Africa · Eastern Africa

Mauritius

Republic of Mauritius

Flag of Mauritius
Local Time
--:--:--
UTC+04:00
🏛️ Capital
Port Louis
👥 Population
1,243,741
📐 Area
2,040 km²
💱 Currency
Mauritian rupee (₨)
🗣️ Languages
English, French, Mauritian Creole
📞 Calling Code
+230
🕐 Time Zones
UTC+04:00
🌐 Region
Africa / Eastern Africa

About Mauritius

Mauritius is the Indian Ocean's jewel — a volcanic island nation of extraordinary natural beauty, remarkable cultural diversity, and an atmosphere of genuine warmth that goes well beyond the polished hospitality of its world-class resort industry. Risen from the sea some 8 million years ago, this compact island has been shaped by the trade winds that brought successive waves of settlers — Dutch, French, British, African, Indian, Chinese, and Creole — creating a society and culture of unique complexity and richness. Charles Darwin once called it one of the most beautiful places on earth, and it is hard to argue with him.

You will find Mauritius rewarding at every level. The resort beaches of the north and east — Grand Baie, Belle Mare, Trou aux Biches — are undeniably spectacular: white sand, turquoise lagoons protected by one of the world's longest coral reef systems, and water temperatures so perfect they feel like stepping into a warm bath. But venture inland and the landscape shifts dramatically — the dramatic peaks of the Moka Range, the Black River Gorges National Park with its ebony forests and endemic wildlife, the cascading Chamarel Waterfall, and the mystical Coloured Earth of Chamarel where volcanic dunes shift through seven distinct hues.

Port Louis, the capital, is a fascinating city of contrasts where Chinatown streets, bustling bazaars, colonial buildings, and a gleaming waterfront development create an urban experience worth dedicating real time to. The weekly markets overflow with tropical fruit, spices, and street food that reflects the island's culinary heritage. Mauritius is genuinely one of the Indian Ocean's finest all-round destinations, where luxury and authenticity coexist with remarkable ease.

History & Background

Mauritius was uninhabited when Arab sailors first recorded its existence in the 10th century, and it remained so until the Dutch established the first permanent settlement in 1638, naming the island after Prince Maurice of Nassau. The Dutch brought the island's most famous resident — the dodo — to extinction through hunting and introduced species within decades, a cautionary ecological tale that Mauritius now acknowledges solemnly. French colonists took control in 1715, naming it Île de France, and began developing sugar plantations powered by enslaved labour brought from Africa and Madagascar, fundamentally shaping the island's demographics and landscape.

Britain captured Mauritius in 1810 and, following the abolition of slavery in the 1830s, brought hundreds of thousands of indentured labourers from India to maintain the sugar economy — a migration that transformed the island's cultural character permanently. Mauritius gained independence on 12 March 1968 and became a republic in 1992. In the decades since independence, Mauritius has transformed from a sugar monoculture into one of Africa's most prosperous and stable economies, built on financial services, tourism, and technology, with a democratic governance record that stands among the continent's best.

Culture & People

Mauritius has been described as a "rainbow nation" — its population of just over 1.2 million people is a vibrant blend of Indo-Mauritian, Creole, Sino-Mauritian, and Franco-Mauritian communities, each preserving distinct traditions while contributing to an overarching Mauritian identity that celebrates plurality. Hinduism is practised by the largest segment of the population, and the island's Hindu temples, festivals, and traditions give Mauritius a spiritual character unlike any other Indian Ocean island. The spectacular Maha Shivaratree pilgrimage, when hundreds of thousands of devotees walk barefoot to the sacred crater lake of Grand Bassin, is one of the most moving religious spectacles in the Southern Hemisphere.

Creole culture — shaped by African, Malagasy, and European influences — finds expression in the seggae and sega music that fills the island's evenings, as musicians beat ravanne drums and dancers in colourful dresses tell stories of history and longing with their bodies. Mauritians are polyglots by necessity and pride, typically speaking Mauritian Creole at home, French in formal settings, and English in government and business, with many also fluent in Bhojpuri and Mandarin. This linguistic richness reflects a society that has always found unity in celebrating rather than suppressing difference.

