Time zone: UTC + 4
Currency: The monetary unit is the Mauritian Rupee (Rs) which is divided into 100 cents. Major currencies such as US Dollars, Euros, and even South African Rands are accepted in most hotels and by many vendors. You can exchange your currency at the airport or draw from an ATM.
Language: English and French are generally accepted as the official languages (with French being the most dominant), and Creole is the most commonly used language on the street.
Transportation: The best way to get around Mauritius is by hiring a car, taking a taxi or using public transportation such as buses.
Cuisine: While the island’s hotels and resorts offer some of the most special dining experiences, you’ll need to venture further afield for an authentic taste of the island. Lunch is the best time to try a local restaurant, or for the more adventurous, Mauritian street food is widely available in towns and markets.
Safety: Mauritius is a safe tourist destination, but it is always a good idea to take basic precautions like locking your doors and windows, keeping your valuables safe, and being aware of your surroundings.
Tipping: In restaurants where no service charge is added, you could leave 5% to 10% of the bill, according to your satisfaction with the service. Porters should be tipped accordingly. Rs20-40 is acceptable for airport porters. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but they are gratefully received.
Social: Conservative casual wear is generally acceptable everywhere, but dress appropriately when visiting religious shrines (no shorts, mini skirts, etc.) and remove shoes when entering mosques and temples. A large portion of the population is Hindu, so respect their traditions.
Mauritius is a great place to visit year-round due to its tropical climate, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences.
If you enjoy warm and dry weather, then the best time to visit is during the winter months of May to October, when temperatures range from the low to mid-20s°C.
During the summer months (November to April), the average maximum temperature is 31 ° C, while the average minimum temperatures are around 24 ° C. This is the warmest and most humid time of the year, with January and February seeing the most rainfall. If you are staying at this time, it is worth noting that the West Coast usually receives less rain than the East Coast.
Additionally, keep in mind that the peak tourist season in Mauritius is from December to March, so if you prefer fewer crowds, then consider visiting during other months.
The below is for informational purposes, however, for the most up-to-date information, please visit this link.
South African citizens visiting Mauritius for holiday purposes do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days, provided that they have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity on the date of travel and at least two blank pages.
Travellers should ensure that they also have the following documents:
- A return ticket or proof of onward travel.
- Itinerary with proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from a host).
- Sufficient funds to cover your stay in Mauritius.
- It is important to note that visa regulations and requirements can change frequently, so you should check with the nearest Mauritian embassy or consulate or visit the Mauritius Immigration website for the latest information before planning your trip.