Car Rental in Curepipe, Mauritius

Where to drive

• Drive south to the Black River Gorges National Park (≈15 km, 25 minutes) for hiking trails and breathtaking views of endemic flora and fauna.
• Head east to the vibrant town of Mahebourg (≈30 km, 40 minutes) to experience its historical charm, local market, and the beautiful Blue Bay Marine Park.
• Journey to the iconic Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel (≈35 km, 50 minutes) and the Chamarel Waterfall, a must-see natural wonder.
• Explore the tea plantations and factory at Bois Cheri (≈10 km, 20 minutes) for a taste of Mauritian heritage and scenic drives through lush greenery.
• Visit the coastal town of Flic en Flac (≈30 km, 45 minutes) on the west coast for its long sandy beach, watersports, and stunning sunsets.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Mauritius, you typically need a valid national driving license held for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, especially if your license is not in English. You'll also need your passport and a major credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25, and often a surcharge for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Curepipe vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars can start from around 25-35 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs or premium models might range from 50-80 EUR or more daily. Prices tend to increase by approximately 20-40% during peak tourist months.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Mauritius, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on main roads, and 110 km/h on motorways. All occupants must wear seatbelts. Child seats are mandatory for children under a certain age or height, so inquire with your rental provider if traveling with young children. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05%. Headlights are not required during the day unless visibility is poor.

Parking

In Curepipe, parking can be found in designated public parking areas and sometimes on streets. Some areas may require a parking disc or payment via parking meters or scratch cards, available at local shops. Free parking is available in many areas, but it's always best to check local signage. Hotel parking is usually free for guests.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Mauritius, including in and around Curepipe. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across stations, typically paid in Mauritian Rupees (MUR) by cash or card. Expect prices to be comparable to international averages, but always check local rates upon arrival.

Which car to choose

For most travel around Curepipe and the island, an economy or compact car is sufficient, offering good fuel efficiency and easier navigation on narrower roads. If you plan to carry more luggage or explore areas with slightly less maintained roads, a small SUV or a car with higher ground clearance might be a more comfortable option. Automatic transmission is widely available and often preferred by visitors not accustomed to driving on the left.

Frequently asked questions