The hazards of Mauritius for ill-informed tourists

Mauritius, a paradise

Mauritius is an island of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Its white sandy beaches, fringed with palm trees, offer an idyllic setting in which to relax. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life. The island is also rich in history, with a unique cultural diversity. Mauritian cuisine is a feast for the taste buds, combining spices and exotic flavors. The warm welcome of the locals and the picturesque landscapes make Mauritius an unforgettable destination. 

A paradise that can hide many dangers

Mauritius may seem idyllic with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, but for the unwary visitor some hazards do exist. As with any exotic country, water and food require special attention.

Sea currents can be strong on some beaches in Mauritius, which can make swimming dangerous, especially for inexperienced swimmers. Marine life can also be hazardous. Stonefish, jellyfish and coral can cause serious injury if touched.

Animals and insects such as snakes and spiders are not dangerous on the island. However, outdoor activities such as hiking in nature parks should also be undertaken with caution, as the paths can be slippery and weather conditions can change rapidly. So be prepared for any adventure activities.

Poverty, rooted in this heavenly setting, can lead to a certain form of criminality.

Water and food

There are potential food and water hazards for unwary travellers. Tap water, although treated, is not always recommended for direct consumption due to variations in the quality of the supply. Bottled water, available everywhere, is recommended to avoid gastrointestinal problems.

When it comes to food, some uninformed tourists may be surprised by strong spices that are unusual for their stomachs. We recommend opting for milder dishes at first and gradually exploring the local cuisine. Street stalls can be tempting, but it’s best to stick to restaurants with a reputation for hygiene. 

Diseases

Mauritius is generally free of many serious diseases. Although no vaccinations (such as yellow fever or typhoid) are required, travelers should ensure that they are up to date with common vaccinations such as tetanus.

As far as local diseases are concerned, dengue fever is prevalent on the island. To protect yourself, it is essential to use mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing and stay in air-conditioned or mosquito-screened accommodation.

Climate hazards

Mauritius is regularly confronted with a series of climatic hazards, including the cyclone season, which runs from November to April. These violent tropical storms generate devastating winds, torrential rainfall and flooding. Other climatic variations, such as localized and very intense torrential rains that cause a sudden rise in the water level, also affect Mauritius. 

Poverty

Poverty in Mauritius remains an intricate reality that affects several social classes despite the country’s economic development. Although the island is often regarded as a luxury tourist destination, a wide socio-economic disparity persists.

This not only impacts on the economic well-being of individuals, but also on health, education and security. People living in poverty have poorer access to quality healthcare and adequate education, and are more exposed to criminal activity which is an alarming situation for the country. Drugs are widespread and lead to opportunistic delinquency. Travel light, without expensive jewelry or watches, and do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach if you are going swimming. Hotels and residences are equipped with cameras and offer a permanent security service. 

How to protect yourself from some of the hazards

Mauritius is a tropical paradise, but like anywhere else, there are risks to be aware of.

First of all, safety at sea is paramount. Make sure you keep to the safety flags on the beaches. Avoid strong currents and beware of jellyfish and stonefish. Do not touch the corals, as they are fragile and can cause injury.

When hiking, take water and food with you, and let someone else know where you’re heading. Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle to prevent theft.

Finally, keep an eye on your personal belongings and avoid venturing into poorly lit areas at night. Respect local customs and laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in Mauritius. 

Useful contacts

In the event of medical emergency assistance or services, dial 114 or go to the nearest hospital. Visitors can also access a wide choice of private clinics offering expensive but high-quality services. 

For situations involving law enforcement, contact the police by dialing 999.

If you need consular assistance as a visitor, contact your embassy or consulate. The diplomatic representations of many nations are located in the capital, Port Louis.

Finally, visitors are advised to take out travel and repatriation flexible insurance to cover any potential risks.

The comfort and safety provided by your resort

Mythic Suites & Villas and Marguery Villas in Mauritius stand for ultimate comfort and safety. Our renowned establishments provide an unforgettable experience for all their visitors.

Our spacious, fully fenced-in suites and villas are designed with your comfort in mind. Security is a top priority at Mythic Suites and Marguery Villas. The property is equipped with state-of-the-art security systems, monitoring cameras and access controls to give you complete peace of mind.

Mythic Suites and Marguery Villas are the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and experience unforgettable moments in the enchanting surroundings of Mauritius. Enjoy our resorts, where comfort and security combine harmoniously to create precious memories.

Just keep in mind our travel warnings for an unforgettable experience in Mauritius.