What Should You Pack for Mauritius?
Mauritius has a warm, tropical climate, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing for daytime beach activities and excursions. Swimsuits, shorts, and tank tops are ideal for beach days, while a light sweater or shawl can be useful for cooler evenings. A rain jacket is recommended during the wet season. Comfortable sandals or flip-flops are perfect for beach walks, and if you plan on water activities, consider packing water shoes. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat are must-haves to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
Make sure you’re prepared to: Relax on the white sandy beaches, explore botanical gardens, and go snorkeling or scuba diving in the coral reefs.
What to Wear in Mauritius
While Mauritius is laid-back and beach-friendly, modest clothing is expected in public areas or when visiting towns and local markets. Women should bring long dresses or cover-ups, and men should wear t-shirts and longer shorts when not at the beach. Swimsuits are appropriate for resorts and beaches, but you should cover up when walking around public areas or near religious sites. For dining at resorts, smart-casual outfits like dresses, skirts, or collared shirts are ideal.
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Spring
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Summer
75 – 90°F
(24 – 32°C
)
Fall
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Winter
65 – 75°F
(18 – 24°C
)
Spring: Warm with occasional rain and humidity
Summer: Hot and sunny
Fall: Warm during the day, cooler at night with possible rain
Winter: Cooler with rain and wind, especially in coastal regions
Spring
4 inches of rain
Summer
3 inches of rain
Fall
5 inches of rain
Winter
6 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for casual walks in towns like Port Louis or visiting the botanical gardens.
2. Tank Tops: Ideal for lounging by the beach or pool.
4. Rain Jacket: A lightweight rain jacket is helpful for the occasional tropical showers.
5. Casual Jacket: A light sweater or jacket is perfect for cooler evenings or breezy beachside strolls.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Shorts: Comfortable shorts are ideal for beach days and casual island exploration.
2. Skirt: A long skirt is perfect for casual dinners or strolling around towns.
3. Dresses: Light, flowy dresses are great for beach days and evening dinners at resorts.
4. Jumpsuit: A stylish jumpsuit works well for evenings out at resort restaurants or exploring towns.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Sandals: Comfortable sandals are great for walking on the beach and around resorts.
2. Flip-Flops: Ideal for beach lounging or poolside relaxation.
3. Swimsuit: A must for enjoying Mauritius’ pristine beaches and water activities.
4. Sunglasses: Important for protection from the strong tropical sun while exploring or lounging.
5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is essential for sun protection while on the beach or walking through the town.
6. Water Shoes: Great for snorkeling, kayaking, or exploring rocky beaches and coral reefs.
7. Sarong: A versatile sarong is perfect for covering up at the beach or in public areas.
8. Beach Cover-Up: A lightweight cover-up is perfect for transitioning from the beach to a casual lunch or dinner.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Great for packing beach essentials and for short trips between beach resorts.
2. Beach Bag: Perfect for carrying towels, sunscreen, and water bottles for beach days.
3. Daypack: Ideal for exploring natural attractions like Chamarel or hiking the Black River Gorges National Park.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the intense sun.
- Waterproof Gear: Pack water shoes for snorkeling and exploring rocky beaches.
- Modesty: When visiting towns or religious sites, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
Mauritius Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MAURITIUS?
May through December is the best time to visit Mauritius, with cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island. October’s also great because the weather is sunny and mild, and the tourist crowds are lower compared to the peak summer months.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN MAURITIUS?
Cavadee Festival (January/February): A colorful Hindu festival celebrated with body piercings, fire-walking, and prayers—great for cultural travelers and those interested in religious traditions.
Independence Day (March 12): Celebrated across the island with parades, music, and fireworks—perfect for families and culture enthusiasts.
Diwali (October/November): The Festival of Lights, where families light oil lamps and decorate homes—ideal for experiencing the local culture.
Mauritian International Kreol Festival (November): A celebration of Creole culture with music, dance, and food—great for solo travelers and culture enthusiasts.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN MAURITIUS?
Mauritius offers stunning beaches, lush nature reserves, and unique cultural experiences. Start in Port Louis, the capital, where you can visit the bustling Central Market and learn about the island’s history at the Blue Penny Museum. One of my favorite places is Chamarel, known for its colorful Seven Colored Earths and the Chamarel Waterfall. For nature lovers, head to Black River Gorges National Park for hiking trails through lush forests and scenic viewpoints. Don’t miss a day trip to Ile aux Cerfs, a private island with pristine beaches and water sports. For a cultural experience, visit the vibrant Hindu temples and historical sugar plantations.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT MAURITIUS?
A 7-10 day trip is ideal for experiencing Mauritius’ beaches, nature, and culture. A shorter 5-day trip will give you a good overview of the island’s highlights and a chance to relax on the beach.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Relax on the beach at Grand Baie, then visit the vibrant Central Market in Port Louis. Day 2: Take a day trip to Chamarel to see the Seven Colored Earths and the Chamarel Waterfall, then enjoy a sunset cruise along the west coast.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, head to Black River Gorges National Park for a day of hiking and wildlife spotting. Day 4: Visit the picturesque beaches and turquoise waters of Ile aux Cerfs, where you can enjoy water sports. Day 5: Return to Port Louis for shopping and dining at Caudan Waterfront.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, explore the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden and the nearby sugar museum. Day 7: Visit the Hindu temple at Grand Bassin, followed by a visit to the tea plantations and tasting in Bois Chéri.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, take a day trip to the island of Rodrigues for snorkeling and hiking. Day 9: Go on a dolphin-watching tour and swim with dolphins near Tamarin Bay. Day 10: Explore the historic Château de Labourdonnais and enjoy rum tasting at the estate’s distillery.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit the colonial architecture and historic sites of Mahebourg. Day 12: Spend a day exploring the underwater marine park at Blue Bay. Day 13: Relax at a luxury beach resort and enjoy spa treatments. Day 14: Take a final sunset cruise or beach walk before departure.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN MAURITIUS?
2 Days
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
5 Days
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
1 Week
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
10 Days
- 3 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip-Flops
2 Weeks
- 4 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip-Flops
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR MAURITIUS?
Heavy clothing: Mauritius is warm year-round, so stick to lightweight, breathable clothing.
High heels: Impractical for sandy beaches and nature excursions—flat sandals or flip-flops are more suitable.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO MAURITIUS ?
Airfare: $700-$1,500 depending on the season, with higher prices during peak tourist months.
Accommodation: $50-$500+ per night, depending on whether you stay at a budget guesthouse or a luxury beach resort.
Transportation: $20-$100 for car rentals or private drivers, as public transport is limited outside main areas.
Meals: $30-$80 per day, with higher costs at resort restaurants.
Activities: $50-$300 depending on excursions, guided tours, and water sports like snorkeling or diving.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN MAURITIUS? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Mauritius. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common for good service. For tour guides and drivers, tipping $5-$10 per day is appropriate. In hotels, tipping porters and housekeeping staff $1-$2 per bag or per day is appreciated.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MAURITIUS BEFORE I VISIT?
- Modesty: Dress modestly when visiting towns or religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees.
- Currency: The Mauritian Rupee (MUR) is used on the island, and while credit cards are accepted in most places, cash is preferred for smaller purchases.
- Public Transport: While buses are available, renting a car or hiring a driver is the best way to explore the island.
- Weather: Be prepared for quick weather changes, especially during the wet season, and pack a rain jacket or umbrella.