Mauritius is often imagined as a dream destination for turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and stunning resorts. However, when it comes time to plan a trip, one big question usually arises: Is Mauritius expensive?
From luxury honeymoons to shoestring adventures, Mauritius offers a wide range of travel experiences. So, is Mauritius expensive for the average traveler? The truth is it can be, but with smart choices and some local know-how, you can easily enjoy everything the island has to offer without draining your wallet.
Table of Contents
Accommodation Costs: Is Mauritius Expensive for a Place to Stay?
Accommodation can take up a big part of your budget in Mauritius. If you’re staying in beachfront resorts in places like Grand Baie or Belle Mare, prices range from ₹20,000 to ₹60,000 ($250–$750) per night. These high-end hotels offer luxury, private beaches, and world-class amenities, and you pay for it.
But the good news? You don’t have to splurge. Mauritius offers a range of comfortable mid-range hotels, family-run guesthouses, and charming villas, with rates ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 ($60–$150) per night. Even better, budget travelers can find hostels or Airbnbs inland for ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 ($25–$50).
So, is Mauritius expensive in terms of where you stay? Only if you want it to be. Booking early, traveling in the off-season, and avoiding touristy beachfront areas can save you a lot.
Food and Dining: Can You Eat Well Without Spending a Lot?
Food is where Mauritius really shines; it’s flavorful, diverse, and doesn’t have to cost much. Resort restaurants and fine-dining spots can charge between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 ($25–$60) per person, especially for seafood and imported wine.
Step away from the resorts, and you’ll find local food that’s both affordable and authentic. Street
vendors and market stalls serve popular snacks like dholl puri, gateaux piments, noodles, and rougaille for ₹300–₹500 ($4–$6). Even sit-down meals at small local eateries are rarely more than ₹700 ($8–$9).
So, if you’re wondering if Mauritius is expensive for food, the answer depends on where you choose to eat. Enjoying local dishes isn’t just budget-friendly; it’s also the best way to taste the culture.
Traveling Around Mauritius: Costs, Tips & Local Hacks
Getting around Mauritius is fairly easy, but your choice of transport will affect your costs. Taxis are widely available but can be quite expensive since many aren’t metered. Always agree on the fare before the ride, especially when going long distances.
Car rentals are a great option if you’re planning to explore the island on your own terms. Rates usually range from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 per day ($30–$50), and driving is on the left side of the road.
However, for budget travelers, public buses are the best bet. They’re reliable, cover most of the island, and are incredibly cheap, just ₹50–₹100 per ride. They’re slower than taxis but offer a unique way to experience local life.
So again, is Mauritius expensive to get around? Not if you’re willing to trade a little speed for savings and scenery.
Activities and Attractions
Mauritius is packed with natural beauty, and thankfully, much of it is free. Exploring public beaches, hiking trails, or just enjoying a sunset doesn’t cost a thing. However, some popular attractions and adventures do come with a price.
Catamaran cruises, snorkeling trips, dolphin-watching tours, and scuba diving experiences generally cost ₹2,500 to ₹6,000 ($30–$75) per person. Tourist attractions like Chamarel Seven Colored Earths, Casela Nature Park, or La Vanille Crocodile Park charge entry fees ranging from ₹300 to ₹1,500 ($4–$20).
But you don’t need to do everything. Mix in free experiences with one or two paid activities, and you’ll still have an amazing trip without overspending.
So, is Mauritius expensive when it comes to experiences? It can be, but the island offers more than enough low-cost ways to enjoy its charm.
Budget Travel Tips
If you’re traveling to Mauritius on a tighter budget, these tips can help you make every rupee count without missing out on what makes this island special.
Travel in the Off-Season (May–September)
Visiting during the shoulder or off-season means better deals on flights and hotels, plus fewer crowds at popular spots. The weather is still pleasant, and everything feels a bit more relaxed and affordable.
Eat Like a Local
Skip resort restaurants and try roadside stalls or local diners instead. You’ll save money and discover the true taste of Mauritius, whether it’s a hot dholl puri, noodle bowl, or fresh samosas.
Use Public Buses
Taxis can quickly eat into your budget, especially since they don’t use meters. Public buses, though slower, are ridiculously cheap, reliable, and offer a more local, immersive travel experience.
Book Tours with Local Operators
Many hotels inflate tour prices. Ask around beaches or towns for independent guides. They often offer the same activities, like catamaran trips or hiking tours, at better prices and with a more personal touch.
Shop Smart for Essentials
Avoid purchasing sunscreen, snacks, or water bottles at resort shops, where prices are often marked up. Local supermarkets or convenience stores are often more reasonable and may surprise you with locally produced products worth trying.
Don’t Be Shy to Bargain
In markets or with independent taxis, bargaining is a common practice. Be polite and fair, and you can often get a better deal. It’s expected and sometimes even fun!
With these tips, the question is, “Is Mauritius expensive? becomes less about worry and more about strategy. A little local knowledge goes a long way.
Conclusion
So, is Mauritius expensive? It depends on how you choose to travel. If you stick to resorts, fine dining, and private taxis, the costs can add up fast. However, if you’re open to eating local food, using public transportation, and booking wisely, Mauritius can be a surprisingly affordable escape.
It’s a place where beauty meets culture and luxury meets simplicity. And whether you’re watching the sunrise from a public beach or tasting street food in a coastal village, Mauritius rewards every traveler no matter the budget.
FAQs
How much does a meal cost in Mauritius?
A local meal in Mauritius typically costs ₹300–₹500 ($4–$6), while dining at a resort or upscale restaurant can cost ₹2,000–₹5,000 ($25–$60) per person.
Is Mauritius very expensive for tourists?
Mauritius can be expensive for luxury travelers, but it’s very manageable for tourists on a budget, especially if you eat local, use public transport, and avoid high-season markups.
Which is cheaper, the Maldives or Mauritius?
Overall, Mauritius is more affordable than the Maldives, especially for mid-range or budget travelers, as it offers more public beaches, local dining options, and cost-friendly transport.
How much money do I need per day in Mauritius?
On a budget, you can travel comfortably in Mauritius for ₹3,000–₹5,000 ($35–$60) per day, while a mid-range traveler might spend ₹7,000–₹12,000 ($85–$150) daily.
