Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Driving through Mauritius | Speed limits in Mauritius | Defensive driving in Mauritius | Driving on the left side at roundabouts and road signs in Mauritius | Unofficial traffic signs in Mauritius | Parking coupons | Alternative parking in Port Louis as opposed to using coupons | Car Rentals | Petrol stations opening hours | Travelling by bus | Light Rail Travel - Metro Leger
So let's start. In Mauritius, you drive on the left-hand side and give way to the right.
Driving in Mauritius, and that on the left-hand side can be challenging for first-timers notwithstanding the driving culture in Mauritius.
Whilst driving through Mauritius, you may encounter road works where the traffic is manually controlled by 2 persons at either end, turning stop and go signs instead of traffic lights, police controlling roundabouts, scooters loaded with families of three, pedestrians running across the dual carriageway (motorway), or at night in certain areas of Mauritius, and more so the villages, people playing cards on a table set up in the road's kerb (curb), just to mention a few strange encounters.
The Mauritians' easy-going way of life, friendliness and tolerance can also be experienced when driving. You may be asking for directions and they'll just lead and show you how to get there, even if it means going out of their way to make sure you don't get lost. The paradox is the lack of road courtesy.
Tip: Before setting out for any destination, check Google Maps for the shortest route and traffic congestion updates. Whilst driving through Mauritius, and if appetite sets in, check out Cuisine in Mauritius, Restaurants in Mauritius or a simple take away or home delivery if you are staying in a vacation rental in Mauritius.
Fun Facts - Motorised transport in Mauritius: History
Stay safe
The Tourist Police service (Police du Tourisme) ☎ (+230) 213 2818
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
You have 4 types of road in Mauritius:
In residential areas and villages you "should" only drive 40 km/h but not always signposted, yet some roads signs in town or villages are ambiguous indicating 60 km/h. On country roads, the speed limit is 80 km/h and on the dual carriageway (motorway) it is 110 km/h, taxis have to drive slower.
Speed cameras are yellow and make it easy to distinguish them. As you approach a speed trap you have 300 meters to control your speed as indicated. You will see three lines on the road meaning you have 300 meters before the camera, 2 lines 200 meters and one line 100 meters.
You'll see numerous drivers driving through at high speeds to the last line (100 meters) and then slam on the breaks. The police have now additional speed control with a handheld speed camera (mobile) control and target these drivers from the 300 to 100-meter point.
The police presence using portable radar camera (mobile) is often used at new temporary dangerous points e.g. road works. On school terms and holidays, these mobile speed cameras are used continuously so as to "educate" the driver to respect the speed independent of periodical events that may be a hazard or danger.
The map below shows all speed cameras in Mauritius. We cannot guarantee this is up to date but at first glance, it seems correct.
The additional "policeman" icon on the map indicates handheld cameras. For more information, click on the three different icons used.
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Some traffic lights have road sensors that trigger the change of light to green, as can bee seen on the rear wheels of this car. You need to cross them with your front wheels i.e. close to the white stop line. In this case, the driver has crossed the white stop line, which is an infraction. See road fines and traffic offences in Mauritius.
Most times than not, whilst waiting for the traffic light to turn green, an oncoming driver will flash his full-beam light frantically signalling he wants to take your priority to turn right (your left). That is generally accepted, so be cautious. Obviously, if there is an accident the other driver would be at fault.
Pelican crossings control traffic flow using a light sequence to allow pedestrians to cross safely. When a pedestrian presses a button on the crossing the lights will change to red for traffic after a timed delay then returns to green after another timed delay.
Pedestrians will still cross, even if the "little guy" is on static red and you are probably on amber or even green. So don't be surprised. Oh! Don't forget the dogs, they also use pelican and pedestrian crossings believe it or not.
These are not very visible in Mauritius as you drive up to them, they don't have the flashing orange beacons (like in Europe) which can be seen clearly at a distance towering over parked cars. There are no controls on zebra crossings but, by law, vehicles must give way to pedestrians waiting to cross or crossing.
Mauritius does not use them. Similar to pelican crossing but the timing is controlled by sensors mounted on the lights rather than a timer. The sensors can detect if pedestrians are still on the crossing and control the sequence of the lights accordingly. Puffin crossing also doesn’t have the flashing amber phase for vehicles.
Mauritius does not use them. Crossing designed for pedestrians and cyclists to use at the same time. On zebra, pelican and puffin crossings cyclists are meant to dismount before crossing. Toucan crossings are wider, allowing space for cyclists to remain on their bikes.
