If you dream of powdery white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and a culture that merges Africa, Asia, and Europe into one island paradise, Mauritius is the place for you. Located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar, Mauritius is known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, luxury resorts, and lively Creole culture.
For Nigerians, Mauritius is surprisingly accessible due to its visa-on-arrival policy. This makes it one of the easiest destinations for Nigerian travelers seeking a tropical getaway. In this guide, we’ll outline how to visit Mauritius from Nigeria, covering visa requirements, flights, accommodations, budgets, cultural highlights, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Visa Policy for Nigerians Visiting Mauritius
Do Nigerians Need a Visa?
Yes, but the good news is that Mauritius provides a visa on arrival for Nigerians. This means you don’t have to deal with embassy applications or third-party agents.
Key Details:
- Type: Visa on Arrival.
- Validity: 14 days (non-extendable).
- Fee: Free for short-term tourism.
- Where Issued: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (Port Louis).
Documents Required at Entry
At the airport in Mauritius, Nigerian travelers must show:
- A valid Nigerian passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Return or onward ticket.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter).
- Proof of sufficient funds (at least $100 per day of stay, around ₦150,000).
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory).
This makes Mauritius one of the easiest tropical islands for Nigerians to visit, especially compared to Seychelles or Maldives, where visa requirements are stricter.
How to Travel to Mauritius from Nigeria
1. By Air
There are no direct flights from Lagos or Abuja to Mauritius. You’ll connect through Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg.
Popular Routes:
- Lagos → Nairobi (Kenya Airways) → Mauritius.
- Lagos → Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines) → Mauritius.
- Lagos → Johannesburg (South African Airways) → Mauritius.
Flight Cost (Round Trip):
- Economy: $800–$1,200 (₦1,200,000–₦1,800,000).
- Business: $2,000+ (₦3,000,000+).
Booking in advance or during sales can save you up to 20%.
Accommodation in Mauritius
Mauritius is known for its luxury resorts, but there are also mid-range and budget options.
- Budget Hotels & Guesthouses: ₦37,500–₦75,000 per night.
- Mid-Range Hotels: ₦112,500–₦187,500 per night.
- Luxury Resorts: ₦300,000–₦750,000 per night.
Popular areas to stay:
- Grand Baie: Vibrant nightlife, beaches, shopping.
- Flic en Flac: Famous for long white sandy beaches.
- Le Morne: Ideal for water sports and luxury stays.
- Port Louis: Capital city for cultural exploration.
Food and Dining in Mauritius
Mauritius’ cuisine reflects its multicultural heritage, including Creole, Indian, Chinese, and French influences.
- Street food (Dholl puri, samosas, fried noodles): ₦3,750–₦7,500 ($2.5–$5).
- Local restaurants (Creole curry, grilled seafood): ₦15,000–₦30,000 ($10–$20).
- Resort dining (3-course meal): ₦75,000+ ($50+).
Must-try dishes:
- Dholl Puri (flatbread stuffed with split peas).
- Octopus Curry.
- Gateaux Piments (spicy fritters).
- Vanilla-flavored rum.
Things to Do in Mauritius
1. Explore the Beaches
- Trou aux Biches: Calm waters, perfect for swimming.
- Belle Mare: Best for sunrise views.
- Le Morne: UNESCO site with dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.
2. Cultural Highlights
- Aapravasi Ghat (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Former immigration depot.
- Chinatown in Port Louis: Food and shopping.
- Creole villages: Experience traditional Mauritian life.
3. Adventure & Nature
- Chamarel Seven Colored Earths: Geologic wonder.
- Black River Gorges National Park: Hiking and wildlife.
- Île aux Cerfs: Water sports paradise.
4. Festivals
- Cavadee Festival (Tamil): Colorful Hindu festival.
- Chinese Spring Festival: Dragon dances and fireworks.
- Mauritian Independence Day (March 12): Parades and concerts.
Transport in Mauritius
- Taxis: ₦15,000–₦30,000 per ride.
- Buses: Inexpensive, around ₦750–₦1,500.
- Car rentals: ₦37,500–₦60,000 per day.
- Domestic flights: Not needed, Mauritius is small, and road travel is sufficient.
Estimated Travel Budget for Nigerians
5-Day Budget Trip
- Visa on arrival: Free.
- Flights: ₦1,200,000–₦1,800,000.
- Accommodation (budget): ₦187,500–₦375,000.
- Food: ₦75,000–₦150,000.
- Local transport: ₦45,000–₦90,000.
- Tours/activities: ₦150,000–₦225,000.
Total: ₦1,657,500–₦2,640,000.
Mid-Range Trip
- ₦2,850,000–₦4,500,000 for 5 days.
Luxury Trip
- ₦6,000,000+ for 5 days in resorts.
Tips for Nigerians Traveling to Mauritius
- Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR). $1 is about 45 MUR and ₦1,500.
- Best Time to Visit: May–December (dry season).
- Health: Yellow fever certificate required. Malaria is not a major concern.
- Language: English and French are widely spoken. Creole is the local language.
- Safety: Mauritius is safe, but watch out for overpriced taxi fares.
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Mauritius and relax at Flic en Flac Beach.
Day 2: Visit Port Louis, explore markets and Chinatown.
Day 3: Excursion to Chamarel and Black River Gorges.
Day 4: Day trip to Île aux Cerfs for snorkeling.
Day 5: Relax at Grand Baie, shop for souvenirs, and return flight.
Mauritius is one of the most accessible islands in the Indian Ocean for Nigerians, thanks to its visa-on-arrival policy. Whether you seek luxury beach resorts, adventures in volcanic landscapes, or cultural experiences that blend African, Asian, and European traditions, Mauritius has it all. With affordable flights, a straightforward entry process, and breathtaking scenery, Mauritius is the perfect island escape for Nigerians looking for both relaxation and adventure.
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