Getting Around Mauritius: Transport Guide for Travelers

Does Mauritius have trains or a metro?

Mauritius has no national rail network, but it does have a modern light-rail line. Metro Express is a tram service linking the capital Port Louis with Curepipe, passing through Rose Hill, Quatre Bornes and Vacoas. It is clean, air-conditioned and cheap (fares roughly Rs 17 to Rs 45). It is the easiest way to cross the densely populated central corridor, but it does not reach beaches or the airport.

Buses: the cheapest way to travel

Public buses cover almost the whole island and are the backbone of local transport. Operators include the National Transport Corporation (NTC) and several private companies. Most fares are between Rs 25 and Rs 45, paid in cash to the conductor or via contactless on newer buses.

• The two main hubs in Port Louis are Victoria Square (south and west) and Immigration Square (north).
• Buses run roughly 5:30am to 8pm; routes to remote beaches thin out in the evening.
• They are slow and crowded but very scenic and almost free by Western standards.

Car rental and driving

Renting a car is the best way to reach hidden beaches like Le Morne or the southwest. Expect Rs 1,200 to Rs 2,000 per day for a small car. Remember:

• Driving is on the left, a legacy of British rule.
• An international driving permit is recommended; roads are paved but narrow and winding inland.
• Petrol stations are plentiful in towns but scarce in the wild south.

Taxis and ride apps

Taxis have no meters, so always agree the price before you get in. A short town hop might be Rs 300 to Rs 500; airport to Grand Baie can run Rs 1,500 or more. The local ride app Yatri works in some areas, and many travelers simply book a trusted driver through their hotel for day trips.

Intercity and airport travel

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is in the southeast near Mahebourg. There is no train link; use the airport bus, a prebooked transfer, or a taxi. For longer hops, combine the Metro Express through the centre with a connecting bus. Distances are short — nowhere on the island is more than about 90 minutes away — so even bus days are manageable.

Stay connected in Mauritius

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so you can follow maps, translate, and book transfers without hunting for Wi-Fi or paying roaming fees.