Car Rental in Saint Paul, Mauritius

Where to drive

• Drive to Black River Gorges National Park, just a 30-minute drive (around 20 km) from Saint Paul, for stunning hiking trails and endemic wildlife.
• Head south to the scenic coast and Gris Gris Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs, approximately a 45-minute drive (around 35 km) away.
• Explore the vibrant capital city of Port Louis, an easy 40-minute drive (around 25 km) to experience its markets and historical sites.
• Visit the tea plantations of Bois Cheri, about a 25-minute drive (around 15 km) from Saint Paul, for a picturesque tour and tasting.
• Discover the beautiful beaches of Flic en Flac on the west coast, roughly a 35-minute drive (around 25 km), ideal for swimming and sunsets.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Mauritius, you will generally need a valid national driving license from your home country, held for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your national license is not in English or French. You will also need your passport and a major credit card for the security deposit. The minimum age for renters is usually 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25, and surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Saint Paul vary depending on the vehicle class and the season. Economy cars might start from around 25 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from 50 EUR to 100 EUR or more daily. Prices tend to be higher during the peak tourist season from October to April.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Mauritius, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on main roads, and 110 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 10 years old must use appropriate child seats. The legal alcohol limit is approximately 0.05% BAC. While not strictly enforced during the day, it's good practice to use headlights in tunnels or during heavy rain.

Parking

In Saint Paul and other towns, parking can be found in designated public car parks, often requiring payment via parking meters or scratch cards purchased from local shops. On-street parking is sometimes available but can be limited. Always check for 'No Parking' signs to avoid fines. In rural areas and at attractions, parking is usually free.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Mauritius, including near Saint Paul. They generally accept cash and major credit cards. The approximate price for petrol (gasoline) is around 1.50 EUR per litre, and diesel is slightly less. It's advisable to fill up when you see a station, especially before heading into more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring Saint Paul and the island's varied terrain, a compact or economy car with an automatic transmission is often sufficient for most travelers, especially if you plan to stick to main roads. If you intend to venture into more hilly or slightly unpaved areas, a small SUV with good ground clearance might offer a more comfortable and capable ride. Manual transmission cars are also common and can be more economical.

Frequently asked questions