Renting a car in Mauritius is one of the best ways to explore the island at your own pace. Here’s what you need to know:
- Cost: Small cars start at $23/day, SUVs at $63/day, and luxury options average $93/day. Fuel for a 4-day trip costs about $63.
- Savings: For groups, car rentals cost around $10/person daily, cheaper than public transport or taxis.
- Freedom: Access remote beaches, nature reserves, and scenic routes that are hard to reach otherwise.
- Driving Time: The island is compact – drive across it in just 1¼ hours.
- Requirements: Drivers must be 21+ with a valid license for 2+ years. International Driving Permit may be needed.
- Road Rules: Drive on the left; speed limits range from 25–68 mph. Seat belts are mandatory.
Quick Comparison of Transport Costs
| Transport Mode | Daily Cost for 4 People | Cost Per Person | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Rental | $40 | $10 | High |
| Public Transport | $48 | $12 | Low |
| Taxis | $50–$100 per trip | $12.50–$25 per trip | Medium |
With a reliable road network and plenty of scenic routes, renting a car lets you explore Mauritius efficiently and affordably. From stunning beaches to mountain viewpoints, a rental car ensures you don’t miss the island’s hidden gems.
Benefits of Car Rental in Mauritius
Travel on Your Schedule
Renting a car in Mauritius gives you complete control over your itinerary. Thanks to the island’s compact size, you can drive 28 miles from east to west in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or 38 miles from north to south in roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes. This makes it easy to visit several attractions in one day without being tied to rigid tour schedules. Start your day early to catch the sunrise at Belle Mare Beach or enjoy a late dinner in Grand Baie. This flexibility is especially useful for groups, helping you manage your time and expenses more efficiently.
Money-Saving Tips for Groups
Here’s a quick comparison of daily transport costs for a group of four:
| Transport Mode | Daily Cost for 4 People | Cost Per Person | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Rental | $40 | $10 | High |
| Public Transport | $48 | $12 | Low |
| Taxis | $50–$100 per trip | $12.50–$25 per trip | Medium |
You can find small cars from reputable rental companies starting at about $34 per day, including full insurance. For a four-day trip, expect to spend around $63 on fuel. This makes renting a car a cost-effective choice for groups compared to taxis or public transport.
Reach Hard-to-Access Locations
Having a car also opens the door to Mauritius’s lesser-known treasures. About 25% of the island’s most beautiful spots are only accessible by car. These include:
- Remote beaches: Quiet coastlines far from crowded tourist areas
- Nature reserves: Hidden trails and viewpoints in the island’s lush interior
- Local markets: Small village markets offering authentic shopping experiences
- Mountain viewpoints: Stunning panoramic views you won’t want to miss
With your own vehicle, you can make spontaneous stops – whether it’s a roadside fruit stand or a scenic overlook – adding a personal touch to your journey that organized tours can’t offer.
Next, let’s take a look at the variety of car options available to suit your travel needs.
Available Car Options
Small Cars
Small cars make up 62% of rentals in Mauritius. Models such as the Nissan Micra and Datsun GO are available starting at about $23 per day. Their compact design makes them perfect for navigating narrow roads, parking in crowded areas, and saving on fuel – great for travelers on a budget.
Large Vehicles and 4x4s
For families or groups needing extra space, Mauritius offers larger vehicles that combine comfort and practicality. SUVs typically cost $63 per day, while larger sedans and other spacious options average $69 per day.
| Vehicle Type | Daily Rate | Best For | Popular Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUV | $63 | Off-road | Nissan Qashqai, Jeep Renegade |
| Large Sedan | $69 | Families | Nissan Almera, Nissan Sentra |
| Van | $69 | Groups | Nissan NV200, NV350 |
| Pickup Truck | $69 | Adventure | Nissan NP300, Navara |
ABC Car Rental provides dependable 4×4 options like the Nissan Qashqai and Jeep Renegade. These vehicles are perfect for handling rugged terrain while offering ample space for luggage and passengers. For those aiming for a more luxurious ride, premium options are also available.
