🛫 How to Get There
Getting to and around Mauritius
✈️ Flying to Mauritius
Main Airport
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) — Mauritius's only international airport, located 48km southeast of Port Louis. Modern terminal opened in 2013, handles 4 million passengers annually. Named after the first Prime Minister.
Flight Times:
- From Europe: 11–12 hours direct (Paris, London, Frankfurt)
- From Middle East: 6–8 hours (Dubai hub common)
- From South Africa: 4 hours direct (Johannesburg)
- From Asia: 8–10 hours (Singapore, Kuala Lumpur)
💡 Insider Tip
Air Mauritius is the national carrier with direct flights from major hubs. Emirates via Dubai often has competitive prices and good connections from Europe and Asia.
🚖 From Airport to Hotels
Taxi (Most Common)
Taxis available 24/7 outside arrivals. Fixed prices to main areas: Grand Baie €35–40, Flic en Flac €25–30, Port Louis €35. Journey time 45–90 minutes depending on destination. Pre-booking recommended for late arrivals.
Hotel Transfers
Most resorts offer airport transfers—book in advance. Often included in packages or around €40–60 per car. Convenient, reliable, meet-and-greet service.
Public Bus (Budget Option)
Bus Line 198 to Port Louis Victoria Station. Runs every 15 minutes (6:15am–6:45pm). Takes 75 minutes. Fare MUR 15–38 (under €1). Cash only, Mauritian Rupees. Note: buses don't serve beach resorts directly—transfer required.
Pre-Booked Transfers
Services like Taxi Service Mauritius offer online booking with fixed prices, meet-and-greet, and various vehicle types. Often 30–45% cheaper than hotel taxis.
⚓️ Other Ways In
Mauritius is an island 2,000km from Africa's coast. Flying is the only practical option for most visitors. No ferry connections to mainland Africa or other islands.
Cruise ships occasionally dock at Port Louis. MSC, Costa, and other lines include Mauritius on Indian Ocean itineraries. Check cruise schedules if interested.
Private yachts can clear customs at Port Louis or Grand Baie. Marina facilities available. Contact harbor authorities in advance.
Réunion Island (French territory) is 200km away. Air Austral flies the route in 45 minutes. Useful for combining destinations.
🛂 Visa & Entry Requirements
Most nationalities receive visa-free entry for 60 days. This includes EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and 128+ countries. Entry granted on arrival at immigration.
Requirements: Passport valid 6+ months, return ticket, proof of accommodation, proof of funds ($100/day). Complete the All-in-One Digital Form on safemauritius.govmu.org 48–72 hours before departure. Keep QR code on phone.
Check visa requirements for Mauritius →🚗 Getting Around Mauritius
Rental Car (Recommended)
Best way to explore. Drive on the left (British style). Roads generally good but narrow. Around MUR 1,500–3,000/day (€30–60). Book in advance during peak season. Major companies at airport and hotels.
Public Buses
Extensive network covering most of the island. Cheap (MUR 30–50 per trip) but slow and crowded. CNT (National Transport Corporation) operates main routes. Useful for budget travelers with time.
Taxis
Available everywhere. Negotiate price before journey—meters rare. Full-day hire around MUR 3,000–4,000 (€60–80) with driver/guide. Book through hotels or Taxi Service Mauritius app.
🎫 Transport Tip
Uber and Grab don't operate in Mauritius. Use Taxi Service Mauritius app or book through your hotel. Always agree on price before getting in.
🚋 Local Transportation Tips
Mauritius is small (65km x 45km) but traffic can be slow, especially around Port Louis and during rush hours.
Driving Tips
- Drive on the left: British system, right-hand drive cars
- Speed limits: 40 km/h towns, 80 km/h rural, 110 km/h motorway
- Watch for: Stray dogs, cyclists, sugarcane trucks
- Fuel: Petrol stations common, most close by 8pm
GPS works well. Google Maps accurate and helpful. Download offline maps as backup.
🚘 Renting a Car
Recommended if you want to explore beyond your resort. The island is compact—you can drive coast to coast in 90 minutes.
Things to Know
- Drive on the left side of the road
- International driving permit recommended but not always required
- Check vehicle thoroughly before accepting—photograph any damage
- Insurance usually included but check excess amount
- Most rentals are manual transmission; automatics cost more
⚠️ Rental Warning
Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in the south and mountains. Take your time. Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas—lighting is poor in rural zones.
🚗 Compare Rental Cars in Mauritius
Compare prices and book your rental car:
💰 Money-Saving Tips
- Book transfers online: Pre-booked taxis are 30–45% cheaper than hotel or airport taxis
- Rent outside airport: City rental locations often have better rates
- Use public buses: Extremely cheap if you have time—under €1 per trip
- Share taxis for tours: Full-day taxi hire is economical for groups
- Book activities locally: Street vendors and local operators often cheaper than resorts