About Mauritius
Mauritius, known officially as the Republic of Mauritius an Indian Ocean island nation which is located off the southeast coast of the African continent. It is also known for its beaches, lagoons and reefs, the mountainous interior includes Black River Gorges National Park, with rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails and wildlife like the flying fox. Capital Port Louis has sites such as the Champs de Mars horse track, Eureka plantation house and 18th-century Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens ,. It is a volcanic island of lagoons and palm-fringed beaches with coral reefs surrounding most of the coastline.
The island is situated approximately 2400 kilometers off the South East Coast of Africa. The island covers an area of 1,865 square kilometers or 720 square miles, with 330 kilometers of coastline. Mauritius is 45km in width and 65km in length.
Mauritius is a densely populated island of around 1.3 million people. It has a reputation for stability and racial harmony among its mixed population. Mauritius is known as a plural society where all the ethnic groups present: Hindus, Muslims, Creoles, Chinese and Europeans live in peace and where all the ancestral cultures have been preserved. These features make the island a unique place in the world, and the Mauritians known for their tolerance and kindness towards all people.
Most Mauritians are bilingual being equally fluent in French and English. English is the official language, but French and Creole are widely spoken. Oriental languages also form part of the linguistic mosaic.
Mauritius has preserved its image as one of Africa's few social and economic success stories, being a sugar and clothing exporter and a center for up market tourism.
The island of Mauritius itself is divided into nine districts:
- Black River
- Flacq
- Grand Port
- Moka
- Pamplemousses
- Plaines Wilhems
- Port Louis (Capital of Mauritius)
- Rivière du Rempart
- Savanne
Mauritius was first discovered by the Arabs as early as in the 10th century, but officially explored by the Portuguese in the 16th century and subsequently settled by the Dutch in the 17th century. The Dutch were the ones who named the island in honor of Prince Maurits van NASSAU.
Mauritius was occupied successively by the Dutch (1598-1712) and later by the French (1715-1810).
The French assumed control in 1715, developing the island into an important naval base overseeing the Indian Ocean trade, and establishing a plantation economy of sugar cane.
The British captured the island in 1810, during the Napoleonic Wars through the Treaty of Paris. Mauritius remained a strategically important British naval base, and later on, an air station playing an important role during World War II for anti-submarine and convoy operations, as well as the collection of signals intelligence. On 12 March 1968, Mauritius became Independent.
Mauritius Things to Do
Mauritius has earned the reputation of a top holiday destination, but only few of the island visitors know that Mauritius is one of the leading destinations in the world while referring to the large variety of the activities it offers in comparison to its size.
When visiting Mauritius you are sure to benefit from an amazing selection of almost 200 activities, attractions and places of interested all waiting to discovered.
From more traditional museums, parks and reserves, to extreme activities, sea cruises, island trips and many more, you will find it all!
So make sure to discover the real Mauritius to the fullest via the various fun and exciting activities it offers!
Additional facts on Mauritius Island
Culture
Religion
Hindu,Christian, Muslim faiths are all prevalent on the island, as well as old Chinese customs
Water and electricity
Traditional foods
Accommodation
Internal transport
Safety
What to buy
Business hours
Air connectivity
Entry requirements
Health
Currency
Clothing
Weather and Climate
Emergency numbers
- Police : 999 / 112
- Ambulance : 999 / 114
- Fire : 995 / 115
- Information : 150 /152
Tipping
Tipping is not compulsory in Mauritius but if you have appreciate your driver or resort service,it is acceptable
Time
Mauritius is four hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and three hours ahead of mid-European Time (2 hours difference during the winter time, and 4 hours difference during the summer time).
Telecommunications
Mauritius has international direct dialing facilities to most parts of the world as well as high speed fax and Internet services.
Driving
Driving is on the left, with priority to the right.
Electricity
- 220 volts
International Country Calling code - Mauritius
- The country telephone code is +230 and there are no area codes. Public telephone booths can be found at the airport and larger hotels. Fax facilities are available at most hotels. E-communication is also available.