The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Mauritius at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions.
Overall Crime and Safety Situation
The U.S. Embassy in Port Louis does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The ACS Unit cannot recommend a particular individual or location and assumes no responsibility for the quality of service provided.
Review OSAC’s Mauritius-specific page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.
Crime Threats
There is minimal risk of crime in Port Louis. Mauritius is one of the safest countries in the region for resident and visiting foreigners. The national crime rate continues to be low, but the increase of drug use remains a growing problem. The police, customs officials, and the coast guard have made several large seizures of drugs; this may say more about the volume coming in than the amount stopped.
Nevertheless, crime in Port Louis (population of approximately 150,000) remains lower than in most U.S. cities of similar size. Port Louis and the areas of Flic en Flac, Grand Baie, or any place tourists frequent are likely to have higher petty crime rates, especially at night. Despite a few high-profile cases in 2018, most criminal activity directed against foreigners is non-violent. Foreigners are not specific targets for criminal activity, but may become targets of opportunity. Crimes are predominantly motivated by economics (e.g. pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and petty thefts) and often occur in crowded outdoor shopping areas as well as near ATMs. Remain alert for petty scams by street vendors and inflated “tourist prices” in markets.
Violent crimes (e.g. assault, murder, rape) occur but are uncommon compared to other African countries. Most violent crimes are “crimes of passion,” or attacks resulting from the escalation of domestic or neighborhood disputes. While violent crime involving tourists or business travelers is not common, there were a few high-profile violent crimes against foreigners in 2018:
July: Two males armed with machetes attacked a French couple at night along Royal Road in Grand Baie. The husband received injuries during the assault, in which the perpetrators stole a handbag containing personal effects and a few books. Police arrested suspects who confessed their crime within the same week.
-
July: Three armed thieves attacked and robbed four French tourists in a bungalow at Pereybere Beach. The thieves forced the tourists to hand over approximately 8800 Euros (about $9500) in cash, injuring two of the tourists in the process.The thieves fled in the tourists’ rental car. Police arrested the thieves later that week, but the money was never recovered.
-
October: Police found the body of an Indian expatriate at St. Felix, in the south of Mauritius. His neck had been slashed and his body partially burned. A police investigation discovered that the victim had been having an affair with a married woman, and that the husband had committed the crime.
Public beaches are generally safe, though thefts do occur. All beaches are public by law, and are often crowded on weekends and holidays. Women walking by themselves may be at greater risk for verbal harassment and criminal targeting.
Hotel room thefts can occur. Residential break-ins occur with some frequency, but most burglars are keen to avoid confrontation. Break-ins do not typically involve violence, though some burglars have brandished weapons (e.g. knives, machetes) when confronted.
Mauritian economic success over the last several decades has come from the establishment of offshore banking and financial services sectors. Mauritius is a low-tax, high “ease of doing business” jurisdiction that markets itself as a platform for investment in Africa. While relatively regulated, there are some concerns that terrorists and transnational criminal organizations could use the financial sector to launder money as more traditional illicit routings come under tighter control.
Police have disrupted a handful of ATM skimming operations, detecting most before ATM users sustained loses. For more information, review OSAC’s report, The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud.
Cybersecurity Issues
Instances of serious cybercrimes are low. The Mauritius Police Force (MPF) has a capable Cyber Crime Unit, which has received U.S. government training. Organized hacking operations by indigenous criminal groups are very limited, although the extent of hacking operations conducted by external actors is unknown.
Other Areas of Concern
Exercise caution when walking alone at night outside hotel grounds, on beaches, and in unknown areas. Most shops and businesses close by 1700 on weekdays and by 1300 on Sundays.
Prostitution and drug activity are prevalent in downtown Port Louis and in tourist areas after dark.
Transportation-Safety Situation
For more information, review OSAC’s report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, & Overnights.
