NEW YEAR'S DAY (Jan 1)
The island comes alive with fireworks, beach gatherings, and family feasts. It marks the start of a festive season full of joy and island-wide celebration.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Get ready for a smooth and memorable trip to Mauritius. This guide covers everything you need to know—from the best time to visit and how to get here, to transportation, safety tips, and cultural advice. Looking for accommodation? Visit our Where to Stay page for top lodging options across the island.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Mauritius is a year-round destination with a tropical climate. The coast is warmer and sunnier, while the central plateau is cooler and breezier.
Two main seasons:
• Summer (Nov–Apr): Hot & humid | 28–33°C
(Note: Higher rainfall Jan–Mar; cyclone season possible)
• Winter (May–Oct): Cooler & dry | 22–28°C
Tip: Visit between May and early December for fewer crowds and ideal weather.
MAJOR EVENTS
Mauritius celebrates a rich mix of Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Chinese, and Creole traditions throughout the year. Here's a glimpse of the island’s most vibrant events:
CHINESE NEW YEAR (Jan-Feb)
Celebrated by the Chinese-Mauritian community with dragon dances, red lanterns, street food, and fireworks—especially vibrant in Chinatown, Port Louis.
ABOLITION OF SLAVERY (Feb 1)
A national holiday commemorating the end of slavery in 1835. Ceremonies are held at Le Morne and other historical sites honoring freedom and resilience.
CAVADEE (Jan-Feb)
A Tamil festival marked by colorful processions, body piercings, and deep devotion. Participants carry the "Cavadee" and walk in silence to temples.
MAHA SHIVARATRI (Feb-Mar)
The largest Hindu pilgrimage on the island. Thousands walk to Ganga Talao in honor of Lord Shiva, dressed in white and carrying kanwars.
HOLI (Mar)
The Hindu festival of colors, symbolizing joy and unity. Locals gather to throw colored powder, dance, and celebrate the arrival of spring.
INDEPENDENCE DAY (Mar 12)
Marks Mauritius’ independence from British rule in 1968. Celebrated with flag ceremonies, cultural shows, and parades across the country.
UGAADI (Mar-April)
A South Indian New Year celebrated with traditional foods, prayers, and colorful decorations. A time for renewal and community blessings.
EID-UL-FITR (April-varies)
A joyful Muslim holiday marking the end of Ramadan. Celebrated with prayers, charity, and festive meals shared with family and friends.
GANESH CHATURTHI (Aug-Sep)
Honoring the birth of Lord Ganesha. Statues are paraded through streets before being immersed in rivers or the sea with music and chants.
PERE LAVAL PILGRIMAGE (Sep 9)
A Catholic pilgrimage to the tomb of Father Jacques Laval in Sainte-Croix, attracting thousands of worshippers of all faiths.
KREOL FESTIVAL (Oct-last week)
A vibrant celebration of Creole identity with traditional music (séga), dance, food, and cultural events held island-wide, especially in Mahébourg.
DIVALI (Oct-Nov)
The Hindu Festival of Lights. Families decorate homes with lamps and candles to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
CHRISTMAS (Dec 25)
Celebrated with midnight mass, family meals, and beachside barbecues. Shops, homes, and streets light up with tropical Christmas cheer.
MUSIC/FOOD FESTIVALS
Events like Kaz'Out, Reggae Donn Sa, and food fairs across the island celebrate Mauritian music, street food, and global flavors.
GETTING HERE
Mauritius is easily accessible by air and sea, with Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) serving as the main international gateway.
By Air:
Major airlines flying to Mauritius include:
• Air Mauritius (national carrier).
• Emirates, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Saudia, Air Austral, and Kenya Airways.
• Direct flights available from Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and select long-haul routes.
By Cruise:
Cruise ships dock at Port Louis Harbour, with occasional stopovers from major Indian Ocean or world cruise itineraries.
Tips:
• Book 3–6 months in advance for better flight deals.
• Transfers to your hotel are available by private shuttle, taxi, or car rental directly from the airport.
TRANSPORTATION
TAXI
Easy to find, but not metered—agree on fare first. Great for airport transfers and tours.
CAR RENTAL
Best for exploring at your own pace. Drive on the left. A valid license is required.
BUS
Cheap and reliable for towns and cities. Slower, no A/C. Great for local travel.
METRO EXPRESS
Modern light rail connecting Port Louis to Curepipe. Expanding to more towns.
SCOOTER
Fun for short trips. Helmet required. Valid license needed.
BIKE
deal for scenic rides or national parks. E-bikes available in some areas.
BOAT
Catamarans, water taxis, and private tours for island hopping and marine activities.
PRIVATE DRIVER
Comfortable and stress-free. Great for full-day tours or airport pickups.
TRAVEL TIPS
What to Pack:
Light clothing, beachwear, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, a light jacket, and waterproof bags.
Internet & SIM Cards:
Prepaid SIMs from My.T, Emtel, or Chili are available at the airport and shops. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafés, and malls.
Language & Communication:
English is the official language; French and Creole are widely spoken. Most locals are bilingual or trilingual.
Currency & Payments:
The Mauritian Rupee (MUR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for markets and small vendors.
Local Etiquette:
Dress modestly at religious sites and remove shoes in temples and mosques. Avoid littering and respect nature, especially marine life.
HEALTH & SAFETY
EMERGENCY
Emergency Numbers:
• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 114
• Fire: 115
HEALTHCARE
Public and private clinics are available island-wide. Major hospitals are in Port Louis, Moka, and Curepipe.
VACCINES
No mandatory vaccines for entry. Routine vaccines like Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Typhoid are recommended.
WATER & FOOD
Tap water is mostly safe in cities, but bottled water is better. Enjoy street food, but choose busy, clean vendors.
WATER ACTIVITIES
Follow safety tips for water activities. Watch for strong currents and jellyfish in certain areas and seasons.
INSECTS
Mosquitoes are common. Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and choose places with nets or screened windows.
CRIME
Mauritius is safe, but petty theft can occur. Keep valuables secure and stay alert in crowded areas.
TRANSPORTATION
Roads are safe but narrow in some areas. Use official taxis, wear seat belts, and avoid night travel in rural zones.