Getting there & Getting around

Getting there

Apart from a handful of people who arrive by yacht or cruise ship, visitors to Mauritius fly into the country. Many flights originate in France, but there are also flights from several African, Asian and European capitals as well as from the US (via Europe) and Australia. You must have a return or onward ticket before arriving in Mauritius.

Cargo ships ply the Indian Ocean regularly, though few take passengers. You're more likely to find passage on the private yachts that call in at Mauritius outside of cyclone season, berthing at Grand Baie or Port Louis. Still, opportunities are rare. About the only guaranteed way to come or go by sea is to book a fare on the Mauritius Trochetia, or the cheaper and slower Mauritius Pride, which cruises several times a month between Mauritius and Réunion. Twice a month, the Mauritius Trochetia takes in Madagascar as well.

Getting around

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is near Mahébourg in southeastern Mauritius, on the opposite side of the island from Port Louis. While there are no direct airport buses, express buses travel between the capital and Mahébourg several times a day, stopping at the airport. Allow yourself at least two hours from Port Louis. Air Mauritius flies to Rodrigues Island (about 90min) daily; the company also offers helicopter tours (15-20min) of Mauritius.

Mauritian buses are generally good - albeit a bit slow - and can take you to (or near) just about any place on the island. There are several different operators, none of which cover the entire island. Port Louis and Curepipe are the main hubs. Tickets are cheap and should be kept handy, as inspectors check them frequently. Mauritian roads range from smooth to potholed and pavement-free. Driving is sketchy at best on Mauritius, with speed limits often ignored, headlights a rarity and weaving pedestrians all too common. If you think you're up to it, rent a car in one of the major towns or at the airport. Smallish motorbikes can be rented around Grand Baie. Drivers should have an international drivers' licence, and most rental agencies require drivers to be over 23. Driving is on the left. Bicycles and boats can be rented wherever tourists congregate.

Visa information

Citizens of the following countries don't need a visa to enter Mauritius: the EU, the US, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand (among others). Initial entry is granted for a maximum of one month. If your departure plans change, make sure you don't exceed your permitted stay. Extensions for a further three months as a tourist are available from the Passport & Immigration Office (tel: 210 9312; Sterling House, Lislet Geoffrey St, Port Louis). Applications must be submitted with one form, two passport-size photos, your passport, an onward ticket and proof of finances. Two letters may also be necessary - one from you explaining why you want to stay longer, and one from a local sponsor (it can be someone providing accommodation). The police are responsible for passport control - 'get tough' periods are often imposed on tourists who overstay their entry permits.