Road Safety and Road Conditions
Mauritius and the United States have driver’s license reciprocity, allowing visitors to operate a motor vehicle with any valid driver’s license. Motor vehicles are right-side drive, and traffic moves on the left side. The use of turn indicators does not always follow international conventions. Roads are generally narrow, with cars commonly parked in the roadway, making traffic accidents a constant concern. Most streets outside of the capital are two-lane roads. Truck and bus traffic is heavy, and safe passing opportunities can be few (though that does not stop vehicles from passing).
Poor civil planning adds a complex variable to the driving experience. The vast majority of roads predate automobile traffic. They can be very narrow and generally have deep unmarked open gutters or walls/hedges lining them instead of a shoulder, resulting in no visibility and no room to maneuver. Construction crews often do not provide adequate notice of lane/road closures; it is common for traffic traveling in both directions to funnel to a single lane without traffic controls.
Sidewalks are not common outside of urban centers, and there is often little/no shoulder for vehicles. Animals, pedestrians, bicycles, and motorbikes regularly use shoulders and pose safety hazards to vehicular traffic. Sidewalks are overcrowded, and pedestrians often walk in the streets, competing for space with vehicles.
Traffic in Port Louis is very heavy on weekdays during the main commuting hours, and often congested throughout the day. Motorcycles and scooters move between and around traffic, often disregarding traffic laws. Motorcycles and scooters should pass in the far right lane, but they commonly drive in between lanes and pass on the left.
Driving at night brings additional challenges. Street lighting is poor, and there is no lighting in many locations. Headlight use varies; it is common to see cars with no lights, and others constantly running high beams; either scenario makes it difficult for oncoming traffic to see. Motorcyclists must wear reflective safety vests at night.
Collisions among cars, trucks, motorcycles, scooters, and/or pedestrians are frequent and, when combined with the higher speeds on country roads, can be serious. Motorists must have auto insurance. Host country laws regarding vehicle accidents allow motorists involved in an accident where no injury has occurred to exchange information and report details to the authorities. For minor accidents that meet certain criteria (no injuries, no third-party property damage), those involved may choose to come to a mutual agreement. Law enforcement often encourages this legal remedy, which drivers can handle by completing the Constat a l’Amiable (Friendly Agreement form). If an individual involved in an accident is in fear of personal safety, s/he may depart the area but should proceed immediately to the nearest police station to report the incident. Motorists involved in accidents that are more serious must report the matter to police, and should only sign statements that accurately report the facts.
Police enforce traffic laws randomly. Typical enforcement focuses on ensuring that all vehicles are roadworthy and have appropriate registration and insurance. Speed traps occur around construction, towns, and city speed zones. Police personnel wear official uniforms and use clearly identifiable police vehicles at speed traps and checkpoints. Numerous fixed and portable speed cameras are in use, preceded by clearly marked signs. Police have also increased the use of DUI checkpoints as part of a campaign to reduce alcohol-related accidents. A recent change in the law has lowered the blood alcohol level effectively to zero tolerance. By law, police may compel individuals involved in serious accidents to test for DUI. Refusal to be tested for DUI following a serious accident or at a checkpoint is itself an offense, which assumes the driver is under the influence.
For more information on self-driving, review OSAC’s reports, Driving Overseas: Best Practices or Road Safety in Africa.
Public Transportation Conditions
Public transportation is relatively safe, inexpensive, and reliable.
Bus schedules vary, but major routes are well served, especially during commuting hours.
Taxis are affordable, safe, and available at identified taxi stands, including near most hotels. Taxis do not have meters. Passengers should negotiate the fare in advance. Hotel concierge staff is a good resource to gauge an appropriate price. Note also that taxis do not routinely circulate on the street. Avoid unregistered taxis, as they frequently charge unsuspecting visitors higher fares.
Terrorism Threat
Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns
There is minimal risk from terrorism in Port Louis. The Mauritian government and community leaders have publicly stated their support for U.S. counterterrorism efforts. Mauritius has not been involved in any terrorist incidents. There are no known terrorist organizations operating in Mauritius.
There have been several pro-ISIS graffiti incidents at Hindu and Tamil temples with no claims of responsibility or arrests.
