Car Rental in Holyrood, Mauritius

Where to drive

• Drive to Black River Gorges National Park: Just an approximate 45-minute drive (around 30 km) from Holyrood, this park offers stunning hiking trails and endemic wildlife.
• Explore the South Coast: Head south from Holyrood for about an hour (around 40 km) to discover Gris Gris cliffs, Rochester Falls, and the wild, untamed beauty of the island's southern shores.
• Visit the Tea Plantations: A scenic drive of roughly 30 minutes (around 20 km) inland takes you to Bois Cheri Tea Estate, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy tastings.
• Day trip to Port Louis: The capital city is approximately a 40-minute drive (around 35 km) north, perfect for exploring its bustling markets, historical sites, and waterfront.
• Coastal drive to Flic en Flac: Journey west for about 30 minutes (around 25 km) to reach the popular Flic en Flac beach, known for its long stretches of white sand and vibrant atmosphere.

What documents you need

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

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Holyrood vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs or premium models can range from 50-80 EUR or more. Prices generally increase during the peak tourist months, such as December to February and July to August, reflecting higher demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Mauritius, driving is on the left side of the road. Speed limits are generally around 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on main roads, and up to 100 km/h on highways, though these can vary and are always signposted. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is approximately 0.05%. Headlights should be used in adverse weather conditions or at night. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children up to a certain age or height, usually around 10 years or 1.35 meters.

Parking

In Holyrood and most Mauritian towns, parking is often available, though it can be limited in busy commercial areas. Many public parking zones require payment, typically through 'Pay and Display' machines or scratch cards purchased from local shops. Always check signage for parking regulations and fees. Hotels and major attractions usually provide their own parking facilities, often free for guests.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Mauritius, including near Holyrood and along main routes. Petrol (gasoline) and diesel are the most common types. Prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across the island, typically paid in Mauritian Rupees (MUR) with cash or credit/debit cards. It's advisable to refuel before long journeys, especially when venturing into less populated areas.

Which car to choose

For driving in Mauritius, an economy or compact car is often suitable for navigating town streets and main roads. If you plan to explore more rural or slightly unpaved routes, such as those leading to some beaches or hiking spots, a compact SUV with higher ground clearance could be a better choice. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are also widely available and recommended for those less accustomed to manual or left-hand driving.

Frequently asked questions