How Much Money Do I Need to Take to Mauritius?

To estimate your daily expenses in Mauritius, you should budget approximately £25 to £50 per person per day. This range is a useful starting point, with your actual spending varying significantly based on your planned activities and lifestyle choices during your trip.

Daily Spending Considerations

Your daily budget will be influenced by several factors, including:

Activities and Excursions: Opting for water sports, private tours, or island hopping excursions will increase your daily costs.
Dining Preferences: Enjoying local street food and markets will be more economical than frequenting high-end restaurants or resort dining.
Transportation: Utilizing public transport or walking is cheaper than relying solely on taxis or private car hire.
Shopping: Souvenirs and personal shopping can significantly add to your overall expenditure.

Payment Methods in Mauritius

Mauritius is well-equipped for visitors when it comes to managing money:

Credit and Debit Cards: Major credit cards are widely accepted across the main island, particularly in hotels, larger shops, and established restaurants.
ATMs: You will find plenty of ATMs throughout the island nation, making it convenient to withdraw local currency.
Cash: While cards are common, it's highly advisable to carry Mauritian Rupees (MUR) in cash, especially if you plan to explore the smaller islands or visit local markets, street food stalls, and independent vendors, where card payments may not be available.

Calculating Your Total Budget

To determine the total amount of money you might need, consider the following:

Determine your daily spending style: Are you a budget traveler aiming for £25/day, or do you prefer more comfort, leaning towards £50/day or more?
Multiply by trip duration:
- For example, a 7-day trip for one person could range from:
  - £175 (7 days * £25/day) at the lower end
  - £350 (7 days * £50/day) at the higher end

This calculation primarily covers daily out-of-pocket expenses such as meals, local transport, entrance fees for attractions, and small purchases, but generally excludes pre-booked costs like international flights and accommodation.

Practical Tips for Managing Money in Mauritius

Carry a Mix: It's wise to bring a combination of cash for smaller purchases and a credit/debit card for larger transactions or emergencies.
Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank of your travel plans to Mauritius to prevent any card transaction issues.
Exchange Currency: You can exchange your home currency for Mauritian Rupees at airports, banks, or authorized money changers upon arrival.