Mauritius Travel Safety

General safety

Exercise caution when swimming, particularly outside marked areas. Stonefish stings are unusual but can, in some cases, be fatal. You should get immediate medical attention if stung. Many hotels carry anti-venom serum. There is only one decompression chamber in Mauritius, at the Victoria Hospital in Vacoas. Ensure that your travel insurance covers accidents related to recreational activities.

Road safety

Traffic drives on the left. Some roads are narrow, uneven and poorly lit. Many are bordered by deep ditches and lack guardrails. Emergency and roadside assistance is limited. In the event of a traffic accident, drivers must remain at the scene until the police arrive. However, if you feel threatened, proceed directly to a police station. Car rentals are available and travellers should purchase sufficient car insurance. Local driving habits and the presence of pedestrians on the road pose risks.

Precautions

Ensure that your bags and personal belongings are secure. Residential break-ins are reported regularly. Exercise caution when withdrawing money from automated teller machines (ATMs) as robberies have been reported. There have been some reports of assaults and rapes. Avoid walking alone after dark outside hotel grounds and on beaches. Do not trek or hike alone.

Taxis

Taxis are available between cities and to remote areas.

Public transportation

Public transportation is available between cities and to remote areas.

Women's safety

Mauritius is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise increased caution throughout your travel.

Piracy

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, further out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and theft, has increased. Pickpockets are active in the central market in Port Louis and in crowded markets, in Grand Baie and in Flic en Flac.

LGBT

Mauritius is a relatively conservative society. While the law does not criminalise homosexuality, the act of sodomy is illegal regardless of sexual orientation. Local attitudes and levels of acceptance of LGBT people vary across the country and some in Mauritius hold more conservative values. In June 2018, the annual LGBT Pride march in Port Louis was disrupted and prevented from going ahead by a sizeable group of protestors. Threats have also been made against the LGBT community following this event. As such, you're advised to exercise discretion.

Illegal or restricted activities

Trafficking and possession of any illegal drugs carry heavy sentences. It's illegal to possess or import cigarette papers.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended.