Holidays to Mauritius are big on unreal beaches, natural beauty and a sweet combo of cultures.
Tropical treasure
This island’s a winner with honeymooners, but you don’t need a partner to pick Mauritius. It’s got a rainforest full of waterfalls and zip lines, peak-filled national parks with unreal views, and no end of breathtaking beaches. Plus, you can dive down to see coral reefs or dive into a hefty plate of French-Creole cuisine by the water’s edge. What’s not to love?
East to west
Mauritius is ready for your post-holiday photo dump. The most talked-about beaches can be found along the west and east coasts and they’re primed to picture-perfection with crystal sands and reef-sheltered lagoons. Belle Mare and Flic en Flac battle it out to be the best of the best. And Trou d’eau Douce goes big on watersports and beachfront bars.
Wild south
The south is a sure spot for both sunbathers and hikers. Take Bel Ombre, whose huge, sandy beach is parked in front of a thick forest. There’s a nature reserve just behind it and the Black River Gorges National Park beyond that. It’s the best of both worlds. And that’s not the only green you’ll see – it’s got an 18-hole golf course, too. Meanwhile, nearby Le Morne is another win with its watersports and off-shore reef.
Bubbly north
The northern tip of the island is known for being a bit of a tourist trap. But for good reason. The main magnet’s Grand Baie and its massive beach, posh hotels and cracking nightlife. The rest of the north has taken a chill pill. Calodyne and Balaclava give you a taste of the real Mauritius. Think nap-friendly coves and sleepy sands.
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Mauritius FAQs
UK citizens can visit Mauritius without a visa for up to 90 days. You must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity after your stay. You might also be required to show proof of accommodation, a return plane ticket and evidence of sufficient funds for your trip on arrival.
This information is correct at the time of writing. Please make sure you check the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information.
The best time to visit Mauritius is pretty much whenever. You’ve got temperatures in the high 20s and early 30s with a few showers between December and April – the east coast is the best side to visit at this time of year and it’s the best season for diving, too. Then, things in May to November are more like mid-20s, and it’s much drier at this time. The weather is the best on the west coast during their winter.
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Mauritius, but we recommend taking insect repellent to avoid getting mosquito bites, especially in less built-up areas.
When you visit religious sites like temples or mosques, try to cover your shoulders and legs – an easy hack is to bring a scarf or a sarong with you to quickly throw on when you’re out and about. If you want to go inside a temple or someone’s home, it’s respectful to take off your shoes and leave them at the door.
English is widely spoken in touristy areas, but it’s good to make an effort by learning a few local phrases. French and Hindi are spoken in Mauritius, so greeting locals by saying ‘bonjour’ or ‘namaste’ is always appreciated.
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but leaving a 5–10% tip is a good amount if you enjoyed a meal or a guided tour.
The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, resorts and larger restaurants, it’s a good idea to carry cash for street markets and small businesses – order yours with our Travel Money service.
Tap water is considered fine to drink in hotels, but stick to bottled water if you have a sensitive stomach or if you’re in a rural area.
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Mauritius travel advice
Passports and Visas
British passport holders don’t need a visa to enter Mauritius but must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mauritius/entry-requirements.
Don’t forget to arrange your travel money and insurance before you go.
Health and safety
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. If you’re planning on diving, check your policy covers you for this. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mauritius/health
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