Car Rental in Flic en Flac, Mauritius

Where to drive

• Drive south to the stunning Black River Gorges National Park for hiking and waterfall viewing (approx. 20 km, 30 minutes).
• Explore the charming coastal village of Le Morne and its iconic mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site (approx. 35 km, 45 minutes).
• Visit the vibrant capital city of Port Louis for its central market, Caudan Waterfront, and historical sites (approx. 30 km, 40-50 minutes).
• Journey to the tea plantations and colonial estates of Bois Cheri and Saint Aubin (approx. 40 km, 50 minutes).
• Discover the unique geological formation of Seven Coloured Earths at Chamarel and its waterfall (approx. 25 km, 40 minutes).
• Head to Grand Baie on the north coast for lively nightlife, shopping, and catamaran cruises (approx. 50 km, 1 hour).

What documents you need

To rent a car in Mauritius, you typically need a valid national driving license from your home country, provided it is in English or French. If your license is in another language, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or often required. You will also need your passport and a credit card for the security deposit. The minimum driving age is generally 21 years, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25, and often a minimum of one or two years of driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Flic en Flac vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 50-80 EUR or more. Prices generally increase during the peak tourist season from October to April, especially around December and January.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Mauritius, vehicles drive 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 highways, but always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is approximately 0.05%. Headlights are not legally required during the day, but it's good practice to use them in poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under a certain age or height, typically up to 3 years old or 1.35 meters tall.

Parking

In Flic en Flac, parking is generally free along most streets and at commercial centers. However, in more popular areas or busier towns like Port Louis, you might find paid parking zones or parking lots. Always look for signs indicating parking restrictions or payment requirements.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Mauritius, including Flic en Flac and along main routes. Most stations accept cash, and some also accept credit cards. The approximate price for petrol (gasoline) is around 1.80-2.00 EUR per litre, and diesel is slightly less. It's advisable to fill up when you see a station, especially if heading to more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For Flic en Flac and general touring in Mauritius, a compact or economy car with automatic transmission is often the most practical choice. These cars are easy to maneuver on narrower roads and more fuel-efficient. While roads are generally well-maintained, some scenic routes to national parks or viewpoints can be a bit winding, so a car with good handling is beneficial. An SUV might be comfortable for families but isn't strictly necessary for most attractions.

Frequently asked questions