Car Rental in Grand River South East, Mauritius

Where to drive

• Drive north along the scenic coastal road to Belle Mare Plage, a journey of approximately 15 kilometers, taking around 20 minutes, to enjoy its expansive white sands and turquoise lagoon.
• Head inland to the Domaine de l'Etoile for quad biking and nature trails, roughly 25 kilometers and 35 minutes drive, offering a taste of Mauritius's lush interior.
• Explore the historic town of Mahebourg, about 20 kilometers south, a 30-minute drive, to visit its bustling market and the Naval Museum.
• Embark on a day trip to the Black River Gorges National Park, approximately 50 kilometers and an hour's drive, to hike among endemic flora and fauna and witness breathtaking waterfalls.
• Visit the famous Ile aux Cerfs for water sports and relaxation, accessible by a short boat transfer from Trou d'Eau Douce, which is about 10 kilometers north of Grand River South East, a 15-minute drive.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Mauritius, you generally need a valid national driving license from your home country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and often required by rental agencies, and your passport. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have held their license for a minimum of one to two years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Grand River South East vary, with economy cars typically starting from around 25-35 EUR per day. Mid-range SUVs might cost approximately 40-60 EUR, while premium vehicles can range from 70 EUR upwards. Prices tend to be higher during the peak tourist season from October to April and lower during the quieter months.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

Mauritius drives on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on motorways, though these can vary. The legal blood alcohol limit is very strict, approximately 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are advisable in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under a certain age or height, usually up to 3 years old.

Parking

In Grand River South East, parking is generally available and often free, especially in less congested areas and near attractions. In busier towns or commercial centers, you might find designated parking zones, some of which may require a parking disc (available at petrol stations or police stations) or have meters. Always look for signage to confirm parking rules.

Fuel stations

Petrol stations are readily available across Mauritius, including near Grand River South East. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across all stations, usually paid in Mauritian Rupees (MUR) with cash or card. Expect prices for petrol to be approximately 60-70 MUR per liter in 2026.

Which car to choose

For exploring Grand River South East and the surrounding areas, a compact or economy car with an automatic transmission is often sufficient for navigating local roads and parking. If you plan to venture into more rural or hilly terrain, a small SUV with higher ground clearance might offer more comfort and capability.

Frequently asked questions