Mauritius Travel Guide

Best Time To Visit

When to go

Mauritius has a warm, sub-tropical climate which makes it a year-round destination. May to October is the season with typically less rainfall and pleasantly warm days of 20-25oC. Between November and April (their summer) the weather is hotter and more humid, with more chance of heavy showers; average temperatures are around 28-30oC. January and February are generally the wettest months with a risk of passing cyclones, but also many sunny days.

Getting there

Air Mauritius flies from London direct four to five times weekly, British Airways three times weekly. Flight time nearly 12 hours with outward flights overnight, return usually daytime. Air France operates via Paris daily, and Emirates daily via Dubai. There are also regular flight connections from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Nairobi.

Time Zone

GMT +4 hours

Visas

British citizens do not currently require a visa for Mauritius.

Health

There are currently no compulsory health requirements. Always consult your doctor at least six weeks before travel and refer to this useful NHS website for details of recommended vaccinations for your destination.

Things To Do

• Take a walk on the long Belle Mare beach – its one of the best
• Visit the market capital Port Louis
• Take time to really enjoy local Creole cuisine
• Go on a catamaran cruise with lunch provided
• Visit the Black River Gorges National Park for rare birds and a rainforest hike.
• Hire a car for the day and explore the island

You can explore the island by hiring a car for self-drive or with a chauffeur for a reasonable supplement, or by taking one of the excursions available.

Fine French colonial buildings and the lively covered market can be seen in the capital, Port Louis, and its modern piazza-style Caudan Waterfront with its shops and cafés around the port. Enjoy panoramic views of the island from Trou aux Cerfs, an extinct crater 85m deep and 200m wide. Grand Bassin Lake, another extinct volcano crater, is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Or you may prefer to discover the tropical forest and unique, often endangered birdlife on walking trails (Black River Gorges); try a mountain bike excursion or take a catamaran cruise with snorkelling opportunities.

FAQ

Our Craig Kaufman recommends Mauritius as the perfect compliment to an African safari and for an easy beach break. Here he answers frequently asked questions about this popular Indian Ocean island, once the home of the dodo.

What’s so great about Mauritius?

The beautiful sandy beaches, crystal blue seas and tall palm trees, make Mauritius a paradise for holiday makers of all ages. Families love it, as do honeymooners and pretty much everyone who wants an easy beach holiday. With several national parks for walking and even quad biking available, day visits to the capital for shopping and a bit of history and culture and lots of water sports, it’s a great destination for those who love to be active or just enjoy relaxing around the pool.

How do we get there?

With regular direct flights from London and regional add-ons available, Mauritius is easily reached. Air Mauritius have flights from London Heathrow every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and returns every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. British Airways depart London Gatwick every Monday, Thursday and Saturday and returns every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Alternatively if you are already in South Africa there are daily flights from Johannesburg to Mauritius; from Cape Town to Mauritius flights are on a Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we can advise you on the best deals. There are also excellent connections onto Rodrigues, Reunion and Madagascar. Options also exist for flights via Europe and the Middle East from the UK. So one way and another Mauritius is pretty well served!

How do we travel around the country?

Most people are transferred on arrival to their hotel and then take the odd day trip which can be booked locally. We will gladly pre-book these for you. Mauritius is the perfect size for exploring by car and visitors can hire a car for a day or two if they fancy self-driving. You drive on the left just like at home. 

If there was one thing I shouldn’t miss, what would you recommend?

Mauritius is all about the beach, but as one of the best known villages in Mauritius, a visit to Grand Baie is something I’d recommended. Its picturesque sea views and lively atmosphere make the village a popular tourist destination.

Is Mauritius safe?

Yes, however, like in all countries, there is a slight risk of petty theft and crime.

Can I drink the tap water?

Yes you can.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes. While French and Creole are the most commonly spoken languages in Mauritius, English is still widely spoken and understood.

What is the local cuisine like?

The traditional Mauritian cuisine is a blend of many cultures including Creole, Indian, French etc.  Fresh fruit like mangoes and coconuts are regularly available, a lot of dishes include fish and sea food and rice is a staple in many Mauritian meals.

How can I contribute to the local economy and conservation programs?

Purchasing local goods or dining outside of your hotel on a couple of occasions does contribute towards the local economy. Responsible tourism projects are available to visit and/or contribute towards and we will gladly help you find a suitable project where it be marine, fauna and flora or community projects.

Do I need to get any vaccinations ahead of travel and/or malaria tablets?

One of the great things about a holiday in Mauritius is that you don’t need any vaccinations or malaria medication.

I am pregnant, can I travel to Mauritius?

Absolutely. Mauritius is a great destination to visit during your pregnancy. With great food, spa facilities and its easy going atmosphere, it’s a very relaxing island.