Renting a car is the most convenient and flexible way to discover Mauritius at your own pace. The island is only 65 km from north to south and 45 km from east to west, making a car perfectly suited for exploring the entire territory.

Rental prices and rates

Rental rates vary depending on the vehicle category, the season and the rental duration.

These prices can increase by 20 to 30% in high season (December to March, July-August).

What is usually included in the price

• Basic insurance Third-party liability insurance is normally included in the rental price. Always check this with the rental company.
• Unlimited mileage (with most rental companies)
• 24/7 breakdown assistance

This is often an additional charge.

• Franchise buyout (CDW – Collision Damage Waiver): approximately €8 to €15 per day to reduce or eliminate the excess in case of an accident
• Additional driver €3 to €5 per day
• GPS €5 to €8 per day (use Google Maps on your phone instead)
• Baby seat / booster seat €3 to €5 per day

The deposit

A security deposit (usually between €700 and €2,000) is held on your credit card when you pick up the vehicle. It is released upon return of the car undamaged. Therefore, ensure you have sufficient credit card credit available.

Formalities and driver's licenses

Minimum age

The minimum age to rent a car in Mauritius varies depending on the rental company:

• Most rental companies accept drivers from 21 years old
• Some local landlords accept from 19 years old
• A "young driver" surcharge (approximately €5 to €10 per day) may apply for drivers under 25.

Driving license

For a tourist stay of less than 4 weeks, your French driving licence is sufficient. You do not need an international driving permit. Beyond 4 weeks, an international driving permit is required.

Documents to present when picking up the vehicle:

• Valid French driving licence (held for at least 1 year)
• Passport
• International bank card in the name of the main driver (for the deposit)

Driving on the left and traffic rules

Adapting to driving on the left

Some tips to get used to it quickly:

• Take the time to familiarize yourself with the vehicle in the rental company's parking lot before venturing out onto the road.
• For the first few days, avoid busy roads during rush hour.
• In roundabouts, we turn clockwise
• With the steering wheel on the right, the turn signals and windshield wipers are reversed compared to French cars.
• Repeat to yourself mentally "I stay on the left" at intersections and after stops.

Speed limits

Fixed and mobile speed cameras are present on the island. Speeding is punished with substantial fines.

Other important rules

• Wearing a seatbelt is OBLIGATORY for all passengers
• Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited (except with a hands-free kit).
• The permitted blood alcohol level is 0.2 g/L of blood (equivalent to approximately half a glass)
• Children under 3 years old must travel in a suitable car seat
• Honking is very common in Mauritius — don't take it as an aggression, it's often just to announce your presence.

Fuel

Fuel prices are set at the national level and are identical in all service stations on the island, regardless of the brand.

Price in February 2026:

• Essence : 58.45 Rs / liter (around €1.06)
• Diesel: 58.95 Rs / liter (around €1.07)

Gas stations are plentiful and easily accessible throughout the island. Most are open from 6am to 8pm on weekdays, with sometimes reduced hours on Sundays.

Parking

Parking in Mauritius is generally easy and inexpensive.

Free parking

• Most hotels, restaurants and shops have free parking.
• Public beaches usually have free parking areas
• In rural and tourist areas, roadside parking is free.

Paid parking

In city centers (Port Louis, Quatre Bornes, Rose Hill), parking may be subject to a fee. Information on municipal public parking rates is not centrally available, but costs are generally modest (a few dozen rupees for several hours).

Road conditions

The condition of the roads in Mauritius is generally good, but varies greatly depending on the area.

Highways and main roads

• M1 motorway (Port Louis ↔ Grand Baie): excellent quality, free, well maintained
• M2 motorway (towards the southeast): good quality
• The main roads connecting the major cities are in good condition.

Secondary roads and rural areas

• Condition varies: some are in good condition, others have significant potholes
• Narrow and winding roads in mountainous regions
• Caution is necessary, especially after heavy rain (risk of localized flooding).

Signage

Road signs are generally adequate on major roads, but may be insufficient or absent in some rural areas. A GPS or Google Maps is highly recommended.

Practical tips for renting

Before leaving

• Compare prices online (comparison websites, direct rental company websites)
• Read the terms and conditions carefully, especially those concerning deductibles and insurance.
• Check what's included: mileage, basic insurance, roadside assistance
• Remember to print your booking voucher

When taking possession of the vehicle

• Carefully inspect the vehicle (bodywork, tires, interior)
• Photograph all existing damage, even minor damage (scratches, impacts).
• Check that the rental company has noted all damages on the contract.
• Test the lights, turn signals, horn, and air conditioning.
• Check the fuel level and make sure it matches what is stated on the contract.
• Ask for the emergency number in case of breakdown or accident.

