Things to Know Before Visiting Mauritius – Essential Travel Tips
- rachnamone
- Aug 5, 2019
- 8 min read
Updated: Mar 20
Why Mauritius is the Perfect Family Getaway
Mauritius is a stunning island in the Indian Ocean, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families. As young parents, you want a vacation that’s not too far from home, popular but not overcrowded, and relaxing without being all resort time. Mauritius checks all these boxes – you can enjoy beautiful beaches, scenic drives, and fun activities at your own pace, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether it’s dolphin watching, exploring nature parks, or simply soaking up the sun, Mauritius is the ideal family-friendly destination for a memorable getaway. In this guide, we explore some of the important things to know before visiting Mauritius, so that you can have a fun and relaxed trip with family!
Here are the things to know before visiting Mauritius
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll learn in this guide and the key things to know before visiting Mauritius with your family. Read on for details!
Mauritius Visa for Indians
Indian passport holders are in luck—no visa is required for short stays in Mauritius (up to 90 days). You simply need to carry:
A valid passport
Return or onward tickets
Proof of hotel bookings or accommodation
Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
The entry process is straightforward and hassle-free, making Mauritius a stress-free destination for families planning a quick getaway.
Best Time to Visit Mauritius
The ideal time for a family trip is between May and December, when the weather is pleasant, dry, and less humid.
May to October: Cooler, dry, and perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and beach walks.
November to December: Warm and sunny, great for swimming, snorkeling, and water activities.
Avoid: January to March if possible, as this is the hottest and most humid period, with occasional cyclones.
Family Tip: Visiting during the shoulder months (May, June, November) often gives better hotel deals and fewer crowds, making it ideal for kids.
How to get to Mauritius
Several airlines operate flights to Mauritius from India, including Air India, Air Mauritius, and Indigo. From Mumbai, it’s approximately a 6-hour flight, making it a convenient destination for a short international getaway.
💡 Tip: Book your flights in advance to get the best deals.
Mauritius’ main airport, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, is located outside the capital, Port Louis. Once you land, taxis and car rentals are easily available to get you to your hotel or start exploring the island.
Currency
The local currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR), which is roughly 1 MUR ≈ 1.8 INR.
💡 Travel Tip: It’s a good idea to carry some euros or US dollars and exchange a small amount at the airport upon arrival, or simply withdraw cash from ATMs once you land.
Most hotels, restaurants, and grocery stores accept credit or foreign exchange cards, so you can travel light. Cash is usually only needed for small local restaurants, markets, or certain attractions.
Food
Mauritius boasts a diverse culinary scene influenced by French, Indian, and Creole flavors. Thanks to tourism, finding comfort or Western food to satisfy picky young travelers is easy, with plenty of cute bakeries around the island.
Large grocery stores stock a wide range of fresh and pre-cooked products, making self-catering convenient for families.
For those eager to try local flavors, Creole cuisine offers a unique taste of the island, while many restaurants also serve authentic Indian dishes.
With this variety, Mauritius ensures all tummies stay full and all palates are happy, from kids to adults.
Accommodation in Mauritius
Mauritius offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for luxury beachfront resorts, cozy homestays, or self-catering holiday rentals, the island has something for everyone.
💡 Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best deals and preferred locations.
We stayed at Esplanade by Horizon in Tamarin (approximately a 1-hour drive from the airport), and it’s a stay we would highly recommend. These beachside serviced apartments are spacious, comfortable, and conveniently located near grocery stores, bakeries, and restaurants—perfect when traveling with kids.
Transportation in Mauritius: Car Rentals, Taxis & Transfers
Now, if you didn’t self-drive, did you even visit Mauritius?! 🚗
Mauritius has well-maintained roads, and like India, they drive on the left side. A valid Indian driving license is accepted for tourists, making car rentals easy and convenient.
Just watch out for pedestrians on narrow streets, but if you’re used to driving in India, you should find it comfortable.
💡Tip: Renting a car gives you freedom to explore at your own pace, especially if you’re visiting beaches, waterfalls, or remote attractions.
If you don’t want to rent a car, don’t worry! Many attractions and resorts offer pick-up and drop services, taxis are widely available, and local buses can also get you around, though they may be slower and less convenient for families with kids.
Things to do in Mauritius
Now where do i even begin? Whether you’re someone who loves adventures, sightseeing, or just relaxing on the beach, Mauritius has something for everyone. 🌴 Families can choose how packed or relaxed their itinerary is—there’s as much or as little to do as you wish!
Adventure & Nature: Explore Black River Gorges National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting, try zip-lining or quad biking at Casela Nature Park, or go kitesurfing and snorkeling at Le Morne.
Sightseeing & Culture: Visit Port Louis’ Central Market, discover colonial history at Aapravasi Ghat, or admire the colorful temples and churches across the island.
Relax & Unwind: Lounge on Flic en Flac or Belle Mare beaches, watch the sunset at Tamarin Bay, or enjoy a catamaran cruise to secluded spots.
Family-Friendly Fun: Dolphin watching tours, La Vanille Crocodile Park, and interactive activities at Eureka House are perfect for kids and parents alike.
No matter your style of travel, Mauritius allows you to craft your own pace—whether it’s a busy adventure-packed trip or lazy days by the beach with ice creams in hand.
Here’s a quick overview of our 5-day Mauritius itinerary and the main activities that we chose to do!
Check out our blog - 5-Day Mauritius Itinerary: Bucket List Family Trip to plan an epic trip to Mauritius!
