’d also recommend spicing up your day with a trip to Ile Plate , the little island just across from Cap Malheureux beach. You can go diving and snorkeling to get up close with the fish and shellfish.

And guess what? Lunch in the form of a barbecue is even included in the price!

The catamaran trip also includes a swim near Gabriel Island and Coin de Mire , renowned for its stunning array of fish.

Book your spot by clicking right here:

Grand Baie is a tourist town in the northwest of the island , once a fishing village and now a seaside resort .

Here, too, you’ll find a significant concentration of luxury hotels and magnificent villas . The residents of Grand Baie are among the wealthiest in Mauritius, and many expatriates live here.

Things to do in and around Grand Baie:

• Lounge on the beach and admire the breathtaking view
• Sample local delicacies from the vendors
• Go shopping on Sunset Boulevard
• Dive in the bay and try out the water sports
• Enjoy a wild night at a discotheque (the ‘Banané Café’ is the largest on the island)
• Discover Pereybere beach just a few kilometers away
• Visit La Croisette Shopping Mall (free shuttles from Sunset Boulevard)

During your stay in Mauritius , you’ll mostly get to discover beautiful beaches, but there’s more to it.

Devote a day to exploring Port Louis, the capital . Far from tourist hotspots, here you’ll discover the real local life.

Stroll through the streets to discover Mauritian history and culture .

Things to see in Port Louis:

1) The Caudan Waterfront : the island’s oldest shopping center , opened in 1996, the Caudan Waterfront has charm to spare and you could easily spend an entire afternoon here.

Built right by the ocean, it houses all sorts of shops, a variety of restaurants and snack bars , a cinema, and even a casino.

The famous umbrella-lined alley is filled with small vendors of fresh fruit juice and cassava-based snacks , but also artists and street vendors . The atmosphere is quite pleasant and on weekend evenings, there are often shows and concerts in the central square .

Patrick and Rosie Latulipe’s food cart can be found every day in the Umbrella Alley of the Caudan and what they whip up is simply delicious. Everything is made from cassava.

Here you can taste cassava faratas (or rotis) stuffed with vegetables , pancakes, cassava pudding (my favorite), and other savory and sweet snacks. It’s something you don’t get to eat often elsewhere, so give it a try!

2) This is where you’ll find the Craft Market , the kingdom of Mauritian crafts, teeming with all sorts of items, clothes, and typically Mauritian products .

3) You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Blue Penny Museum , the island’s most renowned museum that chronicles the history of Mauritius.

4) Place d’Armes : This square is located across from the harbor , nestled in the banking district.

At its heart stands the statue of Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais , the French governor who founded the city in 1735.

On the esplanade, you’ll have the chance to admire the royal palm trees and several cannons testifying to the city’s colonial heritage . The Governor’s Palace stands to the north of the square.

5) The Central Market : This is the liveliest spot in Port Louis .

It’s just a short stroll from Place d’Armes, just follow the crowd.

Here, you’ll find a plethora of fruit and vegetable stalls , with enthusiastic vendors doing their utmost to attract buyers. You can also taste some local delicacies on the go: dhall purri, gateaux piments, rotis… There are also clothes, souvenir sellers, and local crafts .

To discover the culinary specialties of Mauritius, I recommend you book a guided street food tour in Port Louis.

Lasting 3 hours , it allows you to visit the market and of course taste local cuisine . You’ll find all the details about this outing by clicking here:

6) The Aapravasi Ghat museum : it’s been UNESCO World Heritage-listed since 2006.

It used to be an immigration depot that welcomed immigrant workers from India between 1849 and 1923. Nowadays, it’s an open-air museum . You’ll find it on the quays opposite the Port Louis bus station.

Here, you’ll uncover the remnants of this former living place: kitchens, common rooms, hospital …

7) La Citadelle Port-Louis, or Fort Adelaide : This fortress was built by the English settlers in 1834.

Overlooking the city, it served as a rampart and means of defense (namely the French colonizers). You can still see several cannons that stand as a reminder of that era.

La Citadelle stands over 100 meters high, offering a panoramic view of the entire Port Louis and the surrounding mountains. The site was recently renovated specifically for tourists, complete with several souvenir shops.

To visit Port Louis , you can also opt for a full-day organized excursion . The outing includes pick-up from your hotel and transportation.

You’ll have the opportunity to tour the city as well as the Pamplemousses Botanic Garden and Cap Malheureux , 2 places you must see in Mauritius that are mentionned in this article.

To book your Port Louis tour , you just need to click here:

If you’re driving to Port Louis, park at the Caudan parking , as finding a parking space in the city is extremely difficult (plus parking is free from 4 pm and on weekends).

Located in the southwest of the country, near Le Morne Brabant , you’ll find the stunning plain of Chamarel where one of Mauritius’s principal natural curiosities resides: the seven Coloured Earths . As you might guess, it’s an absolute must-visit!

Situated on private property (thus entry fees apply), the seven Coloured Earths is a vast clearing made up of soil dunes , whose color variations create a beautiful gradient.

You can visit the site in half a day. To avoid queuing at the entrance, you can buy your tickets in advance by clicking this link .

Next, you’ll follow a trail that leads to a vantage point overlooking the Chamarel waterfall , which stands approximately 100 meters tall. You can even descend and take a dip if you’re feeling adventurous.

Continue along your path, and you’ll reach the seven Coloured Earths, offering you a truly incredible and unique spectacle .

When it comes to paradisiacal beaches, Belle Mare beach is top-notch . It will leave you speechless with its postcard-perfect scenery.

Located on the east coast of the country , this beach is unquestionably one of the most beautiful on the island . It stretches approximately 10 km, lined with several upscale hotels.

Fortunately, a large part of the beach remains “free”, offering all visitors pristine white sands and crystal-clear blue waters . The beach is also fringed by palm trees, filaos , and well-preserved natural surroundings.

You can spend a half-day or even a full day at Belle Mare beach to :

• Catch some rays (hats and sunscreen are a must!)
• Picnic with friends , with your significant other or family
• Dive into the turquoise lagoon waters
• Enjoy the offered water activities like paddle boats, windsurfing, parasailing, kayaking, motorboat or catamaran excursions…

A lively oasis to the east of Mauritius, Bras d’Eau National Park owes its name to the broad, arm-like waterway that flows through it.

Encompassing nearly 500 hectares, the park is primarily a forested wonderland . You could easily lose a whole day exploring its well-maintained trails without missing the unspoiled wilderness that defines its charm.

Get there early in the morning, stay quiet, and you just might get to see local wildlife – like the Grey White Eye, the Wood Pigeon, the Kestrel, or even monkeys, bats, and boars that call this place home.

As for flora, the park is home to white eucalyptus and mahogany trees , some towering over 40 meters high .

Peaceful and refreshing , the park is a perfect retreat for those seeking a quiet time away from the bustle of beaches and cities.

As you amble along the bird-song-filled paths, you’ll stumble across some ruins , including those of an old sugar factory and a lime kiln, and ponds perfect for a break (like the Mare Mahogany and the Mare aux Chevrettes).

To reach the park, you’ll pass through the villages of Rivière du Rempart and Roches Noires .

There’s ample parking at the entrance, and a few kiosks offer refreshments before you start your adventure.

If you’re traveling by bus, drop off at Flacq station and catch a taxi to the Bras d’Eau Park.

Tucked away in the north of the island , just 10 kilometers from Grand Baie, is the heavenly Trou aux Biches beach. It litteraly means “hole of deers” in French. Don’t ask me why.

As with other beaches on the island, here you’ll meet white sand, palm trees, and the turquoise waters of the lagoon . Your agenda will likely be filled with:

• Water sports : Nearby hotels offer activities like sailing, water skiing, parasailing, tennis, and golf…

The Tea Route is a culinary and cultural journey . It’ll take you on a tour of colonial and traditional Mauritius through the steps involved in making Mauritian tea.

The visit is in three stages , with a guide transporting you from one location to another.

• 1st stop: Domaine des Aubineaux. Here you’ll tour one of the island’s last colonial houses (dating back to 1872), explore the old stables, the tea room, the essential oil distillery, and the gardens.
• 2nd stop: Bois Chéri . This is where the tea is grown and harvested . The visit includes a tour of the tea factory to learn about the production process, a visit to the tea museum , and finally, a tea tasting at the chalet with a panoramic view of the entire estate and the southern region of the island.
• 3rd stop: Le Saint Aubin. A visit to the colonial house (built in 1819) turned restaurant for a typically Mauritian meal . Visit of the sugar mill and rum distillery . And a visit to the “ Maison de la vanille ” where Mauritian vanilla – a typical addition to local tea – is produced.

The entire Tea Route can be done in a full day . Pick-up from your hotel , transportation , guide , all entrance fees , and lunch are included.

You can book this activity right now by clicking the following green button:

Of course, if you’d rather not use a guide and visit these places independently, you’re absolutely free to do so over a couple of days.

Also referred to as “Ganga Talao”, Grand Bassin is arguably the most sacred place on Mauritius Island .

As a pilgrimage site for the island’s Hindus during the annual Maha Shivaratree festival, the Grand Bassin area is comprised of a natural lake (formed by an old water-filled crater) surrounded by numerous Hindu temples welcoming both pilgrims and visitors.

The top highlight of this place is undoubtedly the two colossal statues of Lord Shiva and the goddess Durga . In fact, the latter stands tall as the largest statue of a female deity in the world . Both statues tower over 30 meters high, which is seriously jaw-dropping!

Visiting Grand Bassin is a Mauritius must-do , and visitors usually love it.

You’ll get to tour the temples (and even have a “tika” painted on your forehead if you wish) and walk around the lake , exploring the lush nature and other religious statues.

Also, Grand Bassin is essentially a monkey kingdom , they’re all over the place, often playfully pestering tourists for snacks.

Half a day is more than enough to explore Grand Bassin, and even better, entry is free !

To learn more about the site and Hindu culture, you should visit this part of the island with a guide .

A full-day excursion not only includes exploring Grand Bassin , but also a visit to the seven Coloured Earths, Trou-aux-Cerfs , and even Black River Gorges National Park .

You can book in advance using the button below:

This former colonial residence is located in the center of the island, near the Moka River. Built in 1830, it was once home to British and French aristocrats from the 19th century.

Now a museum since 1986, it offers a peek into the colonial lifestyle of that era . It’s one of the largest houses on the island. The displayed furniture is original, and the rooms have been restored, primarily featuring wood. L

The estate also boasts large grounds with numerous local plants and fruit trees , along with a lovely English garden. You can also visit a museum showcasing a rich collection of period artifacts.

Outside, you can wander along the river banks , from where several kilometers of trails lead you to hike in dense vegetation . You’ll discover waterfalls and many endemic tropical plants . It’s a peaceful, enjoyable stroll, perfect for winding down your day.

The site also includes a restaurant and a souvenir shop.

Admission is 10 euros for adults and 6 euros for children.

If you’re passing through the country’s center, why not swing by the largest shopping center on the island: Bagatelle Mall of Mauritius .

It’s a modern shopping mall , and spending an hour or two there is quite enjoyable, especially if you want to dine at the “food court” outdoors, offering many options: Mauritian, Indian, Asian cuisine, pizzas, burgers…

The mall hosts numerous various shops, three supermarkets, and a cinema .

While not a destination per se as you’ll find similar malls worldwide, it’s a nice spot for a bite or a movie in the evening. Bagatelle borders the highway and is easily accessible by bus.

Embarking on an excursion to La Vallée de Ferney is a must-do activity during your stay in Mauritius .

This nature reserve spanning over 200 hectares is located in the southeast of the island and is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna . The reserve consists of forests and rolling meadows . Everything’s incredibly green, and the landscapes are genuinely breathtaking.

To get there, you’ll need to catch a bus to Mahébourg , followed by a taxi ride to the old Ferney sugar mill, between Mahébourg and Vieux Grand Port townships. This is where your tour starts, and you can choose to do it with or without a guide .

Before hopping on a shuttle to the hiking trailhead, take a quick look at the tiny coffee museum near the reception and the property’s gardens where you can even picnic.

After a 3 km ride through sugarcane fields by bus or pick-up (watch out for the bumps!), you’ll arrive at the reserve. You can choose to walk or explore in a 4×4 vehicle .

If you opt for the walk, a 3-kilometer trail leads you through dense tropical forest offering panoramic views over Mahébourg Bay and the small islands off the coast at several spots.

Keep your eyes wide open and occasionally gaze skywards. During your walk, you may spot some of Mauritius’ endemic bird species such as the Mauritius Kestrel or the Pink Pigeon.

As for the 4×4 tour, it lasts 1h30 , providing you with an opportunity to delve deeper into the valley along a ten-kilometer-long track.

Note: don’t venture into La Vallée de Ferney without insect repellent lotion unless you fancy a terrible time. Sunscreen and walking shoes are also essential.

Check out the official website for pricing details.

While you’re in the southwest of the island , you can’t miss out on the Black River Gorges National Park , Mauritius’s largest natural park (that’s a whopping 6,754 hectares!).

Nature enthusiasts and hiking aficionados will be in their element here. Plan to spend at least half a day hiking and picnicking right there .

The Black River Gorges National Park has some outstanding hikes that let you delve into the heart of the native forest , discover hidden waterfalls, rivers, and enjoy stunning views of the landscape below .

This forest is special as it hosts over 300 species of endemic plants and 9 species of birds that are unique to Mauritius.

Make sure to wear your best hiking shoes because the trails can get quite steep at times. Don’t forget your mosquito repellent cream either.

For a guided tour, allocate half a day, complete with a swim at the end of the tour . Make sure to book in advance by clicking on the following button:

Avoid visiting during the rainy season (December to March) as the site is very damp and the paths especially slippery.

Close to Tamarin in the west, the 7 Waterfalls hike is an excursion I highly recommend doing during your trip to Mauritius.

You can choose between two main trails: one covering the first 4 waterfalls, and the other covering all 7 waterfalls .

You can hike freely, or with a guide .

The guided tour will take half a day for the first trail and a full day for the entire trail , with breaks, lunch, and swims included.

You can book it by clicking on the green button below:

If you want to be independent and don’t plan on taking long breaks, you can complete the full hike in about 4 hours .

Le Morne Brabant is a mountain in the southwest of the island , a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008, surrounded by beaches that are each more beautiful than the last.

Most are private beaches owned by hotels, but you’ll have access to the public beach at Le Morne Brabant , lined with palm trees, which is one of the most beautiful and tranquil (except on Sundays!) in Mauritius. Wilder than the heavily touristy beaches of the north and west parts of the island, it’s a call to peace and relaxation.

During your journey through the southwest, you definitely should relax on this gorgeous beach located right at the foot of the mountain. You can easily get there by bus , or by walking if you choose to tour Le Morne Brabant on foot , which is also a fun thing to do.

If you’re driving, after leaving the beach, continue on the main coastal road (voted one of the most beautiful roads in the world, you’ll see why), and stop at Macondé rock , a huge rock jutting out into the sea.

Stairs allow you to climb it and discover at the top a stunning panoramic view of the surroundings . In clear weather and in the dark, it’s said that you can even spot the lights of Réunion Island in the distance.

A street vendor is often stationed right across from the rock , offering an exceptionally good fruit salad for just 25 rupees (about 50 cents). It’s honestly delicious and refreshing.

The hike to the top of Morne Brabant Mountain is one of the most beautiful excursions you can take in Mauritius. Plan for about 3 hours round-trip .

The ascent offers stunning views of the whole southern part of the island. The landscapes and colors are truly breathtaking from up there.

The first part of the walk is easy and accessible to everyone . It gets challenging after that. The ascent to the summit is extremely steep and hazardous , making it unsuitable for children.

Let’s be honest: it’s downright perilous, so you shouldn’t be afraid of heights and you should be used to physical exertion .

If you’d feel more at ease, you can also choose to climb with a professional guide . To book this option, just click the button below:

At the top, you’ll have an incredible panoramic view of the island and the ocean.

You’ll also see at the top a large stone cross . The history of Morne Brabant Mountain is both powerful and tragic, tied to the period of slavery.

Many slaves committed suicide by throwing themselves from the top of this mountain, and this cross was erected as a tribute to their memory.

During your visit to Mauritius , I strongly suggest paying a visit to the exquisite Pamplemousses Botanic Garden located in the northwestern district, which shares its name, “Pamplemousse” which means grapefruit in French.

You can easily get there by bus, especially from Port Louis in just 15-20 minutes , and the bus stops right next to the entrance.

Established in the 18th century by the French governor and botanist Pierre Poivre, the garden spans 37 hectares and hosts hundreds of plant species from all around the world .

You’ll find a vast collection of plants of all sorts, palm trees of all shapes and sizes, flowering plants, fruit trees, all set in a gorgeous setting with large green spaces and landscaped trails .

This is the place to be if you want to witness the awe-inspiring giant water lilies that Pamplemousses is known for . And let’s not forget about the impressive baobab specimens that add to the charm of this place.

During your visit, you’ll also encounter various animals including numerous bats resting in the trees, chameleons, colorful birds and even mongooses . There’s also a part of the park housing captive animals: giant tortoises and deer.

Although a guided tour isn’t mandatory, it offers much more insight than a self-guided tour. The guides will tell you all about the plants’ characteristics, let you smell their aromas, and explain the history of the place.

I’ll be honest with you, the garden’s guides can be quite talkative, so get ready to really pay attention if you want to soak up all the information they have to offer.

The garden is open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm and a visit takes 1 to 2 hours .

Admission fee: 8 euros per adult, 5 euros per child.

To visit the north of Mauritius and the botanical garden , you can also opt for a private full-day tour .

Your driver guide will pick you up directly from your hotel and will take you to the Pamplemousses Garden , Port Louis, and even to the beach. You can book below:

If you’ve seen the main attractions of Mauritius, here are some additional activities that I recommend you try.

All you need to do is click on the orange links for more information and to book:

• A 2-hour quad tour of the south of the Island : to venture off the beaten path and explore the wild side of the island such as the volcanic cliffs, Roche qui Pleure, or the Rochester Falls.
• A 3-hour quad tour discovering the “Pont Naturel” or Natural Bridge and the beaches of La Cambuse.
• An eco-buggy ride at the Heritage Nature Reserve known for its diverse landscapes and wildlife.
• A glass-bottom boat trip in the Blue Bay Marine Park 
• A guided tour of the nature reserve on île aux Aigrettes , a preserved natural place housing an exceptional fauna and flora.
• A sunset cruise towards île aux Aigrettes

Several full-day excursions are also worth considering:

• A full-day trip to swim with dolphins + a visit to île aux Bénitiers with barbecue included
• A trip to the Rivière Noire coast to swim with dolphins . Available as a 3-hour version (click here) or a full-day version with additional whale watching (click here) .
• A trip to île des Deux Cocos , a private paradise island where you can enjoy the white sand and turquoise water of the lagoon in a luxurious setting.
• An 8-hour custom tour of Mauritius with a driver guide. You can create your own itinerary and visit all the places that catch your interest.

I highly recommend you book your activities in advance. Don’t worry about spending more money; booking with a reputable agency guarantees both affordability and reliability. So go ahead and secure your reservations with peace of mind! Click on the button below to access the website :

If you want to rent a boat for a fun day at sea during your stay in Mauritius, I highly recommend using Samboat . Simply put, they have the most comprehensive boat rental offerings !

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small license-free boats, with or without a skipper: you’ll be spoiled for choice.

So, why wait any longer to book your incredible sea trip in Mauritius ?

And you, what do you plan to do during your trip to Mauritius?

Discover all my articles about Mauritius : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mauritius are listed there.

21 Best Things to do in Mauritius – All the best places to visit!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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The top things to do in Mauritius, from beaches to botanical gardens

Jan 8, 2022 • 8 min read

Mauritius is the image of Indian Ocean perfection, but there's much more to see than the beaches © Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld / Getty Images

One of the most beautiful islands in the world, Mauritius is the sort of multi-dimensional destination that’s as perfect for families as it is for couples on honeymoon, and just about anyone in between. 

Part of its considerable charm is entirely natural: Mauritius rises from the Indian Ocean like a vision. You can easily imagine how early seafarers must have felt when spotting its beaches and palm trees, forests and mountains, reefs and wild horizons.

Mauritius was also a prototype for multifaceted island tourism, combining the escapist notion of a luxury resort by the sea with rich cultural depth beyond the resort gates. As well as the beaches, you can dive into Mauritius' intriguing historical back-story, unique conservation success stories and sizzling hot culinary experiences.

Dive the West Coast

A stunning lagoon surrounds Mauritius, and these shallow waters are beautifully picturesque in their own right and offer spectacular diving at the reefs on the lagoon rim. Along Mauritius’ west coast, the waves break out near the horizon and the drop-off where the lagoon meets the open ocean is a world of underwater cliffs, populated by an astonishing array of marine life. Flic en Flac is the starting point for many of the best dives, including La Cathédrale, a fine spot to see scuttling lobsters.

Live in the moment on Rodrigues

One of Mauritius' most remote quarters, Rodrigues feels like it occupies a different time and space from the mainland. Life here is focused on the pleasure of day-to-day living and connecting with the land and the people who live full-time in this peaceful outpost. Spend your days taking boat trips to outlying islands, communing with giant tortoises, perusing the Saturday market at Port Mathurin, or diving and snorkeling off the south coast or around La Passe St François. While there’s plenty to do here, a big part of Rodrigues’s charm comes from something altogether simpler: the joy of just being here.

