Mauritius is a stunning island paradise in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. This multicultural nation blends African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences, creating a unique fusion of cultures, cuisines, and traditions. From luxury resorts to UNESCO World Heritage sites, Mauritius offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
- Public
- Metro Express light rail and extensive bus network cover urban corridor and major towns. Economical at $0.50-1.50/journey but infrequent and slow. Buses run 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM.
- Taxi
- Widely available with metered and negotiated rates. Uber operates in urban areas. Agree price before departure for non-metered trips. Night surcharge applies 9 PM - 5 AM.
- Rental
- Best way to explore the island. Economy cars from $25-35/day. Drive on the left. GPS essential. Roads generally good though congested in Port Louis during rush hours.
- Walking
- Only practical within resort beaches, Port Louis waterfront, and town centers. Roads lack sidewalks in many areas, making walking between towns impractical and unsafe.
Transport at a glance
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
- Taxi
- Official airport taxi to Port Louis: $35-40 (fixed rate)
- Shuttle
- Private pre-booked transfer: $20-30
- Bus
- Airport taxi to Grand Baie: $37-45
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Bus
Extensive public bus network covering entire island. Fares $0.50-1.50 depending on distance. Buses run 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM, reduced Sunday service. Main hubs: Port Louis, Curepipe, Mahebourg. Payment cash only, exact change helpful. Can be crowded and slow but very economical.
Alternatives
metro, taxi, rideshare, car_rental
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Regular
- Metered and non-metered taxis available. Metered base fare $2, then $0.50 per km. Most taxis negotiate fixed rates. Night surcharge (9 PM - 5 AM) adds 50%. Typical rates: Grand Baie to Port Louis $25, Flic en Flac to airport $40. Always agree price before departure.
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Bus
Main intercity transport. Express buses connect major towns. Port Louis to Grand Baie $1, Port Louis to Mahebourg $1.50. Journey times vary: Port Louis-Grand Baie 45 min, Port Louis-Mahebourg 90 min. Buy tickets on board.
Flights
No domestic flights - island too small. Helicopter tours available for sightseeing ($150-300).
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Airports
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport
From centre: 48 km southeast of Port Louis
Options: Official airport taxi to Port Louis: $35-40 (fixed rate); Private pre-booked transfer: $20-30; Airport taxi to Grand Baie: $37-45; Airport taxi to Belle Mare: $25-30; Airport taxi to Flic en Flac: $40-45; Public bus to Port Louis: $1.50 (routes available but infrequent); Hotel shuttle: varies by hotel, often complimentary
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
Uber
Available in Port Louis, Grand Baie, and Ebene. Most reliable app-based option with fixed prices and no negotiation
inDriver
Alternative ride-hailing app operating in Mauritius. Useful as backup when Uber is unavailable
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility - public transport doesn't reach most beach areas or tourist attractions on schedule
Airport taxi rates are fixed: Port Louis $35-40, Grand Baie $37-45 - no negotiation needed, just confirm the zone rate
Metro Express connects Curepipe to Port Louis via Rose Hill and Quatre Bornes - useful for the central plateau towns at $0.50-1
Uber operates in Port Louis and Grand Baie areas - download before arriving for the best transport option in these areas
For day trips, negotiate a full-day taxi hire rate ($60-100) which is often cheaper and more flexible than multiple individual fares
Drive on the LEFT side of the road - rental cars have steering wheel on the right