Mauritius travel information
Getting There
To reach Mauritius, guests need to fly into the international airport Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (SSR) located in the south eastern part of the island. There are then daily flights onwards to Sir Gaetan Duval Airport on Rodrigues if you’re venturing onwards.
Passport and Visas
Australian passport holders do not require a visa to enter Mauritius and can stay for up to one month. You are required to have six months’ validity on your passport from when you return home and two blank pages. In addition, immigration may ask you to present your return ticket which is proof of your intention to depart Mauritius.
Weather and Climate
Mauritius is a year-round destination, with a mild tropical climate and you’re guaranteed up to eight hours of sunshine each day. There are two seasons, a hot, wet and humid summer between October and April with daytime temperatures in the mid to high 20s. Keep in mind the cyclone season runs January to March. Winter is dry and warm, running May to September with an average temperature of 20 degrees.
Getting Around
There are several ways to get around the Island. You can rent scooters, take the local bus, wave down a taxi or hire a car. While the island is small, the majority of roads are narrow and winding. The key to stress-free Mauritius travel is hiring a car or private guide and vehicle. Scooter hire is popular but quite dangerous and the local buses can be hair-raising if you’re not accustomed to winding roads. Driving is on the left, that said, it still isn’t for the faint-hearted. There are no footpaths, so people and dogs often step onto the road when you least expect it.
Health
There is no risk of malaria on Mauritius and you do not require a yellow fever vaccination certificate. It’s best to consult with your GP or a travel doctor because they may recommend other vaccinations to address diseases of moderate presence and risk to travellers such as influenza, typhoid and hepatitis.
Currency
The local currency is called the Mauritian rupee. Other currencies are not widely accepted and so we always recommend you stick with the local currency. Just remember to exchange anything you have left over before you depart for home.
Language
English is generally accepted as the official language of Mauritius as it is the language of government administration, the courts and business sector. Both French and English, which have long enjoyed greater social status, are favoured in educational and professional settings.
Mauritius is waiting for you. What are you waiting for?