During the rental

• Never leave valuables visible in the car
• Always lock the doors, even for a short stop.
• Stay on main roads at night — some rural roads are not lit.
• In case of an accident, even a minor one, call the rental company and the police immediately.

Upon the vehicle's return

• Return the car with the same fuel level as when you picked it up (usually full).
• Clean the interior if necessary (some rental companies charge for cleaning)
• Go over the vehicle again with the rental agent and make sure that no new damage is noted.
• Keep the return receipt until the deposit is released.

To find out the schedules and which buses to take, click on Bus Routes in the Info+ section (on the right side of the screen or lower down depending on the device used to read this page)

The bus network covers the entire island and is the most economical way to get around Mauritius. It's also an excellent way to experience authentic local life.

Rates

Bus fares are very attractive and vary depending on the distance travelled:

• The payment is made in cash directly to the driver or the conductor on board
• Have the exact amount or small bills ready — drivers don't always have much change
• No rechargeable transport cards are available for tourists.

Times and frequency

General schedules

• Urban areas and main roads: buses usually run from 5:30 am to 8 pm weekdays
• Rural areas: more limited service, often of 5am to 6pm
• Sundays and public holidays: Reduced frequency, some lines are not working

Frequency

• Main lines (Port Louis ↔ Curepipe, Port Louis ↔ Grand Baie): a bus every 10 to 15 minutes during peak hours
• Secondary lines: a bus every 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Rural areas: variable frequency, sometimes only 3 to 4 buses per day

Network and destinations

The Mauritian bus network is managed by several private companies:

• National Transport Corporation (NTC)
• United Bus Service (UBS)
• Triolet Bus Service
• Rose-Hill Transport
• And other local companies

Main tourist routes

• Port Louis ↔ Grand Baie : very busy line, serves the touristy north
• Port Louis ↔ Curepipe : crosses the center of the island
• Port Louis ↔ Mahébourg : serves the airport and the southeast
• Curepipe ↔ Flic en Flac : access to the west coast

Express Bus

Some lines offer express bus (identified by an "E" on the windshield). These buses:

• They make fewer stops than regular buses
• They are usually air-conditioned
• They are faster
• They cost slightly more (an additional 5 to 10 Rs).

Tips for traveling by bus

How to take the bus

• Wait at a bus stop (marked by a sign) or on the roadside on rural routes
• Signal to the driver to stop
• Board at the front and pay the driver or conductor directly.
• Keep your ticket until the end of your journey (ticket checks may take place)
• To get off, press the "stop" button or signal to the driver.

Advantages of the bus

• Very economical : by far the cheapest means of transport
• Local immersion You travel with Mauritians and discover the real life of the island.
• Wide Area Network : serves virtually all the villages
• No parking problems

Disadvantages of the bus

• Slowness Buses stop frequently and can get caught in traffic jams.
• No set schedule : difficult to plan accurately
• Variable comfort Some buses are old and not always air-conditioned.
• Crowded during rush hour morning (6am–9am) and evening (4pm–7pm)
• Limited service on Sundays and in rural areas

Practical tips

• Avoid peak hours if possible (crowded buses, long journeys)
• For long distances, opt for express buses.
• Always carry some small change with you
• Ask the driver to let you know when you are approaching your stop if you are unfamiliar with the route.
• Mauritians are generally very helpful — don't hesitate to ask for assistance.

The Metro Express is a modern public transport system inaugurated in 2019. It is a light rail metro that currently connects Port Louis (the capital) to Curepipe (in the centre of the island) via Rose Hill and Quatre Bornes.

Features

• Current line: Port Louis → Rose Hill → Quatre Bornes → Curepipe (approximately 26 km)
• Total journey time: approximately 45 minutes
• Frequency : a metro every 10 to 15 minutes during peak hours
• Schedules : Approximately 6am to 9pm on weekdays, reduced service on weekends
• Air conditioning: All the trains are air-conditioned.
• Accessibility: suitable for people with reduced mobility

Rates

Payment can be made in cash at ticket counters or via rechargeable cards sold at stations.

