Mauritius is located approximately 2000 kilometres to the south eastern coast of Africa and lies east of Madagascar on 20°5, 57.5E. The country covers an area of 1865 km with 330 kilometres of coastline. Mauritius is 45 km in width and 65 km in length.

Mauritius is a blend of diverse cultures and religions which our immigrant population brought from their ancestral countries. Their festivities are celebrated in a spirit of peace and harmony throughout the year.

It is one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. It offers a conducive environment for conferences, incentives and exhibitions. Mauritius is political and economically stable. For more information on Mauritius, visit the following website: www.mauritius.net/general_info/

Mauritius lies in the midst of the Indian Ocean, with a landmass of 720 square miles. Surrounded by one of the longest continuous coral reefs in the world, the miles of fine, sandy beaches are lapped by the clear, turquoise waters of the lagoon.

Discovered in the 10th century by Arab explorers, the island first appeared on a world map with the name of Dina Robin or Silver Island, Ile d’Argent. The Dutch were the first to settle here, from 1598 to 1710, and they called it Mauritius in honor of their Prince, Mauritius of ...

Even if they are credited with the disappearance of the dodo, they did introduce sugar cane and Java deer onto the desert island.

As a result of its strategic position on the India route, the island was the subject of several battles between France and Britain, including that of Grand Port, Napoleon’s only naval victory and which is mentioned on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Commercial and agricultural development took place, using Creole, Indian and Chinese workers.

Mauritius became a British colony in 1810 and remained so until its independence on 12 March 1968. It became a republic on the same day in 1992.

Climate

The temperature on the coastal areas varies between 22°C in winter and 34°C in summer. The sea temperature varies between 22°C and 27°C. In the central part of the island, the maximum daytime temperature varies from about 19°C in August to about 26°C in February. The western and northern regions are warmer and relatively drier than the East and the South.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Mauritian Rupee (Rs.), which is divided into 100 cents (cs).. US$ 1 = MUR 30 (estimate figure)

Customs

Passengers over 18 years of age may import the following duty-free items: 250 grams of tobacco (including cigars and cigarettes), 1 litre of spirits, 2 litres of wine, ale or beer, one quarter litre of Eau de Toilette and perfume not exceeding 100 ml.

A plant import permit must be obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture, prior to the introduction of plants and plant material including cuttings, flowers, bulbs, fresh fruits, vegetables and seeds. It is prohibited to introduce sugarcane and parts thereof, soil micro-organisms and invertebrate animals.

All imported animals including animal products need an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and a health certificate from the country of origin.

Drug trafficking is illegal and carries very heavy penalties. Firearms and ammunition need import permits and must be declared on arrival.

Driving

People in Mauritius drive on the left-hand side of the road and give way to the right. Foreigners with a driving licence issued by a Competent Authority in their respective countries are allowed to drive during their stay in Mauritius.

Electricity

220 volts.

Health

No vaccinations are required. However a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age who arrive from areas where yellow fever cases are reported.

Visa & entry requirements

A visitor must be in possession of a valid passport and a return or onward ticket. A visitor’s visa is normally granted for a period of two weeks to one month upon arrival, to almost all holders of a valid passport, with one or two exceptions. Visitors are strongly recommended to contact the Passport and Immigration Office in Mauritius or the nearest Mauritian Embassy or Consulate. The visa can be extended upon request at the Passport and Immigration Office, Sterling House, 11-19 Lislet Geoffroy Street, Port-Louis, Tel : (230) 210-9312 to 210-9317 Fax (230)210-9322.

What to wear

Take your best beach and casual wear. In the winter months (June -September), carry some light woollen clothing for the cool evenings.

Please show due respect when visiting religious places. Wear appropriate clothing (and remove leather shoes and belts) when entering the premises.