Language & Communication
Mauritius is a multilingual country. While English is the official language, you will hear French and Mauritian Creole widely spoken in daily life. Most signs, menus, and tourist information are available in English, so getting around major attractions is easy.
In local markets, smaller towns, and with street vendors, French and Creole are more common, and knowing a few basic French phrases—like greetings, numbers, and polite expressions—can make interactions smoother and more enjoyable. For example:
“Bonjour” – Hello
“Merci” – Thank you
“Combien ça coûte?” – How much does it cost?
For families, teaching kids a few simple words can also be fun and engaging, and it helps create positive interactions with locals. Overall, language is rarely a barrier, but a little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother, more immersive experience.
Health & Safety
Tap water in Mauritius is generally safe to drink, but for young children, it’s recommended to use bottled water to avoid any stomach upsets.
As doctor parents, we definitely recommend carrying sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a basic first-aid kit whenever you travel with kids. This helps you be prepared for minor injuries, insect bites, or heat-related issues while exploring the island.
A well-stocked family first-aid kit might include:
Adhesive bandages of various sizes
Antiseptic wipes or solution
Pain and fever relief medicine (like paracetamol or ibuprofen suitable for kids and adults)
Thermometer
Hydrocortisone cream for rashes or insect bites
Oral rehydration salts (useful for kids if they get mild dehydration)
Tweezers and small scissors
With these essentials, you can enjoy your holiday peacefully and safely, knowing that you’re prepared for common travel hiccups.
Power & Plugs
Mauritius uses Type C and Type G electrical plugs with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. This is important to know if you’re planning to charge multiple devices, from phones and cameras to laptops and travel appliances.
For families traveling with kids, it’s a good idea to carry a universal travel adapter to ensure all your devices can be plugged in safely, no matter where you stay. Many resorts and hotels may provide adapters, but it’s not guaranteed, especially in smaller guesthouses or self-catering accommodations.
Tips for Families:
Pack a multi-port USB charger to reduce the number of adapters you need.
Consider a travel power strip if you have multiple devices to charge at once.
Keep child-proof plug covers handy if traveling with toddlers.
Double-check voltage compatibility for devices like hairdryers, electric kettles, or irons.
Being prepared means you can keep all devices charged for photos, navigation, and entertainment, without worrying about compatibility issues while exploring Mauritius.
Local SIM & Connectivity
Mauritius has several local mobile network providers where you can buy affordable SIM cards or eSIMs with data to stay connected for navigation, messaging, and emergencies:
Top local SIM providers:
my.t (Mauritius Telecom): Offers the most extensive network coverage across the island. They also sell tourist SIMs and eSIMs with large data allowances.
Emtel: Another major provider with very good coverage, especially in urban and tourist areas.
How to buy a SIM:
You can purchase SIM cards at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport on arrival, in official operator stores in towns like Port Louis and Grand Baie, or online before you travel.
eSIM Options:
If your phone supports eSIM, both my.t and Emtel offer eSIM plans that you can activate before your trip or on arrival — convenient for immediate data without changing a physical SIM.
Is Mauritius Child-Friendly?
Yes! Mauritius is a fantastic destination for families with kids. 🏖️
Beaches: Plenty of safe, shallow beaches where children can play freely.
Fun Activities: Dolphin watching, snorkeling, and nature safaris that kids love.
Educational & Cultural: Museums, heritage sites, and interactive experiences make sightseeing fun for little ones.
Mauritius makes it easy to balance relaxation with adventure, so both kids and parents can have a memorable holiday.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Mauritius
Mauritius is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly experiences. Whether you’re building sandcastles on pristine beaches, exploring nature parks, or enjoying local cuisine, the island has something for everyone. With a little planning—knowing the best time to visit, arranging transport, carrying essentials like sunscreen and a first-aid kit, and staying connected with a local SIM—you can enjoy a stress-free, memorable holiday with your kids.
Pack your bags, grab your sunhats, and get ready to make beautiful memories on this tropical paradise! 🌴☀️
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Mauritius
Do Indian citizens need a visa for Mauritius?
Indian travelers enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days. Travel insurance is recommended, especially for families.
What is the best time to visit Mauritius?
The best time is May to December, with temperatures from 20°C to 28°C and moderate rainfall — perfect for beaches and sightseeing.
Which areas are best to stay in Mauritius?
West coast (Flic en Flac, Tamarin) for families and beaches; East coast (Belle Mare, Palmar) for resorts and water sports.
What types of accommodation are available in Mauritius?
Options range from luxury resorts with kids’ clubs to holiday rentals and budget-friendly stays.
Is Mauritius child-friendly?
Yes! Beaches, dolphin watching, snorkeling, safari parks, and museums make it ideal for families.
Do I need a local SIM card in Mauritius?
Yes. my.t, Emtel, and MTML offer affordable SIM cards and eSIMs with data for navigation and emergencies.
Can I drive in Mauritius with an Indian license?
Yes. Indian licenses are valid for tourists. Renting a car with full insurance is recommended for safe travel.
What currency is used in Mauritius?
The Mauritian Rupee (MUR) is the local currency. ATMs, credit cards, and airport exchanges are convenient for cash.
What food options are available in Mauritius?
Mauritius offers Creole, Indian, French, and Western cuisines. Grocery stores, bakeries, and restaurants cater to all tastes. Vegetarian food is also easily available.
What plug type and voltage are used in Mauritius?
Mauritius uses Type C & G plugs, 230V, 50Hz. Carry a universal adapter and multi-port charger .
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