Oct 30, 2024
Short trip to Mauritius on a budget: A practical guide to planning your expenses
Mauritius is a paradise that often seems synonymous with luxury, but it’s also a fantastic destination for travellers on a budget. With careful planning, you can experience the island’s incredible beaches, diverse cultural sites, and vibrant local flavours without overspending. This guide will help you map out a memorable, budget-friendly trip, with tips on affordable accommodation, dining options, transport, and activities. From savouring street food to exploring breathtaking beaches, discover how to make the most of your short stay in Mauritius without breaking the bank.
Explore Mauritius without breaking the bank
Mauritius is often seen as a luxury destination, but it’s entirely possible to enjoy the island on a budget. From stunning beaches to vibrant local culture, you can experience many attractions without overspending. Smart planning and a few insider tips will allow you to make the most of your trip while keeping expenses low. Whether it’s finding affordable accommodation, exploring budget-friendly activities, or getting around cheaply, Mauritius has plenty to offer travellers who want to save without sacrificing the experience.
How much should you budget for food and dining in Mauritius?
Food in Mauritius can be as affordable or as lavish as you wish. Street food is an excellent option for budget travellers, offering delicious local dishes such as dholl puri, samosas, and gateaux piments for as little as 50-100 MUR per meal. For those preferring restaurants, meals at mid-range places typically cost 300-600 MUR per person. Voilà Hotel, with its central location near Port Louis and major shopping centres, gives guests easy access to both local eateries and restaurants offering diverse dining options.
Eating out at local restaurants vs tourist spots
There’s a big difference between the cost of dining at local eateries versus tourist spots. Local restaurants, especially those in markets, offer hearty meals at a fraction of the price found near resorts and major attractions. Dining where locals eat not only saves money but also provides an authentic experience. Tourist-focused spots often come with higher prices and cater more to international tastes. Voilà Bagatelle is well-positioned to allow you to explore both affordable local dining and higher-end restaurants, depending on your budget and preferences
Affordable grocery shopping
If you're staying in Mauritius for a few days or more, grocery shopping can be a great way to cut down on food costs. Supermarkets like Intermart, or grocery stores like Food lover’s market or Votre Pôte Agé, located in Bagatelle Mall next to Voilà Bagatelle, offer a range of fresh produce and essentials at reasonable prices. This is particularly useful if you opt for self-catering accommodation. Stocking up on snacks, bread, and local fruits allows you to prepare simple meals, keeping your overall food budget low.
Street food and snacks
Mauritius is a paradise for street food lovers, with affordable, tasty snacks available on almost every corner. Favourites like dholl puri, samosas, and rotis are perfect for a quick bite while exploring the island, often costing just a few rupees. These snacks are not only budget-friendly but also provide a glimpse of the authentic flavours of Mauritius.
Transport costs: Getting around Mauritius on a budget
Getting around Mauritius on a budget is easy with several affordable transport options. Public buses are the most economical, with fares typically ranging from 20 to 50 MUR depending on the distance. They connect most towns and tourist areas, making it simple to explore the island without spending much. Additionally, the Metro Express, a light rail tram system, offers a convenient and affordable way to travel between key locations, including Port Louis and nearby towns. The Réduit stop on the Metro Express is just a short distance from Voilà Bagatelle, giving guests easy access to this efficient transport option. Taxis, though pricier, can be more budget-friendly if fares are negotiated upfront. For those wanting more freedom, renting a car or scooter is also an option, though it comes with additional costs for fuel and insurance. Voilà Bagatelle’s central location ensures easy access to public transport, making it simple to explore Mauritius affordably.
Bus travel – the most affordable option
Bus travel is by far the most cost-effective way to get around Mauritius. The island’s bus network is extensive and connects major towns and attractions. With fares as low as 20 MUR, it’s easy to explore the island on a budget. While buses may not always be the fastest option, they offer an authentic local experience and help you save on transport costs. Voilà Bagatelle, located near key bus routes, offers convenient access to key destinations across the island.
