Driving on the left in Mauritius is a legacy of the British colonial periodIn 1810, the British governor Sir Robert Townsend Farquhar introduced left-hand traffic on the island to facilitate travel around the port of Port Louis. Since then, all Mauritian cars have driven on the left — and vehicles are therefore equipped with a right-hand drive, as in the United Kingdom, Australia, India or Japan.

For visitors coming from countries where they drive on the right—particularly in continental Europe, the Americas, or French-speaking Africa—it's a change that requires some adjustment. But rest assured: the vast majority of drivers adapt quickly, often within the first few hours on the road.

Adapting to driving on the left is quicker than you might think. Here are the most helpful tips to make the transition easier.

Choose an automatic car

If you are not used to driving on the right, opt for an automatic transmission during your rental. The gear lever is on your left instead of your usual right — with an automatic transmission, you eliminate this difficulty and can concentrate solely on traffic and driving on the left.

Take the time to settle in before starting

Before leaving the rental agency, calmly settle into the vehicle. Familiarize yourself with the position of the controls—windshield wipers, turn signals, horn. On right-hand drive cars, the controls are often reversed compared to what you're used to: the turn signals are on the right side of the steering wheel and the windshield wipers on the left. Many drivers activate the windshield wipers instead of using their turn signals during the first few days—this is common and harmless.

Stick to the left side of the road

The natural reflex of drivers accustomed to driving on the right is to drift towards the center of the road. Always remember: Your seat is on the leftOn narrow roads where there are no road markings, be especially vigilant. A good visual guideline: the driver should always be on the center of the road, not on the edge.

Affix a visual reminder inside the vehicle

A simple and effective tip: place a small sticker or note on the dashboard with the reminder "Drive Left" Or "Drive on the left"This is particularly useful after a stop — it is often when exiting a car park or a petrol station that the reflex to turn right returns.

Start with short trips

If this is your first time driving on the left, don't head straight for the motorway or Port Louis during rush hour. Start by short, quiet journeysIdeally in a quiet residential area, so you can practice in peace and quiet.

Anticipating the behavior of other users

Mauritian drivers readily use their horns—to signal their presence, to greet others, or to warn of a sharp turn. Don't take it as an aggression: it's a common cultural reflex. Another point to anticipate: buses often stop in the middle of the road When picking up or dropping off passengers, do not always pull over to the side. Keep a safe distance behind them and only overtake them once the door is closed and the bus has moved off.

Priority to the right

This is the point that surprises visitors the most: despite driving on the left, The right-of-way rule remains in effect in Mauritius. At intersections without specific signage, you must yield to vehicles coming from your right. Always approach intersections with caution and never assume you have the right of way.

Roundabouts

Mauritian roundabouts function in the clockwise — It's the opposite of what you're used to if you're from a country where they drive on the right. You enter on the left and turn right to exit. Always use your turn signal to indicate your exit. Anticipate your exit well in advance to avoid any hesitation in the middle of the roundabout.

The overshoot

The overtaking is done from the right In Mauritius — since the overtaking lane is the right-hand lane. Stay in the left-hand lane during normal traffic, and only use the right-hand lane to overtake before merging back into the right-hand lane.

Safety rules

• Seat belt required both at the front and at the rear.
• Helmet required for motorcycles and scooters.
• Phone while driving prohibited — checks are frequent.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol is severely punished. — in 2026, Mauritius reintroduces the points-based driving licence with deductions ranging from 2 to 10 points depending on the severity of the offences.
• Child seats are mandatory. depending on the child's age and size.

The signage

Good news: the road signs conform to international standards and written in English. You should have no difficulty understanding them regardless of your native language.

The speed limits in Mauritius are as follows:

• 40 to 50 km/h in urban areas and metropolitan areas
• 80 km/h on main roads outside built-up areas
• 110 km/h on the highway

Caution: Speed limits are not always posted on all roads. In the absence of a sign, follow the general limits mentioned above. On winding or poorly maintained roads, reduce your speed accordingly. The penalty point system, reintroduced in 2026, penalizes speeding—exceeding the limit by less than 15 km/h is punishable by a fine of approximately Rs 2,500.

The highway

Maurice has two free highwaysThe main road is a four-lane highway that crosses the island from north to south, from the airport to Grand Baie. If you arrive by car from SSR Airport, you will almost certainly take it. Important point: The releases are not announced in advance. — Pay attention to the signs and stay alert so you don't miss your exit.

The main roads

The main roads are generally in good condition and pleasant to drive on. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour, particularly around Port Louis, Curepipe and Phoenix — avoid these areas between 7am-9am and 4pm-6pm if possible.

Secondary and rural roads

The quality of the roads is highly variable depending on the area. Off the main roads, you may encounter narrow roads, potholes, and a lack of road markings. To access certain tourist sites—such as the trailheads at Le Morne Brabant—you may even have to travel on dirt tracks, which can be difficult in wet weather.

Driving in rainy weather and during cyclone season

From November to April, Mauritius is in its rainy season and can be affected by tropical cyclones. Even outside of cyclone warnings, downpours can be sudden and intense. Roads quickly become slippery, some low-lying areas flood, and debris carried by the water can clog the roads. Reduce your speed significantly as soon as the first rains begin.Turn on your headlights and avoid crossing flooded roads if you don't know the depth. In the event of a cyclone warning of category 2 or higher, it is recommended not to drive at all.

Night driving

There is no street lighting on many secondary roads. Be especially careful at night. stray animals (Dogs, cats), lack of road markings and reduced visibility. Reduce your speed and use your headlights.