Pegasus (or equestrian) crossing
Mauritius does not use them. The rarest type of crossing, this is designed to make life easier for horse riders crossing the carriageway. It works in the same way as a puffin crossing, with the sequence controlled by sensors mounted on the lights but also features two sets of control buttons - one at pedestrian height and one-two metres above the ground for riders to use.
If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs : | Fine MUR From - To | Suspension or loss of driving license | Detention | Prison |
First-time offence | 20,000-50,000 | Automatically 1-year suspension of driving license | Until sobriety | Up to 5 years |
Second-time offence | 50,000-75,000 | Driving license is revoked | Until sobriety | 1-8 years |
After a lot of research, to update this section, we were able to complete this with the help of Barlen Munusami (Sgt. in the Mauritius Police Force) who is the author of "The complete driver's handbook" (Mauritius). His book is only available in Mauritius. La Sentinelle is the publisher.
Barlen will be writing a new book next year about defensive driving.
Back to Drinking and driving in MauritiusYou should definitely apply defensive driving in Mauritius, below is a video to refresh your memory. Obviously the snow and winter part does not apply. You can apply these tips when you return from your holiday in Mauritius. :) The fog section may apply in the centre of island 700 meters above sea level but rare. December to March is the cyclonic period which brings a lot of rain and you need to know what to do when you aquaplane (make sure your tyres have enough tread). Check this post about hydroplaning/aquaplaning on our Facebook page: wwwdotgotodotmu - Driving in Mauritius.
Although you are always responsible for the way you operate your vehicle, the one thing you can't control is how other people drive their vehicles. That is why applying the art of defensive driving is so important. In addition to other drivers, it's important to know that defensive driving can also be used in bad weather, car malfunctions, and other hazardous situations.
This video answers the following important questions to help you stay "safer" on the road:
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Probably the most challenging if you have never driven on the left-hand side. The video tutorial below provides skilled and learner drivers with accurate information for dealing with roundabouts, along with tips and safety routines. We could all benefit watching this tutorial. If we were able to adhere to these rules driving through a roundabout and a little road courtesy on top of that, we would have fewer traffic jams.
Bicycle riders are allowed to turn right from the left-hand lane. When passing each exit, the rider must give way to any vehicle leaving the roundabout from that exit.
NOTE:
The diagram shows how to indicate and give way at roundabouts.
Driving through a roundabout in Mauritius can seem a bit complicated and can be most times, where road signage may be missing. This is where the police takeover and "try" to keep the traffic fluid. Not an easy task. You may ask yourself, why don't they place road signs? Most road signs are made of metal and are often stolen for scrap metal, an ongoing battle to alleviate traffic jams caused by poor signage or road education.
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Swipe left (Smartphone).
Unofficial traffic signs in Mauritius | Here are some traffic rules understood by Mauritian drivers and are of common knowledge: | |
Outstretched hand | whilst driving | I am turning right! If arm at 90 degrees with hand pointing left, then I'm turning left. |
in a traffic jam | Caution I am changing lane! Generally doesn't work. You have to give other drivers a pleading look and most times than not they let you swap lane. | |
A car which is driving tightly on the kerbside. Basically slowing down all traffic. | I don’t really want to drive fast, saving on petrol. Please just overtake me. Note: Mostly cars that are more than 20 years old or elder inexperienced drivers who have just acquired their license. | |
waving underhand | Overtake!! Now! You can! | |
Honking shortly | whilst driving | Caution! I am coming! Please stay in your lane because I am overtaking! |
at traffic lights | Go! Lights have changed to amber! Probably you know it but just accelerate. Generally, cars that have more than 2,000 cc. These drivers are more likely to intimidate other drivers. | |
Honking long | I had the right of way!! Or you took my priority. | |
A policeman who gives the come-on wave, especially during rush hour | Faster, please! How else should this traffic jam ever end? |
Statistics | Driving Environment | Driver Behaviour | Vehicles | Speed Limits | Traffic Signals | Road Signs | Road Markings | Kerb Markings | Roundabouts | Intersections | Pedestrian Crossings | Railway Crossings | Highways | City Driving | Rural Roads | Night Driving | Parking | Oddities
Fun Facts - Motorised transport in Mauritius: History
Drinking and driving in Mauritius: Alcohol limitations are 9 mcg (breathalyser) or 20mg of alcohol in the bloodstream and 27 mg in urine . As of October 2018. Read more.
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Except for Port Louis, Rose Hill, Curepipe and Quatre Bornes public parking is free of charge and easily accessed. In these towns, parking is only possible with parking coupons. Coupons can be purchased in petrol stations (125 in Mauritius) and major supermarkets. They are valid for either half an hour or one hour and have to be perforated with date and time of parking.
