Why travel to Mauritius

A paradise island just a few hours away from South Africa, Mauritius has long been a popular choice for travellers in search of classic sun, sea and fun-filled holidays. With its magnificent beaches, exciting water sports, fabulous diving and deep-sea fishing, all-inclusive resorts and championship golf courses, it’s no wonder that Mauritius ticks all the boxes.

Travel logistics are seamless. Most Mauritius packages include your flights, accommodation and selected meals and drinks. You can also opt for the full monty and choose to go all-inclusive – a fabulous option for families looking for hassle-free planning, all-ages activities and total relaxation. Mauritius is synonymous with romance, making the island an excellent choice for a honeymoon. In fact, many people get married in Mauritius because it’s so beautiful and idyllic. Plus, many Mauritian resorts have special honeymoon packages which include beach dinners under the stars, couple’s spa treatments, fruit and champagne on arrival and exclusive gifts.

Why we love holidays in Mauritius

It’s easy to travel to Mauritius from South Africa – a 4-hour flight gets you to this little slice of paradise in the Indian Ocean.
There are plenty of tourist attractions in Mauritius to keep you busy for days, including the different coloured sands in Chamarel and bustling Port Louis market.
Shopping is excellent for both souvenirs and clothing.
Scuba diving and snorkelling are world-class.
The cuisine is a heady mix of French, Indian, African and Asian dishes.

When it comes to accommodation in Mauritius, you can take your pick from a wide selection of hotels and resorts, whether you're after a luxury 5-star holiday or budget-friendly break. Stay on one of the best beaches in Mauritius and spend your days soaking up the sun, or enjoying a variety of watersports. Call Thompsons Holidays now and book a holiday package for your dream island getaway.

What to do in Mauritius

Mauritius is an island packed with fun. Most resorts offer a variety of entertainment and activities to ensure your days are varied and exciting. Meals are included on a half / full and all-inclusive basis and after-dinner entertainment is offered a couple of times a week. You’ll learn to dance the Sega and find out all about Mauritian culture and traditions – a great way to become immersed in this magical island. And as for what you can see and do in Mauritius, here’s a small taste…  

Things to do in Mauritius

Explore Port Louis’ Caudan Waterfront with its numerous shops and local handicrafts.  
Tuck into Creole dishes at the beach.
Try watersports at Le Morne Beach.
Browse the shopping malls for textiles.
Visit the renowned 7 coloured  earth and a beautiful waterfall at  Chamarel.  
View rare birds and orchids at Black River Gorges National Park.  
Visit Pamplemousses Botanic Gardens in Port Louis, home to giant tortoises and equally large waterlilies.  
Sit among the locals at Champ de Mars the oldest racecourse in the Southern Hemisphere and bet on your favourite thoroughbred horse.
Visit the impressive tea plantation at Bois Cheri and learn how tea is manufactured.   
Play a round of golf at many championship golf courses around the island.
Adventurers can enjoy quad biking, ziplining, deep-sea fishing and much more.  
Discover life beneath the  waves,  scuba diving,  snorkelling, on a glass-bottom boat excursion or underwater walk.

Mauritius is the quintessential island holiday perfected to an unmatched level. Whatever type of activity you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. Browse our Mauritius holiday packages or get in touch with us for more information.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

Mauritius’ weather is warm all year round. Between November and May, expect daily temperatures in the high 20s and low 30s and the rest of the year around 24˚C.
There’s a wet season in Mauritius, but it’s nowhere near as pronounced as in other countries. The months of January to March experience a bit of rain, but showers tend to be short, sharp and heavier inland than on the coast.

Getting there & getting around

There are daily flights from South Africa to Mauritius.
Flight duration from South Africa to Mauritius is +/- 4 hours.
Public transport on the island includes taxis and local buses.
You can drive across the island in less than two hours, which makes it a very easy place to explore by hire car.

Do I need a visa?

South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Mauritius.
Passports should be valid for 6 months after travel.

What time is it?

Mauritius is 2 hours ahead of South Africa.

Money matters

The official currency is the Mauritian Rupee (Rs).
Bureau de Change is found at the airport and offers the best exchange rates. You can also change money at your hotel reception.
Tipping is not compulsory in Mauritius. Tip porters, waiters, drivers and tour guides at your discretion.

Language & phrases

English is the official language in Mauritius.
French and Creole are widely spoken.

Culture & religion

Hinduism is the dominant religion in Mauritius followed by Roman Catholicism, Islam and Buddhism.

Health information

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Mauritius. Bottled water is readily available.
No vaccinations are currently required but check with your travel clinic before you go.

What must I pack?

Beachwear.
Summer dresses, shorts and flip flops.
Dinners are smart casual .
Sunscreen, lip balm, sun hat, swimsuits and sunglasses.  
Camera.
Mauritius has two associated plug types, C and G. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and type G is the plug which has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Mauritius operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.