High-End Vehicle Options
Luxury car rentals in Mauritius average around $93 per day, delivering a premium driving experience. Liberta Car Rental offers a variety of high-end models, including BMW Series 1 through 7, BMW X-series, Audi A4 S-Line, A5, Q5, and Mercedes-Benz CLA 180. For those seeking something more robust, premium SUVs like the BMW X5, X6, and Jeep Wrangler are also available.
"Choosing a Luxury Car Hire Mauritius offers an unmatched level of comfort, convenience, and sophistication." – Liberta Car Rental
VIP Cars also features prestigious brands such as Porsche and Range Rover, catering to travelers looking for top-tier options.
Car Rental Experience in Mauritius
Finding Good Rental Companies
Choosing the right rental company can make your trip around Mauritius smooth and stress-free – without breaking the bank.
Best Local Rental Services
Mauritius has several trusted car rental options. Pingouin Car Rental stands out with its no-security-deposit policy and fully insured vehicles. Their fleet is well-maintained, featuring cars less than 2 years old.
SIXT boasts a solid 4.4-star rating from 408 customer reviews. 1First Car Rental offers the most locations on the island. For budget-conscious travelers, MauriConnect provides rates starting at just $16 per day. Meanwhile, Mauritius Rentacar holds a respectable 4.0 rating from 63 reviews on Trustpilot.
Before booking, take a moment to evaluate some key factors to ensure you get the best deal.
Rental Company Checklist
| Criteria | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $25–$52 daily | Reflects market rates |
| Insurance | Full coverage | Covers unexpected costs |
| Vehicle Age | Under 2 years | Ensures reliability |
| Pick-up/Drop-off | Multiple locations | Convenient access |
| Deposit Policy | Zero deposit | Simplifies budgeting |
Booking at least two days in advance can help you snag below-average prices. Opting for economy vehicles could save you up to 40% compared to other car types.
Booking Sites and Price Comparison
Platforms like Momondo and KAYAK make it easy to compare rental options. Momondo scans 493 providers, while KAYAK aggregates deals from multiple websites, potentially saving you up to 41%. AirportRentals.com is another great tool, with an "Excellent" rating from over 9,800 reviews. They offer transparent pricing and helpful filters to narrow your choices.
When searching for rentals, focus on:
- Vehicle type
- Pickup and drop-off locations
- Insurance options
- Free cancellation policies
- Customer reviews
These tips, combined with comparison tools, can simplify your search and help you find the best car for your Mauritius adventure.
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Rules and Requirements
License Rules and Age Limits
To rent a car, drivers need to be at least 21 years old and have held a valid license for at least two years. If you’re under 25, expect additional fees. For those with non-Roman alphabet licenses, an International Driving Permit or a certified English translation is required. Certain vehicle categories may also have stricter age requirements.
Before hitting the road, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and conditions.
Road Rules and Road Quality
In Mauritius, vehicles drive on the left-hand side. Speed limits vary depending on the road type:
- Highways: 110 km/h (68 mph)
- Primary Roads: 60-80 km/h (37-50 mph)
- Residential Areas: 40 km/h (25 mph)
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using mobile phones is only allowed with hands-free systems. The legal blood alcohol limit is under 50 mg per 100 ml. To avoid congestion, plan your trips outside peak hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 3:00-6:00 PM). Be extra careful on rural roads, as they tend to have narrow lanes, inconsistent conditions, and limited lighting.
Understanding road rules is just one part of the equation – insurance is equally important.
Insurance Options
Most rental agreements include basic insurance, but this often doesn’t cover damage to tires, glass, the vehicle’s underbody, or minor scratches. You can opt for additional coverage to enhance your protection:
| Insurance Type | Daily Cost | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| Super CDW (SCDW) | $31-47 | Reduces your excess to $0 |
| Roadside Assistance | $10-16 | Covers towing and lockout services |
| Personal Accident (PAI) | $10-16 | Provides coverage for injuries to driver/passengers |
If you’re looking for comprehensive coverage, RentalCover.com’s "Full Protection" package might be worth considering. It includes a $0 deductible, roadside assistance, key loss coverage, and protection against weather-related damage. Also, check if your credit card or personal auto insurance offers any rental car benefits – they could save you some money.