Hike the Black River Gorges

In the forested interior of Mauritius, Black River Gorges National Park is a precious and protected wilderness barely half an hour from the beach. Its dense forest is home to many native species of flora and fauna, including three endangered bird species: the Mauritius kestrel, the echo parakeet and the pink pigeon. As you hike through forests and past waterfalls, watch out for white-tailed tropicbirds flying high above the gorges or pink pigeons by the trail.

Head to the mountains of Chamarel

Of all the excursions away from the coast, a trip to Chamarel is one of the most rewarding days out in Mauritius. High in the hills and with glorious views down towards the coast in places, Chamarel has an emerging culinary reputation thanks to a growing number of casual family-run dining rooms and fine-dining restaurants hidden away among the trees. Other reasons to come include the famous colored sands of Terres de 7 Couleurs , Mauritius’ quirky museum of illusions and the Rhumerie de Chamarel , a fascinating, eco-friendly rum distillery.

Explore an untouched wilderness on Île aux Aigrettes

On the edge of the lagoon just off Mauritius’ pristine southeastern coast, Île aux Aigrettes offers a vision of the ancient and wild Mauritius that greeted early explorers. The old-growth ebony forest here is a reminder of how the whole of the main island appeared before the arrival of European colonists in the 16th century. Restored as part of a government-backed conservation project, the forest today shelters all manner of endangered bird and other wildlife species – be careful not to trip over a Mauritian giant tortoise! 

Relax on the beautiful beaches

The beaches for which Mauritius is famed encircle the island like a garland. All of the resorts have them, but there's so much sand around that you’re never far from a peaceful public beach where you can share the sea with picnicking local families rather than hordes of visiting tourists. The richest choices lie along the east coast, but southern beaches are quieter and wilder and the west coast is far better for those looking for activity out on the water.

Sample Mauritian Creole cooking

Diversity is a defining feature of Mauritian life, and the island's cultural melting pot really comes alive in the island’s culinary story. Indian, Chinese, Franco-Mauritian and Creole influences come together in Mauritian kitchens – dining here is at once a genuine pleasure and a globe-trotting adventure. The island boasts world-renowned chefs and endless places to sample local delicacies and staples. If we had to pick one place to try, it would be the stellar home-style cooking of chef Marie-Ange at informal Restaurant Le Barbizon in Chamarel.

Learn about unusual botany at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens

There are times in Mauritius when it seems as if the wild tangle of tropical vegetation is visibly growing larger before your very eyes. Nowhere is this truer than in the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens at Pamplemousses, originally founded as the vegetable garden for the nearby Mon Plaisir Château in 1735. The garden has expanded considerably from its original footprint – the stars of this gargantuan show are the giant Victoria amazonica water lilies and soulful giant tortoises, but there is so much unusual botany to turn the head that you'll need a few hours to explore.

Imagine the past at Mauritius' historic mansions

Uninhabited until the Dutch took possession of the islands in 1598, Mauritius was at various times, a colony of the Dutch, French and British, before gaining independence in 1968. Under European rule, giant sugar and tea estates filled every available pasture of the Mauritian interior, and watching over these prized plantations were French-style colonial mansions, which today are some of the Indian Ocean's greatest architectural treasures.

Like mini chateaux adapted to the tropics, these stately homes have gorgeous gardens, high ceilings, ornate verandas and cantilevered windows to catch the breeze. Check out the Eureka Mansion in Moka or Château Labourdonnais near Pamplemousses, for fine examples of the style.

Have the ultimate resort experience

If the main reason you’re traveling here is for some relaxing downtime by the water, the beach resorts of Mauritius have few peers. Some resorts are the height of exclusivity – if you’re staying at one of these lavish properties on a honeymoon or luxury break, you may never want to leave the resort grounds. Other resorts cater wonderfully well for families, with kids clubs, water sports and more. It doesn’t matter which secluded corner of the island you head to, there'll be abundant resorts to choose from. Expect large and luxurious rooms, multiple swimming pools, ample gardens, world-class restaurants, organized activities and perhaps a no-indulgence-spared spa.

Meander the Rodrigues Coastal Walk

Rodrigues already feels like the end of the earth, but the coastal walk from Graviers to St François just confirms it. There’s nothing to interrupt the views over the ocean to the distant horizon, save for the occasional cloud or passing seabirds and the silence has to be experienced to be believed. Best of all, it’s the only way to reach Trou d'Argent , which surely must be Mauritius prettiest beach.

Look for whales & dolphins

If east coast Mauritius is known for its resorts, the west coast is all about getting out on and under the water. Spinner or bottlenose dolphins are frequently sighted in the lagoon off Tamarin , and you can avoid the free-for-all by going to see them with Dolswim , who follow strict rules to ensure the dolphins are not disturbed. From July to October or November, humpback whales migrate down through the open ocean off the west coast and can be spotted breaching beyond the lagoon.

Sample seafood by the sand

Global culinary influences and celebrity resort chefs are one thing, but there’s no finer dining experience in Mauritius than grabbing a table at a beachfront shack in Trou aux Biches on the north coast or St Francois in Rodrigues, and ordering the freshest Indian Ocean seafood imaginable. Take your pick from lobster, prawns, octopus, grilled fish, calamari and more, and decide whether you want it served grilled or smothered in a red Creole sauce, then sit back and enjoy your seafood feast with a view.

Explore by boat for epic views from the water

Mauritius and remote Rodrigues may get all the attention, but there’s an often-missed archipelago of inner islands within a day’s boat trip of the main island. To the east are Île aux Deux Cocos and  Île aux Cerfs – crowded in parts, but offering some gorgeous quiet corners. Pretty Île aux Bénitiers lies off the west coast, and away to the north, there’s even more choice – Coin de Mire, Île Plate and Îlot Gabriel are all delightful. Combine exploring with time spent snorkeling and a picnic lunch, and you have one fine Mauritius day.  

Climbing Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant, the dramatic peak rising abruptly from the southwest shore of Mauritius, is a Unesco World Heritage-listed site. It served as a home for a group of people dubbed the Maroons, who escaped from slavery and took refuge on this once remote peninsula. Upon learning that a group of officers was heading to their camp, the Maroons leaped to their deaths rather than be captured again; legend has it that the officers were dispatched to inform the Maroons that slavery had been abolished. The tough but thrilling climb up this poignant peak offers views of most of Mauritius and a humbling monument commemorating the people who died.

Mauritius   is on our 2022 Best in Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations  click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during COVID-19 .

You may also like: Why Mauritius is great for winter sun (and other top times to come) How to explore Mauritius on a budget First time in paradise: the best things to do in Réunion Island

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Is Mauritius Safe To Visit

Is Mauritius Safe To Visit? This question often ripples through the minds of those yearning for an exotic escape to this paradisiacal island in the Indian Ocean.

Mauritius, with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes, beckons travelers like a dream come true. Yet, amid the natural beauty and cultural richness, safety concerns naturally arise.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the tranquil waters of Mauritius’ safety, ensuring your journey is not only idyllic but also secure.

So, let’s set sail on an exploration to answer the question, “Is Mauritius Safe To Visit?” as we uncover the secrets of this tropical gem and its promise of a blissful getaway.

Table of Contents

Mauritius, a tropical paradise nestled in the Indian Ocean, has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes.

When considering a trip to this island nation, safety is a primary concern for many. In this article, we’ll explore the safety aspects of Mauritius, addressing common questions and concerns travelers often have.

Safety Overview

Mauritius boasts a reputation for being one of the safest countries in Africa, welcoming tourists with open arms. The nation’s political stability, low crime rate, and a strong emphasis on tourism safety measures make it an attractive destination for travelers worldwide.

While petty theft can occur, it is infrequent, and violent crime is exceptionally rare, allowing visitors to explore with peace of mind.

Health and Well-being

Mauritius prioritizes the well-being of its visitors, with a well-developed healthcare system and access to medical facilities.

The island has also implemented rigorous health and safety protocols in response to global events, ensuring that tourists enjoy their stay while feeling protected against potential health risks.

Natural Hazards

Mauritius is susceptible to natural hazards, such as cyclones during certain times of the year. However, the government is well-prepared and has efficient warning systems in place to ensure the safety of both residents and tourists.

Being informed about weather conditions during your visit is essential to avoid any inconveniences.

Traveler’s Responsibility

While Mauritius is generally safe, travelers should exercise common sense and take basic precautions, like safeguarding their belongings and being cautious in unfamiliar areas. It’s advisable to stay in well-established accommodations and follow local guidelines and customs.

Is  Mauritius Safe To Visit At Night?

Yes, Mauritius is generally safe to visit at night, and the island offers a vibrant nightlife scene with various activities and entertainment options.

However, as with any destination, it’s essential to exercise common-sense precautions to ensure your safety while enjoying the nocturnal charm of this beautiful island.

Nighttime Adventures in Mauritius

Mauritius comes alive after dark, offering a wide array of activities and experiences for nighttime explorers. From dining at seaside restaurants to dancing at beachfront clubs, the island caters to diverse tastes and provides opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

Safety Considerations

While Mauritius is known for its safety, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions when exploring at night. Here are some tips to ensure a secure nighttime experience:

• Choose Well-Lit Areas: Opt for well-illuminated streets and areas with a visible presence of people, avoiding isolated or poorly lit places.
• Use Reliable Transportation: Plan your nighttime transportation, relying on registered taxis or reputable ride-sharing services for added safety.
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings secure to prevent theft. It’s advisable to leave valuable items in a safe place and carry only what you need.
• Moderation is Key: If you indulge in alcohol, do so responsibly and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
• Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs and cultural sensitivities when visiting nightspots and establishments.

Local Insights

Mauritian locals are known for their hospitality and often go out of their way to ensure the safety and well-being of visitors. Don’t hesitate to seek advice or recommendations from residents, as they can provide valuable insights into the best nighttime venues and experiences.

Is It Safe To Park In Mauritius

Parking in Mauritius is generally safe, but it’s crucial to be aware of local parking rules, choose secure locations, and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your vehicle.

You can enjoy a hassle-free parking experience on this picturesque island with common-sense measures.

Parking in Mauritius

Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, parking in Mauritius is a common consideration. The island offers various parking options, from street-side parking to dedicated parking lots. Understanding the local parking norms and safety practices is essential for a smooth experience.

Understanding Local Parking Rules

Before parking in Mauritius, familiarize yourself with local regulations. Pay attention to road signs indicating parking restrictions or designated parking areas. Some places require payment for parking, so ensure compliance with payment requirements when applicable.

Choosing Secure Parking Locations

For added peace of mind, opt for well-lit and secure parking areas, especially if you plan to leave your vehicle unattended for an extended period. Many accommodations provide on-site parking, which can be a convenient and secure option. Avoid parking in dimly lit or isolated spots.

Securing Your Vehicle

While Mauritius is relatively safe, it’s wise to take precautions to safeguard your vehicle. Always lock your car doors, roll up windows, and avoid leaving valuable items visible. If you have anti-theft devices, use them to enhance security.

Local advice can be invaluable. Consult with locals or your accommodation hosts for recommendations on safe parking locations and any specific precautions you should take in the area you intend to visit. Locals often have valuable insights into the safest parking options.

What Are The Safest Parts Of Mauritius

Mauritius, as a whole, is known for its safety. However, some areas are considered particularly safe for travelers due to lower crime rates and excellent infrastructure.

These include regions such as Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, and Belle Mare, which offer a combination of natural beauty and security for a peaceful and enjoyable stay.

Safest Parts of Mauritius

Mauritius, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and welcoming culture, is generally a safe destination for travelers. While the entire island maintains a high standard of safety, some areas stand out for their reputation as exceptionally secure and traveler-friendly.

Located in the north of the island, Grand Baie is a popular tourist hub known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and an array of accommodations.

The presence of tourists and a well-established tourism infrastructure contributes to its safety. Travelers can explore local markets, dine at charming restaurants, and enjoy water sports with peace of mind.

Flic-en-Flac

On the West Coast, Flic-en-Flac offers a relaxed and safe environment for visitors. The area boasts stunning beaches and tranquil surroundings, making it ideal for a peaceful retreat.

Tourists can savor local cuisine at beachfront eateries and engage in various water activities while feeling secure.

Situated on the east coast, Belle Mare is celebrated for its pristine beaches and upscale resorts. This area is known for its serenity and safety. Travelers can luxuriate in the island’s natural beauty, indulge in spa treatments, and bask in the sun without safety concerns.

Safety Island-Wide

It’s important to note that while these areas are recognized for their safety, Mauritius as a whole maintains a low crime rate and prioritizes the security of its visitors.

Travelers should exercise common-sense precautions, such as safeguarding belongings and respecting local customs, regardless of the region they choose to explore.

Crime In Mauritius

Mauritius generally enjoys a low crime rate, making it a safe destination for travelers. While isolated incidents may occur, the island’s strong focus on tourism safety, political stability, and friendly atmosphere contribute to its reputation as one of the safest countries in Africa.

Visitors can explore its natural beauty and vibrant culture with confidence.

Crime in Mauritius

Mauritius, located in the Indian Ocean, is celebrated for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and diverse culture. Safety is a common concern for travelers, and understanding the crime landscape on the island is essential for a worry-free visit.

Low Crime Rate

Mauritius boasts a low crime rate, particularly concerning violent crimes. Tourists generally experience a peaceful and secure environment throughout their stay. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to keep your belongings secure.

Tourism Safety Measures:

The Mauritian government places a strong emphasis on tourism safety. There is a visible police presence in popular tourist areas, and local authorities work diligently to maintain a safe environment for visitors.

Common-Sense Precautions

While Mauritius is considered safe, travelers should exercise common-sense precautions such as safeguarding valuables, using reliable transportation and respecting local customs. These measures can further enhance personal safety.

Engaging with locals can provide valuable insights into safe areas, best practices, and any specific considerations for the region you plan to explore. The friendly and helpful nature of Mauritian residents contributes to a welcoming and secure atmosphere.

Avoiding Bad Areas in Mauritius

Mauritius is generally a safe destination, but like any place, it has areas that are less desirable for tourists. To ensure a secure visit, it’s advisable to avoid isolated or poorly lit spots, particularly at night.

While such areas are limited and the island is known for its safety, taking common-sense precautions can help you have a worry-free experience.

Understanding Safe and Less Safe Areas

When planning a trip to Mauritius, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the island’s safety landscape. While Mauritius is largely safe for tourists, there are a few areas that are less recommended for visitors, primarily due to petty crime and isolated locations.

Avoiding Isolated or Dimly Lit Spots

To enhance your safety while exploring Mauritius, steer clear of isolated or poorly lit areas, especially during nighttime excursions. These areas can be more susceptible to petty crimes like theft, so it’s advisable to stick to well-lit and populated places.

Choosing Established Tourist Areas

Opting for well-known tourist destinations and accommodations in Mauritius is a practical way to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay. Areas like Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, and Belle Mare are popular for their safety, vibrant atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings.

Local Advice

Mauritian locals are typically warm and welcoming, and they can provide valuable insights into safe areas and activities. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or recommendations, as they can offer firsthand knowledge about the best places to visit and enjoy on the island.

Things To Consider When Visiting Mauritius

Visiting Mauritius is a dream come true for many travelers, but careful planning is essential to make the most of your trip. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when visiting this paradise island, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Travel Documents and Visa Requirements

Before embarking on your journey, check Mauritius’ visa requirements based on your nationality. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and that you have any necessary travel documents in order.

Weather and Climate

Mauritius has a tropical climate with distinct seasons. It’s crucial to research the weather patterns and select the best time to visit based on your preferences. Be prepared for the occasional cyclone during the cyclone season.

Accommodation and Reservations

Plan your accommodations, especially during peak tourist seasons. Mauritius offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Booking in advance ensures you have a place to stay that suits your needs and budget.

Health and Safety Precautions

Check if any vaccinations are required before traveling to Mauritius and carry any necessary medications. The island has a well-developed healthcare system, but having travel insurance is a wise precaution.

Currency and Money Matters

The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases in case you visit more remote areas where card payments may not be available.

Local Customs and Culture

Respect the local customs and traditions of Mauritius. The island is a melting pot of cultures, and being culturally sensitive enhances your interactions with locals.

Transportation and Getting Around

Consider your transportation options. Renting a car, using taxis, or relying on public transport are all viable choices, depending on your itinerary. Research the transportation system and plan your routes.

Activities and Attractions

Mauritius offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from water sports and hiking to cultural experiences. Create an itinerary that aligns with your interests and includes must-see attractions.

Language and Communication

English and French are commonly spoken in Mauritius, but knowing a few words of French or Creole can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

Environmental Responsibility

Mauritius’ natural beauty is a treasure. Be mindful of environmental preservation by following responsible tourism practices, such as avoiding littering and respecting wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About “Is Mauritius Safe To Visit”

1. is mauritius safe for tourists.

• Yes, Mauritius is considered one of the safest destinations in Africa. It has a low crime rate, making it welcoming for tourists.

2. Are there any areas to avoid in Mauritius?

• While Mauritius is generally safe, it’s advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to well-traveled and well-lit locations.

3. Are there any health concerns for travelers in Mauritius?

• Mauritius has a good healthcare system. It’s essential to have travel insurance and be aware of any required vaccinations before visiting.

4. What safety measures should I take when exploring Mauritius at night?

• When out at night, stay in well-lit areas, use registered taxis or reliable transportation, keep your belongings secure, and drink responsibly.

5. How is the weather in Mauritius, and is there a cyclone season?

• Mauritius has a tropical climate, with a cyclone season from November to April. It’s best to visit during the drier and cooler months from May to October.

6. Is it safe to swim in the waters around Mauritius?

• The waters around Mauritius are generally safe for swimming, but always follow local guidelines and be aware of any warnings or strong currents.

7. What are the safest regions in Mauritius for tourists?

• Some of the safest regions include Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, and Belle Mare, which are popular tourist destinations known for their safety and amenities.

8. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of when visiting Mauritius?

• It’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions. Mauritius is a culturally diverse nation, and being culturally sensitive enhances your experience.

9. How can I ensure the security of my belongings while in Mauritius?

• To safeguard your belongings, keep valuables secure, use hotel safes, and avoid displaying expensive items in public places.

10. What should I do in case of an emergency while in Mauritius?

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for assistance. It’s also a good idea to have contact information for your embassy or consulate readily available.

So, Should You Take A Trip To Mauritius?

In conclusion, the question, “Is Mauritius Safe To Visit?” can be answered with a resounding affirmation. Mauritius, with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, stands as a safe and secure haven for travelers from around the world.

With a low crime rate, well-developed infrastructure, and a strong commitment to tourism safety, this Indian Ocean paradise offers an idyllic destination for those seeking a memorable and worry-free journey.

So pack your bags, set your worries aside, and embark on an adventure to Mauritius, where safety and serenity await you at every turn.

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Is Mauritius Safe To Visit? Your Complete Safety Guide

Mauritius has GOT to be a contender for one of the world’s best islands! This idyllic paradise lies off the south-eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. Given its exotic location, many of you might be asking “is Mauritius safe?” We’ve got ALL the details coming up, so don’t go anywhere!

From hikes in the jungle, snorkeling in crystal clear waters , and exciting cultural festivals, this tropical island is just teeming with adventure! Even the most hard-to-please traveler will find themselves cracking a smile as they sample mouth-watering Mauritian delicacies and peruse the vibrant local markets. 

If you’re a beach bum, you’re in luck because the beaches in Mauritius are to die for with white sand for days plus the dramatic backdrop of lush, tropical jungle! Okay, now we’ve got you all hyped up about your fabulous holiday in Mauritius, let’s get right into the topic at hand and take a look at how safe the country really is. 

Table of Contents

Is Mauritius Safe? A general overview

You’ll be happy to hear that yes, Mauritius is safe. It’s actually considered to be one of the safest countries in Africa ! That being said, like everywhere in the world, it does have some dangers and you shouldn’t totally let your guard down.

Numbeo.com gives Mauritius a score of 48.99 out of 100 on their crime index (0 being incredibly safe and 100 being extremely dangerous). This may seem quite high, but it’s a similar rating to the United States. Based on a perception survey, most people rated feeling safe walking alone during the day (woohoo!) however, a large proportion of people said they didn’t feel safe while walking alone at night. There have been reports of sexual assault on tourists (although it’s rare), so it’s best to avoid walking alone during the night, especially on beaches or poorly lit streets in Port Louis. 

Most crime in Mauritius is non-violent, with the most common crime being petty theft and pickpocketing. However, there have been recent incidents where burglars have used weapons while robbing tourist villas. You should always make sure you are staying in accommodation that has been registered with the Mauritius Tourism Authority and check that your room/villa is secure. 

Mauritius has a cyclone season from November to May. These cyclones can be strong and even damage people’s property. Luckily, the local government is used to these natural disasters, so they have a good phase system in place for monitoring the strength of the cyclones. If one does hit, you’re not allowed to leave your accommodation, so you might want to take this into consideration if you plan to travel to the island during this time. We can think of better ways to spend our much-needed holiday than being locked indoors due to scary weather…

Mauritius: laws and customs

Mauritius is a predominantly Hindu society and the locals are relatively conservative. We always think it’s a good idea to learn about the local laws and customs of any place you’re visiting, so you can avoid accidentally breaking the law or offending the locals! 

