Complete Guide to SIM Cards for Tourists in Mauritius

For travelers going to Mauritius, staying connected is often a priority, whether to share photos of heavenly beaches on social networks, use navigation applications, or simply stay in touch with your loved ones thanks to messaging applications like WhatsApp, Messenger, ..., that's why it is advisable to buy a local SIM card.
This detailed guide presents the different SIM card options available for tourists in Mauritius, allowing you to make an informed choice according to your needs.

Telephone operators in Mauritius

(Last update March 2025, if you find that some information is no longer up to date, do not hesitate to Contact us, we will correct this page)
Mauritius has three main telephone operators:

1. My.T (formerly Orange / Mauritius Telecom)

Historical operator and Mauritian market leader, My.T has the most extensive network on the island, offering excellent coverage even in remote areas.

2. Emtel

First private operator on the island, Emtel offers good national coverage and often very competitive packages for tourists.

3. Chile (formerly MTML)

A more modest market in the market, Chile stands out for particularly attractive prices, although its coverage can be slightly less extensive in certain isolated regions.

Tourist SIM cards: Operator options

My.T 5G Tourist SIM

Main Features :

• Validity duration: 30 days
• Complete package including data, calls and SMS
• SIM card price: € 15
• Proposed data: 200 unlimited

Points of sale:

• Counter dedicated to SIR Seewoosagur Ramgolam International Airport
• My.T shops in the main shopping centers and tourist areas
• Some hotels also offer this service at reception

Emtel Tourist Pack

Main Features :

• Validity: 30 days
• Complete package including data, calls and SMS
• SIM card price: 750 rupees (around € 15)
• Data proposed: 200 unlimited (there we admit that we do not understand the concept too much !!)

Points of sale:

• Emtel stand at the airport (open upon arrival of most international flights)
• Emtel shops in the main cities (Port Louis, Grand Baie, four terminals)
• Authorized resellers in tourist areas

Chile Tourist Sim

Main Features :

• Validity: 30 days
• Complete package including data, calls and SMS
• SIM card price: 700 rupees
• Proposed data: 200 GB

Points of sale:

• Chili counter at the airport (more limited hours)
• Chile stores in the main cities
• Some small shops and grocery stores

Purchase and activation procedure

- To buy online, see operators on the sites (generally they ask for the dates of your stay, a photo of your passport, etc.)
- To buy a SIM card in Mauritius, you will have to present:

• Your valid passport
• Your boarding pass or proof of recent entry into the territory (sometimes requested)

Activation process

1. Activation is generally carried out by the seller at the time of purchase or if you buy the SIM card by Internet by the operator agent chosen at his counter at the airport
2. Your identity will be registered in the operator's system (legal obligation)
3. A pin code will be provided to you with the SIM card
4. The connection is usually operational in a few minutes

Configuration of the APN

For some phones, you will have to manually configure the APN (access point):

• For my.t: apn = "myt"
• For Emtel: APN = "Web"
• For Chile: APN = "Internet"

Practical advice

Network coverage

• Coastal and tourist areas : Excellent coverage with the three operators
• Mountainous areas and interior of the island : my.t generally offers the best coverage
• Small surrounding islands (Rodrigues, islets): more limited cover, check with the operator before your excursion

International call options

If you plan to regularly call internationally:

• The use of applications like WhatsApp or Messenger remains the most economical solution (by consuming your data)
• Emtel generally offers the best rates for international calls
• My.t offers specific packs to call certain preferential price destinations

Recharging

Several options are available to recharge your credit or data:

• Recharge cards available in many shops (supermarkets, service stations)
• Online recharge via the operator's website (international bank card accepted)
• Mobile applications of operators allowing recharging
• Official stores of operators

Wi-Fi cover areas

In addition or alternative to SIM cards, Maurice has an increasing network of Wi-Fi access points:

• Hotels and resorts : Generally offer good quality free Wi-Fi to their customers
• Restaurants and cafes : Most tourism establishments offer Wi-Fi access (sometimes with compulsory consumption)
• Shopping centers : The main Malls like Bagatelle, Caudan Waterfront or La Croisette have free Wi-Fi networks
• Public hotspots : Some public beaches and parks are equipped with free Wi-Fi terminals

Special considerations

Data use in Mauritius

Cartography and navigation applications (Google Maps, Waze) are particularly useful for exploring the island but can consume a lot of data. Remember to download the cards in Wi-Fi before your trips.

International roaming

Although some international operators offer Roaming packages including Mauritius, prices are generally high. The purchase of a local SIM card remains the most economical solution for most travelers.

Travel restrictions

Note that certain tourist packages are geographically limited to the main island and may not operate in Rodrigues or in other Mauritian territories with an additional cost.

Conclusion

The purchase of a tourist SIM card in Mauritius is a simple process that will allow you to stay connected throughout your stay at reasonable prices. With three operators offering various and competitive offers, you will certainly find a solution adapted to your needs, whether you are a large consumer of data or occasional user.

For optimal experience, we recommend buying your SIM card in advance on operators' websites or upon your arrival at the airport, where all operators have counters dedicated to tourists with several languages, including French and English.