Mauritius

Tour Guide

Mauritius is a year-round destination with two main seasons. The ideal time is May-October (winter) when it's cooler, drier, and less humid with temperatures of 18-26°C. This period offers perfect conditions for hiking, sightseeing, and kitesurfing, especially on east and south coasts. November-April (summer) is hotter and more humid (25-33°C) with occasional tropical showers and cyclone risk from January-March. However, seas are warmer (27-29°C) and landscapes are lush. Mid-December to mid-January sees peak holiday crowds and higher prices but brilliant beach weather. For the best balance of weather, activities, and value, visit during shoulder seasons: May-June or September-October.Read also Best time to visit in Mauritius

Fly into Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) in southeast Mauritius. Direct flights operate from Mumbai (6.5-7 hours) and sometimes Delhi seasonally. Major airlines include Air Mauritius, IndiGo, and Air India. If no direct flights are available, convenient one-stop connections operate via Dubai (Emirates), Abu Dhabi (Etihad), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Nairobi (Kenya Airways). Book early for better fares, especially during peak season (December-January). The airport is well-connected to all resort areas and Port Louis via taxis, hotel shuttles, and car rentals. Airport transfers typically take 45-90 minutes depending on your destination.

Indian passport holders can enter Mauritius visa-free for stays up to 60 days for tourism purposes. You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival date, confirmed return/onward tickets, proof of accommodation (hotel bookings), and sufficient funds (around $100 per day or equivalent). Immigration may ask for these documents at arrival. If planning to stay longer than 60 days, apply for an extension at the Passport and Immigration Office in Port Louis. For business visits or other purposes, check current requirements with the Mauritian embassy. Always verify the latest entry requirements before travel as policies can change.

Mauritius offers diverse transport options. Buses are extensive and inexpensive, connecting all towns and beaches - perfect for budget travel and local experiences. Taxis are abundant with usually fixed fares; confirm prices beforehand or hire for full days. The modern Metro Express light rail connects Curepipe to Port Louis via major urban centers. Self-driving is popular with good roads (drive on left like India); Indian licenses in English are usually accepted, though an International Driving Permit is recommended. Hotel shuttles serve airports and attractions. For flexibility, consider hiring a car with driver for day trips. Bicycles and scooters work well in quieter coastal areas.

Mauritius offers accommodation for all budgets. Luxury resorts dominate: LUX* Belle Mare (east coast), The Oberoi (northwest), JW Marriott at Le Morne (southwest) offer world-class amenities. East coast (Belle Mare, Trou d'Eau Douce) has calmer seas and powdery beaches. West coast (Flic-en-Flac, Tamarin) offers stunning sunsets and dolphin watching. North (Grand Baie) is livelier with nightlife and restaurants. South (Le Morne) provides dramatic mountain backdrops and kitesurfing. Budget options include guesthouses, self-catering apartments, and boutique hotels in coastal towns. Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages. Book early for peak season (December-January) and consider shoulder seasons for better rates and fewer crowds.

Top attractions include Le Morne Brabant (UNESCO site) for hiking and sunset views, and Chamarel's Seven Coloured Earths with nearby waterfalls and rum distilleries. Visit sacred Ganga Talao crater lake with towering Hindu statues, and Aapravasi Ghat (UNESCO) - the historic immigration depot. Île aux Cerfs offers picture-perfect beaches and water sports. Port Louis features vibrant markets and the Blue Penny Museum. Black River Gorges National Park provides hiking trails and endemic wildlife. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden showcases giant water lilies and spice trees. Blue Bay Marine Park offers excellent snorkeling. Don't miss a catamaran cruise to northern islands, street food tours in Port Louis, and traditional Sega dance performances under the stars.Read also Top places to visit in Mauritius

Mauritian cuisine beautifully blends Indian, Creole, Chinese, and French influences. Must-try dishes include dholl puri (flatbread with split pea curry), farata (flaky paratha), and rougaille (tomato-based Creole stew). Sample vindaye (mustard-turmeric marinated fish), Mauritian biryani, and mine frite (fried noodles). Street food gems include gâteaux piments (spicy lentil fritters) and fresh seafood. Sweet treats include napolitaine biscuits and alouda (sweet milk drink). Visit Port Louis Central Market for authentic local flavors. Recommended restaurants: Le Capitaine (Grand Baie), Escale Creole (Moka), and Domaine Anna (Flic-en-Flac). Don't miss rum tasting at Chamarel or St Aubin distilleries, and try Phoenix beer, the local favorite.