Mauritius

The Republic of Mauritius is a small island nation consisting of four inhabited and several other islands in the southwestern Indian Ocean. Mauritius has a stable government and a diverse economy. Its 2013 per capita GDP of US $9,136 is one of the highest in Africa. Facilities for tourism are well-developed. Although English is the administrative language, Creole and French are the languages used in daily life. English may not be understood outside of main towns and tourist areas. The capital city is Port Louis. Read the Department of State's Fact Sheet on Mauritius for additional information.

Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS:  While in Mauritius, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States.

Driving is on the left side of the road. Roads are frequently narrow and uneven with inadequate lighting, making night driving hazardous. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour and all road and traffic signs are posted in English. Drivers and all passengers are required to wear seat belts. Drivers and passengers on motorcycles are required to wear helmets. Babies and toddlers should be placed in child seats. Many accidents occur due to excessive speed and violations of road regulations.

Drivers involved in an accident are required by law to remain at the scene until the police arrive. However, if an angry crowd gathers and those involved in the accident feel threatened, police and judicial authorities have in the past not taken action against drivers who leave the scene if they have proceeded directly to a police station. In cases of accidents involving two parties but which involve no injuries and where drivers are not under the influence of alcohol/drugs, drivers may fill out and sign an “Agreed Statement of Facts.” Police presence is not required for this. Each party should retain one copy of the statement to claim auto insurance reimbursement.

While there are organizations that provide emergency or roadside assistance, their resources and capabilities are limited and on occasion they are unable to respond in non-life threatening incidents.

Public transportation by bus is available between the main towns until 9:00 p.m. and in remote areas until 6:00 p.m. Taxis are also available.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest you visit Mauritius’ National Tourism Authority and the National Authority for Road Safety for additional information.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Mauritius, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Mauritius’ Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Safety and Security

U.S. citizens should avoid crowds and street demonstrations, and maintain a low profile.  Women should avoid walking alone, particularly on public beaches and at night. There have been occasional reports of robberies, sexual assault, and harassment of foreign travelers.  Prior to engaging in ocean sports activities, visitors should ensure that equipment operators have proper licenses and safety equipment.

To stay connected:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.
• Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy in Mauritius on Facebook by visiting the Embassy’s website.
• In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
• Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and checking for useful tips for traveling safely abroad

CRIME: Violent crime is increasingly common as is petty crime. Thefts in tourist areas are a concern and often a crime of opportunity. Visitors should keep track of their belongings at all times due to the potential for pick-pocketing and purse-snatching, especially in crowded areas. Residential break-ins are reported frequently on the island. While break-ins are often surreptitious, there have been reports of armed robbery and assault involving weapons such as knives or machetes. It is unwise to walk alone at night outside the immediate grounds of hotels. Foreigners should exercise caution on beaches and poorly lit or deserted areas at night as all Mauritian coastline is public access property. 

VICTIMS OF CRIME:  If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can:

• Replace a stolen passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
• Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, we can contact family members or friends.
• Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.  

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Mauritius is:  999 for police, 114 for emergency medical assistance, and 115 for the fire service.

Please see our information on Victims of Crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.