Useful tips for your safe stay in Mauritius

Mauritius is a safe holiday destination, easily accessed by air with a lot of great experiences to live. We have gathered some useful information for your stay in Mauritius to take place in the best possible conditions.

General

• Languages: English (official), French, Creole
• Time zone: GMT/UTC +4
• Currency: Mauritian rupee (MUR)
• Electricity: 220/230V, British three-square pin and two round pin plugs
• Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated

At the airport

• Taxis: Available, agree on fare before embarking.
• ATMs: Available for currency exchange and cash withdrawals.

Dress Up

• Casual wear accepted during the day (shorts, t-shirts, flip flops).
• Dress modestly when entering religious places.
• Check with hotels for evening dress codes (may require pants, no t-shirts/flip flops).

Accommodation

• Choose accommodation listed with the Mauritius Tourism Authority (https://mymauritius.travel/).
• Use the provided safe for valuables, passport, and money.
• Close all windows and doors when leaving your room.

At the beach

• Beware of unauthorized vendors. Ask for licenses and prices before purchase.
• Keep valuables out of sight and avoid bringing them to the beach.
• Public beaches are accessible to all, but private areas are restricted in front of residences and hotels.

Markets

• Bargaining is accepted.
• Always ask for the price before purchase.

Transportation

• Hitchhiking is not common.
• Agree on fares before confirming transport arranged with accommodation.
• Be cautious of taxi tours motivated by commissions.

Driving

• Cars drive on the left-hand side.
• Valid driver’s licenses are required.

Wildlife

• No dangerous or deadly animals, but some have painful stings (bees, wasps). Consult a doctor or pharmacist if stung.
• Lagoons are protected by reefs (no sharks). However, watch out for:
  • Stonefish and lionfish (painful stings)
  • Sea urchins
  • Jellyfish (consult a doctor if stung)

Sea outings

• Ensure boats have a registration number starting with “PC” (commercial use).
• Follow instructions from skippers and staff.
• Wear life jackets and avoid riding on the bow of motorboats.
• Respect dolphins and whales while observing them.

Security in your place of residence

• Use the provided safe for valuables, passport, and money.
• Avoid taking electronics on outings.
• Report lost room keys immediately for deactivation.
• Don’t leave valuables in plain sight in your car.

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 999 or 112
• Fire Services: 995 or 115
• Ambulance: 114
• National Directory: 150
• Tourist Info: 152
• Weather: 171 (general), 96 (cyclone reports)