Food & Cuisine

Mauritian cuisine is one of the world's most fascinating culinary fusions, bringing together Indian, Chinese, Creole, and French traditions into a distinctive island kitchen that is greater than the sum of its parts. Dholl puri — a thin flatbread made from ground yellow split peas — folded around curried vegetables, bean stew, and chutney, is the quintessential Mauritian street food, sold from roadside vendors across the island and consumed by people of every community. Mine bouilli (boiled noodles in broth with vegetables and meat), biryani, rougaille (Creole tomato-based sauce with meat or fish), and vindaye (a tangy spiced fish preparation) all feature prominently on family tables.

Seafood is exceptional — freshly caught red snapper, octopus, and prawns are prepared with delicacy and creativity across restaurant kitchens from humble beach shacks to luxury resort dining rooms. Street food culture is vibrant and safe to enjoy: gato pima (chilli fritters), samosas, and fresh sugar cane juice make for ideal snacking while exploring the markets. The island produces its own rum from home-grown sugar cane, and the pink Chamarel rhum agricole has earned international recognition. A rum distillery tour in the Chamarel highlands, ending with a sunset tasting, is one of Mauritius's most pleasurable experiences.

Top Attractions

  • Black River Gorges National Park — Wild interior highland park protecting endemic Mauritian wildlife, ebony forests, and dramatic waterfalls.
  • Chamarel Coloured Earth — Unique geological formation where volcanic dunes display seven distinct colours including red, brown, violet, and blue.
  • Blue Bay Marine Park — Protected lagoon with exceptional snorkelling over one of the Indian Ocean's most diverse and healthy coral reef systems.
  • Pamplemousses Botanical Garden — One of the Southern Hemisphere's oldest botanical gardens, famous for its giant Victoria amazonica water lilies.
  • Le Morne Brabant — UNESCO-listed volcanic peninsula and cultural landscape, historically significant as a refuge for escaped enslaved people.
  • Port Louis Waterfront and Central Market — The capital's vibrant harbour development and its bustling indoor market overflowing with tropical produce and spices.

Practical Travel Tips

  • Book accommodation early for the peak December–January period when prices are highest and availability tightest.
  • Rent a car for at least a few days — public buses cover the island but having your own transport allows spontaneous inland exploration.
  • Explore beyond the beach: the Black River Gorges, Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, and Chamarel highlands are essential inland experiences.
  • Bargain politely at the Port Louis central market for spices and crafts; fixed-price shops are common elsewhere.
  • Apply high-SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently — the equatorial sun is intensely strong even on overcast days.
  • Snorkel early in the morning for the clearest water and most active marine life on the reef.
  • Try dholl puri from a street vendor for an authentic taste of everyday Mauritian life far beyond resort dining.

Visa Overview

Mauritius offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 100 countries, including EU member states, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, India, and most African Union nations, for stays of up to 90 days. A valid passport, confirmed accommodation, onward ticket, and evidence of sufficient funds are required on arrival. Some nationalities may be granted shorter initial stays at immigration discretion, extendable at the Passport and Immigration Office. Always check the current visa requirements with the Mauritius Embassy or High Commission in your country, as policies are subject to review.

Getting Around

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport near Mahébourg handles all international flights, with direct connections to Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia via Air Mauritius and major international carriers. The island has no rail system. Buses are cheap, frequent, and cover most of the island, though timetables can be unpredictable. Car hire is widely available from the airport and major towns, and driving on the left makes it familiar for British, Australian, and Indian visitors. Taxis are metered in theory but negotiate fares in advance to avoid overcharging.

