Why visit
Mauritius is an Indian Ocean destination with lagoons, Creole food, and volcanic interiors. Best paired with slow travel rather than island-hopping.
Country - Africa
Mauritius
beachnaturefood
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Mauritius works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Port Louis as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Mauritius.
At a glance
Location
-20.3°, 57.5°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
2,040 km²
788 mi²
Country population
1.3 million
637/km²
Subregion
Eastern Africa
Currency
Mauritian rupee (₨)
MUR
Dial
+230
Languages
English, French, Mauritian Creole
Demonym
Mauritian
Internet
.mu
UN
Member state
ISO code
MU / MUS
Where in the world
-20.3° - 57.5°
Mauritius
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Mauritius was the only home of the dodo bird, which went extinct within 100 years of European arrival.
- Mark Twain wrote: "Mauritius was made first, and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius."
- The island has no wild animals larger than a fruit bat: no snakes, no predators, no venomous creatures.
Traveler notes
- Le Morne is a UNESCO peninsula for hiking and kite-surfing
- Creole + Indian + French food fusion
- Visa-free for most on arrival
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Port Louis, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Mauritius
What is the capital of Mauritius?
Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius.
What currency does Mauritius use?
Mauritius uses the Mauritian rupee (₨), ISO code MUR.
What languages are spoken in Mauritius?
The primary languages are English, French and Mauritian Creole.
Is Mauritius landlocked?
No, Mauritius has a coastline.
What is the international calling code for Mauritius?
The calling code is +230.
When is the best time to visit Mauritius?
May–Dec. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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