Here are some local laws, practices, and customs that are worth knowing:

• Drugs – Drug trafficking, smuggling, and possession are illegal in Mauritius. It can take up to a year for cases to reach court and defendants are kept in detention until the trial. It is also unusual for bail to be granted, regardless of the drug type. Punishments for drug-related crimes are severe and can be as long as a life sentence (any amount of time in a Mauritian jail = not fun).  
• Medication – If you are bringing medication into the country for personal use, you should make sure you keep the prescriptions with you. Some drugs, such as strong painkillers and psychotropic preparations (e.g antidepressants, mood stabilizers), will need authorization before being allowed into the country. Failure to authorize these drugs before you enter can result in arrest. 
• Cigarette papers – It is illegal to have or import cigarette papers. 
• Identification – Sometimes police officers may approach you and ask for your identification. You should make a photocopy of your passport and driving license to carry around with you and leave the original documents safely locked in your hotel room.  
• Homosexuality – While homosexuality isn’t criminalized in Mauritius, throughout the country there are varying levels of acceptance. In 2018, an LGBTQ+ Pride march was disrupted by protesters, with threats made against the community in the weeks/months after. Given this, we advise members of the LGBTQ+ community to exercise discretion when visiting Mauritius.
• Dress code – Due to the conservative nature of the country, we recommend dressing modestly (especially if you’re venturing out of the more touristy areas) to respect the local customs. This means covering your shoulders and wearing long pants or skirts. 

Scams and petty crime in Mauritius

To protect yourself from pickpocketing and petty theft, always keep a firm grip on your belongings and don’t leave your bag unattended on the ground. Be particularly vigilant in crowded areas as this is when opportunistic thieves are most likely to strike! Downtown Port Louis, Grand Baie, and Flic en Flac are particularly risky areas, so be extra careful. It’s always best not to dress too flashy and to leave any valuables locked away in your hotel room safe. 

Like in all tourist destinations, there is a chance of getting scammed. Always negotiate any prices before handing any money over and double-check the amount of change you get given back. It is also recommended to check the price of goods with your hotel or with locals to make sure you aren’t being overcharged. 

If you’re taking a taxi, always choose a licensed taxi service if possible. Many taxis in Mauritius don’t have meters or their meters are no longer working. You should always negotiate the price of your ride before getting into the taxi. If you can, try to ask your hotel about the rough price of journeys to make sure the rate you receive is a fair one! 

There’s a possibility of ATM fraud in Mauritius. Check out any machine you plan to use carefully to look for signs of card skimmers (the card reader is normally discolored, bulky, or just odd-looking in general), and be wary of anyone standing a little too close behind you. 

Is Mauritius safe for female solo travelers?

Mauritius is considered a low-risk country for solo female travelers. Many women report feeling very safe in the country, and there aren’t a large number of reported incidents against women traveling alone. However, as in any destination, solo female travelers should proceed with caution and take normal precautions to stay safe. 

Women should avoid walking alone at night, particularly in deserted areas like the beach and unlit streets. If you wanna party it UP, we highly recommend finding some gal pals from your hotel or hostel and making a girl’s night out of it. Make sure to stick together and watch each other’s backs. Never leave your drink unattended and don’t accept drinks from strangers or drinks you haven’t seen made up by the bartender. Leave the bar/club together and try not to walk home. If you’re taking a taxi, don’t let those two (more like FIVE) Ti Punch cocktails make you forget that you need to negotiate the price before you get in!

Mauritius has many beautiful hikes and if you’re a keen hiker, we strongly advise against going to any of these destinations alone (hiking 101). In more remote areas, it is also a good idea to dress more modestly to a) respect the locals and b) limit drawing unwanted attention to yourself. 

Is public transport in Mauritius safe?

Public transport in Mauritius is extremely safe, comfortable, and cheap. Several different bus companies operate in the country and the routes are extensive. The bus stops are clearly marked and you’ll have to “hail” down the bus like you would a taxi. If you’re unsure of the bus’s destination, the ticket collector usually speaks French and English so you can double-check with them!

Is tap water safe to drink in Mauritius?

Most of the time, tap water is safe to drink in Mauritius, but if you’re visiting after a cyclone has struck, the country’s water filtration system may be damaged. For the first couple of months after a big cyclone, it’s generally a good idea to just be overly cautious and drink bottled water. Better safe than sorry, right??

Top 7 tips for staying safe in Mauritius

To keep things nice and easy for you if you weren’t paying super close attention earlier, here are our TOP 7 safety tips for Mauritius: 

• Watch out for pickpockets – This is the crime you’re most likely to fall victim to in Mauritius. Pickpockets operate in crowded areas like downtown Port Louis and other popular tourist spots. A sure-fire way to mark yourself as a target is to look hella loaded, so maybe leave the diamond earrings and designer watches at home? Keep a hold of your bag at all times, and, if you’re planning on lounging on the beach a lot, consider getting a lockable beach bag to keep your stuff safe! 
• Lather up that sunscreen and bug spray – The weather is GREAT in Mauritius, and it has everything you’d expect from a tropical island getaway – including sunburn and its fair share of creepy crawlies *screams*. You should make sure you cover yourself in a high SPF sunscreen to avoid sunburn. There’s also a risk of dengue fever (a mosquito borne virus) in the country, so treat your bug spray like it’s your new best friend! 
• Stay away from drugs – As we mentioned earlier, there are severe penalties for drug trafficking, smuggling, and possession. The smart thing to do? Stay away. 
• Don’t walk alone on deserted beaches or unlit streets at night – Sadly there have been reports by women of sexual assault. The best way to keep yourself safe from any kind of harm whether you’re a man or a woman is to avoid walking alone in dark, unlit areas and to avoid walking along the beach at night altogether. 
• Negotiate your taxi price before you get in – Most taxis have no meters or their meters are there purely for decoration (read: not working). You should negotiate the price of your ride before you get in to avoid getting a hefty charge.
• Double-check your villa is secure – Villa robbery has happened on the island, so when you check in somewhere do a quick check that the room is safe and secure. 
• Don’t go hiking alone – Mauritius has some seriously breathtaking walks and hikes. One of our top hiking rules is to never go alone. You don’t know what could happen out in the jungle, and if you get injured, there’s no way to get any help. 

Is Mauritius Safe? The conclusion

Our final verdict is that Mauritius is a very safe place to go and should not be missed! The biggest danger to you here will be a petty crime, but as long as you’re sensible and follow some basic travel rules, you can avoid it. Solo female travelers can rest assured that they generally won’t be in any danger, but to be on the safe side they shouldn’t walk alone at night, especially on the beach, and should go out partying in groups #girlsnightout

We are confident any visitor will have an absolutely awesome time in Mauritius given all this beautiful island has to offer! As always, keep your wits about you, and have a great time!

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Is Mauritius Safe To Visit?

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Many Peoples who want to visit Mauritius want to know “Is Mauritius Safe to Visit?”. Mauritius is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places throughout the globe. Its aesthetically attractive beaches with crystal clear waters and white sand are jaw-dropping and worth visiting. However, since it is a small island in the Indian Ocean towards the east of Madagascar, tourists are more interested in scuba diving and similar activities. While watching coral reefs and snorkeling with giant turtles could be exhilarating, there are various things that you can do on land. For instance, hiking through exotic nature and exploring magnificent waterfalls cascading down into lakes is quite an eye-catching scenery. Moreover, the island is renowned for housing some lip-smacking and tempting cuisines that almost every visitor relishes.

Although it has been an evergreen vacation spot for decades, noticing the ongoing turbulence worldwide, a question does pop into one’s mind. “Is Mauritius Safe?” one can’t help but ponder the question before spending a substantial amount of money on a place he is unfamiliar with.

What Kinds Of Dangers Are Possible To Occur In Mauritius?  

Criminal acts can occur everywhere, and one cannot be sure of such things. However, the chances of these misconducts occurring are significantly higher with tourists. It is because they are neither familiar with the place nor people and may also have difficulty with the language. Generally, Mauritius is one of the most secure countries in Africa, but it has its share of cons. So here is what you need to know regarding the country’s level of crime.

1. Pick Pocketing/ Purse Snatching:

The risk of pickpocketing is low in the country; however, as a tourist, you must keep your eye open. It is because there have been robbery incidents in the tourist areas, especially in Downtown Port Louis.

2. Transportation:

Most tourists prefer public transport as they can save considerable money. Moreover, it allows them to have a better insight of the place by traveling with the locals, which helps them to know their culture. In addition, the public transit system of Mauritius is very reliable and secure; hence the risk of misconduct is typically low. However, as a traveler, you must always be vigilant.

3. Natural Calamities:

Natural disasters like cyclones and volcanic eruptions are quite common in Mauritius. So it is prudent to follow the local advice as the country’s authorities have a diligent and well-articulated system of phased warnings. Furthermore, since the country is rich in beaches, thus the probability of getting stung by aquatic or semiaquatic species is also very high. Therefore, as a traveler, one must be cautious as such insect bites can be fatal if not taken care of immediately.

4. Terrorism:

Although there is no history of terrorism and extreme acts of violence in the country, one cannot exclude the possibility of such events. So to avoid any catastrophe, you should be aware of your surroundings.

5. Scamming:

Apart from the threats mentioned earlier, the chances of getting scammed in Mauritius are quite high. Swindling has become increasingly common in almost every nook and corner of the world. Moreover, swindlers have adapted new tricks to double-cross people, especially vacationers. So it is better to counter-check every change you receive from the vendors or taxi drivers. Also, pay the money once you have received the services you asked for.   

Is Mauritius Safe?

The dangers or threats associated with traveling to Mauritius are quite moderate. The country is typically safe to travel alone or in a group. There are no records of mugging, kidnapping, or extremist attacks reported. However, the only criminal activity you will learn about is theft, which is out of one’s hands and can happen to anyone. As a tourist, you must be as vigilant as possible, especially when using public transportation or exploring local markets. The only thing that is alarming for visitors is related to their health. The country is known for housing different aquatic, semi-aquatic, and terrestrial species. The sting or bite of such species can be extremely lethal and may deteriorate one’s health in case of delay. In addition, individuals planning to travel to Mauritius should know that the country suffers from chikungunya during the summers. It is a fever similar to dengue fever and poses some serious threats to one’s well-being.   

Most locals of Mauritius often advise vacationers not to travel at night as chances of pickpocketing or theft are high during the night. Besides this, the place is highly safe for women also, thus giving them the liberty to travel alone or with friends and family. Mauritius is a safe and sound vacation spot with various breathtaking and mesmerizing views of nature.

Related: Maldives vs Mauritius: A Detailed Guide

Safety Tips To Remember When Visiting Mauritius:

It is well-known that Mauritius is a certain country that is free from all kinds of misconduct. However, no matter how many documentaries or news have been played on its safety, one needs to think of ways to keep himself safe as a traveler. So here are some safety tips that would help you travel not only to Mauritius but to any country around the globe.

• One should always refrain from going to secluded areas, mainly beaches, at night because the chances of theft, mugging, and the rest are quite high.
• It is always better to lock your valuables like money, passports, jewelry, and the rest in your hotel room’s safe.
• Vacate the premises as soon as possible if the local authorities give any warning about cyclones.
• Always double-check when receiving change from the vendors or drivers. Also, it is advised not to gain the attention of strangers when withdrawing money from the ATM.
• A lot of accidents in Mauritius occur at beaches, mainly to people who swim beyond the marked areas. Hence you should always follow the local advice and take extra measures to avoid any setback that can ruin your trip.

Spending vacations on this tropical island would be a dream come true for anyone. All you have to do is be vigilant and refrain from taking unnecessary risks that could sabotage your entire vacation in a matter of seconds.

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AFRICA , DESTINATIONS , MAURITIUS , SOLO LOCATION GUIDES , SOLO TRAVEL

Mauritius solo travel: the ultimate guide.

Are you dreaming of a beautiful beach destination for your next solo trip? The answer may lie in an idyllic island in the Indian Ocean.

With its lush landscapes, luxurious resorts and excellent safety record, Mauritius is a great destination for those travelling alone. I had a fabulous solo vacation there and am excited to give you the lowdown.

Whether you are a beach bunny, shutterbug or a fervent foodie, get the lowdown on this African island nation in my Mauritius solo travel guide.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT

• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
• Black River Gorges National Park
• Grand Bassin
• Ile aux Cerfs

BEST MONTHS TO VISIT MAURITIUS: May to October

FEMALE SOLO TRAVELLER RISK: Very low

BEST WAY TO GET AROUND MAURITIUS: Rental car or private driver

RECOMMENDED EXCURSIONS

• Mauritius southwest tour
• Mauritius north tour
• Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs
• Le Morne Eco Hike

LOCAL CURRENCY: Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Withdraw cash from ATMs or credit cards widely accepted.

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: Creole (majority), French and English

IN THIS ARTICLE

Why Mauritius is Good for Solo Travellers

Mauritius offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. As there are not a lot of must-see attractions, this is the perfect place for a relaxing solo trip.

Put aside any concerns that you will be the only one travelling there alone. Although Mauritius is popular with honeymooners, I was not the only solo traveller at either of the hotels in which I stayed.

Luxurious resorts – If ever this was a place to treat yourself to affordable luxury travel , this is it. The island has world-class resorts, some of which are bang on the beach. I stayed at SALT of Palmar and the Westin Turtle Bay Resort and Spa , which were both out of this world.

Stunning beaches –  Mauritius is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Diverse landscapes – Venture beyond the beaches to Mauritius’s lush mountains, sugar cane plantations and waterfalls.

Underwater wonders – The coral reefs encircling Mauritius make it a paradise for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

Water activities – Beyond snorkelling and diving, Mauritius offers many other water activities, including sailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding and deep-sea fishing.

Unique wildlife – Mauritius is home to unique flora and fauna, including the endangered pink pigeon and giant tortoises. Nature reserves and wildlife parks provide opportunities to observe and learn about the island’s distinctive biodiversity.

Delicious cuisine – The culinary scene in Mauritius is a delicious mix of flavours influenced by its multicultural population. Its fresh fish and seafood, Creole dishes, Indian curries and tropical fruits will tantalize your taste buds.

Warm and welcoming locals – I can vouch for the warm and friendly hospitality for which Mauritians are known.  

Relaxation and wellness – Whether it’s a massage at your luxury resort or yoga on the beach, Mauritius is for you if you are seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Cultural diversity – This is a cultural melting pot of Indian, African, Chinese and European influences. This cultural blend is reflected in the island’s cuisine, traditions and festivals.

Is Mauritius Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Personal safety when travelling is one of the most important considerations of female solo travellers.

Mauritius is very safe to visit, easily one of the safest countries in Africa for solo travellers .

As with any travel destination, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Petty theft is the most common crime and nimble-fingered pickpockets operate in Port Louis.

Don’t make yourself a target.

Keep your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I use  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

Getting There

Most people arrive in Mauritius by air.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is served by direct flights from major hubs in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. I flew from London Gatwick Airport with British Airways.

If there are no direct flights available from your location, you may need to book a connecting flight. Common layover cities for flights to Mauritius are Dubai, Doha, Paris and Johannesburg.

Mauritius is also a port of call for Indian Ocean cruises.

Upon arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, use an airport taxi, shuttle service or pre-arranged transfer to reach your accommodation. I booked a transfer here .

Car rentals are also available if you prefer to explore the island at your own pace.

Getting Around Mauritius 

Although Mauritius has a public bus system, I could not make it work for me. The places I wanted to visit were not on direct routes and buses are a slow way of exploring the island.

I did what many visitors do; I hired a driver for the day. Even as a solo traveller, this was affordable.

Taxis are widely available in Mauritius and you can hire a driver directly, via your hotel (the most expensive option) or through a third-party booking platform. I use GetYourGuide or Viator .

Renting a car is another popular option for exploring Mauritius independently. Several international and local car rental agencies operate on the island. They drive on the left in Mauritius and roads are generally well-maintained.

Mauritius Solo Travel: Top 10 Places to Visit

I visited most of the places listed below on two private tours with a taxi driver: a north island tour and southwest island tour .

1. Port Louis

The island’s capital city offers a mix of historical and modern attractions. Shop for souvenirs at the Central Market and stop for an excellent coffee at Café Luxe on the Caudan Waterfront.

Yomp along the ramparts of Fort Adelaide (the Citadelle) for panoramic views of the city and beyond. This hilltop historic fortress was built during the French colonial era and serves as a testament to the island’s rich history.

2. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

This was my favourite place to visit in Mauritius.

Also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden , it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is home to a vast collection of indigenous and exotic plants, including the famous giant water lilies.

3. Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark

The striking patchwork of colours known as the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths draws the crowds. This natural wonder features sand dunes with distinct hues, ranging from red and brown to blue and green, caused by the varying mineral content in the soil.

4. Chamarel Waterfall

Nearby, Chamarel Waterfall cascades from a height of about 100 meters, surrounded by lush greenery. There’s a panoramic viewpoint here and adjacent walking trails if you want to stretch your legs.

5. Black River Gorges National Park

Black River Gorges National Park is a UNESCO heritage nature reserve and home to rare bird species, including the rare Pink Pigeon (I didn’t spot one). This is a haven for nature lovers and hikers.

6. Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)

Dive into Mauritius’ Indian culture at Grand Bassin. This sacred crater lake is surrounded by temples and is an important pilgrimage site for the Hindu community.

The annual Maha Shivaratri festival attracts thousands of devotees making offerings to the goddess Shiva. Year-round, the area is occupied by a number of chattering monkeys.

7 . Red Church at Cap Malheureux

Have your camera ready. The Red Church at Cap Malheureux is one of the most photographed attractions in Mauritius.

The Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Church was founded in 1938 and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. From its location at the northern tip of Mauritius, there are sweeping views of the five northern islets.

8. Le Morne Brabant

Once a refuge for escaped slaves, Le Morne Brabant is Mauritius’s most famous landmark and a UNESCO world heritage site.

It is a popular spot for hiking and photography.

>>> DISCOVER LE MORNE ON A GUIDED HIKE

9. Ile aux Cerfs

This small island off the east coast is known for its blindingly-white sandy beaches and water activities. You can go snorkelling, relax on the sandy shores or take a boat trip to explore the surrounding lagoon.

>>> TAKE A DAY TOUR TO ILE AUX CERFS

10. La Vanille Nature Park

If tortoises are your thing, head to La Vanille Nature Park. This wildlife park is home to giant Aldabra tortoises, various species of crocodiles and multi-coloured butterflies.

The Best Time to Visit Mauritius

The best time to visit Mauritius is between May and October. I visited in September and although it was breezy on a few days, the weather was mild and dry.

This is the dry season and the waters of the Indian Ocean are calm and clear, making it an excellent time for water activities.

Where to Stay in Mauritius as a Solo Traveller

Mauritius is known for its upscale resorts and I viewed this solo trip as an opportunity to treat myself. That said, the island offers a range of accommodation to suit all travellers and budgets.

I split my 11-day stay between two tranquil spots: Flacq on the northeast coast of Mauritius and Turtle Bay on its northwest coast. From the east coast, you can see the sunrise over the Indian Ocean; the west coast gives you those magical sunset views.

Other popular places to stay include Grand Baie (for night owls), Flic en Flac (famous for its long sandy beach), Bel Ombre (upscale resorts) and Le Morne (more secluded).

Here is where I stayed.

SALT of Palmar

SALT of Palmar was one of my favourite places to stay in recent years.

This boutique, design-led hotel was perfect for a relaxing stay on a lovely beach in Mauritius and had sky-high levels of customer service. I loved its approach to sustainability and the way it supports local communities.

Find out more in my SALT of Palmar review .

Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa

The Westin Turtle Bay is an excellent resort hotel on the northwest coast of Mauritius.

I loved my spacious room with its private Zen garden and outdoor shower. Guest service was stellar and the sunsets were sensational.

Get the lowdown in my Westin Turtle Bay review .

Thank you for reading my guide to solo travel in Mauritius

I hope it helps you plan your vacation (or decide if this is the right solo destination for you).

It’s the perfect location for a relaxing beach holiday in an idyllic setting amidst the warm hospitality for which Mauritians are known. The reliance on taxis to get around was initially a drawback for me but chatting to the drivers and learning about their lives became part of the experience.

Finally, if you’d like to do some more homework before you book your vacation, take a look at these fascinating Mauritius facts .

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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• 14 Important Things To Know About Mauritius: A 2024 Travel Guide For All Travelers

19 Jan 2023

Cover Image Credit: Pixabay

The boundless beauty and soul enriching charm of Mauritius – a gem in Africa – magnetizes tourists from far and wide. This vacationer’s paradise is a flamboyant and fragrant bouquet of everything that takes your trip – whether family, honeymoon, or leisure, to the top. As you step on this piece of paradise, here are a few things to know about Mauritius that would help you have a holiday carnival! With these inside tips, you can make the most of your Mauritius vacation. So, if you are considering this glamorous getaway, here are a few things to know about Mauritius while planning your trip. Scan this handy Mauritius travel tips guide to make your vacation refreshing in every way.

14 Things To Know Before Going To Mauritius In 2023

Planning a travel to Mauritius ? The following are the most important things to know about Mauritius. So have a look at these before going on your next enthralling vacation!

