Security travel advice for Mauritius

How safe is Mauritius?

Threat level: Low

COVID-19 Situation in Mauritius

Due to the sanitary situation in Mauritius and around the world, Mauritius is in lockdown since the 10th of March 2021. International flights have been halted since the 6th of March and until further notice, and public transport services have been suspended. Only essential businesses are open including supermarkets, bakeries, banks and butchers shops but access is only granted on certain days according to the first letter of residents' surnames. Access to public places such as beaches is forbidden and public facilities including hospitality businesses and entertainment venues are closed. Travellers who are allowed entry to Mauritius must present a negative PCR test result on arrival taken no more than 7 days prior to arrival, quarantine for 14 days on arrival in a government-approved hotel and undergo three other separate tests on arrival, on the 7th and 14th day of their stay. To control the spread of the virus, the use of face masks is mandatory in public and people must maintain social distancing. For more advice on preventive measures to follow, refer to our healthcare section.

Security in Mauritius

Most visits to Mauritius are trouble-free with the crime rates being relatively low and the threat of terror attacks almost non-existent. Mauritius thrives off its tourist industry, areas including Port Louis, Grand Baie and Flic en Flac are very popular but you should be aware of pick pockets operating in these areas.

Recent Security Risk Events
Most crimes against tourists are not violent, but offensive weapons have been used in some attacks on tourists. Although uncommon, there have been some instances of sexual assault.

The majority of crime in Mauritius is related to pickpocketing. Avoid carrying large sums of cash or have expensive jewellery on display and exercise extra vigilance in crowded areas.

Security Risks
There have been some reports of people being mugged at ATMs but this isn’t thought to be specifically aimed at tourists. As Mauritius is a safe country to visit, staying vigilant and taking sensible precautions during your visit will help to ensure you don’t fall victim to any crimes. Avoid walking alone at night on beaches or in poorly lit areas.

Mauritius's International Relations

Mauritius has strong diplomatic relationships with many western countries, as well as with South Asian countries and the countries of southern and eastern Africa. It is a member of the World Trade Organization, and the Commonwealth of Nations. Mauritius is a member state of La Francophonie, and has deep ties with France.

Travelling around Mauritius

You can drive using a UK driving licence, most EU licenses and US licences but you must have it with you at all times while driving. The standard of driving is quite low and there are frequent minor accidents on both rural and urban routes.

Visitors are advised to be particularly cautious when driving after dark as pedestrians and unlit motorcyclists are serious hazards.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

Emergency Services in Mauritius

Police emergency: 999
Medical emergency: 115
Fire emergency: 114
Traffic accidents: GGSR (le groupement général de la sécurité routière): 119

Mauritius Overview

Capital: Port Louis
Official languages: French
Religion: Hinduism and Buddhism
Currency: Mauritian Rupee

Consular information for Mauritius

U.S. Embassy Port Louis
4th Floor, Rogers House,
John Kennedy Avenue,
P.O. Box 544,
Port Louis,
Mauritius
Telephone: +(230 202 4400
Email: usembass@intnet.mu

British High Commission Port Louis
Edith Cavell St.
Port Louis,
Mauritius
Telephone: +230 202 9400
Email: bhc@intnet.mu

Visa requirements for Mauritius

Any travellers to Mauritius for tourist purposes or short business trips will not need a visa for stays shorter than 60 days. A stamp will be issued in your passport upon arrival to the country and you may have to prove evidence of onwards travel or a return ticket.

Healthcare and Immunisations

COVID-19 cases have been reported in Mauritius. There is no vaccination against the disease, protection is through preventive measures. To avoid contracting the disease, self-isolate, apply good hygiene practices, maintain social distancing, avoid unnecessary gatherings and travel.

It is advised that visitors to Mauritius are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is recommended for most travellers to also get a Tetanus and Hepatitis A.

Although there is no risk of Yelow Fever in Mauritius, if you are coming from a country where there is a risk of Yellow Fever, or transiting for longer than 12 hours in an at risk country, you will have to provide a certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination. Check with your local health professional prior to travel if you are unsure.

Stonefish live on the shores of Mauritius and their sting can easily kill fully grown adults. You should stay wary when bathing in the sea and listen to any warnings that may be issued. Many hotels stock anti-venom serum in the event that someone does step on one.

The health care is of a relatively high standard but can be expensive. It is advised to purchase adequate travel insurance to cover the cost of all medical treatment including medical evcuation if necessary.