Safety Notes

Mauritius is one of the safest destinations in the Indian Ocean, with violent crime against tourists rare and political stability well-established. Petty theft can occasionally occur in crowded markets and on beaches, so keep valuables secured and avoid leaving items unattended. Ocean currents outside the lagoon can be very strong — always swim within designated safe areas and heed local warnings. The sun is extremely powerful; heat exhaustion is a genuine risk. Medical facilities in Port Louis are good, and comprehensive travel insurance is nonetheless recommended.

Live Exchange Rates

Current exchange rates for currencies used in Mauritius.

Mauritian rupee (MUR) ₨
Updated: 2026-08-21
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 0.241115
AAVE 0.000217
ADA 0.104657
AED 0.078729
AFN 1.414742
AGIX 0.343222
AKT 0.040867
ALGO 0.244379
ALL 1.699015
AMD 7.816669
AMP 53.805923
ANG 0.038674
AOA 19.678080
APE 0.162553
APT 0.037231
AR 0.010398
ARB 0.234895
ARS 32.096511
ATOM 0.014167
ATS 0.252325
AUD 0.030070
AVAX 0.002957
AWG 0.038373
AXS 0.022066
AZM 182.217141
AZN 0.036443
BAKE 28.652927
BAM 0.035864
BAT 0.321889
BBD 0.042875
BCH 0.000095
BDT 2.622215
BEF 0.739720
BGN 0.035864
BHD 0.008060
BIF 63.805961
BMD 0.021437
BNB 0.000032
BND 0.027234
BOB 0.247550
BRL 0.111368
BSD 0.021437
BSV 0.001327
BSW 57.407174
BTC 0.000000
BTG 0.045608
BTN 2.052308
BTT 75,659.850577
BUSD 0.021435
BWP 0.288137
BYN 0.065275
BYR 420.135175
BZD 0.043176
CAD 0.029526
CAKE 0.012957
CDF 49.144983
CELO 0.316597
CFX 0.476238
CHF 0.017134
CHZ 1.623764
CLP 19.781235
CNH 0.144127
CNY 0.144111
COMP 0.001130
COP 65.830196
CRC 9.743406
CRO 0.399425
CRV 0.075090
CSPR 8.135228
CUC 0.021435
CUP 0.568040
CVE 2.022041
CVX 0.012493
CYP 0.010732
CZK 0.442406
DAI 0.021440
DASH 0.000648
DCR 0.001741
DEM 0.035864
DFI 39.787706
DJF 3.818370
DKK 0.137086
DOGE 0.260999
DOP 1.254217
DOT 0.025348
DYDX 0.188840
DZD 2.848230
EEK 0.286915
EGLD 0.007175
EGP 1.090693
ENJ 0.816377
EOS 0.306718
ERN 0.321560
ESP 3.051051
ETB 3.493778
ETC 0.003073
ETH 0.000009
EUR 0.018337
EURC 0.018399
FEI 0.021432
FIL 0.028737
FIM 0.109028
FJD 0.047098
FKP 0.015710
FLOW 0.737715
FLR 3.081789
FRAX 0.021602
FRF 0.120284
FTT 0.098569
GALA 13.205859
GBP 0.015710
GEL 0.055748
GGP 0.015710
GHC 2,377.647468
GHS 0.237765
GIP 0.015710
GMD 1.589886
GMX 0.003086
GNF 188.464571
GNO 0.000174
GRD 6.248395
GRT 1.418073
GT 0.002977
GTQ 0.163629
GUSD 0.021469
GYD 4.488377
HBAR 0.289106
HKD 0.168131
HNL 0.575118
HNT 0.117787
HOT 60.633400
HRK 0.138162
HT 0.455912
HTG 2.807947
HUF 6.686607
ICP 0.008990
IDR 380.390570
IEP 0.014442
ILS 0.064349
IMP 0.015710
IMX 0.193833
INJ 0.004523
INR 2.052308
IQD 28.123493