Parking

Parking spaces are scarce in city centers like Port Louis. Avoid double parking or blocking entrances—tickets and wheel clamps are common. Some car parks are pay-and-display with set hours: check the signs before leaving your vehicle.

Which driver's license is valid in Mauritius?

For a stay less than 4 weeksYour national driving license is sufficient for renting and driving in Mauritius—no international driving permit is required. For rentals exceeding four weeks, an international driving permit or an extension is necessary. Reputable rental agencies will ask you to present your license along with an English translation if it is not already in Latin characters.

Rental conditions

• Minimum age : 21 years old in general (varies depending on the agency and vehicle category). Some rental companies apply additional fees for drivers under 24 or 25 years old.
• Minimum experience : 1 to 2 years of driving licence depending on the agencies.
• Insurance Basic insurance is included in the rental. Additional coverage (CDW) is strongly recommended to cover the excess in case of damage.

For everything related to rates, available agencies, and advice on choosing your vehicle, please consult our Complete guide to car rental in Mauritius.

Fuel

Fuel prices are set by the Mauritian government through the Petroleum Pricing Committee (PPC). As of March 25, 2026, pump prices are as follows:

• Petrol (Mogas): Rs 58.45 per litre — price unchanged
• Diesel (Gas Oil): Rs 64.80 per liter — up 10% since March 2026

These rates are subject to change with each revision of the PPC — check the prices in effect at the time of your stay on the Mauritian authorities' website. Local peculiarity: you don't fill up the tank yourself — A gas station attendant will take care of it for you. Gas stations usually close after 8 or 9 pm — remember to fill up before then.

• Turn right after a stop — This is the riskiest moment. When leaving a parking lot, gas station, or accommodation, the natural reflex is to turn back the wrong way. Make it a habit to always check before starting.
• Ignoring roundabouts — Their direction of traffic is reversed compared to what you are used to. Always observe before entering.
• Underestimating secondary roads — a road that looks fine on a map may turn out to be narrow and degraded on the ground.
• Driving during rush hour in Port Louis — the capital can be very congested in the morning and late afternoon.
• Forgetting that the windshield wipers and turn signals are reversed — You'll probably activate the windshield wipers instead of using your turn signal initially. It's harmless, but it can be surprising.
• Do not clear the GPS cache — If your navigation app has been used in a country where they drive on the right, check that it is correctly configured for driving on the left. Waze works well in Mauritius.
• Don't anticipate bus stops — Mauritian buses sometimes stop in the middle of the road without pulling back into the lane. Always keep a safe distance behind them and wait for them to start moving again before overtaking.
• Driving fast in the rain — Wet roads in Mauritius can be very slippery, especially in the first few kilometers of a downpour. Reduce your speed as soon as the first drops appear.

To plan your travels on the island beyond using a car, consult our Complete guide to transportation in Mauritius which also covers taxis, buses and the Metro Express.

Is it difficult to drive on the left in Mauritius?

No, most drivers adapt quickly, often within a few hours. The main difficulty is correcting their usual reflexes, especially after a stop. By choosing an automatic car and starting with short, calm journeys, the transition is usually seamless.

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Mauritius?

For stays of less than 4 weeks, your national driving licence is sufficient. An international driving permit is only required for stays of more than 4 weeks or for foreign residents who wish to drive permanently on the island.

Which way do the roundabouts turn in Mauritius?

Roundabouts in Mauritius are taken in the clockwise — It's the opposite of countries where they drive on the right. You enter on the left and exit on the right. Always use your indicator to signal your exit.

Is the priority left or right in Mauritius?

Despite driving on the left, priority remains on the right at intersections without specific signage. This is a point that often surprises visitors — always approach intersections with caution and without assuming your right of way.

Can Waze or Google Maps be used in Mauritius?

Yes, both apps work well in Mauritius. Waze is particularly popular with locals. Consider downloading offline maps if you plan to drive in areas with poor network coverage.

Are the roads in good condition in Mauritius?

The main roads and highway are generally in good condition. However, secondary roads can be narrow and riddled with potholes. For some tourist sites outside the main areas, dirt tracks are unavoidable. During the rainy season, some secondary roads may become temporarily impassable.

Is it possible to drive at night in Mauritius?

Yes, but with caution. There is no street lighting on many secondary roads. Stray animals may cross the road at any time. Reduce your speed and avoid unfamiliar roads at night if possible.

What is the speed limit on the motorway in Mauritius?

The speed limit on the motorway is 110 km/hIn built-up areas, the speed limit is 40 to 50 km/h depending on the zone. On main roads outside built-up areas, it is 80 km/h.

Is it possible to drink alcohol and drive in Mauritius?

No. Driving under the influence of alcohol is severely punished in Mauritius. Since 2026, the penalty point system has reintroduced stricter sanctions — driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is among the most heavily penalized offences, with a deduction of up to 10 points.

Where can I find petrol in Mauritius?

Gas stations are plentiful along the main roads. They generally close after 8 or 9 pm—remember to fill up before dark. A local peculiarity: an attendant will fill your tank for you; you don't have to get out of your vehicle.

Is it possible to rent a car directly from Mauritius airport?

Yes. Major international and local car rental agencies are present at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. It is highly recommended to Reserve your vehicle before your departure To get the best rates and guarantee availability, find all the details in our Complete guide to car rental in Mauritius.

How can you find your way around if you don't have an internet connection?

Download Mauritius maps for offline use on Waze or Google Maps before you leave. You can also get a local SIM card from the moment you arrive to stay connected at a lower cost throughout your stay — which handles both navigation and communication.