• Facts About Mauritius: Know Your Favorite Place
• Travel Insurance: Health First
• Is Mauritius Safe: Safety At Par
• How To Reach Mauritius: Best Mode
• Immigration Made Easy: Documentation And More!
• Money Matters: Expenses And Budget
• Things To Carry: Essentials
• Tourist Safety Tips: Things Not To Forget
• Avoiding Tourist Traps: Don’t Trust Strangers
• Shopper’s Stop: Tips For Shopping In Mauritius
• Decoding The Mauritius Travel Code: Your Stay And More!
• Daredevils’ Days: Adventure Activities
• Guard Your Pockets: Other Expenses
• Local Laws: To Avoid Problems

1. Facts About Mauritius: Know Your Favorite Place

Before planning a vacation, the most important thing is to gather basic information about the destination. So before booking your holiday, read on for the most important things to know about Mauritius !

• Location: This beautiful island is located in the Indian Ocean near Reunion Island and is well-connected to Madagascar in the east. This small island is considered a part of Africa despite its geographical location being far from the later one!
• Number of islands: Mauritius comprises a total number of 16 islands and islets, each known for their exquisite beauty. 
• Geological Background: The island was formed thousands of years ago by underwater volcanic eruptions.
• Languages: This island doesn’t have any official language. However, French is the most spoken language here followed by English. 
• Currency: Mauritian Rupee is accepted across the island. You can get the currency exchanged either at the airport or from the currency exchange centres. 

Must Read: Mauritius In March: A Blueprint To Explore The Blue Waters

2. Travel Insurance: Health First

It is always wise to use travel insurance when you are planning an international vacation. If you want to cut down unexpected expenses on your trip to Mauritius then it would be beneficial to get travel insurance done before heading for your holiday. 

Suggested Read: Beach Hopping In Mauritius: Witness The Beauty Of Pristine Waters

3. Is Mauritius Safe: Safety At Par

Mauritius is known for offering a safe and friendly environment to the visitors and it is believed to be amongst the safest destinations in Africa. News of thefts and crime do occur here like any other city of the world, however, the government here maintains a safe environment for the visitors. 

Suggested Read:  Ziplining In Mauritius – All That You Need To Know About It In One Page

4. How To Reach Mauritius: Best Mode

Before planning a vacation to Mauritius, one must know the best way to reach here. Are you wondering how to go Mauritius from India ? There are several direct and indirect ways to reach Mauritius, however, yours best one depends on your budget and preferences! Read on to know the best way to reach Mauritius:

• By Air: The easiest and time saving way to reach Mauritius is via air. You can take a direct or an indirect flight to Mauritius as it is well-connected to all the major cities of the world. Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport situated in Plaine Corail on Rodrigues and Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport are the two international airports of Mauritius and you can choose your flight according to your preferred destination. 
• By Sea: You can also take a cruise to reach Mauritius. If you are traveling from India then board a cruise to Port Louis from Chennai or Mumbai and enjoy the luxurious stay. However, it is quite time consuming mode to reach Mauritius and amongst the most expensive one. 

If you are thinking that how to travel in Mauritius  then you would surely be delighted to know that the island is well connected and you can take a cab or self drive to your destination. You can also board a local ferry or cruise to reach the nearby islands. 

5. Immigration Made Easy: Documentation And More!

Image Source

• Mauritius tourist Visa from India is easily available on arrival. Just keep your passport and hotel booking proofs handy and you are good to go. This is amongst the most important things to know about Mauritius .
• For Indian nationals, the passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity from the date of departure to obtain a tourist visa for Mauritius.
• Tourist visa for Mauritius is valid for 60 days from the issuing date.
• You must carry at least USD 600 or a credit card with a limit of minimum INR 75,000 when traveling as couple.
• You can go through customs if you are carrying 250g of tobacco products, 50 cigars, or 200 cigarettes. However, exceeding this limit would lead to confiscating of products.
• 100 ml of perfume and 250 ml of eau de toilette for personal use are also permitted to carry in your checked-in baggage.

Suggested Read: Hiking In Mauritius: Explore The Spectacular Nature Of The Island Nation

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6. Money Matters: Expenses And Budget

One of the most important things to know before visiting Mauritius is about the money matters. Money does matter, so here are some guidelines to make your money matters smooth when you are exploring the exotic island nation of Mauritius.

• To enjoy the lucrative rate of exchange, exchange big amounts of money. Either get the currency exchanged from a money lender in India or get it exchanged at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, Mauritius.
• US Dollar is widely accepted in Mauritius, so you can carry those as well.
• If you can’t get your money exchanged at the airport, don’t worry. The island is dotted with numerous banks, including Bank of Baroda, Barclays Bank, Deutsche Bank, HSBC Bank, and Standard Chartered Bank.
• Operating hours for Banks: Monday to Thursday – 9: 15 am to 3: 15 pm. Friday: 9: 15 am to 3: 15 pm Saturday: 9: 15 am to 11: 15 am.
• Mauritian currency is available as coins of 5, 20 and 50 cents. Currency notes are available in denominations of 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 2000.
• The daily limit of withdrawing money varies from bank to bank. Check with your bank regarding the amount you can withdraw in a day.
• It is recommended to withdraw a maximum of MUR 15,000 at a time or as per the instructions of an ATM. Withdrawing larger amount of money might cause the amount to get trapped in the machine itself.
• Visa, MasterCard, Diners and American Express debit and credit cards are widely accepted all over Mauritius. Check with your bank if your debit/maestro card will be accepted in Mauritius’ ATMs.
• Dollar is accepted everywhere

Suggested Read: Foreign Exchange Post Demonetisation: Tips For A Hassle-free Trip Abroad

7. Things To Carry: Essentials

“What to pack” is among the most challenging phases of vacationing and this list of things you need to know about Mauritius will surely help you with it. You can’t take every essential at home to your trip. So, know how you can narrow down the stuff to pack and head to Mauritius with a ‘cool’ you. Here is a quick checklist of important things to take to Mauritius, so that you can enjoy a relaxed vacation, without worrying about what you have left behind.

• Pack light cotton clothes for summers. Keep synthetic fabrics at bay as they could make it extremely uncomfortable in the humid climate of Mauritius. Evenings get slightly cold in Mauritius, especially from May to October. Also, pack light woolens to stay cozy.
• Don’t forget to pack swimwear. And please remember that there is a difference between underwear and beachwear. Women should pack swimwear with coordinating sarongs, scarves, sundresses, and kaftans. Keep appropriate dresses for visiting places of worship.
• Keep space for a small umbrella and a lightweight raincoat.
• Flip flop for beaches and flats, whether sandals or shoes, for exploring nature parks, and gardens.
• Pack dive shoes to enjoy snorkeling or paddling to protect your feet from corals.
• Digital camera to capture the gorgeous landscapes.
• Sunglasses, mosquito or insect repellent, lots of sunscreen lotion, beach bag to carry everyday essentials, prescribed medicines, wipes, lip balm, medicines like Imodium to decrease the frequency of diarrhea, and a pack of tissues.

Suggested Read: Casela Nature Park In Mauritius: Everything You Should Know About This World Of Adventures

8. Tourist Safety Tips: Things Not To Forget

Most Mauritius travel guide from India suggest that it is completely safe to visit Mauritius. And we can not agree more. However, every destination comes with its share of petty crimes and Mauritius is not an exception. There are some certain things to be careful of in Mauritius. So, if you are wondering how safe is Mauritius , do’s and don’ts mentioned in the list of most important things to know about Mauritius will act as your guiding commandants –

• Ditch Google maps: The trustworthy Google Map is not optimized for Mauritius. So, don’t count upon it when you are here. Trust your guide only.
• Drive on the left: Mauritius drives on the left so stay left.
• Don’t park on double yellow lines: It is prohibited to park on double yellow lines unless you want to get a parking ticket, which we’re sure, you don’t.
• Avoid buses after 6 pm: On your leisure day in Mauritius, restrict your activities to 6 pm. As soon as the clock strikes 6 pm, avoid bus trips as a majority of regions are deserted after this time.
• No hike without a guide: Hiking without a guide is a big no-no. Hire one on spot and save yourself from getting stranded in dense jungles.
• Beware of slippery tiles in restrooms: Restrooms in Mauritius don’t adhere to the safety rule of using non-slippery tiles. So watch your step.
• Stay healthy: Diarrheal illness is the most common health issue that vacationers in Mauritius face. Keep a hand sanitizer with you always and religiously wash hands before popping something into your mouth.

Suggested Read: Black River Gorges National Park: A Guide To This Nature’s Wonder In Mauritius

9. Avoiding Tourist Traps: Don’t Trust Strangers

Ways to avoid tourist traps come as important tips for Mauritius holiday. Although Mauritius is quite safe for travelers, it comes with a fair share of booby tourist traps. So, here are some dos and don’ts in Mauritius that will keep you safe during your vacation:

• Luggage thugs at Plaisance airport: As soon as you reach the terminal, several geezers will try to grab your stuff, assuring to help you wade smoothly through swarming tourists. The terminus is not teeming and they are simply lying. Carry your bags as it is almost 50 yards.
• Shop like locals: It is recommended to buy water from local shops as hotels charge almost double for water. Price of bottled water ranges from INR 30 to INR 600 as per the location.
• Trust only guides: Do not fall for taxi drivers claiming to take you to ‘pristine beaches with golden sands’ and the likes. This is a major tourist trap as these taxi drivers not only charge exorbitantly but are also paid to get travelers to not-so-touristy-places. AVOID! Stick with your travel guide.
• Beach hackers: There is nothing like a private beach in Mauritius. Although hotels colonize sand expanses smartly, know that they don’t own any. It is good to ask locals about a good beach and escape crowds.

Suggested Read: Go Crazy Shopping in Mauritius: 12 Places That Offer A Mix of Luxury, Kitschy & Crafty

10. Shopper’s Stop: Tips For Shopping In Mauritius

• ‘Bargain’ is not the word: Although bargain will take you places in Mauritius, it is recommended not to overdo it. Avoid excessive bargaining as it is not much appreciated in this island nation.
• Skip factory shops: Prices at factory shops are similar to the retail ones/ government shops and usually stack the same clothes. So avoid them and walk down the Port-Louis Street for buying cheaper stuff.
• Don’t shop at the Port-Louis Central market: Buying spices from this market should be avoided. Rather buy some from the local supermarket. Also, don’t buy craft stuff from sellers of this market as such items are fake. Prices here are sky high, even bargaining won’t help.
• ‘Real’ is not real: A host of tourist shops frankly tell you that several items are fake. Then they come up with ‘real’ stuff such as Hermes bags. It’s a trap! This ‘real’ is also fake. Walk away.
• Withhold credit on credit cards: Don’t buy expensive items on credit cards as this would attract heavy interest rates on the transaction. Instead, look for Duty-Free bargains for cost-effective shopping.

Suggested Read: Shopping in Mauritius: 12 Spots That Offer Both Luxurious & Crafty Items!

11. Decoding The Mauritius Travel Code: Your Stay And More!

• Hop around: There is no dearth of local transportation to help you explore the island. Board buses, rent bicycles, and ride taxis. TaxiCab Mauritius, Taxi Mauritius, Taxi Service Mauritius are among the most sought after taxi service providers that you can count upon during your trip.To rent a vehicle, you should be at least 23 years of age and carry a valid driving license. However, it should be noted that the roads are not paved and that both people and animals may be using the roads as well. This information makes it an important Mauritius travel guide .
• Stay at the Golf Resort: Long Beach Golf & Spa Resort is an amazing 5 star and kids’ friendly property that commands your stay during your Mauritius trip. Book a stay at this resort in the months of May and June at just INR 75,000 – INR 80,000 per person, including airfare. The bunch of overwhelming features it offers includes sea spa, kids and teens club, golf course, and beach and deep sea activities.
• Honeymooners alert: If you want to enjoy honeymoon freebies during your honeymoon in Mauritius , carry your wedding card, which should prove that you exchanged vows within the last six months, not before that.
• Foodiliciously good: Being a tropical region, Mauritius is famous for its tempting seafood. Must try sea-based treats include crab curry, vindaye ourite (octopus), fried squid, and vindaye poisson (fish). Mobile food shops on various beaches like on Pereybere beach sell vegetarian samosas. Vegetarian samosas are called “samoussa legume” in Mauritius and “masala vada” is labeled as “gateau piment”, available at MUR 4 (approx.)
• Indian restaurants: If you are a vegetarian, you need not worry as there are numerous restaurants offering vegetarian delights. The most famous ones are -1. La Maison Eureka, Moka 2. Long Beach Hotel, Hasu Restaurant, Belle Mare 3. La Chaumière Masala – Ile aux Cerfs 4. Namaste Restaurant – Le Caudan Waterfront 5. Indian King – Grand Baie La Croisette (GBLC) 6. Happy Rajah, Grand Baii, and Quatre Bornes 7. Le Tandoor, Grand Bay 8. Chennai Bhavan, Quatre Bornes
• Indian dishes: The most easily available Indian vegetarian food in Mauritius is roti, dal, and samosa. A Roti rolled up with potato curry, coconut and tomato chutneys are available at MUR 12(approx). Round off this filling meal with hot coffee at MUR 28(approx). To munch in between times, grab some cheese, whole wheat bread, flavored milk, and various processed foods.
• Run for Rum: The Rhumerie de Chamarel in South Island is among those distilleries that cultivate their own sugarcane. Sipping on sugar cane juice and sampling rum at its Rum Tasting Plant is among the activities you must not miss.
• Ease of charging: You need not carry adaptors as Mauritian power sockets are made to accept three-pin plugs.

12. Daredevils’ Days: Adventure Activities

Adrenaline junkies can enjoy several water sports and adventure activities in Mauritius. Take a glance at the most sought after ones here –

• Skydiving: Skydiving is possible if winds are favorable. Strong winds makes skydiving rest, especially in winters. The only operator offering skydiving in Mauritius at present is Skydive Austral Mauritius. Charges per person: MUR 11,500
• Underwater sea walk: Best places to try underwater sea walking in Mauritius are Trou d’eau Douce and Port Louis . Don’t take your kids for this activity if they are below 10 years of age. Charges per person: 37 Euros
• Zip lining: You can go zip lining at Rodrigues for MUR 1000 per person; at Casela Nature Park for MUR 900 per person; at River Galets for 65 Euros per adult and 49 Euros per child (ages 4 – 12).
• Parasailing: Savor this 20 minutes ecstasy as a mandate during your Mauritius trip. Try at Grand Bay for 35 Euros, at Belle Mare 29 Euros, and at Ile Aux Cerfs for 24 Euros
• Cave Sea Kayaking – West Coast: Cave sea kayaking in Mauritius begins from Pointe Aux Sable. Charges per person: 79 Euros
• Water skiing: Best place to try water skiing in Mauritius is at Grand Baie. Charges per person: 48 Euro
• Windsurfing: Best spots to try windsurfing in Mauritius are Le Morne peninsula, Manawa, One Eye, and Small Reef. Charges per person: 65 Euros
• Deep Sea Fishing: Try it at Grand Bay and Black River. Charges per person: Range from Euros 165 to Euros 19, 900
• Dolphin Spotting and Whale Watching: Try at Coast of Tamarin. Dolswim is a recommended operator. They offer a second ride for free if you don’t encounter dolphins during the first. They charge you MUR 1200. For other operators, charges per person: Euros 42 to Euros 1090 approx.

Note: Prices are subject to change

Suggested Read: 12 Exciting Water Sports In Mauritius For An Out-Of-The-World Experience

13. Guard Your Pockets: Other Expenses

Image Source A trip to Mauritius comes with a price tag. Follow these tips to avoid burning a hole in your pockets whilst traveling to Mauritius –

• Eat smart: Most Mauritius tour packages include breakfast and dinner. However, you can save a lot of money even when your bellies rumble! Dig in at local eateries or street stalls. Don’t worry about its quality as it is freshly cooked.
• Drink tap water: As drinking tap water is absolutely safe in Mauritius, refrain from buying bottled water. It can wipe a whopping INR 12, 000 off your wallet!
• Selective stay: If you are traveling on a shoestring budget, prefer staying on East Coast as it caters to travelers who have a budget constraint.
• Choose half board accommodation: Grab such offers as numerous hotels offering HB provide complimentary water sports.
• Save on water sports: Keep your water sports plans for noon time. As most of the tourists are done with their share of water activities by noon, you might end up getting a good deal for your water play.
• Stock up your sunblock: Sunscreen in Mauritius is a must every time you step out in the sun. Mauritius is an expensive place and toiletries and cosmetics could cost your wallet. So, if you are planning to save a few more bucks on your Mauritius trip, carry your sunblock instead of buying it there.
• Excursion local style: Befriend locals and invite them to join you on your excursions. This helps you enjoy excursions at lower prices as locals are charged much less than tourists.
• Welcome leisure days: Leisure days in your itinerary serve several within-the-resort activities on your vacation platter. You can also dive in the pool for some splashing fun in addition to a range of watersports included in your package cost. You can also be transported to a sensory paradise at the in-house spa! In case, you don’t want to stay in, hit nightclubs or bars but ensure to book a taxi to take you there and bring back to the hotel.
• Say “yes” to combo packs: On an average, a 7 days’ package to Mauritius costs INR 60,000 – INR 80,000 per person that includes flights, a 3-star accommodation, all the transfers, meals, and sightseeing. However, going for sightseeing on your own might cause you to break the bank. For instance, entrance ticket per person at the Botanical Garden is $ 60 (approx).Ile Aux Cerfs is a one-stop destination where you can enjoy watersports like undersea walk, parasailing, tube ride, and waterfall visit with packed lunch. And all this at just INR 7,500 per person! Unbelievable but true! A la carte of these activities would cost you substantially more.
• Explore Nature Park: The celebrated Casela Nature Park has a bag full of activities to keep you intrigued and fascinated. Fun at this nature park keeps your budget in check and you can have a gala time as per your pocket. The cost incurred on this park’s visit ranges from INR 1,500 per person to INR 10,000 per person.

14. Local Laws: To Avoid Problems

When in Mauritius, do as the Mauritians do. The following are the Mauritius laws for tourists :

• Mauritians are social people and it is appreciated if you greet them politely. Bonjour and Namaste are the greetings that Mauritians use.
• Although Mauritians are tolerant, Mauritius is a conservative culture. When visiting any of the places of worship, do not show much skin. Women are recommended to cover up their skirts with a sarong.
• There are no nudist public beaches in Mauritius. Going topless on beaches is frowned upon.
• Mauritians are friendly people and are proud of their country. Do not offend the locals by saying anything offending about the culture, food, or region it is one of the most crucial things to consider post reading the things to know about Mauritius. 

Further Read: 55 Best Places To Visit In Mauritius To Surf, Dive, And Relax Under The Sun

To summarize, Mauritius is a marvelous tourist maze that allows you to tread on terrific trails and create wonderful memoirs. With this things to know about Mauritius list, you can enjoy a holiday on your terms and conditions. Indulge in comfort and pleasure with these smart moves and rejoice in a smooth and unchallenging trip. If you have any query regarding your Mauritius trip , leave it in the comments’ section. We’ll be happy to answer and assist you.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Know About Mauritius

What is the best currency to take to Mauritius?

MUR or the Mauritius Rupee is the widely accepted currency in Mauritius. But it is best to exchange your home currency in Mauritius itself, to get a higher exchange rate.

How wealthy is Mauritius?

Mauritius’ economic position can be understood by considering the HNWI (high-net-worth-individuals). HNWI is a parameter to calculate the financial position of a country on the basis of the individuals with wealth of $1 million or more. HNWI between 2006 -2016 in selected African countries has listed Mauritius as the top, in the continent.

What does Mauritius Export?

In Mauritius, 90% of the cultivated land is occupied by sugarcane, which constitutes 15% of the export. Thus sugar is the major export product in Mauritius. Textiles, molasses, cut flowers and fish are some other major exports.

Are there any recommended vaccinations for Mauritius?

Yes, there is a risk of some diseases in Mauritius. Here are the vaccinations recommended for travelers who are planning to visit Mauritius: 1. Hepatitis A 2. Typhoid 3. Hepatitis B 4. Rabies 5. Yellow Fever

What is special about Mauritius?

Mauritius a quite densely populated place which has a population of 1.2 million people. The country is known for having racial harmony within the mixed population. All these things make this island a unique place in the world. This is one of the most important things to know about Mauritius before someone plans to visit.

How many days are enough in Mauritius?

If someone is planning a vacation in Mauritius, then around 6-7 days are enough to stay there and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the beaches.

How safe is Mauritius for the tourists?

Mauritius is considered to be one of the safest countries in Africa and the danger level is the lowest here. But as a traveler, be aware and use your common sense to avoid crimes like petty theft.

Which month is best to visit Mauritius?

The time between May to December is the best time to visit Mauritius and enjoy the cool and pleasant weather. During this time, people can enjoy a view of some of the best beaches, fresh seafood and also long sundrenched days.

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Safety and security tips for visitors

Just as you need to be aware of your surroundings and personal safety in your home country, you need to be mindful of the following useful advice so as to make your trip in Mauritius as enjoyable as possible.

At the airport

• Agree on the taxi fare prior to proceeding to your destination
• In Mauritius, all taxis have the name of their operating base on the door, make sure you take a licensed taxi

At your accommodation

• Select a tourist accommodation which is licensed by the Tourism Authority ensuring that security measures put in place are as required (refer to website of Tourism Authority - http://www.tourismauthority.mu/en/ ).
• Store your valuables, passport and money in the safety deposit box provided by the hotel/guesthouse/tourist residence.

