Car Rental in Port Louis, Mauritius

Where to drive

• Drive south from Port Louis to the stunning Black River Gorges National Park (approx. 40 km, 1 hour) for hiking and breathtaking viewpoints.
• Head to the east coast to visit Île aux Cerfs, a popular island for water sports, accessible via a short boat trip from Trou d'Eau Douce (approx. 50 km, 1 hour 15 minutes).
• Explore the vibrant coastal town of Grand Baie in the north (approx. 25 km, 45 minutes) for its beautiful beaches, shops, and restaurants.
• Journey to Chamarel to see the Seven Coloured Earths and Chamarel Waterfall (approx. 55 km, 1 hour 30 minutes), a unique geological formation.
• Discover the historical sugar estate of L'Aventure du Sucre and the nearby Pamplemousses Botanical Garden (approx. 15 km, 30 minutes) for a cultural and natural experience.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Mauritius, you generally need a valid national driving license from your home country, provided it's in English or French. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your national license. You must also present your passport. The minimum age for renting is typically 21 years, with some companies requiring a higher age (e.g., 23 or 25) or additional surcharges for drivers under 25. Drivers usually need to have held their license for at least one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Port Louis vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs and premium vehicles could range from 60 EUR upwards. Prices tend to be higher during the peak tourist season from November to April.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Mauritius, traffic drives 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 up to 110 km/h on motorways. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very low, approximately 0.05% BAC. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are compulsory for children up to 10 years old.

Parking

In Port Louis, parking can be challenging, especially in the city center. There are a mix of paid parking zones and some free parking areas. Paid parking often uses scratch cards, available at local shops and petrol stations, which you display on your dashboard. Always check signs carefully for parking restrictions and payment methods.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Mauritius, including around Port Louis. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some local currency (Mauritian Rupee) for smaller stations or emergencies. The price of petrol (gasoline) is regulated by the government and is generally consistent across the island, typically around 1.50-1.70 EUR per liter (approximate).

Which car to choose

For navigating Port Louis's sometimes narrow streets and exploring the island's diverse terrain, an economy or compact car is often sufficient and easier to park. If you plan to venture into more rural areas or desire more comfort for longer drives, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would be a good choice. Automatic transmission cars are widely available and can make driving more comfortable, especially for those accustomed to driving on the right.

Frequently asked questions