IRR 29,464.658574
ISK 2.603948
ITL 35.505739
JEP 0.015710
JMD 3.395478
JOD 0.015199
JPY 3.407597
KAS 0.744698
KAVA 0.505008
KCS 0.002849
KDA 4.391765
KES 2.774659
KGS 1.876799
KHR 86.290180
KLAY 0.794377
KMF 9.021303
KNC 0.196699
KPW 19.291928
KRW 29.617531
KSM 0.006712
KWD 0.006609
KYD 0.017832
KZT 9.797616
LAK 483.089396
LBP 1,924.270642
LDO 0.063144
LEO 0.002306
LINK 0.001990
LKR 7.081447
LRC 2.642616
LRD 3.892376
LSL 0.345208
LTC 0.000445
LTL 0.063315
LUF 0.739720
LUNA 0.463080
LUNC 401.918315
LVL 0.012887
LYD 0.135924
MAD 0.198313
MANA 0.304020
MBX 1.007125
MDL 0.368477
MGA 91.698222
MGF 458.491112
MINA 0.457323
MKD 1.130691
MKR 0.000014
MMK 45.012280
MNT 77.156968
MOP 0.173175
MRO 8.559589
MRU 0.855959
MTL 0.007872
MVR 0.331412
MWK 37.210294
MXN 0.363140
MXV 0.041288
MYR 0.086703
MZM 1,368.182579
MZN 1.368183
NAD 0.345208
NEAR 0.012138
NEO 0.010797
NEXO 0.026976
NFT 77,087.657872
NGN 28.945875
NIO 0.789343
NLG 0.040410
NOK 0.200066
NPR 3.285232
NZD 0.035936
OKB 0.000200
OMR 0.008249
ONE 28.726317
OP 0.221331
ORDI 0.005122
PAB 0.021437
PAXG 0.000005
PEN 0.071879
PEPE 6,651.828347
PGK 0.096139
PHP 1.322244
PI 0.235372
PKR 5.955141
PLN 0.079170
POL 0.265216
PTE 3.676275
PYG 129.248426
QAR 0.078032
QNT 0.000347
QTUM 0.026339
ROL 962.929534
RON 0.096293
RPL 0.013163
RSD 2.151547
RUB 1.774872
RUNE 0.047753
RVN 7.077398
RWF 31.548244
SAND 0.486484
SAR 0.080390
SBD 0.171806
SCR 0.301036
SDD 1,286.532373
SDG 12.865324
SEK 0.203020
SGD 0.027234
SHIB 4,318.372087
SHP 0.015710
SIT 4.394323
SKK 0.552426
SLE 0.490915
SLL 490.915100
SNX 0.100702
SOL 0.000243
SOS 12.258313
SPL 0.003573
SRD 0.810682
SRG 810.681882
SSP 120.475288
STD 453.018462
STN 0.453018
STX 0.144362
SUI 0.028955
SVC 0.187576
SYP 278.703954
SZL 0.345208
THB 0.703942
THETA 0.131864
TJS 0.198310
TMM 374.774447
TMT 0.074955
TND 0.062139
TOP 0.051626
TRL 1,030,090.218593
TRX 0.063396
TRY 1.030090
TTD 0.145418
TUSD 0.021471
TVD 0.030070
TWD 0.682728
TWT 0.052173
TZS 56.715395
UAH 0.957503
UGX 79.730144
UNI 0.005646
USD 0.021437
USDC 0.021437
USDD 0.021441
USDP 0.021468
USDT 0.021443
UYU 0.860168
UZS 253.909700
VAL 35.505739
VEB 1,666,187,044.493932
VED 16.615692
VEF 1,661,569.190095
VES 16.615692
VET 4.123236
VND 558.214050
VUV 2.541967
WAVES 0.104100
WEMIX 0.107768
WOO 1.846431
WST 0.058235
XAF 12.028404
XAG 0.000313
XAU 0.000005
XAUT 0.000005
XBT 0.000000
XCD 0.058039
XCG 0.038674
XCH 0.014815
XDC 0.747816
XDR 0.015656
XEC 3,088.596151
XEM 46.727446
XLM 0.115938
XMR 0.000051
XOF 12.028404
XPD 0.000016
XPF 2.188208
XPT 0.000012
XRP 0.016688
XTZ 0.095672
YER 5.082287
ZAR 0.345208
ZEC 0.000037
ZIL 8.475374
ZMK 406.745391
ZMW 0.406745
ZWD 7.758163
ZWG 0.570887
ZWL 1,426.488187

