Transport in Mauritius: how to get around the island

Mauritius is far too diverse to be limited to one beach. When planning routes, it is important to understand this: the way you get around shapes the format of your whole day. And the type of transport you choose will affect not only your budget, but also the number of places you will manage to see. In this article, we have gathered everything you need to know about transport in Mauritius so that your trip works out in the best possible way.

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Car rental in Mauritius

Renting a car is considered the best way to see the real Mauritius, but it requires readiness for left-hand traffic. Roads outside the main highway are often narrow and winding, and in some places turn into real serpentines buried in greenery.

Driving rules in Mauritius

• You can rent a car and drive from the age of 21, and your driving experience must be at least 1-2 years.
• For drivers under 24-25 years old, some companies may charge an additional fee, the so-called "young driver surcharge".
• Holders of driving licences that do not use the Latin alphabet will need either an international driving permit or a certified translation into English.
• The speed limit is up to 40 km/h in cities, up to 80 km/h on open roads, and up to 110 km/h on the motorway.
• The permitted alcohol level is 0.05% (50 mg/100 ml of blood). Using a mobile phone while driving is also strictly prohibited.

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How much does car rental cost in Mauritius

The cost of renting a compact car is approximately 30-40 euros per day. At the same time, seasonality should be taken into account: during periods of high demand, prices can rise noticeably, while in the low season, rental can cost less.

Be prepared for a deposit of 20,000-25,000 MUR (about 370-470 euros), which is blocked on the card or left in cash. The price may vary depending on the type of car and the company. The deposit is returned when the car is returned without damage and fines and with a full fuel tank, if the vehicle was issued on such terms. If the tank is not full on return, the refuelling cost will be deducted from the deposit.

Some companies offer rental without a deposit (Zero Deposit). You can choose so-called full insurance, which saves you from additional hassle. You pay a small amount for each rental day (usually 5-10 euros).

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Taxis in Mauritius

If you do not want to get used to a right-hand drive car, a taxi will be the ideal solution. In Mauritius, it is an important part of the tourist infrastructure: drivers often act as guides and know the best lunch spots hidden from tourists' eyes.

You can take a metered ride or agree on a fixed price with the driver in advance. There is no Uber on the island, but it is partly replaced by the Yugo, DodoGo, Taxi Service Mauritius apps and others.

Taxi prices in Mauritius

A transfer from the airport to popular resorts such as Grand Baie or Flic-en-Flac will cost about 50 euros. At the same time, hiring a taxi with a driver for the day starts from 130-150 euros. This is the most convenient format for visiting tourist places, because in one day you can cover several landmark spots at once, while the driver usually waits for you in the car park.

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Metro in Mauritius

The modern overground metro LRT (Metro Express) is the pride of the island and a salvation from traffic jams. The metro connects the capital Port Louis with towns in the central part of the island.

Cash is not accepted in the carriages. Tickets must be bought from machines at the stations. The most convenient option is to buy an MECard Adult for 150 MUR, 100 of which is already on the balance, and top it up as needed. Trains run from 05:30 to 21:00 every 10-15 minutes.

Yashveer Poonit, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Buses in Mauritius

Mauritius's bus network is the most budget-friendly and colourful way to get around, although it requires more time. There are standard and express routes. Standard buses stop on passengers' request, which makes the trip long but very cheap. Express routes are a little more expensive and save travel time.

Bus fares and traffic

The fare ranges from 15 to 50 MUR and is paid only in cash. Always keep your ticket until the end of the journey, as there may be ticket control. There are no unified travel passes for tourists.

Buses run approximately every 15-30 minutes on the main routes and much less often in rural areas. Keep in mind that bus service on the island is not 24 hours. In urban areas, service stops around 20:00, and in the countryside, the last buses may leave as early as 18:00.

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Other means of transport

Besides taxis, cars and buses, Mauritius offers a number of alternative ways to get around.

Scooters and bicycles. A great way to avoid parking problems in popular tourist areas. Renting a scooter costs about 15-25 euros per day. Many hotels also offer bicycle rental, which is convenient if you plan short rides on quiet roads.

Boats and catamarans. For some places that are not accessible from land, boats and catamarans remain the optimal transport. Sea trips open up wide opportunities for snorkelling in Mauritius.

Helicopters. The best way to appreciate the scale and natural beauty of the island is from above. Helicopter excursions are not just a means of transport, but an exclusive chance to see the famous "underwater waterfall", to which there are no walking trails.

Excursion minibuses. A comfortable minibus will pick you up right from your hotel and take you to the main sights accompanied by a professional guide.

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