Mauritius Money & Economy

The Mauritian economy has grown significantly since independence. It has developed from being a low-income agriculturally based economy into the second highest gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in Africa.

Mauritius is now a middle-income economy with growing industrial, manufacturing, financial and tourist sectors. The tourism sector has become the most important sector in Mauritius, with Mauritius accommodation being some of the best in the world

The economy is still largely dependent on sugarcane, which you will see a lot of as you drive around the island on your Mauritius holiday.

In 2005, the Deputy Prime Minister announced that over the next four years, Mauritius would become a duty-free island.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR).

Traveller's cheques in any major currency can be exchanged without a problem in Mauritius and they bring a better rate of exchange than cash. We recommend you bring Euro currency as it is the preferred currency in Mauritius, with many hotels charging in Euros.

The government sets the exchange rates, so there is no need to bank hop. You can bring any amount of foreign currency into the country.

Banks

The Bank of Mauritius has branches everywhere. Branches of Barclays and HSBC can be found in tourist areas. Banking hours are 9.15am to 3.15pm from Monday to Thursday and 9.15am to 3.30pm on Fridays. In Port Louis and tourist areas, banks are also open on Saturdays from 9.15am to 11.15am.

Currency exchange facilities are widely available at Bureau de Change offices. Opening times are 3.15 to 5pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm on Saturdays, and 9am to 12pm on Sundays and public holidays.

You can also use a credit card to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Credit cards

Credit cards are widely accepted, with cash advances available from most major banks. Cheaper pensions and local cafés generally don't add tax or service charges to their bills, while mid-range to upscale restaurants and hotels add a 15% government tax.

Tipping

Tipping is optional in restaurants and unnecessary if the 12% tax has already been added to the bill, but ask if you are uncertain. Airport and hotel porters usually expect a tip, but taxi drivers do not.

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