It is an offence NOT to perforate parking coupons e.g. you may NOT use a pencil or pen to cross mark arrival time with the intention to reuse the coupon. There are two different parking zone fees and depending on the zone parking is either 10 or 20 Rupees a half hour. Last price hike 2011.Counterfeit parking coupons are circulating in Mauritius. The National Transport Authority (NTA) is looking to introduce payment methods used abroad. See this article in French .
Find a list of official coupon resellers. The list is provided by the Parking Unit and may not be up to date.
Note: Always park on the left side e.g. the way the traffic is flowing, never on the right side, it is not permitted and you'll get a ticket.
It is just on the outskirt of Port Louis but you would enjoy "free" parking. Walkabout 1,500 meters to the centre of Port Louis. In summer you would work up a good sweat, not advisable for those that can't cope with the summer heat exceeding 30 degrees Celsius in the shade. You'll find some Mauritians, especially ladies walk with an umbrella as opposed to a parasol. Practical to stay in the shade. You'd think this would be more convenient and generalised in Mauritius or other hot countries.
Note:
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
If you want to rent a car in Mauritius, make sure it is an official car rental service. Official car rentals have yellow license plates.
You can find cheap "illegal" car rentals on the internet at half the price to the branded car rentals. The downside, if you have an accident the insurance won't cover you, notwithstanding you and the car owner is committing a criminal act. In such a situation, you would not be able to leave the country until you go to court.
Check Maki Car Rental for extremely competitive rates and a professional approach.
Note: We have no commercial relationship with this company, just endorsing excellent value for money and service.
By law, petrol stations are obliged to open from 06:00 AM to 20:00 PM.
Petrol stations are usually easy to find. Nevertheless, there are almost no 24/7 stations so you better refill the tank before going on a night trip.
La Croisette, Pamplemousses, Calebasses, GRNW, Bagatelle, Curepipe and La Preneuse have 24/7 fuel station.
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Taxis are the best way to visit the island. Various tours are available from MUR2,500: The holy lake, Chamarel 7 coloured earth, Le Morne, dolphin tours in Tamarin and Ile aux Cerfs are among the most appreciated by visitors.
Do not patron unlicensed taxis. They promise a cheaper ride but, lately, there has been a surge in cases of robbers using this trick to lure and attack their victims.
Mauritius has a good bus network, which is spread throughout the country. So most of the locals use the bus to get around Mauritius.
Mauritian buses are in good conditions. Lately, there has been a major improvement in the bus transport sector in Mauritius. Some buses on the island have now automatic doors, free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned. Air-conditioned buses are usually more expensive.
Travelling by bus in Mauritius is becoming more comfortable on main routes, as for the other routes it's a "special adventure" which is to be considered just for the experience. Furthermore, it is the cheapest way of travelling in Mauritius.
If you have a long distance to travel, make sure you have ample time to return. Depending on the region the last buses leave between 18:00 hrs and 20:00 hrs and in some towns even later but not coastal routes.
The fare for one bus ride varies between MUR 10 to 35. If you have to change the bus you need to purchase a new ticket.
Buses are still manned by a driver and a conductor who walks around collecting fares and issuing tickets after passengers have boarded. Tell the conductor where you want to go and he'll tell you the fare amount. Upon payment, he'll give you a ticket with the charged amount printed on it. Keep your tickets until you reach your destination. Try to pay with small denominations or the conductor may not have enough change. Intentional over-charging of tourists is not common.
Most conductors are very helpful in providing directions to tourists. In the local Creole dialect, the conductors are called con-tro-lair (literally controller)
Signs on the front side of the bus indicates the destination. There are timetables for buses, however not "always" reliable.
The major bus companies in Mauritius are:
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Mauritius doesn't currently have a railway system... The Mauritius light rail project, long-awaited, should really alleviate traffic congestion.
The Metro Express in Mauritius is currently being constructed and in October 2019 (Phase 1) will be operational from Port Louis to Rose Hill. September 2021 (Phase 2) from Port Louis to Curepipe. The service will span over 26 km.
Road traffic congestion is a problem that we all face worldwide, especially in the major cities and rush hour. It's a challenge that has grown at an alarming rate as our lives have become increasingly dominated by the need to own a vehicle. Sitting in a traffic jam is frustrating and not particularly productive unless you break the law and browse your Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp (Social Media) accounts. It is an economic burden for all concerned notwithstanding stress and eventual road rage.