Taxi services
Taxis offer flexibility but are pricier compared to public transport. Since fares are not metered, it’s essential to agree on a price before starting your journey. Short trips typically cost 300-600 MUR. For longer journeys or full-day excursions, taxis can offer a convenient way to explore, especially if you’re travelling in a group and can split the fare.
Car rentals – is it worth it?
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Mauritius at your own pace, but it comes with added costs. Daily rental rates typically range from 1,000 to 2,500 MUR, plus fuel and insurance. Renting a car is worth considering if you plan to explore remote parts of the island. However, if you're sticking to popular areas, public transport or taxis may be more cost-effective.
Activities and attractions: Affordable things to do in Mauritius
Mauritius offers a range of budget-friendly activities beyond its beaches. You can explore vibrant markets like Port Louis’ Central Market, visit historical sites like Aapravasi Ghat, or admire the architecture of local temples and churches—all at little or no cost. Many of these cultural and historical sites provide an enriching experience without the need for hefty entrance fees.
Beaches and nature spots
Mauritius is famous for its beautiful beaches, many of which are free to visit. Mont Choisy, Pereybere, and La Cuvette are just a few examples of beaches where you can relax or swim without any entry fees. For nature lovers, Black River Gorges National Park offers stunning hiking trails, and Blue Bay Marine Park is perfect for snorkelling—all at little cost.
Budget-friendly tours and sightseeing
Mauritius offers many affordable tours, including group excursions to popular spots like Chamarel’s Seven Colored Earths and Grand Bassin. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, budget-friendly catamaran trips to Île aux Cerfs or Île aux Benitiers offer a day of exploring remote islands, snorkelling, and enjoying a meal on the beach. Booking these tours in advance can help secure discounts, and Voilà Bagatelle’s central location makes it easy to access departure points for many of these trips.
Miscellaneous expenses to consider
Don’t forget to budget for small, miscellaneous expenses. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and taxis—plan on tipping around 50-100 MUR for good service. If you want to bring home souvenirs, local markets offer affordable options. Entrance fees to certain attractions may be minimal, but they can add up if you visit multiple sites.
Currency exchange and ATM withdrawals
It’s wise to exchange some currency upon arrival in Mauritius, as local shops and markets typically prefer cash in Mauritian Rupees (MUR). ATMs are available at most malls and city centres, with several machines in Bagatelle Mall, next to Voilà Hotel. Be sure to check with your bank beforehand for any international withdrawal fees to avoid unexpected costs.
Tipping culture
Tipping in Mauritius is not mandatory but is generally appreciated. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is common if service is not already included. It’s also customary to round up fares for taxi drivers and offer small tips to hotel staff. While tipping isn’t expected everywhere, it’s a nice way to show appreciation for good service.
SIM cards and mobile data
Purchasing a prepaid SIM card upon arrival is a cost-effective way to stay connected during your trip. Providers like My.T and Emtel offer affordable data packages starting from 100-200 MUR. Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes and public areas, allowing you to limit data usage when possible.
Example budget for a 3-5 day trip to Mauritius
- Food and drinks: 1,500 - 5,000 MUR
- Transport: 300 - 1,500 MUR
- Activities: 1,000 - 2,000 MUR
- Total estimated budget: 7,300 - 23,500 MUR
Tips for saving money on your trip to Mauritius
- Travel off-peak: Visiting from May to September means lower prices for flights and hotels, and fewer crowds.
- Use buses instead of taxis: Buses are the cheapest way to travel, with fares as low as 20 MUR for short distances.
- Book activities in advance: Booking tours early often secures discounts, and staying at centrally located hotels like Voilà Bagatelle can make accessing these activities more convenient
Enjoy Mauritius without overspending
With a little creativity and proper planning, you can create unforgettable moments in Mauritius. Opt for budget-friendly activities, use public transport, and explore affordable dining options to make the most of your trip. Whether you’re staying in a centrally located hotel like Voilà Bagatelle or exploring the island’s natural beauty, Mauritius offers plenty of ways to experience its charm without breaking the bank.