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Cities in Mauritius 110
Browse all cities and towns
Arsenal Baie du Cap Baie du Tombeau Baie Malgache Bambous Beau Bassin-Rose Hill Bel Air Bel Air Rivière Sèche Bel Ombre Benares Bois Cheri Bon Accueil Brisee Verdiere Britannia Calebasses Camp de Masque Camp de Masque Pave Camp Diable Camp Ithier Camp Thorel Central Flacq Centre de Flacq Chamouny Chemin Grenier Clemencia Congomah Coromandel-Graviers Creve Coeur Curepipe D'Epinay Dagotiere Dubreuil Ecroignard Esperance Floreal Fond du Sac Goodlands Grand Baie Grand Baie VCA, East Grand Baie VCA, West Grand Baie-Montagne Goyaves Grand Bois Grand River South East L'Avenir L’Avenir VCA L’Escalier VCA, East L’Escalier VCA, West La Ferme La Laura-Malenga La Tour Koenig Lalmatie Lataniers-Mont Lubin Laventure Le Hochet Long Mountain Mahébourg Mangues-Quatre Vents Mare d’Albert VCA Mare La Chaux Medine-Camp de Masque Melrose Moka Montagne Blanche Morcellement Saint Andre Notre Dame Olivia Oyster Bay Pailles Pamplemousse Petit Gabriel Petit Raffray VCA Piments-Baie Topaze Plaine Corail-La Fouche Corail Plaines des Papayes Pointe aux Piments Port Louis Port Mathurin Port Sud-Est Poste de Flacq Providence Quartier Militaire Quatre Bornes Quatre Cocos Quatre Soeurs Quatre Soeurs VCA Queen Victoria Richelieu VCA, East Ripailles Riviere Cocos Riviere des Anguilles Rivière du Rempart Roche Bon Dieu-Trefles Rose Belle Saint Aubin Saint Julien Saint Julien d'Hotman Saint Pierre Sebastopol Souillac St. Julien d’Hotman VCA, East St. Julien VCA, East St. Julien VCA, West Surinam Terre Rouge Triolet Trou d'Eau Douce Trou d’Eau Douce VCA Vacoas-Phoenix Verdun Villebague

Visa Requirements

Check what visa a citizen of Mauritius needs to enter any country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Mauritius?
The capital of Mauritius is Port Louis.
What currency does Mauritius use?
Mauritius uses the Mauritian rupee (₨) as its official currency.
What language is spoken in Mauritius?
The official language(s) of Mauritius include English, French, Mauritian Creole.
What is the population of Mauritius?
Mauritius has a population of approximately 1,243,741 people.
What region is Mauritius in?
Mauritius is located in Africa, specifically in the Eastern Africa subregion.
What is the international calling code for Mauritius?
The international dialing code for Mauritius is +230.
What time zones does Mauritius observe?
Mauritius observes the following time zone(s): UTC+04:00.
What is the current time in Mauritius?
The local time in Mauritius is currently --:--. This time applies to the primary time zone.
What is the total area of Mauritius?
Mauritius covers a total area of 2,040 km².
How many states or provinces does Mauritius have?
Mauritius is divided into 13 states or provinces.
What are the public holidays in Mauritius in 2026?
You can view the complete list of public holidays for Mauritius in 2026 on the Holidays 2026 page.
What are the visa requirements for citizens of Mauritius?
Visa requirements for citizens of Mauritius vary by destination. Use our Visa Requirements Checker below to look up requirements for any destination country.