Beginners’ Guide to Mauritius Entry Requirements and Customs

Safety and Security in Mauritius

• Crime & Protection:
  • Non-violent crimes like petty theft and burglary are common, particularly in tourist hotspots (e.g., Port Louis, Grand Baie, Flic en Flac).
  • Be extra cautious with personal belongings and avoid risky areas at night.

Stay Safe: Always store your passport and valuables in a secure hotel safe. Trust your instincts when navigating unfamiliar areas.

• Reporting Issues:
  If you encounter a problem, contact the Mauritius tourist police immediately by dialling 999.

Laws and Cultural Differences

• Personal Identification:
  Always carry your passport or a valid driving license.
• Cigarette Papers:
  Possession or importation is illegal.
• Drug-Related Offences:
  Penalties are severe, including prolonged detention without bail.

Legal Reminder: When traveling, pack your own items and avoid carrying items on behalf of others to stay clear of legal troubles.

• Police Investigations:
  If you’re under investigation, understand that you might be charged and barred from leaving the country until the matter is resolved.

Driving in Mauritius

• Important Driving Rules:
  • Traffic drives on the left.
  • Your country’s license is valid for the first 4 weeks; an International Driving Permit is required afterwards.
  • Observe speed limits: 40 km/h (urban), 80 km/h (main roads), 110 km/h (motorway).

Driver’s Tip: Always carry your driving license, and take extra caution on busy roads where pedestrian crossings might not be respected.

• Road Conditions:
  Roads may be challenging with heavy traffic and occasional accidents. Pedestrians and cyclists share many roads, so extra vigilance is needed.

Sea Travel & Extreme Weather

• Sea Travel:
  Be aware of piracy risks in the Gulf of Aden and parts of the Indian Ocean. Modern counter-piracy measures help, but caution is still advised.
• Weather Alerts:
  • Tropical Cyclones: Occur from November to May. Always follow local advisories.
  • Landslides: Some regions are prone to heavy rains—stay updated with local warning systems.

Weather Alert: Monitor local forecasts and heed advisories. In a cyclone, it’s critical to follow government instructions to ensure your safety.

In terms of extreme weather and natural disasters, it’s crucial to know how to prepare and respond to such events.

Tropical cyclones are a seasonal occurrence in Mauritius, typically from November to May. In the event of a cyclone, it is important to heed the guidance provided by the Mauritian government information service. The Mauritius Meteorological Services offers a structured system of phased warnings for such situations. Cyclones can lead to significant property damage. During these events, exiting one’s accommodation is prohibited, and car insurance policies may be rendered void.