Usefulness for tourists

The Metro Express is primarily used by Mauritian workers for their daily commutes. Its usefulness is limited for tourists as it does not serve the main tourist areas (northern, western, or southern beaches). However, it can be convenient for:

• Getting to the center of the island quickly from Port Louis
• Avoid traffic jams on this route
• Experience modern transportation in Mauritius

Future extensions

Extensions to the Metro Express are planned to serve other areas of the island, but no specific dates are known yet. Projects mentioned include an extension to the north (Grand Baie) and to the airport, but these works have not yet begun.

Taxis are a convenient and comfortable means of transport, particularly useful for airport transfers, night journeys or when you are carrying luggage.

Indicative prices

Prices vary depending on the distance, the time of day (with a surcharge at night), and your ability to negotiate. Here are some indicative price ranges:

These prices are indicative and may vary. Always negotiate before getting in.

Tips for taking a taxi

Where to find a taxi

• At the airport: official taxi rank at the terminal exit
• In front of the hotels : usually taxis waiting (fares sometimes higher)
• Taxi ranks in town (Port Louis, Grand Baie, etc.)
• On telephone call Ask your hotel or accommodation for the number.

Ride-hailing apps

The application Yugo (The Mauritian equivalent of Uber) exists but remains underdeveloped. It operates mainly in urban areas (Port Louis, Quatre Bornes). Coverage in tourist areas is limited.

Price negotiation

• Set the price BEFORE mounting — That's non-negotiable
• Check the usual rates beforehand (ask your hotel).
• Don't hesitate to negotiate, especially if the asking price seems excessive.
• If you don't like the price, look for another taxi — there's always competition
• For long journeys or a full day, negotiate a package deal.

Safety and best practices

• Opt for official taxis (with visible licenses) rather than unidentified private vehicles.
• At the airport, use the official station and avoid touts in the terminal.
• Note the license plate number or take a discreet photo
• If you are travelling alone at night, let someone know your route.
• Keep your valuable luggage with you on the back seat

Advantages of taxis

• Convenient for airport transfers with luggage
• Comfortable and air-conditioned
• Available 24/7
• Useful for night journeys or in poorly served areas.

Disadvantages of taxis

• More expensive than the bus or car rental (for several days)
• The need to negotiate the price systematically
• Risk of excessive charges if you are unfamiliar with the usual prices.
• No meter to guarantee a fair price

Scooter and bike

Why this warning:

• Left-hand drive Difficult to control on two wheels, especially in roundabouts
• Narrow and bumpy roads Numerous potholes are dangerous for two-wheeled vehicles.
• Heavy traffic and local driving Mauritian motorists drive fast and overtake frequently
• Lack of cycling infrastructure : no dedicated cycle paths on most roads
• High heat and humidity : difficult conditions for cycling long distances
• Significant relief The island has many coastlines, making cycling challenging.

If you still wish to cycle, limit yourself to short, supervised rides in safe areas (some hotels offer bike rides on their grounds or in less frequented areas).

Private transfers

Many hotels and tour companies offer private transfers between the airport and your accommodation. It's a comfortable and stress-free option, especially welcome after a long flight.

Private transfer rates

Prices vary depending on the distance and type of vehicle:

• Airport → Grand Baie 2,500–3,500 Rs (~€45–63) for 1 to 4 people
• Airport → Flic en Flac : 2,500–3,200 Rs (~45–58 €)
• Larger vehicle (6-8 seater van) : supplement of 500 to 1,000 Rs

Benefits

• A driver will be waiting for you at the airport with a sign bearing your name.
• No price negotiation upon arrival
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
• Payment is often made online before departure.

You can book these transfers directly with your hotel or via specialized online platforms.

The choice of transport method depends on your budget, your travel style and your destinations.

Our recommendations based on your profile

Are you travelling as a couple or family for 7 days or more?

→ Car rental This is the most practical and cost-effective way to explore the island at your own pace. Expect to pay €30 to €50 per day depending on the vehicle.

Are you travelling alone on a small budget?

→ Buses and a few taxis : use the bus for your main journeys (very economical) and take a taxi occasionally for hard-to-reach places or night journeys.

You are staying in a tourist area (Grand Baie, Flic en Flac…)

→ Taxi + organized excursions : if you do not plan to move around much, punctual taxis and day trips may be sufficient.

You arrive late in the evening or leave early in the morning

→ Private transfer Booked in advance: comfort and tranquility guaranteed, especially after a long flight.

Do you want to discover real Mauritian life?

→ Bus The local immersion is total. Patience and flexibility are required, but an authentic experience is guaranteed.