Practical A–Z

EU Citizens, Swiss & Austrians

Good news: You do not need a visa for Mauritius. Upon entry, you receive a residence permit for up to 90 days (free, stamped in your passport). You need:

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date.
• Return ticket: Proof of departure (occasionally checked).
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking or address of your accommodation.
• Sufficient financial means: Rarely checked, but theoretically required.

Entry is straightforward and quick — rarely longer than 20 minutes at the immigration counter.

Customs

Duty-free allowances: 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, 2 liters of wine, gifts up to 10,000 MUR. Strictly prohibited: Plants, seeds, fresh food (checked upon entry). Drug possession is punished with draconian penalties in Mauritius — even small amounts of cannabis!

Health

Mauritius is health-wise unproblematic — no malaria risk (malaria-free since 1998!), no mandatory vaccinations for EU citizens. Recommended standard vaccinations: Tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis A. A travel health insurance with repatriation is highly recommended — public hospitals are functional but not up to European standards. Private clinics (e.g., Clinique Darné in Floréal) offer good care but are expensive.

Sun & Heat

The biggest health risk in Mauritius is the sun. UV radiation is extremely high year-round — the UV index regularly reaches 11+ (very high). Sunscreen SPF 50, a hat, and plenty of water are absolutely essential, even on cloudy days. Sunstroke and dehydration are the most common health issues among tourists.

Marine Life

In the lagoon, you might step on sea urchins (water shoes recommended, especially on rocky beach sections). Stonefish are extremely rare but theoretically possible — do not step on rocks in shallow water. Shark attacks are virtually unknown in Mauritius — the coral reef keeps large predators out.

Safety

Mauritius is one of the safest travel destinations worldwide. Violent crime against tourists: practically zero. Pickpocketing occasionally occurs in Port Louis and Grand Baie — normal city caution is sufficient. The police are present and helpful. Emergency numbers: 999 (police), 114 (ambulance), 115 (fire department).

Mobile & Internet

EU roaming does NOT apply in Mauritius! Your German phone works, but at expensive international roaming rates. The best solution: Buy a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport. Providers:

• my.t (Mauritius Telecom): Best network, best coverage. Tourist SIM with 10 GB for about 500 MUR (10€), available at the airport and in shops.
• Emtel: Second largest provider, similar prices and good coverage.

Wi-Fi is available in hotels and most restaurants. In resorts, it is often included, in simpler accommodations sometimes for an additional fee. The speed is generally good — Mauritius has a modern fiber optic network.

Electricity

Mauritius uses 230V with Type G sockets (British, three-pin). You need an adapter! Most hotels have adapters on request, but bring your own to be safe. A universal adapter is the best investment.

Language

Officially, English is the official language, but in everyday life, almost all Mauritians speak French and among themselves Mauritian Creole (Morisyen) — a French-based Creole language. In tourist areas, you can get by everywhere with English or French. German is rarely understood, but in some luxury resorts with German clientele, there is German-speaking staff.

Money & Payment

• Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR). 1€ ≈ 48–50 MUR.
• ATMs: Widely available (MCB, SBM, Barclays). Visa and Mastercard are accepted. Free withdrawals possible (depending on your bank).
• Credit cards: Accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. At market stalls, with street vendors, and in "Boutiks" only cash.
• Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated. 10% in restaurants (if not included in the price), 50–100 MUR for housekeeping per day, 100–200 MUR for taxi drivers on longer trips.

Clothing

• Light, airy clothing: Cotton or linen, preferably long (sun protection + mosquitoes). Light colors reflect the sun better.
• Swimwear: Several sets, as tropical humidity slows drying.
• Light jacket / cardigan: For air-conditioned rooms and cool evenings (especially in the highlands and June–September).
• Sturdy shoes: For hikes in the national park and Le Morne.
• Water shoes / reef shoes: Essential on beaches with corals or sea urchins.
• Rain jacket: Especially November–April (rainy season). Tropical showers are short but intense.

Other

• Sunscreen SPF 50: Reef-safe (without oxybenzone!). More expensive in Mauritius than in Germany — bring your own.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are present year-round, especially at dusk. DEET-based or natural (citronella).
• Plug adapter: Type G (British, three-pin). A must-bring!
• Snorkeling gear: Worth bringing if you have space — rental fees add up (200–500 MUR per day).
• Diving mask: Even for non-snorkelers — the clear water constantly invites underwater viewing.
• Travel pharmacy: Diarrhea medication, sunburn gel, band-aids, ibuprofen. Pharmacies are everywhere, but German brands are expensive.

Cultural Dos & Don'ts

• Clothing at religious sites: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and mosques. Remove shoes before entering.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people — especially during religious ceremonies.
• Topless: Not customary and not recommended on public beaches. Usually tolerated in resorts.
• Bargaining: Bargaining is done at markets — politely but firmly. Prices are fixed in shops and restaurants.
• Friendliness: Mauritians are extremely hospitable. A smile and a "Bonjour!" open all doors. People are proud of their island and gladly share recommendations.