-
In March 2017, Turkey detained two Mauritian travelers en route to the UK on suspicion of intended travel to Syria or Iraq in support of ISIS, returning them to Mauritius. An investigation remains open, but no charges have been filed.
-
In November 2016, British authorities convicted a Mauritian couple living in the UK for providing material support for terrorism, a charge related to sending money to their nephew and niece, Mauritian ISIS supporters believed to be in Syria.
-
In May 2016, unidentified vandals tagged the French Embassy in Port Louis with pro-ISIS graffiti and fired two birdshot cartridges at the building in the middle of the night. The vandals also fired a rifle round at a nearby hotel when the night guard appeared to investigate the noise. There were no injuries. The French Embassy dubbed the incident “an act of vandalism and intimidation.” No one claimed responsibility; no suspects were arrested.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
There have been few indications of anti-U.S. or anti-Western sentiment. Anti-U.S. demonstrations have not resulted in violence. There were no new incidents in 2018, the most recent being when the U.S. recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in December 2017. This was widely condemned and resulted in a peaceful demonstration in Port Louis that passed by the U.S. Embassy and drew approximately 175 people. A few demonstrators burned paper Israeli flags in front of the U.S. Embassy; however, the organizers condemned this activity.
U.S. recognition of UK sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) during the automatic rollover of the Diego Garcia base agreement continues to be a contentious issue. Many newspaper and online articles are critical of the British High Commission and the U.S. support for Britain’s claim, which is currently before the International Court of Justice.
Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence
Civil Unrest
There is minimal risk of political violence in Port Louis. Political violence and civil unrest have occurred, but are not common. Most protests, scheduled or spontaneous, end peacefully. There are occasional tensions between unlicensed street venders and police, particularly around Christmas; these tensions have not turned violent since 2012. Police response is appropriate. Avoid large crowds and gatherings that appear to be political.
Former inhabitants from the British Indian Ocean Territory (islands that include Diego Garcia), known as Chagossians, conduct occasional demonstrations directed against the Mauritian government and the British High Commission. These demonstrations have been non-violent. Chagossians have also peacefully delivered petitions to the U.S. Embassy to gain attention and garner support for their cause.
Religious/Ethnic Violence
Mauritius is a multi-ethnic, multi-faith nation that has managed its diversity well compared to other African countries. However, there are underlying socio-economic tensions related to this diversity that occasionally manifest themselves in negative incidents. These tensions have been apparent on several occasions when acts of vandalism at temples or mosques stoke suspicions and inflame tempers. These tensions have not resulted in violence and generally end with peaceful community involvement, with senior members of the government and of the religious communities calling for calm and the police responding in a measured way. Press reporting on these tensions, particularly related to more vocal Hindu nationalism, seems to have increased during the last few years. This does not necessarily indicate an increase in tensions, but likely reflects backlash from pro-Hindu groups following temple vandalism. It may also reflect political posturing in the media.
Post-specific Concerns
Environmental Hazards
Cyclones are the biggest environmental hazard. The core cyclone season lasts from November-April, although off-season cyclones can also occur. Remain aware of weather and traveling conditions. Stay informed on weather conditions through television stations, radio, the internet, hotels, and police stations.
Low-lying coastal areas experience sporadic flooding if there is heavy rain or storm surge due to large and localized weather events.
Economic Concerns
Intellectual property theft is a concern. Mauritius views Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) as civil matters, so criminal enforcement is not robust. Counterfeit goods and the unlicensed sale of name-brand products manufactured in Mauritius are often available in markets, especially in Port Louis; authorities make little effort to stop their sale. Clothing items, jewelry, watches, and software are commonly sold in violation of IPR laws.
Personal Identity Concerns
While the law does not specifically criminalize consensual same-sex sexual activity, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals may face societal discrimination, harassment, and abuse by families, neighbors, and police. Sodomy is a criminal offense among both same-sex and heterosexual couples, with penalties up to five years’ imprisonmentLGBT rights are generally ambiguous, and same-sex couples have no legally recognition. Discrimination against the LGBT community is prevalent, though open hostility is not common. One major incident in June 2018 occurred when around 200 Muslims interrupted a scheduled LGBTI march, the organizers of which received numerous death threats.
