Other practical information for Mauritius

Baggage and equipment to bring

At any time of year, pack light clothing plus a sweater for evenings, "altitude", or air conditioning. Don’t forget sun protection, but above all, rain gear—rain is common in Mauritius, especially during the southern summer.

When visiting Hindu temples, choose appropriate and "respectful" clothing (leather shoes and belts, for example, must be removed before entering).

Communications

Telephone

Country code: (00 +) 230.

International phone cards are sold in many shops.

Internet

Internet access is primarily available in the capital and beach resorts. More broadly, Wi-Fi is now widely available across the country, especially in hotels of all categories.

Post

Post offices are open from 8:30 AM to 3:30/4:00 PM on weekdays and Saturday mornings. You’ll find them in towns and most villages in Mauritius.

Time difference

Local time: Heure : 2379.

Mauritius (as well as Rodrigues or Réunion) is on GMT+4. This means it’s two hours ahead of France in summer and three hours ahead in winter.

Electricity

230 volts (50 Hz) with "French" plugs (officially type C) and "British" plugs (type G). In short, depending on the case, you may sometimes need an adapter (easily available locally).

Opening hours

Shops are generally open in major cities and tourist areas from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM Monday to Saturday (some also open Sunday mornings). Banks are open weekdays from 9:15 AM to 3:15 PM (5:00 PM on Fridays).

Laundries

Local tourist offices

Weights and measures

Mauritius uses the metric and decimal system, like France.

Use of French

French is one of the four main languages spoken in Mauritius, alongside English, Mauritian Creole, and Bhojpuri, an Indian dialect. Since most Mauritians are polyglot, you’ll generally always find someone who speaks French.