In public places

• Do not leave your personal belongings unattended in public places.
• Avoid carrying large sums of money with you.
• Avoid displaying expensive jewellery and valuables whilst sightseeing.
• At night, avoid isolated or poorly lit places.
• Don’t let any objects in plain view in your car.

At the beach

• Avoid buying products and seeking services from unauthorised persons.
• Request price of products before any purchase.
• Be careful with those who demonstrate too much insistence.
• Don’t let your things unattended or out of your sight.
• In shops, shopping malls, ask for a receipt for any important transaction.
• Keep your hand bag closed all the times and make sure your purse is out of reach.
• Remember that hitchhiking is not practised in Mauritius.
• Agree on the fare before embarking on any trip from the information desk of your residence.
• Be aware that advice given by some taxi drivers may be motivated by commissions that they receive from some traders.
• Always keep in mind that driving is on the left-hand side in Mauritius, and priority given to vehicles coming from the right.

Tourist excursions

• Before undertaking any sea-based activities, please remember that Pleasure Crafts bearing a "PC" registration number are meant for commercial purposes.
• Be environment-friendly and follow the codes of conduct for activities such as dolphin and whale watching, helmet diving and scuba diving.

Tips to ensure personal safety and security in the tourist accommodation

• Upon check-in, check that all doors in your room are secured properly.
• Store your valuables, passport and money in the digital safe provided by the hotel/guesthouse/tourist residence.
• Lock the items you won't be carrying with you such as laptop or other electronics.
• Always use the peephole (if any) before opening the door.
• Before going to bed, check if you have locked the door of your room and your balcony or terrace.
• When leaving the room, always ensure that door of the balcony/terrace of your room is locked.
• Never use codes like 1111,2222,3333 etc or birthday dates for the digital safe.
• If you lose your room key or room entry card, report it immediately to your hotel/tourist residence/guesthouse and have the card deactivated straightaway.

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 999 or 112
• Fire Services: 995 or 115
• SAMU Ambulances: 114
• National Directory: 150
• Tourist Info: 152
• Weather: 171 and 96 for cyclone reports
• Airline Data: 6033030

Mauritius Travel Tips: Know Before You Go

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Here you’ll find all our tips for booking your trip to Mauritius as well as practical travel tips for your time there.

Table of Contents

Who is Mauritius perfect for as a destination?

The best time to travel to mauritius, booking a vacation in mauritius, where to stay in mauritius: our tips, what can you do in mauritius, practical travel tips for your mauritius travel planning, information and travel tips for your time there.

We were in Mauritius for three weeks and explored all the corners of the island for you.

This post contains all our practical travel tips for your vacation in Mauritius.

You’ll find all our tips for booking your trip to Mauritius as well as practical travel tips for your time there.

Also read our other posts about Mauritius:

What to do in Mauritius? The most beautiful beaches in Mauritius

For many people, Mauritius is the honeymoon destination par excellence and in fact we met many couples spending their honeymoon there.

But Mauritius isn’t just for newlyweds. Mauritius is an ideal destination for people who love dream beaches, because there the island is full of them.

Mauritius is also a great destination for everyone who wants to combine their beach vacation with a bit of sightseeing and culture.

Mauritius has a lot to offer in this regard: colorful temples, huge waterfalls, evergreen national parks, and old colonial buildings. So let’s get one thing straight: Mauritius is definitely very diverse!

Mauritius is a good destination all year round. Since Mauritius is in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are different from ours. The Mauritian summer coincides with our winter, and vice versa.

But it’s warm and sunny on Mauritius all year round. Even in the coldest months from June to August, temperatures still reach 26 to 28 degrees during the day.

The best time to travel and the peak season for Mauritius is between September and December , when it’s mostly unpleasant and cold back home.

In Mauritius, you can then expect relatively constant daytime temperatures around 30 degrees and the risk of rain showers is relatively low.

European spring from April to June is also a good time to travel. During this time, it’s somewhat cooler in Mauritius than during the peak season from September to December. But then the island isn’t as crowded and the prices for hotels are considerably cheaper.

We were in Mauritius from the end of May to the middle of June and enjoyed bright sunshine and pleasant temperatures almost every day. It hardly ever rained.

There’s a big difference between the east coast and the west coast during this time. Since the wind usually comes from the east, this side is a lot more unpleasant outside the main season and there’s significantly more rainfall than in the west of the island.

In the period from January to March you have to be prepared for more rainy days in Mauritius than in the rest of the year. It’s still warm though. During European summer from the end of June to mid-August, temperatures in Mauritius are at their lowest.

Of course it’s still pleasant enough with daytime temperatures of around the 25 degrees, but it might be a bit cooler than at home.

If you want to travel to Mauritius, you have to choose between different options when booking. Either you book your flight and your accommodation separately or you book a package vacation.

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. When you choose a package vacation, you don’t have to worry about a thing and can benefit from cheap package deals.

But if you book separately, you also have the option of trying out different hotels in Mauritius and you can also choose from a wider range of places to stay.

We’ve put together all the information and tips to help you find the option that works best for you.

Flights to Mauritius

The number of direct flights from Europe to Mauritius is still pretty limited.

A very interesting option is flying with the Arabic airline Emirates . Emirates offers daily flies to Mauritius from several European cities.

If you don’t like long-distance flights, then Emirates is the best option for you, as the flight time of approximately 12 hours is split up into two approximately equal flights of about 6 hours.

Plus you also have the interesting option of taking a longer stopover in Dubai on the inbound or outbound flight to explore the sights of Dubai for a few days.

Current prices for Emirates flights to Mauritius

Booking a package vacation to Mauritius

If you just want to enjoy your vacation without having to deal with booking a flight, a place to stay, or transfer from the airport, then a package deal is a good choice.

There a are a lot of good offers from major European tour operators.

The selection of hotels in Mauritius is pretty huge. There are a lot of luxury hotels on the island that really leave nothing to be desired. Of course, they come with a price tag attached, but you generally get what you pay for.

We tested a number of hotels in Mauritius ourselves and want to recommend one hotel per price category in this post.

Pure luxury: The Residence

There are a great many luxury hotels on the east coast of Mauritius, among them The Residence. We were there for three days and absolutely loved it: very nice rooms, excellent service, very good food, and simply an absolute all-round feel-good feeling.

The hotel has its price, but in this case it’s really justified. If you want to treat yourself, the Residence gives you the perfect opportunity to do so.

The Residence Mauritius on booking.com

Mid-range: Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel

“Welcome to your new home.” These were the warm words that welcomed us to the Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel in the northwest of Mauritius. And in fact we felt very welcome and felt very much at home here.

The rooms are new and spacious, the staff is super-friendly, and the beach is also beautiful. The hotel definitely offers great value for money.

Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel

Cheap: Mystik Life Style Hotel

The Mystik Life Style Hotel in the north of the island is a very cheap but good hotel. The hotel is new and very modern. And at that price, you certainly can’t complain.

Mystik Life Style Hotel

Of course you can just easily spend your entire vacation in Mauritius by the beach or pool. This that would be a shame, because Mauritius has more to offer.

Sights and attractions in Mauritius

Mauritius has surprisingly many sights. Since this post would be bursting at its seams if we were to list them all here, we’ve written a more in-depth post where we give you the low-down on all the sights.

Read our post: Our highlights & must-see sights in Mauritius

Activities in Mauritius

Mauritius is an excellent destination for water sports. There are also some very good surf spots in Mauritius. The most famous are Tamarin Bay in the west of the island, and Le Morne in the southwest.

You can also rent out kayaks or stand-up paddles at many hotels in Mauritius.

The underwater landscape of Mauritius is also very worthwhile, so divers and snorkelers will definitely get their money’s worth.

There are some exciting offers for exploring the underwater world of Mauritius, which can all be booked online:

Half-Day Snorkeling Trip with Picnic Lunch Underwater scooter tour

A post about the best travel tips for Mauritius wouldn’t be complete without practical information for preparing your vacation.

What should you to pack for Mauritius?

Even though it’s warm all year round, you should still make sure to take a warm sweater and long pants. Especially during the off-season from April to August, it can get a bit cooler in the evenings.

Mauritius uses a different power outlet system to most of Europe. Most hotels offer adapters or have also installed standard European outlets in addition to the Mauritian ones. But just to be on the safe side, we still recommend packing a travel adapter .

Sunscreen is also really important. Especially during the peak travel season from September to December, the sun blazes down on Mauritius, and as a pale European you’re very likely to catch a sunburn. You can get sunscreen everywhere on the island, but it’s much more expensive than at home.

Mosquitoes can be a real plague in Mauritius. Especially in the national parks, there are lots of mosquitoes all year round. Malaria or dengue fever aren’t a danger in Mauritius, but mosquito bites are annoying nevertheless. Mosquito repellent is useful in any case, but you can just as easily buy it locally.

Apart from that, there’s nothing special you need for Mauritius. We recommend taking a look at our list of what to pack for Southeast Asia where we show you what we packed on our journeys through Asia. Since the climate in Mauritius is very similar, you can pretty much use the same list.

Money and travel expenses in Mauritius

The official currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). The exchange rate is pretty much exactly 40 MUR to 1 euro. Of course you can find ATMs at the airport and in the larger cities.

Make sure to take a credit card with no foreign transaction fees so you can withdraw money worldwide for free.

Mauritius isn’t a cheap country to visit. You can easily spend a small fortune on the island, but you don’t have to. It’s certainly possible to have a cheap vacation in Mauritius.

To give you an idea of common prices, here’s a short overview:

• Bottle of water (1.5 l) = 20-30 MUR (0.50 to 0.75 euros)
• Bus ticket = approx. 30 MUR (0.75 euros)
• Gas (1l) = approx. 40 MUR (1 euro)
• Simple, local food = 120 to 240 MUR (3 to 6 euros)
• Western food = 200 to 600 MUR (5 to 15 euros)

Tipping in Mauritius

Tipping never used to be all that common in Mauritius. But thanks to all the tourists, it’s becoming more commonplace and a tip is always welcome.

In many hotels you have the possibility to put a tip into a staff tip box, where the tips are shared out among the employees. Of course you’re still free to give individual employees a personal tip if you want.

Taxis and guides are also happy for a tip, as are waiters at the restaurants.

How to get from the airport to your hotel

If you booked your vacation as a package deal, you generally don’t have to worry about your transfer because you’ll be picked up straight from the airport.

If you booked your hotel yourself, there are several ways to get from the airport to the hotel:

Hotel transfer service:  Most hotels offer their own transfer service. Just ask at your hotel. In our experience, hotel transfer services are always the most expensive so we never use them.

Taxi:  You can catch a taxi at the airport. Taxis in Mauritius don’t have meters, i.e. you have to negotiate the price with the driver before you leave.

Book a transfer online:  You can also always book your transfer online. We did it too, and everything went perfectly. Your driver will be there waiting for you holding up a sign and will take you directly to your hotel.

You can book a transfer here

Renting a car in Mauritius

The best way to explore Mauritius on your own is to rent a car. We did that ourselves and were absolutely satisfied.

But watch out: Traffic in Mauritius is on the left-hand side. That means the steering wheel is on the right side of the car, the gear shift is on the left, and the levers for turn signals and windshield wipers are reversed. At first, we always turned on the windshield wiper when we wanted to use the turn signal. But we got the hang of it after a while. Hehe.

If you’re not used to driving on the left-hand side, then we recommend renting a car with an automatic transmission. That way, you won’t have to worry about switching gears on the wrong side and can fully concentrate on steering the car.

Be careful in roundabouts, because you enter and leave them the other way round than you do back home. Sometimes it can also be confusing that many roundabouts are multi-lane and you have to take a different lane depending on the exit you want to take. But you get used to it quickly.

Traffic on Mauritius is generally pretty leisurely and outside the cities the roads are usually deserted. You can drive 40 kph in towns, 90 outside, and 110 on the freeway. You should stick to the speed limits because speed traps are set up all over the place.

An international driving license isn’t required for Mauritius. You can just use you driver’s license from back home.

To round off our travel tip post, we have some information for your time in Mauritius.

Eating and drinking in Mauritius

Mauritian cuisine is characterized by the influences of many immigrants. There are Chinese, Indian, and African influences. Of course, being an island, fish is one of the main items on the menu.

Curries served with fish, meat, or vegetables are typical for Mauritian cuisine. But compared to Indian and Asian curries, we didn’t like the curry dishes on Mauritius as much. But they’re not bad either.

Bread, butter, and a green chili paste are served as an appetizer. The chili paste is very tasty, but also very, very spicy. So be careful the first time you try it!

Mauritius is a sugar cane nation, which automatically also makes it a rum nation. Mauritian rum is considered to be particularly aromatic.

You can also get beer in Mauritius. The local beer brand is called Phoenix and actually doesn’t taste at all bad.

Internet in Mauritius

The Internet in Mauritius is very good. We had very good WiFi at each of our hotels.

We bought a Mauritian SIM card for mobile Internet. There are two major providers on the island: Orange and Emtel. We bought a SIM card from Emtel and paid just over 25 euros for a 25 GB package! We could only dream of that back home.

Language and understanding

The Mauritian population speaks Creole, a dialect of French. If you speak French, you should be able to get by just fine in Mauritius. Most locals also speak good English, so communication isn’t a huge problem.

Do you have more travel tips for Mauritius?

We’ve summarized all our travel tips in this post. Do have any more questions? Then let’s have them! Just leave us a comment!

Of course, we’re always happy for further tips and suggestions.

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Tips on Mauritius Warnings and Dangers – Stay Safe!

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Mauritius Warnings and Dangers

The island nation of Mauritius is known for its reefs, lagoons, beaches and the numerous recreational opportunities it offers. However, just like any other place, there are warnings and dangers you should be aware of when traveling to Mauritius.

It can be very expensive

If you are planning to travel to Mauritius, it is important to know that the cost of living is quite high. As much as the prices of goods in an island nation are likely to be high due to the cost of importation, the cost of living in Mauritius is higher than in most countries. If you are considering self-catering option when in Mauritius, you will have to bear in mind the high cost of living.

Dangerous animals

You should be careful when feeding the tortoises at La Vanille Reptile Park. These reptiles can bite your fingers when you hold leaves for them to eat. There are also sea gherkins which lie at the bottom of the sea but will leave a sticky and slimy substance on your feet when you step on them. It will be hard to pull off the white stuff from your skin. Sea urchins hide under coral and can sting you when you are walking or swimming, leading to infections. It is advisable to wear plastic sandals, just to be safe.

Traffic jams

When many people think about Mauritius, what comes to mind will be beautiful beaches and lagoons. Mauritius has a good number of people crammed up on the small island. This has led to congestion and traffic jams in the large towns and cities. When moving from one place to another, you will be better off if you factor in the time you will spend in traffic. This is vital since you can miss your flight if you delay in traffic. The good thing is that you will enjoy the beautiful views when held up in traffic.

Strong winds and storms

The weather in Mauritius is characterized by strong winds, heavy rains, and tropical storms. In some cases, the heavy rains lead to flooding, with deaths being reported when rivers burst their banks. Roads may also be swept away when flood waters rise. The strong winds are usually experienced on the southern coast of the island. If you are not careful as a visitor, these winds can blow you from the top of the cliff to the rocks located a distance below.

Navigation can be a challenge

Although Mauritius has decent roads, there are few roads signs. This makes it difficult for a visitor to find their way around the island nation. The maps provided by the local car rental companies may have some roads missing. When you get lost in Mauritius, it is advisable to ask one of the friendly locals for directions.

There are no banks in some areas

Some parts of Mauritius do not have banks and ATMs can be hard to find. It is recommended that you change money at the airport on arrival.

Editor’s note :   The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Mauritius.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Is Mauritius Safe To Visit?

How to stay safe in Mauritius

Mauritius tours are generally very safe, especially in comparison to other African countries. The months of May to December are considered the best time to go to Mauritius , when the weather is cool and dry, and it is safe to explore the lush, green islands and the ocean. Our Mauritius travel guide offers more information on essential details such as Mauritius’ currency , visas and health information, to ensure that your trip is easy and stress-free.

While traveling, we also recommend that you follow some basic safety regulations for a safe and secure Mauritius vacation.

Safety tips for your Mauritius tours

Beware of pickpockets.

Mauritius is a developing economy and pick pocketing and petty crime are rather common everywhere. As with anywhere else in the world, the usual safety rules apply: don’t carry expensive items with you and don’t display your valuable goods, such as watches and jewelry, while traveling. Be careful in markets and other crowded areas.

Be careful while swimming, snorkeling and diving

The currents can change frequently and without any warning. It is best to bathe under supervision, which applies to snorkeling and diving as well. Since sea urchins and other such dangerous animals may be lurking underwater, we recommend that you wear flip flops.

Dress appropriately while visiting religious sites

If you wish to visit a religious site, please dress appropriately with your knees and shoulders covered. If you are unsure about what to wear, your local guide or personal Trip Coordinator will be happy to advise you.

Avoid specific neighborhoods and beaches at night

Lonely, deserted beaches and neighborhoods are best avoided at night. Avoid visiting the poorer residential areas, or visit only in the company of your local guide.

Safe and stress-free Mauritius tours

Safe and seamless Mauritius tours – that’s our promise to you! Your local guide and personal Trip Coordinator will ensure that you have a completely safe and stress-free vacation. If you have any further questions about security in Mauritius, our destination experts are happy to help you.

Popular Trips to Mauritius

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Experience the water worlds of Botswana on boat safaris in Chobe and at the Okavango Delta, and spend time relaxing days on the beaches of Mauritius. Start your trip at the thundering Victoria Falls, a UNESCO site thus named by explorer David Livingstone after the19th century British monarch. You will travel on to Chobe National…

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Best Places To Visit

A tropical treat! Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Mauritius Islands consist of two large and several small islands, the largest island being the capital, Port Louis.

Best Time To Visit

The climate in Mauritius is tropical so no matter when you visit, expect warm and sunny weather. Follow the link for an overview from our destination experts on the best time to visit Mauritius.

Things To Do

There’s much more to Mauritius that dreamy beaches. Experience the best of the fascinating culture and natural treasures in the country. Our destination experts share a list of the top things to do in Mauritius.

Travel Tips

Traveling to Mauritius? From exchanging your money to credit cards, health information, communication and other handy tips, our destination experts share their inputs with you.

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Is Mauritius Safe for Tourists in 2024? (Solo & Family Travel Guide)

Mark Twain had it right when he said, “Mauritius was made first, and then heaven.” This island, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and serene beaches, is a top destination for both solo and family travelers looking for a slice of paradise.

Beyond its stunning beauty, Mauritius maintains a reputation as a safe haven for all travelers. Let’s explore this in more detail.

Is Mauritius Safe?

Mauritius is recognized as the safest country in Africa .

In 2023, it reaffirmed its status as a top destination in the Indian Ocean, winning four prestigious awards at the World Travel Awards (WTA) for the region:

• Indian Ocean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination
• Indian Ocean’s Leading Wedding Destination
• Indian Ocean’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination
• Indian Ocean’s Best Cruise Destination

Pickpockets may lurk in certain areas, like Downtown Port Louis and central tourist spots, but they’re not too common. More serious crimes, like personal attacks, are even rarer here.

However, there’s one “criminal” you might want to watch out for—the stonefish. They’re not exactly common, but their sting can be fatal !

• International travel advisories: Level One, exercise normal safety precautions
• Crime rating: 47.42, low to moderate
• Most common crime that affects tourists: Petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching
• Public transportation safety: Relatively safe and efficient
• Safety walking alone during the day: Safe
• Safety walking alone during the night: Not safe
• Beach safety: Generally safe, take note of the beach safety flags
• Dangerous animals to watch out for: Stonefish
• Common natural disasters: Hurricanes, storms, earthquakes, and tsunamis
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: No reported incidents
• Police presence: There are plenty of police officers (including a special tourism unit) across the country
• Medical care quality: Good healthcare, but opt for medical travel insurance that will cover the medical bill

Travel Advisory for Mauritius

International travel advisories are a reliable source for assessing a destination’s safety, and for Mauritius, it’s a big green light all across the board.

The US , UK , Canadian , Australian , and New Zealand advisories all give Mauritius the safest rating—Level One—advising nothing more than normal precautions.

Visitors should be aware of the following:

• Petty crime, like pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur mainly at night in areas like Port Louis, Flic en Flac, and Grand-Baie.
• While tourists aren’t usually targeted for violent crimes, it’s always possible to find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.
• Road conditions vary, with some roads being narrow, uneven, and poorly lit. Watch out for deep ditches and lack of guardrails.
• Certain coastal waters may have riptides.
• Stonefish stings are rare but can be dangerous.
• Some aquatic equipment offered at beaches may not meet international safety standards.
• Most taxis don’t have meters, so it’s best to negotiate fares upfront.
• Demonstrations can occur, and even peaceful ones can turn violent.
• Women traveling alone may face harassment or verbal abuse.
• Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships can happen in the Indian Ocean.
• Insect-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya are present, and there have been past cases of malaria.
• Some prescription medications may not be available.
• Mauritius is located near an active seismic zone, so tsunamis may occur.
• Cyclone season runs from November to May, bringing powerful hurricanes.

