Mauritius is famous for its turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and vibrant cultural blend—but there’s so much more to the island than just the resort life. If you’re ready to explore lush green mountains, bustling markets, and hidden coastal gems at your own pace, renting a car in Mauritius is the way to go. Below, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about hitting the road in this island paradise.
You’ve probably heard it before: Mauritians drive on the left side of the road. For many visitors, this is the first hurdle to overcome. The good news? It’s a lot simpler than you might think. Just repeat the mantra “stay left, look right” to remind yourself each time you hit the roads or make a turn.
Another Mauritius staple is the roundabout. They’re everywhere—especially in larger towns like Port Louis and Curepipe. Remember to yield to traffic already circling, use your indicator when exiting, and proceed with caution if you’re unsure. Locals are generally patient, but it never hurts to keep an eye out for unexpected lane changes.
If you’re an international visitor, your valid license from home usually works just fine for car rental in Mauritius. Some agencies might ask for an International Driving Permit, so it’s good to check the specific requirements in advance.
When you book through First Car Rental, you’ll have the option of adding comprehensive insurance. While basic coverage is often included, it’s worth considering extra protection—particularly if you plan on venturing off the beaten path or driving long distances.
The M2 is Mauritius’ main highway, linking the north to the south. You can easily hop on it from SSR International Airport to reach popular towns like Grand Baie or Flic en Flac. Expect a bit of traffic near Port Louis during rush hour, so plan your trips accordingly.
Want a more picturesque drive? Head down the coastal roads along Le Morne or Bel Ombre, where crashing waves and dramatic cliffs create stunning photo ops. Feel free to pull over at the marked viewpoints to snap pictures—or simply soak in that salty island breeze.
Venturing into smaller villages like Chamarel or Goodlands? Be prepared for narrower, winding roads. Slow down, keep an eye out for pedestrians, and don’t be surprised if you end up sharing the road with a stray dog or a cyclist.
Small & Compact
If you’re traveling solo or with one other person, a compact car from First Car Rental is perfect for zipping around towns and squeezing into tight parking spots near popular beaches.
Family-Friendly SUV
For groups or families, consider an SUV. Mauritius offers plenty of adventure activities like waterfall hikes and dirt-road detours. Having a sturdier, more spacious vehicle ensures comfort and extra storage for all your beach gear.
Bakkie for Big Adventures
Thinking of exploring rugged terrains or transporting loads of water-sports equipment? A bakkie for hire in Mauritius might be your best bet. The extra cargo space is ideal for surfboards, diving tanks, and anything else that screams “tropical adventure.”
With so many car rental options on the island, why choose First Car Rental? Simple:
When it comes to Car Rental in Mauritius, having a trustworthy partner makes your holiday that much more enjoyable—and stress-free.
Mauritius may be a small island, but it’s bursting with surprises around every winding turn. Driving yourself means you get to call the shots—veering off to chase a waterfall, stopping for piping-hot street food, or simply rolling the windows down for a scenic coastal cruise. And when you’ve got First Car Rental in your corner, you can focus on what really matters: making unforgettable memories.
So, are you ready to hit the road? Buckle up, turn up your favourite tunes, and discover the island paradise of Mauritius, one kilometre at a time.
Book your next holiday wheels with First Car Rental and make your Mauritian adventure truly your own.
