Planning a trip to Mauritius
Getting there
All international flights land at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (known as SSR Airport), situated 26 miles from capital Port Louis. Air Mauritius operates around 30 weekly flights to and from most major European cities, including 15 combined flights with Air France to and from Paris. British Airways operates four weekly flights from London, and Emirates also services the island.
Entry requirements
A valid passport and a return or onward flight ticket are required. On arrival, a visitor’s visa is issued, and this will cover a stay on the island of up to one month. If you need an extension, head to the Passport and Immigration Office, Sterling House, 11-19 Lislet Geoffroy Street, Port-Louis, (www.gov.mu; 230/210-9312).
Immunizations & other health issues
Most travelers will not need to organize immunizations before a trip to Mauritius, although anyone planning to enter a yellow fever zone up to six days before their date of arrival, should make sure they are vaccinated in advance.
When to Go
Climate
Mauritius enjoys mild weather year-round, with average temperatures on the coast ranging from 71°F (22°C) in winter (July to September) to 93°F (34°C) in summer (November to May). Inland, this drops from 66°F (19°C) during the winter to 78°F (26°C) in the summer. The average annual rainfall is 53 inches (1335mm), with the driest month being October and the wettest March.
Calendar of Events
Tamil worshippers show their devotion to God Muruga during Thaipoosam Cavadee (www.tourism-mauritius.mu/) in early February, by piercing tongues, cheeks and backs, then parading through the streets carrying pots of milk on flower-adorned wooden arches. Place your bets at the Champ de Mars Racecourse in Port Louis during The Barbé Cup (www.mauritiusturfclub.com/) in July. In August, the island’s beaches fill with competing kite surfers, whizzing across the turquoise lagoons during Kiteival (tel. 00/230-255-1850; www.kiteivalmauritius.com/).