These are, of course, worst-case scenarios and very rarely come to life, but it never hurts to know all the possibilities a vacation can go south.

A Comprehensive Look at Mauritius Crime Rates

Mauritius boasts a relatively low to moderate crime rating , sitting at 47.42.

In 2022 , the country recorded a total of 57,846 offenses , or 45.8 cases per 1,000 inhabitants. This is a significant decrease from the previous year , where there were 72,935 cases or 57.6 per 1,000 inhabitants.

The most common crime in Mauritius is road traffic violations , with a rate of 90.3 incidents per 1,000 people. Property-related offenses, such as theft , also make up a significant portion of reported crimes, with 17,194 incidents in 2022.

Mauritius ranks 10th out of 54 countries in Africa with the lowest presence of organized crime . This means the likelihood of encountering serious criminal activity like cartel operations or drug-related crimes here is very low.

Source : Numbeo , 2024 data based on 94 contributors.

Personal Crime in Mauritius

Personal crimes targeting tourists in Mauritius are typically rare, so the likelihood of encountering insults, harassment, or physical attacks during your vacation is low.

However, as the Canadian travel advisory notes, it’s essential to stay vigilant and mindful of your surroundings . Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas with limited access points. When enjoying the local nightlife, moderate your alcohol intake to ensure you remain in control of your surroundings.

Above all, maintain a positive attitude and avoid confrontations.

These precautions are good practices no matter where you are in the world!

Property Crime in Mauritius

The most common property crime you might encounter in Mauritius is petty theft.

As authorities caution in travel advisories, hotspots for theft include the capital, Port Louis , along with the resort hotspot of Grand Baie and the beach town of Flic en Flac . Outside of the popular spots, such incidents are less likely to occur.

Thieves typically target crowded streets, markets, and beaches , capitalizing on tourists’ distractions to snatch valuables. For instance, pickpockets may rummage through unattended bags left on the beach.

To prevent petty theft, maintain situational awareness . Never leave valuables unattended, and avoid carrying expensive items, like jewelry and watches, and large amounts of cash – only carry enough cash for the day.

Occasionally, visitors may experience hotel break-ins , especially in accommodations lacking proper security measures, like beachfront bungalows or villas without guards or alarms. To mitigate this risk, opt for accommodations registered with the Mauritius Tourism Authority for added peace of mind.

Police Presence in Mauritius

The Mauritius Police Force (MPF) is a well-trained and widespread organization comprising around 13,000 officers across the country.

Within the MPF, there’s a specialized unit called the Police du Tourisme (PDT) , established in 2003. These officers undergo special training to ensure the safety and security of tourists visiting Mauritius.

The PDT operates from six offices across Mauritius , making it convenient for tourists to reach out if needed:

• Line Barracks, Port Louis (Tel: 5 727 6281)
• Grand Bay Police Station (Tel: 5 727 6282)
• La Gaulette Police Station (Tel: 5 728 2845)
• Blue Bay Police Station (Tel: 5 727 5994)
• Belle Mare Police Station (Tel: 5 727 6284)
• Plaine Champagne Police Post (Tel: 5 728 0721)

However, it’s worth noting that according to the 2022 Afrobarometer on Mauritians’ perceptions of their police force, many citizens believe that corruption is prevalent among officers . Nevertheless, the Mauritius police should be your go-to for help if you feel unsafe during your vacation.

Public Transportation Safety in Mauritius

In Mauritius, everything is within reach, and the public transport system is relatively safe and efficient.

You can choose between standard and express bus services. Express buses are quicker with fewer stops but slightly pricier, while standard buses are more affordable but make more stops and take longer.

Buses typically run from 5:30 am to 8:00 pm (6:30 am to 6:30 pm in rural areas), with a late service available between Port Louis and Curepipe until 11:00 pm . Expect buses to arrive every 15 minutes or so, though express buses may be less frequent.

When using the bus, make sure to carry change for tickets, as drivers may not have ample change for larger notes.

The Metro Express operates from Port Louis to Curepipe. To ride, you’ll need a MECard , a prepaid smart card available at electronic ticket machines in the stations.

Taxis are available but may be pricier than other options. Most taxis don’t have meters , so negotiate fares upfront. While there’s no Uber , ride-sharing services like Yougo offer similar services, allowing you to book a taxi and pay a fixed price for your journey.

Road Safety in Mauritius

Road conditions in Mauritius vary—the main roads and highways are generally well-maintained, but some secondary roads may be narrow, uneven, and poorly lit, with deep ditches and no guardrails.

Traffic can also get pretty heavy in cities and tourist areas, especially during rush hours. If you’re planning to hit the road, keep in mind that driving in Mauritius is on the left side , a remnant of British colonial rule.

Additionally, locals tend to drive relatively fast and may not always follow traffic signals or stop signs, so it’s crucial to stay alert and cautious at all times.

Medical Care Quality in Mauritius

Mauritius has generally good healthcare.

The best hospitals in Mauritius are:

• Wellkin Hospital (tel: +230 605 1000)
• Clinique du Nord (tel: +230 247 2532)
• Clinique Darne (tel: +230 601 2300)
• Victoria Hospital (tel: +230 425 7693)
• Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital (tel: +230 603 7000)
• Dr AG Jeetoo Hospital (Civil) (tel: +230 203 1001)

Many hotels even have on-site doctors , so be sure to ask about this when booking your stay. Some hospitals even offer the convenience of doctors coming to your hotel or bungalow —just make sure to consult with the hospital whether such service is available.

Pharmacies are easy to come by across Mauritius , although certain prescription medications may not be readily available.

Now, here’s a crucial tip: don’t skimp on medical travel insurance . Treatment in Mauritius can be costly without it, and with mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue Fever and Chikungunya in the mix, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Mauritius?

Mauritius is generally a great destination to experience solo—safe, easy to navigate, and has tons of activities for all tastes.

However, as with solo travel anywhere, a touch of extra vigilance goes a long way .

Avoid wandering alone late at night, and make sure your loved ones know of your whereabouts.

Don’t stick out from the crowds and blend in as much as possible—this includes skipping the fancy jewelry and designer bags. When it comes to money, only carry what you need for the day and stash the rest in a secure place, like a hotel safe or hidden spot in your room.

For solo female travelers, rest assured that Mauritius is welcoming, but like many places, it’s not immune to issues like catcalling . Something that will elevate your experience is booking a stay in a female dormitory. Maybe you’ll meet some great friends along the way, visit sites and attractions together, and make your vacation even more pleasant.

Is it Safe to Travel to Mauritius as a Family?

Mauritius is a safe and welcoming destination for families.

You’ll find many resorts and hotels geared towards families, offering kids’ clubs, babysitting services, and family suites to ensure everyone’s comfort. Some resorts even have special areas just for kids, like water parks and playgrounds, so parents can relax while the little ones have a blast.

Plus, most beaches have lifeguards on duty, providing an extra layer of safety for families enjoying the sun.

Mauritius is pretty small, so getting around as a family should feel like a breeze. Families can rent a car to explore every nook and cranny or opt for taxis for shorter trips.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Mauritius

Some of the common natural disasters that can occur in Mauritius include hurricanes, storms, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

Hurricane season in Mauritius spans from November to May , with the most intense storms typically occurring from May to June and October to November . However, powerful cyclones can brew in other months, too.

In 2024, the most severe cyclone to hit Mauritius was Belal , reaching wind speeds of up to 92 mph (148 km/h) on January 15. It was classified as a category 1 cyclone based on the internationally recognized Saffir-Simpson scale .

If you’re planning a trip during hurricane season, keep tabs on the weather . Things can change fast, so stay flexible. The National Hurricane Center is your go-to for updates.

Storms usually occur during Mauritius’s rainy season (November to May). They are less fierce than hurricanes , but still worth keeping an eye on.

Storms can cause flooding in low-lying areas and urban spots with overwhelmed drainage systems. In hilly terrain, there’s a risk of landslides . Plus, there’s the possibility of electricity and phone services going down .

Weather forecasts monitor these storms closely, giving you plenty of time to adjust your plans. Unlike hurricanes, you can dodge stormy weather way ahead of time. The WeatherChannel is a good source for real-time updates.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes in Mauritius are rare but worth mentioning.

Since 1900 , Mauritius has had about 11 quakes above magnitude 6 . That’s like one major tremor every 10 to 15 years or so. The latest one happened on March 27, 2024, with a magnitude of 4.6. Thankfully, it was so shallow that nobody even felt it.

However, earthquakes are unpredictable . So even though Mauritius isn’t exactly earthquake-central like Puerto Rico or Japan , for instance, it’s good to be prepared.

If you ever find yourself in the midst of one, remember to drop to the ground , take cover under something sturdy , and hold on tight till it’s over.

For the latest info on seismic activity, you can always swing by the Volcano Discovery website.

Powerful undersea earthquakes can trigger tsunamis in Mauritius, but thankfully, major tremors aren’t exactly an everyday occurrence here. So, while tsunamis can happen, they’re pretty uncommon in Mauritius .

The last big “warning” happened in December 2004 . It was registered as a tsunami, but luckily, the waves were minimal, so it didn’t cause much damage when it reached the shores.

But if you ever feel a massive earthquake on your vacation in Mauritius and notice the water pulling back the shore , that’s a red flag. A tsunami might be on its way, so move to higher ground immediately.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Mauritius

Mauritius hasn’t had any carbon monoxide incidents reported, but they don’t require detectors in hotels either.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a very dangerous gas, mainly because it’s odorless and colorless , making it tough to detect if it leaks indoors. Breathing in small amounts can cause tiredness and make you drowsy, but higher levels can lead to nausea, headaches, loss of consciousness, and can even be fatal .

Such fatal accidents from carbon monoxide have occurred in hotels around the world, from Colombia to the Bahamas and Mexico . So, when you book a room, there’s a slim chance of carbon monoxide sneaking in, especially if there’s a faulty boiler, furnace, or portable generator.

To play it safe, consider packing your own portable CO detector . It’s compact, easy to bring along, and provides an extra layer of protection whether you’re in Mauritius, London , Spain , or anywhere else.

And if you start feeling tired, nauseous, or develop a headache, seek medical help immediately.

Serenity by the Shore: The Safety of Mauritius Beaches

Swimming in Mauritius is a dream, but like anywhere else, it’s essential to be cautious of currents and the marine life lurking beneath the waves.

According to The Times , the best beaches in Mauritius are:

• Ile aux Cerfs
• Flic en Flac
• Tamarin Beach
• Belle Mare Plage
• Trou aux Biches
• Mont Choisy
• Poste Lafayette

To check out the beach conditions, make use of the beach flag system :

• Green flag: All clear, no sharks spotted, and good visibility for spotters
• Black flag: Poor visibility but no shark sightings
• Red flag: Shark spotted recently, swimming is prohibited
• White flag with a black shark symbol: Shark sighted, evacuate the water immediately
• Red over yellow bicolor flag: Lifeguards on duty
• Plain blue flag: Watch out for bluebottle jellyfish
• Yellow flag with black roundel: Swimming allowed within 650ft (around 200m) of shore

Remember, conditions can change fast, so keep an eye out for flags and lifeguards. If in doubt, locals can offer valuable insights into safe swimming spots.

Be especially cautious of the Stonefish , a fatally venomous species found in Mauritius waters. Their camouflage makes them hard to spot, so wear footwear and steer clear of anything resembling rocks or coral.

As for sharks, they are rare in Mauritius but very common in its neighboring islands , so a visit is not impossible. Stick to swimming in groups, avoid dusk dips, and don’t venture too far from shore solo.

Mauritius Weather Patterns: What to Expect

Mauritius has a tropical climate and over 300 days of sunshine each year.

The temperatures typically range from 66°F to 85°F (about 19°C to 29°C) , rarely dipping below 62°F (about 16.7°C) or soaring above 88°F (about 31.1°C).

Mauritius experiences opposite seasons to Europe. Summer runs from October to May, while winter lasts from June to September. February sees the highest temperatures , averaging around 85°F (about 29.4°C) during the day and 76°F (about 24.4°C) at night. In contrast, August is the coldest , with daytime highs reaching around 75°F (about 23.9°C) and nighttime lows dropping to 66°F (about 18.9°C).

The sunny stretch enters Mauritius from April to November , with September being the clearest month with sunny skies around 90% of the time. On the flip side, February tends to be the cloudiest , with the sky obscured around 58% of the time.

Rainfall predominates from November to May , with February being the wettest month, receiving an average of 4.6 inches (about 11.7 centimeters) of rain. From June onwards, rainfall diminishes significantly, with June being the least rainy , averaging just 0.3 inches (about 0.8 centimeters).

Humidity peaks from October to mid-June , with January feeling the most muggy and August offering the fewest muggy days.

Winds pick up from the end of May to the end of September , with July being the windiest month, averaging hourly speeds of 17.4 miles per hour (about 28 kilometers per hour). November , however, sees calmer winds, with hourly speeds around 13.4 miles per hour (about 21.6 kilometers per hour).

For beachgoers, the warmest waters are found from December to April , with temperatures above 80°F (about 26.7°C). February has the warmest water , averaging 82°F (about 27.8°C), while August offers cooler waters , averaging around 74°F (about 23.3°C).

And for those eager for extended exploration, December gifts Mauritius with nearly 13 and a half hours of daylight , perfect for soaking up all the country has to offer.

Monthly Average Temperatures in Mauritius

Source : WeatherSpark , 2024 data

When Is the Best Time to Visit Mauritius?

The best time to visit Mauritius is summer, from December to February. When the people up north are bundling up for winter, you’ll be soaking up the sun and diving into the warm Indian Ocean—it doesn’t get better than that!

However, summer here also means peak season. So, expect more people and maybe some higher prices.

If you’re on a budget or don’t prefer an overly crowded, lively atmosphere, then consider the low season—May to September. This is when Mauritius takes it down a notch, meaning cooler temps, cheaper rates, and a more intimate experience for those who visit.

And if you’re after that sweet spot between chill and thrill, check out the shoulder seasons—March to April and October to November. The vibe’s still buzzing, but the crowds are thinner, giving you more room to relax and explore.

How to Stay Safe in Mauritius

• Always carry copies of your passports and driving licenses.
• Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in the car. Hide them under the seats or in the trunk of your car.
• Don’t park on double yellow lines to avoid fines.
• Ensure your accommodation is licensed by the Tourism Authority of Mauritius for a safe and peaceful stay.
• Lock your valuables, including money and jewelry, in the safes provided by your hotel.
• Carry a copy of your prescription for any medication you bring.
• Keep an eye on your belongings when enjoying the beach.
• Watch out for “mugger monkeys” at places like Alexandra Falls and Grand Bassin Sacred Lake.
• Ensure life jackets are available on ferries and boats.
• Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
• Smoking is prohibited in public places.
• Exercise discretion regarding LGBTQ issues, as acceptance levels vary across the island.
• Nudity is not accepted.
• Have some local currency on hand when making smaller purchases or using public transport.
• Stay vigilant in public areas and don’t leave bags unattended.
• Lock windows and doors when leaving your room.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use ATMs located inside banks or malls.

Common Scams to Be Aware Of

• Fake Brands: Many tourist shops in Mauritius sell fake brand labels. They might display items with real logos, but upon closer inspection, you’ll realize they’re knockoffs.
• Illegal Taxis: Keep an eye out for “Taxis Marron” or illegal taxis lurking around Mauritius. These drivers lack proper licenses and insurance, leaving you vulnerable in case of accidents. Plus, without meters, they might try to overcharge, especially if they see you’re a tourist. Stick to licensed taxis for a safer and fairer ride.

Useful Apps and Sites to Enhance Your Experience

• Google Maps ( Apple / Android ) for navigation.
• Grab ( Apple / Android ) for ordering a taxi, food delivery, and groceries.
• redBus ( Apple / Android ) for train and bus booking.
• GetYourGuide ( Apple / Android ) for booking tours, day trips, and activities.
• EasyPark ( Apple / Android ) to locate and pay online for parking spots.

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 999 or 112
• Fire Services: 995 or 115
• Ambulance: 114
• Tourist Information: 152

Enjoy Every Moment of Your Mauritian Escapade!

Now that you’re armed with safety tips, it’s time to plan your adventure and embark on a memorable journey.

You can venture into the lush forests and mountainous interior, explore botanical gardens, and visit colonial plantation houses for a taste of history and nature. Embark on boat trips or dive into the crystal-clear waters for world-class snorkeling and diving experiences. And when hunger strikes, Mauritius will offer you a fusion of flavors from diverse cultures.

Wishing you safe travels!

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Places to Visit in Mauritius

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Here is the list of 64 Places to Visit in Mauritius

1. black river gorges national park.

The Black River Gorges National Park is the only and largest national park in Mauritius. The park offers some dramatic views and terrains between mountain ranges and numerous waterfalls along the way. It is also popular for hiking and trekking.

2. Port Louis

Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the country. It is a melting pot of glitz and glamour harmonising beautifully with traditions and customs from its 300-year-old past. Port Louis is fascinating in terms of its mix in culture, tradition and history.

3. Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel

Located in Chamarel, the Seven-Coloured Earth is a unique geological formation. It is a fenced area with multicoloured dunes in seven different colours of violet, green, brown, red, yellow, purple and blue. The best time to visit is during the sunrise. Birdwatching is also a favourite activity here.

4. Pereybere Beach

Located on the northern side of Mauritius, Pereybere beach is one of the most famous beaches near Grand Baie. It is a family-friendly beach that's safe for swimming and is a hub for adventure sports like windsurfing and parasailing. You can also go kayaking or rent a catamaran, and go deep-sea fishing.

Mauritius Travel Packages

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A spectacular illusion, the underwater waterfall is located off the coast of Le Morne Brabant. The scene is an illusion, created by sand and silt on the ocean floor, that runs off in a way as if the water is pouring down. It also looks as if the entire island is being sucked down a massive drain. Though the waters look beautiful from the shore, seeing this view requires a helicopter ride.

6. Ile Aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cerfs Island, also known as “Deer Island”, is a private island located near the east coast of Mauritius. There aren’t any deer left here, but it remains a hugely popular tourist spot for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, and wide variety of activities and facilities. With homestays and hotels available on the island, Ile aux Cerfs is ideal for both day trips and multiple-day stays.

7. Casela World of Adventures

The Casela Nature Park, also known as Casela World of Adventures, is an amusement park and one of the most visited attractions in Mauritius. It is famous for activities like safari tours, ziplining, quad biking, tortoise feeding, pony ride, etc. It is situated in the Cascavelle, a Mauritian village on the island's west coast.

8. Grand Baie Beach

The Grand Baie Beach is one of the shortest beaches in the North Bay of Mauritius. There are numerous tour operators and tourist shops in the area along with the accommodation facilities of all standards. Try out some water sports like kitesurfing, scuba diving or big game fishing here.

9. Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant is a mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Le Morne Peninsula of Mauritius. It is located on the southwestern tip of the island. It is Mauritius's most preserved and wildest mountain and a popular hiking stop for tourists. The hike to the top takes three to four hours, and the view is breathtaking. Le Morne Brabant is also home to the famous underwater fall of Mauritus.

10. Chamarel Waterfall

Chamarel Waterfalls in the highest waterfall in Mauritius dropping more than 200 feet located near Seven Colored Earth. Surrounded by the vegetation of Black River Gorges, it is simply spectacular. Hiking to the top of the waterfall and jumping into the clear pool below is the most popular activity here. There are two viewpoints that boast a vivid view of the waterfall. It is also a popular photography spot.

11. La Vanille Nature Park

La Vanille Nature Park, also known as La Vanille Crocodile Park, is a conservation park in Mauritius, located close to the Riviere des Anguilles village in the south. It is home to the largest captive herd of Aldabra tortoises in the world and the main attraction here is the crocodile farm. The nature park is also home to giant tortoises, iguanas, wild pigs, deer and many more. A free guided tour is available every 30 minutes.

12. Tamarind Waterfalls

The Tamarind Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mauritius, famous for its breathtaking surroundings and its immaculate ambience. It is a collection of seven different waterfalls, with multiple spots from where you can jump down into the deep pool below, making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

13. Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac, which was once an idyllic little beach town, is one of the most popular tourist areas in Mauritius second to Grand Baie. An 8-kilometre wide beach with a range of watersports, it boasts long stretches of casuarina trees lining the entire west-facing waterfront. The northern side of flic en flac is a little rocky beach, while the southern side gives you an enchanting view of Tamarin Bay nestled at the foothills of a rocky mountain.

14. Belle Mare Plage Beach

The Belle Mare Plage beach is surrounded by a very shallow lagoon, with coral reefs completely enclosing the lagoon off from the bay, thus resulting in calm, clear water that is extremely safe for swimming. The shallow bay also provides for a fantastic snorkelling experience, an activity for which the beach is extremely well known not only on the eastern side of the island but across the whole of Mauritius as well.

15. Ganga Talao

Ganga Talao (meaning ‘Lake of Ganga’), also known as Grand Bassin, is a crater lake located in the Savanne district of Mauritius and is believed to be the most sacred Hindu site of the island nation. Dedicated to deities like Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesh and Ganga, there are temples on the banks of the lake. Furthermore, there are statues of several Hindu and non-Hindu Gods and Goddesses like Durga, Mangal Mahadev (Shiva) and Buddha.

