Is Mauritius Expensive? Costs, Money-saving Tips and More

Mauritius is relatively affordable, with costs about 42% lower than the U.S. You’ll pay around MUR 2,000 for a nice dinner for two, while street food costs under a dollar. One-bedroom apartments rent for MUR 14,000-20,000 monthly. Save money by using public transportation ($1 per bus ride), eating at local spots, booking accommodations early, and enjoying free beaches and parks. The following breakdown reveals how to experience this tropical paradise without emptying your wallet.

Key Points

• Mauritius is 42.4% cheaper than the US, with monthly costs around ₨129,834 for a family of four and ₨56,328 for singles.
• Accommodation varies by region, with eastern areas commanding premium prices while central regions offer more affordable options.
• Food costs range from budget street food under $1 to mid-range restaurants at ₨2,000 for a three-course meal for two.
• Transportation is affordable with $1 bus trips and $1.25 light rail rides, while car rentals start at $21 daily.
• Save money by eating street food, booking accommodations early, using public transport, enjoying free beaches, and visiting natural attractions.

The Real Cost of Living in Mauritius: A Breakdown

While many tropical destinations strain your wallet, Mauritius offers a surprisingly reasonable cost of living. You’ll find daily expenses about 42.4% lower than in the United States, making your travel budget stretch further.

Escape to paradise without emptying your savings—Mauritius delivers tropical luxury at 42% less than U.S. prices.

A family of four spends roughly ₨129,834 monthly, while a single traveler needs approximately ₨56,328. The island’s growing economy contributes to price stability across most sectors. Compared to the Czech Republic, Mauritius is 21.6% cheaper for overall living expenses. Seychelles, another popular tropical destination, is generally more expensive than Mauritius.

Your dining costs will vary considerably—local eateries serve delicious meals starting at ₨200, while grocery shopping is most economical when you choose local produce over imported goods. Don’t miss trying affordable local specialties like dholl puri.

Transportation won’t break your budget either, with cost-effective public buses connecting major areas and scooter rentals providing a practical alternative for shorter trips.

Housing Options and Expenses in Mauritius

Looking for housing in Mauritius? Prepare for significant regional price variations. The Eastern region commands premium prices, with houses averaging MUR 74,654,378 and apartments at MUR 29,492,000.

You’ll find more affordable options in the Central region. For rentals, expect to pay around MUR 20,045 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment in city centers or MUR 14,176 outside central areas. Mauritius’ rich cultural heritage is reflected in its diverse architecture and neighborhoods.

If buying, median prices per square foot run about MUR 20,011 for houses and MUR 19,545 for apartments.

Budget-conscious buyers should consider Calodyne (houses at MUR 11,569/sq ft) or Goodlands (apartments at MUR 14,754/sq ft).

The market continues to grow rapidly, with annual increases of 16.8% for houses and 23.3% for apartments, making early investment potentially worthwhile despite the high initial costs. Foreign buyers must purchase through government schemes like PDS, IRS, or RES that facilitate property investment and offer residency options.

Food, Dining and Grocery Costs to Expect

Understanding Mauritius’s food scene is essential for budget planning during your stay. You’ll find a diverse culinary landscape with options for every budget. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around 2,000 Rs, while fast-food combos are approximately 259 Rs.

Mauritius offers culinary options for every budget, from upscale dining to affordable fast-food alternatives.

To manage your food budget effectively:

1. Try street food – Enjoy local flavors for just a few dollars per meal
2. Self-cater when possible – Accommodations with kitchen facilities let you prepare your own meals
3. Look for meal specials and happy hours – Many restaurants offer discounted prices at certain times
4. Visit local markets – Purchase fresh produce at competitive prices compared to tourist-oriented shops

Food inflation averages 4.50%, so prices may vary during your visit. Street food is incredibly economical with delicious local snacks like rotis and samosas costing less than a dollar each. Seychelles is known for its high costs of visiting, so it’s important to plan your Mauritius budget accordingly.

Transportation and Getting Around: Price Guide

Getting around Mauritius efficiently requires understanding your transportation options and their costs. Public transport is remarkably affordable, with bus rides costing around $1 for hour-long trips and light rail at $1.25 per ride. These options connect major areas but might require planning for less accessible locations.

For flexibility, car rentals start at $21 daily, while taxis charge $2.50-$3.00 per kilometer—considerably pricier than public alternatives. Gasoline costs approximately $1.45 per liter if you’re driving. Alexandria or Hurghada are two popular destinations in Egypt that offer distinct experiences – urban history and shimmering beaches.

The island’s transport infrastructure is evolving with expanding light rail coverage and AI-powered traffic management. Mobile apps now offer real-time tracking systems for better journey planning and schedule updates. Use journey-planning apps to optimize your routes and combine transport modes effectively.

Budget travelers should prioritize buses and light rail, while those visiting remote areas or traveling with family might find car rentals more practical despite higher costs.

Smart Ways to Save Money While in Mauritius

While exploring the tropical paradise of Mauritius doesn’t have to break the bank, savvy travelers can stretch their budgets considerably with strategic planning. By adopting local habits and thinking ahead, you’ll enjoy this island gem without unnecessary expenses.

1. Eat like a local – Sample street food at markets and roadside stalls, and shop at local supermarkets rather than dining at tourist restaurants every day.
2. Book accommodations early – Secure guesthouses or apartments instead of resorts, and negotiate better rates for longer stays. Plus, avoid peak travel seasons when prices are highest.
3. Use public transportation – Opt for local buses instead of taxis or rental cars when possible.
4. Seek out free attractions – Enjoy public beaches, hiking trails, and local festivals that offer authentic experiences without entrance fees. Visit breathtaking natural sites like Black River Gorges National Park with its indigenous forests and wildlife trails.

The Sum Up

Mauritius doesn’t have to break your bank if you plan strategically. While tourist areas can charge up to 30% more than local spots, you’ll stretch your budget by exploring inland, using public buses, and shopping at local markets. Embrace self-catering options and free beach activities to enjoy this island paradise without overspending. The real Mauritius experience often comes from its affordable everyday pleasures, not its luxury resorts.