Getting around Mauritius

Metro Express (light rail)

The Metro Express is a modern light rail line through the built-up centre of the island, between Port Louis and Curepipe. It is quick, air-conditioned and avoids the traffic jams on the motorway.

Trains run from early morning to the evening, more often at rush hour. Buy your ticket or travel card at the station before you board. Check the official Metro Express website for current timetables and fares, as they can change.

The Metro is useful for Port Louis, Rose Hill, Quatre Bornes and Curepipe, but it does not go to the beaches or the airport.

• Port Louis (Victoria)
• Rose Hill (Central)
• Quatre Bornes
• Vacoas
• Curepipe (Central)
• Branch line: Rose Hill towards Réduit

Buses

Buses go almost everywhere and are very cheap. You pay the conductor on board, in cash, so keep small notes and coins. In Port Louis, the main bus stations are Victoria Square and Immigration Square.

Buses are slow, stop often, and run less in the evening and on Sundays, especially in villages. Express buses between big towns are quicker. Ask the conductor to tell you when to get off.

Taxis and ride apps

Taxis wait at hotels, malls, beaches and the airport. Most do not use a meter: always agree on the price before you get in. Hotel taxis are convenient but often cost more than a taxi you book yourself.

For a full day of sightseeing, book a taxi or driver for the day: it is often cheaper than several separate rides. Ride-hailing apps exist in Mauritius, but coverage varies; ask your hotel or host which app works best in your area.

Renting a car

A rental car gives you the most freedom, especially for the south and west coasts. Remember that Mauritius drives on the left, and that traffic around Port Louis is heavy at rush hour.

Read our guide to driving in Mauritius

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From the airport

SSR International Airport is in the southeast, at Plaine Magnien. Allow around an hour by road to the north or west coast, more in traffic. Pre-book a transfer with your hotel, take a taxi from the arrivals hall, or pick up your rental car there.

Getting to Rodrigues

Air Mauritius flies from the main airport to Rodrigues in about 1 hour 30 minutes. A passenger and cargo ship also sails from Port Louis a few times a month, but the crossing takes more than a day.

Read our full guide: how to get to Rodrigues