And it is not only the motorist that suffers. Congested streets make life less unpleasant for pedestrians and increased traffic leads to more accidents. What is more, the inexorable growth of traffic has led to significant problems of pollution. Traffic is noisy and car fumes are unpleasant and lead to substantial environmental damage. It is true that the move to unleaded petrol has at times reduced the problem of lead pollution, but the constant growing emissions of carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide have aggravated the problem of global warming and acid rain.
Between 2015 and 2017, road traffic in Mauritius has risen by 52%. Most passengers and freight in Mauritius is transported by road. In 2017, 94% of passenger and 81% of freight tonnage in Mauritius are by road. It's a pity that we have no railways ( dismantled in the '60s ), otherwise, we would not be where we are today. Many road passengers (about 92%) travelled by car in 2017 and is still growing. Today, vehicle costs amount to some 19% of household expenditure.
Is traffic congestion a price worth paying for the benefits we gain from using cars? Or are there things that can be done to ease the problem without greatly inconveniencing the travellers or commuters? And if something is to be done, should the government of Mauritius seek to extend the role of the market for example by encouraging the building of private toll roads or merely to amend market forces, for example by subsidising public transport or banning cars in certain areas.
We ought to look at various schemes and at their respective costs and long term benefits. But first, it is necessary to examine the existing system of allocating road space and see the extent to which it meets or fails to meet society’s transport objectives. This will enable us to identify the challenges that the Mauritian government need to address. We should really focus on the motor car and passenger transport, but clearly lorries are another major source of congestion and any comprehensive policy to deal with traffic congestion must also examine freight transport.
There is already a Rs 5 billion program to alleviate road congestion in Mauritius earmarked in the last budget (2017) for infrastructural. Major works are now underway and should be finalised by 2021, supposedly.
What people want is not the car journey for its own sake but to reach their destination in comfort and stress-free. The greater the benefit they gain at their destination, the greater the benefit they gain for using their cars to get there.
Apart from being unpopular with people who want to park, there are some serious drawbacks with parking restrictions:
The old railway traffic warning signs: STOP, LOOK AND LISTEN which used to be displayed before the approaching of the old railway lines of long ago is still in the mind of our elder generation. Should the Mauritian government therefore stop, look and listen and take into consideration the location and economic development of the country. On the other hand, who knows, this project of Metro Leger (Express) could be a blessing in disguise. ONLY TIME WILL TELL!
Don't hesitate to join the discussion.
Statistics | Driving Environment | Driver Behaviour | Vehicles | Speed Limits | Traffic Signals | Road Signs | Road Markings | Kerb Markings | Roundabouts | Intersections | Pedestrian Crossings | Railway Crossings | Highways | City Driving | Rural Roads | Night Driving | Parking | Oddities
Fun Facts - Motorised transport in Mauritius: History
Drinking and driving in Mauritius: Alcohol limitations are 9 mcg (breathalyser) or 20mg of alcohol in the bloodstream and 27 mg in urine . As of October 2018. Read more.
Online magazine | 5 vacation rental listings FREE of charge worth €2,500 | FREE marketing support | FREE vacation rental listings renewal policy | Creating cash flow for Vacation rental owners, property management companies or agents | Contact Us | Ask questions and comment about our website
At the beginning of 1860, the transport of passengers and goods was undertaken by about 2,000 horses, 4,000 donkeys and 4,500 carriages and carts. [1] With the advent of the railways, and later of motorized transport, animal-based transport systems declined on the island.
In January 1901, the first two-seater car, imported by Goupille & Cie, was disembarked. In October of that same year, the Union Regnard sugar estate (Now F.U.E.L) received the first motorized truck of British origin, capable of transporting up to 5 tons. [2]
In 1930, the island had 3,016 vehicles: around 2,401 private cars, 300 taxis, 303 trucks, 92 buses and 220 motorcycles. In 1950, vehicles numbered in the 5,161 and went up to 13,291 in 1960 with the decline of the railways. In 1970, the number of vehicles nearly doubled, going to 25,389 motorised vehicles. This included 12,546 cars, 4,171 trucks, 722 buses and 5,383 motorcycles. [3] Public transport, in the form of buses, grew in line with the demographic and economic growth of the island. Thus, buses numbered 186 in 1950, 488 in 1960, 722 in 1970 and 1,490 in 1980. [4]
As of June 2011, 392,276 vehicles are registered on the island. 46% consists of cars and dual-purpose vehicles and 41% of motorized two-wheelers. The remaining 13% consists of vans, lorries and trucks, buses and other vehicles. [5]
Sources: