Everything you need to know before and during your stay in Mauritius — money, health, transport, and all those little practical questions you have before you leave.
What currency is used in Mauritius?
The Mauritian rupee (MUR, abbreviated Rs). Example: Rs 500 = 500 rupees. The EUR/MUR rate fluctuates daily — always check the current rate (widget above) rather than a fixed figure.
Should I change euros before leaving?
No, that generally isn’t necessary. You can exchange currency on site at licensed banks and bureaux de change — compare the amount you actually receive after fees, not just the rate displayed. Taking a little cash in euros and then using your card and cash withdrawals is often the most practical approach.
Can you pay by card everywhere?
Yes, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted: hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, petrol stations, shopping centres. Contactless is common. Do keep some rupees, though, for small snacks, markets, street vendors and some taxis/buses.
Are there fees when withdrawing cash?
Possibly several: your bank’s fee, the card’s currency conversion commission, the ATM operator’s fee. It’s impossible to quote a universal amount — check your bank’s out-of-eurozone withdrawal fees before you leave. Some travel cards or online banks reduce these fees significantly.
Should I buy a SIM card in Mauritius?
Not compulsory, but often worthwhile: Google Maps, WhatsApp, bookings and route searches without roaming charges. Tourist SIMs/eSIMs (my.t in particular) can be bought from SSR Airport, at Telecom Shops or via a digital kiosk — a passport and stay address are generally required.
Does WhatsApp work normally?
Yes, you keep your usual number even with a Mauritian SIM for mobile data.
Where can I hire a pushchair, travel cot or car seat?
Baby equipment rental services exist on the island — handy for travelling light.
For children aged 3 weeks to 9 months (4 to 12 kg)
Can you access all beaches freely?
No, they are not private. In June 2026, the Mauritian government reaffirmed that beaches are open to the public, including in front of hotels or coastal land leased from the State — walking, sitting, picnicking, swimming and resting on the shore remain free and unobstructed. This principle was reiterated in August 2026, with a request to remove signs implying the beach had been privatised.
Which side do you drive on?
On the left, with the steering wheel on the right — natural for Britons, South Africans or Réunionnais, and takes a few minutes to get used to for drivers from mainland France.
Is 20 km always 20 minutes?
Definitely not always! Some roads run through villages, are narrow, have plenty of stops and get busy at peak times.
Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on your foreign licence, the length of your stay and the issuing country. Before renting, check that your licence is accepted by the rental company and the Mauritian authorities — if your licence isn’t written in English or French, an international permit or a translation may be requested. The Mauritian international driving permit is handled by the Police Traffic Branch.
Is the bus practical for a tourist?
The network covers a large part of the island, and it’s cheap. 👍 Good for experiencing local life and simple journeys. 👎 Less practical for fitting in several tourist visits in a single day.
Does the Metro Express go to the airport?
No — a common misconception. The Metro Express mainly serves the central urban corridor, not the whole island or the airport. You travel with a single-use ticket or a prepaid MECard, available from the vending machines in stations. Validate your ticket on entry AND on exit (TAP-ON / TAP-OFF).
Why does the weather differ by region on the same day?
In Mauritius, it can be raining in Curepipe, sunny in Grand Baie, very windy in Belle Mare and fine at Le Morne — all at the same time. The topography and microclimates can make general forecasts misleading.
What do the cyclone warning classes mean (Class I to IV)?
- Class I — first alert, issued 36 to 48h before gusts of up to 120 km/h are expected.
- Class II — danger is approaching, issued to allow around 12 daylight hours before the gusts.
- Class III — a serious threat, preparations should be complete.
- Class IV — gusts of 120 km/h already observed in some areas.
Always check the official Mauritius Meteorological Services website for the current alert status — the cyclone season runs from December to April, with a higher risk between January and March.
Are there mosquitoes?
Yes, the Aedes albopictus species is widespread and can transmit dengue and chikungunya, with its population maintained year-round by the tropical climate. This doesn’t mean a tourist will necessarily be affected. Usual precautions: repellent, covering clothing if needed, a mosquito net in an exposed room, and avoiding standing water around your accommodation.
Is the Mauritian sun stronger than in Europe?
Often yes, especially with wind or some cloud cover — a slightly cloudy sky doesn’t mean there’s no UV. SPF 50 for first exposures and for children, a hat, sunglasses, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged exposure during the strongest hours.
Card payment, tipping, spicy dishes?
Cards are accepted at most tourist restaurants and established venues — bring rupees for small snacks. Tipping isn’t compulsory ; check whether a service charge is already on the bill before adding one. Mauritian cooking can be highly flavoured without necessarily being spicy — chilli is often served on the side, and you can always ask for it “not too spicy, please”.
The essentials
- 🧴 Sun cream · 🕶️ Sunglasses · 🧢 Hat/cap
- 🦟 Mosquito repellent · 👟 Comfortable shoes
- 🩴 Water shoes for exploring the lagoon · 🔌 Universal adapter
- 💊 Personal medication + prescription · 🚗 Driving licence
- 💳 A second means of payment · 📱 Unlocked phone if using a local SIM
- 🥽 Mask and snorkel if you have your own gear
✈️ How much does a taxi from the airport cost?
Other transfer options
A pre-booked private transfer generally costs €30 to €80 depending on the destination, with direct pick-up. The express bus serves Port Louis for under €2 but often requires a change to reach your final destination.
Can you drink the tap water?
Yes, water supplied by the Central Water Authority is treated and monitored at around 160 sampling points across the island, using an ISO/IEC 17025:2017-accredited laboratory. It can also be used for brushing teeth, making coffee or cooking. Many visitors nonetheless prefer bottled water out of habit or taste.
Are French, gluten-free or halal products easy to find?
Yes — the major supermarkets and shopping centres stock local and imported products: French goods, dairy, cheese, pasta/rice, cereals, baby products, vegetarian, halal, gluten-free (major brands), toiletries, sun cream, insect repellent, alcohol, bottled water.
Where can I find a pharmacy?
Numerous private pharmacies, particularly in towns, shopping centres and tourist areas. You’ll find sun cream, plasters, antiseptics, repellents, baby products and common over-the-counter medicines.
What is the time difference with my country?
Mauritius stays on UTC+4 all year round, with no summer/winter time change.
| Country | Time difference |
|---|---|
| 🇫🇷 Mainland France | +3h (French winter) / +2h (French summer) |
| 🇷🇪 Réunion | No time difference |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | +4h (UK winter) / +3h (UK summer) |
| 🇩🇪🇨🇭🇧🇪 Germany/Switzerland/Belgium | Same as France |
| 🇿🇦 South Africa | +2h generally |
| 🇮🇳 India | -1h30 (Mauritius behind) |
Which plug adapters should I bring?
230V / 50Hz mains. British-style three-pin plugs are common — a universal adapter is recommended. Modern phones, tablets and computers generally accept 100-240V: you just need the right plug shape.
Public toilets, laundries, shop opening hours
Public toilets are mainly found in tourist areas, shopping centres and petrol stations. Laundries and dry cleaners can be found in the main towns and tourist areas for a quick wash if needed. Supermarkets generally close later than small shops; on Sundays and public holidays, hours are often reduced — it’s best to check locally.
How much do everyday things cost?
- ☕ Coffee at a restaurant: around 80-150 Rs
- 🥤 Bottle of water (supermarket): around 20-40 Rs
- 🍺 Local beer: around 100-180 Rs
- 🍽️ Meal at a local snack bar: around 100-250 Rs
- 🍽️ Meal at a tourist restaurant: around 400-900 Rs per person
- ⛽ Petrol: fixed national rate, check the price displayed at the station
- 🚌 Bus journey: under €1
Indicative amounts, given as a rough guide — they may vary by region and establishment.