16. Le Morne Beach

Located at the foot of the gigantic Le Morne Brabant mountain in west Mauritius, Le Morne Beach is a public beach in Mauritius. With swaying casuarina trees and powdery white sand, it is one of the most stunning beaches in Mauritius. Along with scuba diving, Le Morne Beach is also one of the best kitesurfing spots in the world. It remains crowded on the weekend. The beach is accessible easily from the coastal road.

17. Trou Aux Cerfs

Trou Aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano, one of the four in Mauritius. Also called Murr's Volcano, it is located in the Curepipe area and is one of Mauritius's most famous natural tourist attractions. The volcanic crater is 650 metres above sea level and has a depth of 100 metres. It is surrounded by dense green forest and offers a stunning panoramic view of the Rempart Mountain, Trois Mamelles, and the Port-Louis- Moka mountain range.

18. Le Caudan Waterfront

The Port Louis Waterfront, or as it is commonly known as the Le Caudan Waterfront, is a commercial development area. It has gained its reputation as the first of its kind major shopping expansion on the island nation, including various shops, casinos, banking facilities, restaurants, movie theatres, and a five-star hotel by the name of Le Labourdonnais.

19. Aapravasi Ghat

The Aapravasi Ghat, located in Port Louis, was the very centre of the establishment of indentured – or contracted – labour in Mauritius. Today, the Aapravasi Ghat stands as a testament to the history of indentured labour during the British colonial rule and has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

20. Bagatelle Mall

Bagatelle is one of the leading shopping malls in Mauritius with an enthralling lively ambience, detailed retailing and leisure options. It has gained a reputation as a must-visit place in Mauritius, especially among the international travellers, due to its fascinating architecture, broad walkways and unmatched display of both local and international brands in its 155 shops.

21. La Cuvette Beach

Situated on the north-west coast of Mauritius, the La Cuvette beach is close to the famous tourist town of Grand Baie. The absence of coral reefs coupled with its clear waters adds an aesthetic touch to its beauty. Although there aren't any underwater activities that take place here, swimming is allowed.

22. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Popularly famous by the name of Pamplemousses Botanical Garden and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Port Louis, the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden (SSR Botanical Garden) is the largest Botanical Garden in Mauritius. Featuring an extravagant variety exotic and rare species of plants along with some endemic animals on the verge of getting endangered, this massive garden covers the ground of over a whopping 37 hectares!

23. Curious Corner of Chamarel

Located in south-western Mauritius, the Curious Corner of Chamarel is the only one of its kind museum in Mauritius. It is a house full of mysteries, illusions, mind games and various other activities meant to excite the curious minds of the people. It is a world of optical illusions, and puzzles with 40 exhibits like a mirror maze, upside-down room, Ames room and more.

24. Pont Naturel

Pont Naturel is a two-metre-long volcanic rock formation which is also known by the name Natural Bridge. Formed entirely by natural processes, it is a part of the Gris-Gris cliffs and can be found in the southeastern corner of Mauritius. The sea at Pont Naturel is very rough, so swimming here is not advisable. Also, be cautious when standing on the bridge.

25. Rodrigues Island

Located around 650 kilometres off the east coast of Mauritius, Rodrigues is a tiny exotic island surrounded by the ocean on all sides. With lush green slopes everywhere, the island is inexplicably beautiful and secluded. The island is a volcanic outcrop located a sizeable distance away from the mainland and is surrounded by a shimmering turquoise lagoon that abounds in more marine life than you can find on the entire mainland.

26. Robert Edward Hart Museum

This museum, housed inside a bungalow built entirely out of coral called La Nef, was the house of Mauritian poet Robert Edward Hart. There are four rooms inside the museum - two bedrooms, one bathroom and an office cum drawing-room. On display are several of Hart's original letters, speeches, plays, poetry, his violin, spectacles, awards and books.

27. Trou Aux Biches

A small town with a public beach situated on the North-Western coast of Mauritius, Trou aux Biches is a much-loved tourist destination. Literally translating to 'Deer's Watching Hole', Trou aux Biches, with its beachside hotels and classy restaurants bars is the most frequented tourist towns in Mauritius. It is also home to one of Mauritius's best beaches with the same name.

28. Domaine Les Pailles

Situated in the little town of Pailles, the Domaine Les Pailles is one of the oldest domains in Mauritius that has existed for 17 years. Spreading over 1500 hectares on the western side of the island, this attraction is both an amusement park as well as a heritage centre which was a sugar estate previously.

29. Le Souffleur

Le Souffleur is one of the most beautiful natural attractions located in the south of Mauritius, in the village of L’Escalier. With unique rock formations, a secret beach and stunning viewpoints, Le Souffleur is most famous for its blowhole effect. The waves here crash against the rocks creating huge water sprays and making a whistling sound while entering the small holes. While swimming is not recommended here, Le Souffleur is ideal for hiking.

30. Blue Bay Marine Park

Located near Mahebourg and off the south-east coast of Mauritius, the Blue Bay Marine Park is renowned for its coral gardens, harbouring numerous varieties of flora and fauna and experience the marine life by going for sea diving. The main tourist attraction in the marine park is the 1000-year-old brain coral with a diameter of 5 meters.

31. Blue Penny Museum

Blue Penny Museum is a famous stamp museum located in Port Louis. It is named after the famous 1847 2-pence Blue Penny Stamp, engraved for Mauritian post offices by Joseph Osmond back in the 1800s. It houses an enviable collection of old marine maps used by sailors back in the past, paintings from colonial times, and old engravings, inscriptions and sculptures. A guided tour is available.

32. Mahebourg Waterfront

Mahébourg Waterfront is one of the iconic attractions in Mauritius. It is ideal for relaxation or enjoying a casual walk by the azure water. Explore the naval museum that sheds light on the epic battle fought in this region. A memorial stands tall at the waterfront. Another highlight is the boardwalk that starts at Mahébourg Social Welfare and continues to the bus station at the westernmost point.

33. Triolet

Triolet is a village located in northern Mauritius in the Pamplemousses district. It is situated around 11km from Port Louis. Located amidst green sugarcane fields, Triolet offers scenic attractions like Trou Aux Biches, Mont-Choisy, and Grand Baie. Some exotic temples like Maheswarnath Mandir and ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple are also located here.

34. Trou d'Eau Douce

Trou d’ Eau Douce is the tourist hub of eastern Mauritius. With several beaches lined up, it has a breathtaking scenic beauty. Veranda Palme Beach, Belle Mare Beach, Ile Aux Cerf and La Palmeraie Boutique Beach are located here. It is also a good starting point for trekking the Quatre Cocos district in the north.

35. Notre Dame Auxiliatrice

Situated in Cap Malheureux, the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice is one of the oldest churches that stood witness to one of the most written-about wars between the French and the British over the control of the island. It was built as a commemorative landmark to the shipwrecks that happened off the northern coast. It is also known by the name "the red roof chapel" and is renowned for its aesthetic value as well as historical significance.

36. Frederik Hendrik Museum

Frederik Hendrik museum is located in Vieux Grand Port. It is named after the stadtholder of the United Provinces of the Netherlands, who was in office from 1625 to 1647. The museum complex, surrounded by a lush tropical garden, contains artefacts found during archaeological excavations. Ruins of the Governor's primary residence, a bakery, a store, and a prison cell erected by the French colonial rulers can be found within the premises.

37. Champ de Mars Racecourse

Mauritius proudly boasts of being home to the second oldest racecourse in the world, the Champ de Mars Race Course. The racing season in Champ de Mars starts from April and continues till around the last week of November, with most races generally being scheduled on weekends. Visitors are allowed to enter the grounds on days when there are no races as well.

38. Mauritius Photography Museum

The brainchild of Mr Tristan Bréville, a passionate photographer, the Mauritius Photography Museum houses a wide range of artefacts documenting the early days of Mauritian photography and cinematography. The exhibits are as old as the 1800s and are a treasure trove of old camera and photograph prints, including daguerreotypes (the forerunner of photographs) produced in 1840.

39. Ilot Gabriel Beach

Ilot Gabriel is one of the most pristine beaches in Mauritius. With unbroken stretches of powder-soft fine white sand, and calm, crystal clear sapphire water, the Ilot Gabriel beach is often used as backdrops for Mauritian postcards. It is fringed with lush green vegetation, and the green spots on and around the beach make for great picnic spots. It is also popular for snorkelling and swimming.

40. Rochester Waterfalls

Rochester Falls is located in Savanne District, a few kilometres from the town of Souillac. Set amidst rugged and pristine landscape, it is a must-visit attraction in Mauritius. The ten metres long waterfalls rushing down the rocky bed look perfect for a refreshing dip or a small picnic with loved ones. It is ideal for relaxation and reconnecting with nature at its enchanting glory.

41. Martello Tower Museum

The Martello Tower Museum is a fortress built during British rule, which has been converted into a museum to educate visitors about life during the colonial reign. The main highlight is the two fixed guns on the roof, which could once take a cross-shot across the entirety of the bay. The main areas of the tower that are open to tourists include the basement, the ground floor, which was used as an armoury room for storing gunpowder, the first floor with a place built for use by the chief officer of the tower, and the roof with the cannons. Guided tours are available.

42. Domaine De L'Etoile

Previously a private hunting domain, the Domaine de L’Etoile in Mauritius is now a famous tourist attraction for adventure and leisure activities, as well as ecotourism. It is one of the most preserved regions of Mauritius with lush greenery, indigenous forests, sparkling rivers and endemic birds.

43. Poste Lafayette Beach

Also known by the name – Jalsa Beach, the Poste Lafayette Beach is situated on the outskirts of a small northeastern Mauritian village of Poste Lafayette. About 500 metres from the popular Constance Prince Maurice resort, the Poste Lafayette Beach boasts a unique peaceful environment. The beach is very windy making it perfect for activities like kite surfing.

44. Pointe d’Esny

Known for a calm yet less-known beach featuring clear blue waters, Pointe d’Esny is located outside of Mahebourg in Mauritius; the beach is accessible only via a small path from the coastal road unknown to most. Boasting of a long stretch of soft sand and a seabed that isn’t too deep, it is ideal for snorkelling and swimming. It is also perfect for relaxing by the water, watching boats sail by and catching the sunset.

45. Central Market, Port Louis

Commonly known as ‘Port Louis Bazar’ the central market offers everything, from fruits and vegetables, and exotic seafood to local textiles, artefacts and souvenirs. Divided into sections, the upstairs section is devoted to a shopping complex for clothing, artisanal sculptures and local handcrafted artefacts.

46. Chinatown, Mauritius

Chinatown of Mauritius is fascinating, as there's something for everyone here. Watches, clothes, shoes, home decor, second-hand goods, Chinese paintings, and much more are sold in small shops on the street. It is an ideal hangout place, offering excellent shopping and food options.

47. Mont Choisy Beach

Located on the north-western coast of Mauritius, the Mont Choisy beach is a haven for anyone who wants to experience a quiet beach time. Despite being right next to one of the most commercialized cities of Mauritius - Grand Baie - the Mont Choisy beach is almost a remote beach, lined by rows of trees along the coastline.

48. National History Museum of Mauritius

The Natural History Museum in Port Louis is a haven for naturalists as it houses a wide array of exhibits illustrating Mauritius' diverse fauna and aquatic life. The entire museum is segregated into four galleries. The first gallery houses exhibits of the countless bird species including several endangered ones. In the second gallery resides the abundant marine life, including an extensive collection of seashells and a giant seventy-kilogram clamshell. The third gallery is dedicated to the memory of the now extinct flightless bird - the Dodo. The fourth section is dedicated to the geology, meteorology, corals, shrimps and turtles of the island.

49. Gris Gris Beach

Set at the southernmost tip of Mauritius, Gris Gris Beach is known for its wild and pristine landscape. It is located close to the village of Souillac and boasts of a black rocky coastline. The region is surrounded by rough cliffs that abruptly slope down to the ocean. These cliffs are made from basaltic rocks and offer the best backdrop imaginable. Gris Gris Beach does not have a coral barrier. Hence the waves are wild and huge.

50. Crystal Rock

Crystal Rock is a natural rock formation which is large, situated off the south-west coast of Mauritius. It is located close to the Le Morne mountain. The large exposed fossilized coral reef is a must-see, as it is a great example of a biochemical reaction leading to the formation of sedimentary rock.

51. Vallee de Ferney

Vallee de Ferney located in the Grand Port District of Mauritius is nestled at the foothills of Bambou Mountains. It is one of the famous nature sanctuaries in Mauritius that's spread out over an area of around 200 hectares. The sanctuary acts as a reserve for some of the rarest of threatened plant species in the island. Most of these species are endemic of Mauritius and are the last few that are remaining on the island.

52. L'Aventure du Sucre

L'Aventure du Sucre is a sugar museum located in Pamplemousses, Mauritius. The museum is housed in the old Beau Plan Sugar Factory which used to operate from the 18th to the 20th century. The highlight is an interactive tour with giant screens and films. A kids tour is also available for 2 to 6 years olds. The visit also includes a free tasting of more than 30 products at le Village Boutik including 12 unrefined brown sugars, rums of the New Grove House, jams and honey.

53. Curepipe Botanical Garden

Situated in Routes des Jardins in Curepipe, the Curepipe Botanical Garden is reputed to be the second largest in all of Mauritius. It is also known as the SSR Botanical Garden of Curepipe. The major attractionis the rarest and unique palm tree species of the world – the Hyophorbe amaricaulis. It is extraordinary as it is the only remaining specimen of this species.

54. Pointe Aux Piments Public Beach

Located in the Pamplemousses district, it is one of the many beaches in Mauritius. Also known as the Le Meridien beach, the Pointe aux Piments public beach is spread across an area of 3-4 kilometres. Generally it’s a very quiet beach and there are no significant water sports or marine activities visible from there. However, if you looking for a place to enjoy the sunlight and get indulged in the slow local life surrounding the beach, Pointe aux Piments is the perfect spot to be at.

55. Mauritius Postal Museum

The Mauritius Post opened the Mauritius Postal Museum in 1995 which exhibits various stamps and miscellaneous articles from all over the world. There are four rooms inside the museum with different displays including a temporary exhibition area and a philatelic gallery. The latest addition to the display in the museum includes the history of the Mauritius Post, and it is portrayed through photographs and other visual displays.

56. Mauritius Aquarium

Located in the heart of Pointe aux Piments towards the north-western part of the island, the Mauritius Aquarium takes you on a journey to discover the marine species. There are a total of 5 large rooms in the 700 square meter building in which you can find more than 200 different kinds of aquatic species.

57. Maheswarnath Mandir

The temple of Maheswarnath is the first and most revered Hindu temple in Mauritius with a legacy of more than 130 years old. Locally known as the Grand Shivala Triolet, is the abode of Lord Shiva, and it gets the name Maheswarnath, which means the Great Lord. Built-in the Bengal style of temple architecture, the grand edifice is a variation of the Pancha-Ratna or a five-flowered temple built on a platform.

58. Pieter Both Mountain

With a height of 820 meters, the Pieter Both is the second highest mountain range in the island of Mauritius. Pieter Both is a part of the Moka mountain range of Mauritius that is situated in the centre of the island. It is an iconic and unique mountain as it is easily noticeable due to its round-shaped boulder at the extreme top of the hill, almost making it similar to a human head. It is also famous for being the home to rarest palm species Hyophorbe amaricaulis, which covers most of the mountain.

59. World of Seashells

With more than 1800 species of 8000 seashells in 70 display cabinets, World of Seashells is located on the first floor of Chateau de Bel Ombre. Eric Le Court, the founder and collector of this enchanting museum, has gathered shells from Mauritius and different parts of the world and assembled an impressive collection that gives us a chance to explore the aquatic riches!

60. Tamarin Beach

Located in Tamarin, Tamarin Beach is one of the most impressive beaches in Mauritius. The interesting mix of verdant hues, turquoise water and powdery soft sand makes this beach perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. Tamarin Beach is usually thronged by upmarket locals and vacationers who do not prefer crowded beaches.

61. Chateau de Labourdonnais

The Château de Labourdonnais is a grand Creole mansion which was once owned by Christian Wiehe and his family, but has long since been renovated and is now in use as a heritage tourism spot. Built entirely out of teak and sporting a dual-collonaded gallery, it gives off a distinct neoclassical vibe, and the exterior, as well as the interiors of the mansion, give off a distinctly Victorian feel.

62. Eureka House

Eureka House is a 19th century Creole-style house built in 1830 by the banks of the Mauritian river Moka. It is one of the island’s most visited historical sites and is totally loved by the tourists. The interior decorations and furniture are well maintained along with the mahogany and ebony antiques, old ceramics and beautifully painted chinaware, photographs of daily life and books. It is considered to be the largest house in all of Mauritius with its 109 doors and windows.

63. Ile Aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve

Ile Aux Aigrettes is a 26 hectare nature reserve 800 meters towards the south east off the coast of Mahebourg bay and has gained popularity over the years as an ecotourism destination. Unlike Mauritius, the most of which was formed by volcanic rocks. Ile Aux Aigrettes was primarily formed from coral limestone and it is pretty low-lying.

64. Bois Cheri Tea Plantation

Bois Cheri is a 250-hectare tea factory and museum which is located in the inner parts of the town. It offers you a tour of the entire property. It begins with the visit to the small museum and ends with tea tasting. The tour is available every 30-minute.

This post was published by Roli Sharaf

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The best time to visit Mauritius

By Condé Nast Traveller

With photos of blue skies and even bluer waters all over the Internet, it’s easy to believe Mauritius enjoys tropical climate throughout the year, but that’s not true. Located in the southern hemisphere, the island nation experiences winter when many parts of the world are sweltering and summer or rains when it's winter around the world. So good weather is imperative and could make or break your holiday experience. Here’s everything you need to know when planning a trip to the country.

When is the best time to go to Mauritius? What are the hottest and rainiest months in Mauritius? When is the cheapest time to go to Mauritius? Temperatures in Mauritius throughout the year How many days are required for a trip to Mauritius? Maldives vs Mauritius: Which island should you pick?

When is the best time to visit Mauritius?

The best time to visit Mauritius is from June to September , as the country boasts cool and dry weather. November to April is when the island nation experiences hot, humid and rainy months. It’s important to note a lot of the weather has to do with where you’re staying as the country has microclimates. A few minute's drive could lead you from a perfectly sunny spot to a place with heavy rain. The east and central plateau are usually wetter than the west coast.

The island experiences its peak tourism season from November to April, which coincides with winter months in many parts of the world. This is the peak summer season with rain. Resorts are busiest during this time of the year, so be prepared for jacked-up tariffs. October and December are sweet spots because the rains tend to peter out faster, giving way to blue skies in no time.

The summer months from November to April are ideal for diving due to warm weather and clear visibility. Mauritius is particularly known for its surfing , with its famous trade winds. The east coast is ideal, as the southeast winds in that direction are perfect for catching some waves. Note, the country reports cyclones from the beginning of November to mid-May.

Mauritians celebrate festivals with much pomp and show. January to February sees Chinese New Year celebrations, with elaborate fireworks illuminating the skies and a beautiful lantern festival. The town of Port Louis is a great place to be a part of the celebrations. Since the country has many residents of Indian origin, the country also celebrates Holi and Thimithi — a Tamil Hindu festival, also known as “The Walk on Fire”.

When is the rainy season in Mauritius?

Mauritius enjoys a tropical climate year-round and is never in the extremes. January, February and March, though, are the hottest and wettest months, with chances of showers in November and April. The temperatures average between 29°C to 31°C, and rainfall at 253mm.

When is the cheapest time to visit Mauritius?

The northern hemisphere’s summer is when Mauritius gets cooler. July and August are considered winter in Mauritius with average temperatures hovering between 20°C to 24°C. During this time of the year, you can enjoy the winter sun with a drop in tariffs.

Temperatures in Mauritius throughout the year

January to April - 28-30°C May to December - 20-24°C

How many days are enough for a trip to Mauritius?

A six to seven-day trip is ideal to explore Mauritius. A walk along Flic en Flac or Le Morne Beach, a hike through Black River Gorges National Park and a dive in the West Coast teeming with marine life are some of the most recommended activities, and a six-day time frame is enough to cover the must-dos, including sampling Mauritian-Creole cooking and discovering the country’s fascinating history of sugar at the L'Aventure du Sucre museum.

Maldives vs Mauritius: Which island nation should you pick?

Mahé in the Maldives is a three-hour flight from Mumbai and two hours from Bengaluru. However, the Maldives' geographical spread will require you to hop onto a speed boat or seaplane to get to the hotel. Mauritius is about a six-hour flight from Mumbai, and in a little over an hour's drive from the airport, travellers can get to resorts in the south or north of Mauritius. In the Maldives, each resort is located on a private island, with a private beach, pool, dive centre, and a house reef that you can explore straight from your overwater villas. Mauritius has a lot to do beyond the beach, including nature hikes, mountain trails, museums, and rum factories.

This story was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller India

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Is mauritius worth visiting here are 7 reasons to visit the island.

• November 1, 2019

Why should I visit Mauritius?

Is Mauritius worth visiting?

If you’re looking for the perfect getaway in a place that is idyllic with sandy beaches and an amazing climate then Mauritius should be top of the list.

Nothing beats a gorgeous island surrounded by the Indian Ocean.

From the amazing food, the great people and all the amazing things you can do when you visit Mauritius, this is a must-visit island. 

It is considered a paradise for those wishing to take a holiday there and it welcomes thousands of tourists a year. 

