Important information about the Ebola Virus

As a precautionary health measure, Mauritian authorities have temporarily restricted access to travellers from the following Ebola-affected countries:  Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and DRC.  

We advise our delegates travelling from above-mentioned countries to refrain from making travelling arrangements to Mauritius until further notice. 

At the airport, all passengers are required to give information about the places they have visited over the past six months. Health inspectors may also visit residences of incoming passengers from affected areas. The thermal scanner at the airport is also fully functional.

Vaccination

Vaccinations are not compulsory. Conference delegates travelling to Africa for the first time are recommended to have up to date Tetanus, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines.

Please engage with your personal physician or travel health clinic four to six weeks prior to travelling, outlining where in Mauritius you intend to visit.

Malaria

If your passport states that you have visited a country where there is malaria you might receive a visit from the health authorities to test for malaria. This is a standard blood test in order to keep Mauritius malaria free.

Yellow Fever

Proof of Yellow Fever vaccine (Yellow Book) is required for those arriving from a yellow-fever-infected area in Africa.

Currency

The official currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee.

The Mauritian Rupee is divided into 100 cents. All major credit cards are accepted, and there are a number of ATM machines in the towns and at the airport.

The exchange rate is approximately 1 EUR = 40 Mauritian Rupee.

Crafts vendors, smaller shops, taxis and restaurants will expect to be paid in local currency. Larger shops, supermarkets and hotels can usually process credit cards.

Tipping

 Tipping is not necessary in Mauritius.

Customs

Click here to read more on Customs regulations in Mauritius.

Plugs

220 Volts.

Mauritius uses British Socket 3 square plugs but also some round two pin - hotels usually have adaptors but if not the nearest supermarkets sell them for a few rupees.

Sightseeing

While in Mauritius, delegates should visit Grand Bay, Balaclava Ruins (North) Flacq Market, Ile aux Cerfs (East), Vieux Grand Port, Ile aux Aigrettes, Mahebourg, Domaine du Chasseur (South-East) Martello Tower, Chamaret, Salt Pans, Casela (West) and Ganga Talao, Grand Bassin and Black River Gorges (Inland).

Emergency Numbers

Police: 999 or 112

Fire Services: 995 or 115

SAMU Ambulances: 114

Tourist info: 152

Weather

Mauritius has a hot climate during November with average temperatures of 25 - 30 degrees Celsius during the day. Rains are possible during November and delegates should bring rainwear. 

Opening Hours

Banks - Monday to Thursday 0915 - 1315, Fridays 0915 - 1715
Shops - these vary from town to town but generally open 0930 to 1730.

People

Mauritius is a blend of diverse cultures and religions. The population consists of Hindus, Creole, Chinese, Muslims and Europeans.

History

Of volcanic origin and generally sheltered by barriers of coral reefs forming natural, safe, crystal clear lagoons, Mauritius has long been a dream destination. Known to the Arabs as early as the 10th century, but officially’discovered’ in 1505 by the Portuguese navigator Pedro Mascarenhas, the island was occupied successively by the Dutch (1598-1712) and the French (1715-1810), and was ceded to Great Britain in 1814 through the Treaty of Paris. On 12 March 1968, Mauritius became Independent. Republic Day was proclaimed on 12 March 1992.

Language

Most people in Mauritius are bilingual and are equally fluent in English and French. Creole and French are the main languages in the everyday environment and several oriental languages are also spoken.