General information | History | Climate | Politics

General information

Mauritius lies in the heart of the Indian Ocean, 500 miles East of Madagascar, an 11-hour flight from the main European hubs.

The island’s surface area is of 1866 km2 ; 65 kms long, 45 kms wide with the highest point at 828 meters.
Despite the volcanic origins of Mauritius, there is no longer any volcanic activity on the island. Another characteristic of Mauritius is its coral reef which almost encircles the island protecting the sea and beaches.

Until the 1980’s, agriculture - particularly the cultivation of the sugar cane - was the mainstay of the Mauritian economy. The country has since diversified its economy and can rely today on three other main pillars: textiles, tourism and the financial sector.
The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee but all major credit cards are frequently used around the island and foreign exchange outlets are also available in the main cities. Most banks have ATMs from which visitors may withdraw money

There are strict rules about the importation and exportation of plants, fruits and animals. The island is free of endemic diseases and poisonous animals.
Strict sanitary regulations are applied and no inoculations are required to travel to Mauritius.


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History

The strategic position of Mauritius on the former “Spice route”, earned it the title of “Star and Key of the Indian Ocean”.
The island was successively colonised by the Arabs, the Dutch, the French and the British.

The population of 1,2 millions inhabitants is a true melting pot as a result of the successive waves of immigration to the island, starting with French and English settlers, slaves from Africa and imported workforce from China and India.

Today, Mauritius is one of the only countries in the world where different communities can live together in complete harmony.
English is the official language of the island; however, French and Creole are widely spoken. There are also numerous ethnic dialects.


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Climate

The island enjoys a mild tropical climate with temperatures varying from 20 to 35 C°; you can therefore travel to Mauritius at any time during the year.

Rainfall is lower along the coastline and more prevalent on the central plateau.
Mauritius has only two seasons : winter from May to November and summer from December to April.


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Politics

Mauritius celebrates its Independence Day on the 12th of March every year. Independence was granted in 1968 and, on the same date in 1992 the island obtained the status of Republic.

The island’s political infrastructure is based on the British model. Democratic elections conducted every five years appoint 70 members to the National Assembly. The Prime Minister is the Head of the Government and holds the executive power, while the President acts as the Head of State. Mauritius is a proud member of the Commonwealth and of the eminent French-speaking organisations.
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