Traveling to Mauritius: Is Mauritius Worth Visiting?

If you’re still not sold and wondering if Mauritius is worth visiting then here are our 7 reasons why you should book those tickets and visit this serene island. 

Not only will you have the time of your life, but you will also probably want to go back as soon as possible as we did.

We really wanted to get you all excited about Mauritius and with that, we wanted to answer few burning questions you may have.

Here are popular questions I constantly here from those wanting to visit Mauritius: 

Is Mauritius safe to visit? 

Things to know about mauritius before visiting, great places to visit in mauritius, mauritius safety travel tips, and the best time to travel to mauritius, why is mauritius such a popular tourist destination.

These are truly amazing questions and valid concerns, we really appreciate great questions like these. 

Before we dive deep into this, safety should always be your number one priority, especially when traveling in areas you have never visited.

But do not be afraid to explore. 

By reading up on Mauritius safety travel tips, and taking notes of certain things, I would say is it safe to travel to Mauritius. 

So is Mauritius safe for tourists?

Before we get started on our review for why we think it is worth visiting Mauritius, we did want you to follow us on Instagram  for more tips. 

We also wanted to take the opportunity to let you know that we use Affiliate links on some of our blog posts. This means that we could make a commission if you click on an affiliate link and purchase something. Read our  full disclosure and blog policy  for more information.

Why Should I visit Mauritius?

Here is a list of our honest opinion on why you should visit Mauritius this year and why we think Mauritius is worth visiting. It’s a great extensive list, so enjoy it. 

Hopefully you will be visiting Mauritius soon. 

Here is what to know about Mauritius island: 

1// The Climate 

Due to its location, Mauritius is the perfect all year round holiday destination.

Even the winters here in Canada are filled with sun, I would still rather be somewhere warm.

M auritius has two seasons ; Summer which is between the months of October and April.

And Winter during the remaining 6 months. 

In the height of the summer months, temperatures can reach a high of up to 35 °C and even in winter you will enjoy warm weather with the temperature never dropping below 16 °C.

2// The Beaches in Mauritius 

They are so many reasons to visit Mauritius, but the beaches alone should be reason enough!

It’s not a secret that Mauritius is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the Indian Ocean, and there’s so many to choose from on the island.

If you’re looking for pristine sand and gentle waves you’ll find them in abundance here.

They are also home to some of the best diving opportunities.

With a protective coral that surrounds most of the beaches, it’s not just on land that you’ll find stunning scenery. Head under the waves for an unforgettable scene.

3// Affordability – Mauritius on a budget

The great thing about Mauritius when it comes to money is that there is such a range of pricing and activities that no matter your budget you will have a great time.

A lot of islands only have premium pricing and hotels but Mauritius is different in that respect.

Yes, you will find 5 star hotels and luxury activities but that’s not all that is available, making it a great and affordable place to visit.

The street food and vendors are all pocket-friendly and if you’ve brushed up on your haggling skills, going shopping along the markets won’t break the bank either.

And with so many activities and entertainment available you can pick and choose which places that suit your needs and pocket.

4// The Food in Mauritius

Visiting Mauritius for food is not a bad idea!

I love great food and although I do not consider myself a foodie by expert, I probably should. 

You will find a great mix of street food across the whole island with vendors located at prime spots just off the beaches and within the villages of Mauritius, so you’ll never go hungry.

The Mauritius cuisine is inspired by a blend of Chinese, European and Indian influences making for an amazing array of colors and flavors that your taste buds will be dying to try.

Honestly, we totally enjoyed the street food better than the restaurant foods. 

We did get recommended a few restaurant foods but they were really trying to cater to the tourist instead of really focusing on what they are really good at. 

Once we stepped out of our comfort zone, and tried the street food in Mauritius, we absolutely did not look back. 

5// The People and Culture

The Mauritian people and their culture reflect perfectly on its diverse population and multicultural heritage.

The majority of the population are Hindu but you will find a whole range of beliefs and backgrounds all living together in harmony.

The locals are known for their friendly and helpful attitude and always ready to give tourists a helping hand.

You will feel welcomed here by the people of Mauritius and love spending time and learning how things are done on the island. 

We really enjoyed interacting with the locals and learning more about their history which was really important to us.

What I love about the people of Mauritius is that they pride themselves on being multi-cultured, multilingual and multi-ethnic!

They also really do not have an official language although listed for administrative purposes, English is the official language.   

French and Creole also very widely spoken. 

6// The Beautiful Views

Is Mauritius a good place to visit?

The moment we landed at the airport in Mauritius and we settled into our rental car, we decided to take the scenic view ride on route to our villa in order to see it all.

My partner had to stop me from constantly stopping the car to enjoy the view. 

If its views and scenery you are looking for then Mauritius has it in abundance!!!

As soon as you arrive you will be in awe of the natural beauty and landscape of the island.

No matter where you go you will be met by stunning scenery.

The sandy beaches give way to lush greenery and you will see some of the most spectacular sunsets on the beaches of the island.

My two-hour drive from the airport to the North where we stayed (Grand Baie), was nearly all stop and go, as I just wanted to take in everything I was seeing. 

7// Activities & attractions in Mauritius

Is Mauritius worth visiting? Absolutely.

There are so many activities that you can do in Mauritius that you may need to come back for a second visit.

Immerse yourself in the local culture of Port Louis.

Go scuba diving along with the corals off of the spectacular beaches.

Explore the island and join one of the many tours.

Head to Grand Bay (Grand Baie) at night and enjoy the music and lively entertainment. Honestly, you could go on for weeks and not run out of amazing new things to see and do in Mauritius.

When Should I visit Mauritius?

As you know, Mauritius is in my home continent Africa, and this means, the weather tends to be beautiful all year round.

But even knowing this, they are certain times that are much better to visit Mauritius in terms of season, tourists visiting and other small minor things. 

We did a whole post on what we thought was the best time to go to Mauritius best on our recent experience and trip to Mauritius. 

But really the best time to travel to Mauritius would be between September and December which we really enjoyed. 

We actually went to Mauritius in October and the weather was around 30 degrees every day. 

Is Mauritius Safe to Travel to? 

Here is another amazing reason why Mauritius is worth visiting. 

It is absolutely safe. 

Like everywhere you visit, we highly suggest that you exercise caution such as not flashing your wallet, expensive gadgets or absolutely standing out as a tourist.

We felt safe the entire we were visiting and we had our two-year-old daughter with us.

We went as far as renting a car and exploring this gorgeous island on our own. 

My daughter having a blast in Mauritius!

So is Mauritius Worth Visiting? 

And is it safe to visit Mauritius?

We had an amazing time and felt that two weeks was too short of a trip for our vacation. 

If we do return to Mauritius, spending at least 3 weeks to a month would be ideal. The food, the people and the culture made our whole trip as a family so worth it. 

The beaches were really my highlight and if I had a chance, I would send my entire trip on the beach. With all these amazing reasons to visit Mauritius, why wouldn’t you go visit it? 

Have you been to Mauritius? Do you think it is worth visiting?

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Expect a record-breaking number of travelers on Fourth of July week: How to avoid traffic

• An estimated 70.9 million people will travel for the Fourth of July holiday, a record-breaking number.
• The most popular domestic destinations are Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, Honolulu and Miami.
• The worst times to drive for 4th of July week are July 3 and 4 between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

If you’re one of the projected record-breaking 70.9 million travelers going on a Fourth of July trip, get ready to pack some patience. 

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a statement. “We anticipate this July 4 week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Whether you’re going by airplane or car, traveler numbers are hitting historic highs. An estimated 5.74 million people will fly to their Independence Day destination, a 7% increase from 2023. (We can thank domestic airfare being slightly cheaper this year for that.)

This year, 2.8 million more people will travel by car than last year, for a total of 60.6 million travelers. According to AAA partner and rental car company Hertz, cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, Denver, and San Francisco are showing the highest rental car demand. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Fourth of July travel. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Planning your summer trip? Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

What are the most popular destinations for Fourth of July week?

Many travelers are headed to the coast for their Independence Day trip, with states like Hawaii and Florida topping the list. With the best time for Alaskan cruises in full swing, cities like Seattle, Vancouver and Anchorage are popular among travelers. As expected, beloved European destinations like London and Rome earned spots on the list as well. 

Most popular domestic destinations:

Most popular international destinations:

What are the best times to drive for Fourth of July week?

As is typical with holiday travel, the early bird will catch the worm, which means encountering the least traffic. Drivers should depart on their Independence Day road trips before noon on July 3 and 4. To return home, drivers should leave before 11 a.m. on July 7 and after 7 p.m. on July 8. 

What are the worst times to drive for Fourth of July week?

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in a statement. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.”

On July 3 and 4, drivers should avoid being on the road between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., when traffic will be most congested. On Friday, July 5, the worst traffic will be between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

On Saturday, July 5, the worst traffic for travelers returning home will be between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The worst traffic is anticipated to be on July 7, so drivers should avoid the road between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

“Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions,” Pishue said.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

• Worst route: Birmingham to Atlanta via I-20 E
• Worst day: July 7
• Worst time: 6:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 36 minutes
• 42% increased travel time
• Worst route: Boston to Hyannis via Pilgrim Hwy S
• Worst day: July 4
• Worst time: 1:45 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 51 minutes
• 31% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 S
• Worst day: July 8
• Worst time: 2:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 37 minutes
• 56% increased travel time
• Worst route: San Antonio to Houston via I-10 E
• Worst day: July 6
• Worst time: 1:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 48 minutes
• 41% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: Bakersfield to Los Angeles via I-5 S
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 47 minutes
• 29% increased travel time
• Worst route: Jersey Shore to New York via Garden State Pkwy N
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
• 40% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route: San Francisco to Monterey via Santa Cruz Hwy S
• Worst day: July 2
• Worst time: 5:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 31 minutes
• 19% increased travel time
• Worst route: Ellensburg to Seattle via I-90 E
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 19 minutes
• 35% increased travel time

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Baltimore to Washington D.C. via Balt/Wash Pkwy S
• Worst time: 3:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hours, 1 minute
• 67% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

National Geographic travel guide features Asheville as LGBTQIA+-friendly destination

ASHEVILLE - A new international travel guide identifying safe, entertaining and memorable places for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies includes as one of its locations Asheville, where many local businesses and attractions are revered for inclusivity.

In May, National Geographic's "Out in the World: An LGBTQIA+ (and Friends!) Travel Guide to More Than 100 Destinations Around the World," by veteran travel writers Amy B. Scher and Mark Jason Williams, was released with more than 120 featured global cities and towns.

The authors provide recommendations for places to visit, laws and customs, planning and safety tips and more need-to-know advice.

“We realized there was no book like this on the market that could bring queer travelers and straight travelers and families and friends into the same book,” Scher said.

“Out in the World” mentions local businesses and attractions like Firestorm Bookstore Co-op, Biltmore, Asheville Art Museum, Asheville Pinball Museum, Asheville Rooftop Tours, Bottle Riot and O. Henry’s ― North Carolina’s oldest queer bar ― and a local queer-owned and operated honey retailer, Asheville Bee Charmer.

Jillian Kelly, who founded Asheville Bee Charmer with her life and business partner Kim Allen in 2014, said “Out in the World” is necessary for LGBTQIA+ travelers as it details laws and rights in different countries and communities and addresses safety, security and healthcare access.

“Social climate can be hostile or violate against some LGBTQ individuals so being aware of those conditions helps us to travel,” Kelly said.

More: 10 years of marriage equality in NC: Asheville photo exhibit celebrates historic day

Safe places

Scher and Williams curated a destination list based on places they’ve traveled and by speaking to locals to consider what places felt safe and offered an array of experiences and places in those cities and towns that could enhance the traveler’s trip.

Scher said the comprehensive guide is equally distributed with 50% domestic and 50% international destinations and isn’t exclusive to queer-owned businesses or queer-focused places.

Williams said it was important to include less obvious places, like small towns and places not known to be progressive.

Over the years, the authors said they have noticed more places in the U.S. and abroad becoming more welcoming and outwardly supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Williams said they were looking for travel ideas for trips with their spouses but struggled to find available and prominently featured information.

“It was limited to bars and clubs and hot spots. I’m in my 40s and I want to go antiquing in a cute, small torwn in the Midwest. How do I do that?” Williams said. “When we realized no book would do that, we decided to do our own.”

Asheville on the map

Asheville is the only North Carolina city featured in the travel guide. The authors noted that according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Asheville has 83% more gay and lesbian residents than the national average.

“There are LGBTQ-friendly accommodations, businesses, community events and even the tourism make it well-known that it’s a safe place to travel for the LGBTQ community,” Kelly said.

The travel guide is broken down into categories like “Romantic Rendezvous,” “Boozy Trips and Trails” and “Fun Haunts and Spooky Spirits.”

Asheville landed in the fourth chapter: “Where No One Gets Hangry,” in which 12 Bones Smokehouse and S&W Market food hall vendors, The Hop Ice Cream, Highland Brewing Co., Bun Intended and Farm Dogs are recommended for Asheville visitors and residents.

Scher said it was difficult to narrow down which Asheville dining establishments to feature in the two-page spread, stating there’s enough content for its own book.

“It’s such a great place that has culture and is inclusive and has great dining,” Scher said. “It has some of the things that a big city has but is charming. And since this is one of the best foodie destinations in the U.S. this is how Asheville ended up in this chapter.”

'Out in the World' comes to Asheville

On July 13, Scher will autograph “Out in the World” at a book signing from 2-4 p.m. hosted by The Hop at S&W Market downtown.

Malaprop’s Bookstore & Café, also in the guide, will sell copies of the guide, which sells for $30.

Greg Garrison, co-owner of The Hop with his wife, Ashley, said it’s an honor for the ice cream company to be recommended.

He said many of the Hop's employees at its five locations across Asheville and Black Mountain are of the LGBTQIA+ community. He said that he and Ashley have worked to create an inclusive work environment since becoming the owners in 2008. The Hop opened in 1978.

“It legitimizes the efforts that we’ve put in building a relationship within the LGBTQIA+ community over the last 15 years,” Garrison said. “It feels good to be able to talk about that on a larger scale now that the book has been released.”

He said he hopes the guide will encourage some others in the travel world to consider doing something similar, to offer more resources.

LGBTQIA+ travel tips

Scher said the “Out in the World” is organized by mood and vibes – what a traveler feels like doing instead of where they want to go. She recommends travel guide users write a list of 10 places they want to go and consider the points listed for the destination.

Kelly said she and her partner have used “Out in the World” to make a bucket list of places to visit where they can feel safe as a same-sex couple. It’s helped to provide information about destinations they considered but didn’t know much about before reading the travel guide, referring to it as a personal “Yellow Pages” of places LGBTQIA+ individuals can visit.

“Use it to have fun. We’ve provided some favorites and recommendations but ultimately, we want readers to use this book. … as a basis to find someplace cool and have a little adventure,” Williams said. “Leave yourself open to wherever you might want to go.”

National Geographic's 'Out in the World: An LGBTQIA+ (and Friends!) Travel Guide to More Than 100 Destinations Around the World'

By Amy B. Scher and Mark Jason Williams

Info: For more, visit bookshop.org and follow @natgeobooks, @ambyscher and @markjasonwilliams on Instagram.

Stories you might have missed:

• 2024 James Beard Award winner takes over Asheville in four-day tasting tour
• Mount Mitchell State Park's restaurant reopened by Burnsville couple; What's on the menu?
• More breakfast options come to downtown Asheville, new all-day café opens

Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times .

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The depressing reality of quiet vacationing

Why is everyone suddenly going on trips without actually taking time off?

Who among us has not done a little fibbing at work? A little résumé embellishment here, a fake dental appointment there. Now people are taking full-blown holidays while on the job as part of a trend that's been called " quiet vacationing ."

There's no set definition of quiet vacationing, and it can encompass a variety of behaviors — traveling to a faraway place and not saying anything while still getting your work in, or not working but keeping your mouse moving to appear as if you're online in hopes that no one will notice your drop in productivity.

On the one hand, this sounds like an awesome, novel possibility brought about by the rise of remote work. Responding to the 10th email of the day while sipping a margarita on the beach sounds a lot nicer than doing it from an office desk as a coworker nearby munches loudly on their sad salad . If work gets slow in the summer, there's no good reason to sit and stare at your computer.

On the other hand, the idea that people are under so much pressure at work that they feel they can't take true disconnect-from-everything time off or even tell their boss they're working out of town for a bit is deeply depressing. It's a stark reminder of how broken American work culture is, just in time for summer.

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"It may be a question of just psychological safety, or lack thereof, that the employee doesn't feel like they can openly have a conversation with their manager about taking real time off," said Rebecca Zucker, an executive coach and the founding partner of Next Step Partners, a leadership consultancy. "We're all big boys and girls, and it's a question of not where we're working or when we're working, in terms of the hours we're working, but are we doing what we need to get done."

The whole quiet-vacationing discourse got kicked up by a recent Harris Poll survey on out-of-office culture. It found that 28% of workers said they'd taken time off work without telling their bosses — basically, they're out of the office, but not "officially." Millennials in particular have picked up on the practice, with 37% saying they'd dipped out of work on the sly.

People feeling like they have to be sneaky about their whereabouts is not a positive sign.

It's not that these workers are unhappy with the vacation their companies offer: 83% of respondents said they were satisfied with their company's paid-time-off policy. The issue seems to be that employees don't feel like they can actually use the time off they're given. Eight in 10 workers said they didn't use the maximum amount of PTO allowed; some said they felt pressure to always be available, while others cited a heavy workload as their reason. Almost half said they got nervous about requesting time away, and three-quarters said they wished their workplace culture put more value on taking breaks. Workers reported being tricky about the whole thing, too: About a third said they moved their mouse to make it look like they were online, and about the same share said they scheduled messages outside work hours to give the impression that they were working overtime.

The problem isn't really that people are working from elsewhere, especially if it's not hurting their productivity . The greater issue is what it signifies about their relationship with work and the incentives that have been fostered at their companies . People feeling like they have to be sneaky about their whereabouts is not a positive sign, nor is feeling like the only way to disconnect is to remain half plugged in.

The people taking vacations on the sly may be at organizations that are likelier to reward overworkers, said Malissa Clark, an associate professor and the head of the Healthy Work Lab at the University of Georgia. In turn, those quiet vacations may perversely reinforce the always-on culture, even when always being on isn't necessary or leading to better business results. Clark, who also wrote the book "Never Not Working: Why the Always-On Culture Is Bad for Business — and How to Fix It," pointed to 2015 research looking at how some men at a consulting firm were able to pull back from work while pretending to still put in 80-hour weeks. Their managers couldn't tell the difference, and they were rewarded for giving off the impression that they were workaholics, whereas men who were up front about needing to downshift were penalized.

"That's why there's this pressure for people to constantly be working and feel like if they take a step back they'll be left behind, because that's a very real thing," Clark said. "Apparently, that's what a lot of organizations reward."

Pretending to work when you're not or acting like you're putting in more hours than you do is not a new phenomenon . Zucker recalled working years ago at an investment bank where men would leave their suit jackets on the backs of their chairs after hours so people would think they were still somewhere in the office. But technology does make this behavior easier. The ability to connect from anywhere is a double-edged sword: Sure, it's nice to be able to answer an email on a midday walk or work from a relative's house over the holidays, but it sucks to know your boss knows that you saw that 10 p.m. Slack message pop up on your phone.

This is a societal problem and one that is uniquely American. We're told to go, go, go, made to feel like we can never get off the treadmill for even a second, lest we fall behind or give the impression that we're not trying hard. We often don't see taking time off as necessary and well deserved but as a sign of laziness and lack of work ethic. People aren't told to work to live; they're told to live to work.

Some of the fundamentals underlying quiet vacationing are positive. We live in an era where a lot of people can work from wherever and have more flexibility to achieve a better work-life balance. The rub is the sneakiness of it all. It would be much better if we were talking about, say, "loud working from anywhere for a month," or whatever you'd want to call it. (Or we could stop coining terms for work trends, the true dream.) It should be OK to have a conversation with your manager about spending a few days in the mountains or on the beach and, as long as the WiFi is decent, fulfilling your capitalist soldier duties.

Clark said this trend may make employers even more eager to force workers back to the office. Managers don't always love the idea that they don't know where their employees are, and they have the (often false) impression that being out of sight means not working.

Working from elsewhere does not erase the need for an actual vacation. There's all sorts of research indicating that time off improves mental and physical health, reduces stress, and boosts productivity, among other benefits. Even planning a vacation makes people happier. People need to psychologically detach from work in order to relax and recover.

By always feeling like you have to stay connected, you never recover from work.

"By always feeling like you have to stay connected, you never recover from work," Clark said. "And so it's like you're constantly running a marathon, but then you never take a break, and what is it going to do? It's going to wear your body down slowly, gradually, to the point where you hit a wall. And then all of a sudden you're burnt out."

If you're quiet vacationing and your boss doesn't know, good for you, I guess. But it would probably be better if you could be honest about where you are and what you're doing. And none of this scraps the need for an actual vacation. Regardless of how up front (or not) employees are, at the end of the day, American work culture is the bad guy here. The toxicity of hustle culture is the real problem, not the person who's low-key working from a cabin in the woods or the coworker who said screw it and is taking three weeks off.

Emily Stewart is a senior correspondent at Business Insider, writing about business and the economy.

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