Security

The security situation in Mauritius is good compared to many other African countries. However, this does not mean that Mauritius is free of crime or that the usual precautions should be dispensed with. So-called petty crime is growing in proportion to tourism, which is becoming more and more widespread in the country. Given the beauty of Mauritius, it is understandable that more and more people want to spend their vacation here. In view of the comparatively low income in Mauritius, tourists and their valuables are a great temptation for some locals. The following therefore applies in Mauritius: do not carry valuables openly on your person, do not behave conspicuously and be extremely vigilant, especially in large crowds.

Especially after dark, poorer residential areas and deserted beaches, however tempting they may be, should be avoided. Pickpockets are particularly prevalent at markets, such as the markets in Grand Baie, Port Louis and Flic en Flac. If you go to a bank to exchange money, you should be particularly careful and attentive when leaving the bank building.

Although Mauritius offers such a beautiful landscape, the natural dangers of the area should not be ignored. Swimming in the sea around Mauritius is not always safe. The currents are strong and often unpredictable, even for locals, due to their frequent changes. As reckless divers in Mauritius often break the simplest (and most important) basic rule of diving, namely never dive alone, there are regrettably frequent diving accidents resulting in death. In addition, there are numerous speedboats in the waters around Mauritius. Their guides are not always trained for this, and accidents often occur due to inappropriate behavior.

Poisonous fish also live in the seas around Mauritius, which is why it can often be advisable to wear bathing shoes on muddy sand. Poisonous snakes live on land, so you should not reach into holes or crevices in the ground or move large stones. In addition to snakes that are poisonous to humans, Mauritius is also home to venomous scorpions and spiders. Be careful when going to bed, these animals can also hide in your bed linen or in your own clothes in the morning. Furthermore, not all animals that would be harmless in Europe are also harmless in Mauritius, for example there are also poisonous centipedes.

The following therefore also applies in Mauritius: use your common sense and behave like the locals. Ask hotels, tourist information offices and locals about potentially unsafe places. If a situation seems strange to you, try to get out of it quickly and inconspicuously. Deposit your passports, valuables and large amounts of cash in your hotel safe.