Mauritius’s infrastructure does not meet ADA access and accommodation standards. Access to transportation, lodging, and public buildings is limited. There are few sidewalks and most buildings lack functioning elevators.
Drug-related Crimes
The police have a limited capacity to secure their borders due to the expansive coastline and proliferation of small watercraft that move without impediment. Cannabis is the most widely used drug in Mauritius. Heroin is the second most widely used drug, and has become heavily trafficked since small amounts can provide significant cash flow. Synthetic drugs made by combining commonly available chemicals have also commanded the attention of police, political leaders, and the media due to some high profile cases; however, it is difficult to measure the extent of synthetic drug use. Penalties for simple possession of drug amounts consistent with personal consumption range from fines to short-term prison sentences. Mauritian laws are very strict for drug trafficking and possession of large amounts; prison sentences of up to 45 years are possible if convicted.
Police Response
The Mauritius Police Force (MPF) is a well-trained, professional, and generally responsive national police force by regional standards. MPF has provided excellent protection to the U.S. Embassy, and responds positively to the needs of the U.S. community. Foreigners can expect to courtesy. Petty corruption does not plague the public’s daily interaction with police as it does in other African countries, though it does exist. Most police officers speak English reasonably well. An MPF "Tourist Police" unit patrols resort hotels and tourist areas.
How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment
Any arrested or detained U.S. citizens, or victimized of police harassment are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy American Citizen Services (ACS) section by calling (230) 202-4400 or 202-4432 during business hours or the U.S. Embassy Duty Officer phone at (230) 5253-3641 after hours. Find more information at the ACS webpage.
Crime Victim Assistance
Emergency Number: 999
Crimestoppers: 148
Main MPF Number: (230) 208-1212
Police/Security Agencies
Mauritius has no military, but has a paramilitary unit and coast guard within the MPF.
Medical Emergencies
Medical attention is adequate at major hospitals, and private clinics staffed by foreign-trained doctors exist. Obtain emergency ambulance service by dialing 114 or 118; however, response time is inconsistent.
Contact Information for Available Medical Services
For medical assistance, refer to the Embassy’s Medical Assistance page.
Available Air Ambulance Services
International SOS (South Africa)
Insurance Guidance
For information on medical evacuations, refer to OSAC’s report, Medical Evacuation: A Primer.
Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance
Drink only filtered, bottled water. Storms can stir up the fresh water reservoirs significantly enough that the government issues a boil notice for drinking water that often remains in place for a few days. For more information, refer to OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?
Authorities require a yellow fever vaccination certificate (yellow card) for travelers coming from infected areas.
Authorities note visitors from malaria-stricken areas upon entry and may test them via local mobile health officials. Authorities may quarantine passengers traveling from plague-infected countries during seasonal plague outbreaks.
Hepatitis A and Typhoid are prevalent. The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Mauritius.
OSAC Country Council Information
The Country Council in Port Louis meets annually. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Africa team with any questions.
U.S. Embassy Location and Contact Information
Embassy Address and Hours of Operation
The U.S. Embassy in Port Louis is located on the fourth floor of Rogers House, President John Kennedy Blvd. Working hours: 0730-1630 Monday-Thursday, 0730-1200 Friday
Embassy Contact Numbers
The U.S. Embassy main phone line during working hours is (230) 202-4400. For emergencies outside of normal working hours, call (230) 5253-3641 to reach the U.S. Embassy Duty Officer.
Website: http://mu.usembassy.gov/
Consular coverage also includes Seychelles and La Réunion.
Embassy Guidance
Travelers should stay informed of the security situation in Mauritius through the media and the U.S. Embassy's website and should register with the Embassy through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Additional Resource: Mauritius Country Information Sheet