Best Driving Routes
These routes show how renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Mauritius at your own pace.
Beach Roads
Take the eastern coastal drive for stunning ocean views and easy beach access. Start at Belle Mare and follow the road through Palmar to Trou d’Eau Douce. You’ll find plenty of spots to pull over and enjoy the beaches along the way.
For a northern coastal adventure, drive from Grand Baie to Cap Malheureux. Begin at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, then pass through Mon Choisy Beach and Grand Gaube. The route ends at the iconic red-roofed church in Cap Malheureux.
These scenic beach drives naturally lead into inland routes filled with natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Nature and Parks
The Chamarel circuit is a must for nature lovers. Starting from Tamarin, this 3.7-mile drive takes you through Black River Gorges National Park to the famous Seven Colored Earths. Key stops include:
| Stop | Highlight | Parking |
|---|---|---|
| Chamarel Falls | 312-ft waterfall | 0.9 miles from entrance |
| Seven Colored Earths | Unique geological site | 1.9 miles from entrance |
| Rhumerie de Chamarel | Rum distillery | On-site parking |
For the best view of the Colored Earths, plan your visit in the morning. The Black River Gorges National Park drive covers about 25 square miles of diverse terrain.
Once you’ve soaked in Mauritius’ natural wonders, take a drive to explore its cultural treasures.
Local Spots
The Tea Route offers a glimpse into Mauritian culture. This drive takes you to Domaine des Aubineaux in Curepipe, the Bois Cheri Tea Factory, and the Saint Aubin Estate. Alternatively, the southeastern circuit connects the Natural Bridge near Blue Bay, Pointe d’Esny Beach, Mahébourg, and the Blue Bay Marine Park.
Tips for Drivers
Planning ahead can make your driving experience in Mauritius safer and more enjoyable.
Maps and Navigation
Good navigation tools are a must when exploring Mauritius. MAPS.ME is a popular choice, boasting a 4.7/5 rating from over 70,800 App Store users. This free app offers offline maps and turn-by-turn directions, helping you save on mobile data.
Another option is Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps, which provides 3D offline maps, real-time traffic updates, and speed camera alerts. With a 4.6/5 rating from more than 55,600 users, you can try their Premium+ features for free during a 7-day trial – perfect for short trips.
Once you’ve sorted navigation, make sure you’re prepared for refueling during your journey.
Gas Stations and Fuel
Refueling in Mauritius is simple, thanks to two main providers:
| Provider | Number of Stations | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| TotalEnergies | 50 stations | Serving since 1956 |
| Vivo Energy (Shell) | 51 stations | Total capacity: 436M liters |
For better prices, consider filling up in towns rather than on motorways, where fuel tends to cost more.
Lastly, be ready for any unexpected car troubles by knowing where to turn for help.
Emergency Help
In case of a breakdown, Mauritius has dependable 24/7 roadside assistance. Keep these emergency contacts at hand:
| Service Provider | Contact Number | Services Offered |
|---|---|---|
| ADA (Quantum Insurance) | 211 3030 | Breakdown service, towing, key help |
| Kia Roadside Assistance | +230-202-8800 (business hours); 59-41-53-20 (after hours) | Towing, fuel delivery, breakdown help |
When calling for assistance, have the following details ready:
- Your name and phone number
- The exact location of the breakdown
- Your vehicle’s registration number
- A brief description of the issue
Keep in mind, some services might not cover vehicles over 5,512 lbs (2,500 kg) or those in inaccessible locations. Always carry your rental policy information for quick reference during your trip.
Conclusion
Here’s a quick recap to make your car rental experience in Mauritius smooth and budget-friendly. Renting a small car typically starts at around $34 per day, while an automatic option costs about $31. These choices offer a practical way to explore the island, especially during busy travel seasons.
To make the most of your trip:
- Pick white or red cars instead of black ones to stay cooler under the sun.
- Download offline maps ahead of time since internet access can be spotty.
- Budget roughly $63 for fuel if you’re planning to explore for four days.
"Renting a car in Mauritius isn’t just about convenience; it’s about granting yourself the freedom to fully experience the island at your own pace, without having to rely on public transportation or expensive taxis." – Chloe Christine