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Travel Guide » Africa » Mauritius
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Republic of Mauritius
(Mauritius)


Hit the banana lounge for some deep-dish island relaxation.

Mauritius is the most accessible island in the Indian Ocean, boasting as much tropical paradise as Maui or Martinique and, better still, offering it at a bargain price. Though nestled up alongside Africa, it's actually more influenced by its British and French ties and predominantly Indian workforce.


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Getting There
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To Do & See
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At a Glance
Getting Around:

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is near Mahébourg in southeastern Mauritius, on the opposite side of the island from Port Louis. While there are no direct airport buses, express buses travel between the capital and Mahébourg several times a day, stopping at the airport. Allow yourself at least two hours from Port Louis. Air Mauritius flies to Rodrigues Island (about 90 minutes) daily; the company also offers 15-20 minute helicopter tours of Mauritius. For those with money to burn, the helicopters can be hired by the hour. The Mauritius Trochetia and the Mauritius Pride ply the waters between Mauritius and Rodrigues several times per month.

Mauritian buses are generally good - albeit a bit slow - and can take you to (or near) just about any place on the island. There are several different operators, none of which cover the entire island. Port Louis and Curepipe are the main hubs. Tickets are cheap and should be kept handy, as inspectors check them frequently. Mauritian roads range from smooth to potholed and pavement-free. Driving is sketchy at best on Mauritius, with speed limits often ignored, headlights a rarity and weaving pedestrians all too common. If you think you're up to it, you can rent a car in one of the major towns or at the airport. Smallish motorbikes can be rented around Grand Baie. All drivers should have an international drivers' licence, and most rental agencies require drivers to be over 23. Driving is on the left. Bicycles and boats can be rented wherever tourists congregate.

Weather:

Mauritius experiences a hot, humid summer from December to April and a cooler, drier period from May to November. However, there is considerable variation from one part of the island to another. Coastal temperatures range between 25°C and 33°C (77-91°F) in summer and between 18°C and 24°C(64-75°F) in winter. On the plateau it will be some 5°C (41°F) cooler. The highlands are also the wettest part of the island - it can rain here at any time of year and even when it's not raining, the area can be cloaked in low cloud. Under the influence of the prevailing southeasterly winds, the east coast is slightly cooler and wetter than the west. When the winds are at their strongest in July and August, it can be blustery on the east coast, though the breeze brings welcome relief in summer. The cyclone season lasts from December to March. Although a direct hit happens rarely, cyclones way out at sea can bring days of squally rain.

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