Taxis in Mauritius: Prices, Booking, Rules & Expert Tourist Advice
Getting around Mauritius should be simple, but for many visitors, taxis are one of the most confusing parts of the trip.
Questions like “Are taxi prices fixed?”, “Is Uber available?”, “Can I pay by card?”, “Do taxis have baby seats?” are asked daily by travelers arriving at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport.
This guide is written by a licensed chauffeur and airport transfer operator in Mauritius, based on real daily experience with airport arrivals, families, honeymooners, business travelers, and large groups.
No theory. No generic advice. Just how taxis in Mauritius actually work.
How Taxis Work in Mauritius (What Tourists Need to Understand First)
Taxis in Mauritius operate very differently from Europe, the UK, or Asia.
Key things to know immediately:
There are no taxi meters
Prices are not government-fixed
You usually cannot flag down a taxi anywhere
Ride-hailing apps are extremely limited
Most taxis operate cash only
Because of this, planning your transport in advance is one of the smartest travel decisions you can make in Mauritius.
How to Book a Taxi in Mauritius
Taxi Stands & Hotel Taxis
Taxi ranks are commonly found at:
SSR International Airport
Major resorts and hotels
Tourist areas such as Grand Baie and Port Louis
Hotel taxis are generally reliable, but from professional experience, they are often:
More expensive
Limited in vehicle choice
Not ideal for families with luggage
They are best suited for short, last-minute trips, not airport arrivals.
Calling a Licensed Taxi or Chauffeur Service (Most Reliable Option)
Calling or messaging a licensed operator is the preferred method for travelers who want:
Fixed pricing
Proper vehicle size
Professional drivers
Peace of mind after a long flight
This is especially important for airport arrivals. Many travelers now choose to pre-book a private airport transfer in Mauritius so they are met on arrival without waiting or negotiation.
(Internal link: Mauritius Airport Transfer)
Booking Online or via WhatsApp (Most Popular With Tourists)
Modern transfer companies allow bookings via:
Website forms
WhatsApp confirmation
This allows you to share:
Flight number
Arrival time
Hotel name
Luggage details
Child seat requirements
From experience, this is the smoothest and least stressful option, especially during peak season.
Are Taxi Apps Available in Mauritius?
There are a few local taxi apps, but availability is inconsistent.
Apps may work:
In limited urban zones
During daytime
Apps are unreliable for airport pickups, early mornings, families, or groups.
For important journeys, pre-booking directly with a licensed operator is safer.
Is Uber Available in Mauritius? (Legal Answer)
No. Uber does not operate legally in Mauritius.
Mauritian transport law requires:
Tourism transport permits
Licensed drivers
Approved vehicles
Any unlicensed ride-sharing vehicle may leave passengers uninsured.
Professional opinion:
If a ride looks unusually cheap, it usually comes with risk.
How Much Does a Taxi Cost in Mauritius? (Real Pricing Explained)
Taxi pricing in Mauritius is fixed per trip, not metered.
Prices depend on:
Distance and region
Vehicle type (sedan, SUV, minivan)
Luggage volume
Time of day
Season
Typical Tourist Scenarios
Airport to North or East Coast: fixed long-distance rate
Short hotel-to-hotel transfers: lower fixed rate
Full-day chauffeur service: flat daily price
Always confirm the total price before entering the vehicle.
For airport arrivals, travelers often prefer a fixed-price airport transfer to avoid negotiation after landing.
(Internal link: Mauritius Airport Transfer)
Why Taxi Prices Vary So Much in Mauritius
A very common question:
“Why is my hotel taxi more expensive?”
From experience, price differences usually come from:
Hotel commissions
Vehicle quality differences
Luggage capacity
Driver availability during peak season
A lower price does not always mean better comfort or reliability.
Cash or Card? How to Pay for Taxis in Mauritius
Do Taxis Accept Credit Cards?
Most taxis in Mauritius are cash only.
Some professional transfer services accept:
Cash in Mauritian Rupees
Pre-arranged bank transfer
Credit cards are not standard, so always confirm payment in advance.
Tipping Taxi Drivers in Mauritius
Tipping is not required, but appreciated.
Short trips: rounding up is common
Airport transfers: small tip for good service
Full-day tours: discretionary
Drivers will never ask for tips.
Traveling With Children: Baby Seats & Safety
Do Taxis Have Baby Seats?
In most cases, no.
Standard taxis rarely carry baby seats
Booster seats may be available if requested
Infant seats must be booked in advance
Families are strongly advised to book a family-friendly airport transfer with baby seats.
(Internal link: Airport Transfer with Baby Seat Mauritius)
Luggage, Strollers, Golf Bags & Large Groups
Many travelers underestimate luggage space.
Standard sedans often:
Do not fit large suitcases + stroller
Are unsuitable for golf bags
Families and groups are better served by:
SUVs
Executive minibuses
(Internal link: Private Minibus Transfer Mauritius)
Pets & Dogs in Taxis
Pets are usually allowed if:
Clean
Calm
Declared in advance
Drivers may refuse aggressive or unrestrained animals.
Taxi Regulations Tourists Should Know
By law in Mauritius:
Tourist transport must be licensed
Vehicles must display identification
Unmarked vehicles cannot legally carry tourists
Using a licensed operator ensures:
Insurance coverage
Legal compliance
Professional standards
Real Case Insight: Arriving Without Pre-Booking
During peak season, many travelers arrive without a booking and face:
Long waits
Limited vehicle choice
Higher prices
No baby seats available
A pre-booked transfer removes all of these issues.
Professional Recommendation (From Daily Experience)
Use hotel taxis for short, spontaneous trips.
For:
Airport arrivals
Families
Groups
Fixed pricing
Stress-free travel
A licensed private transfer booked in advance is the best option.
Final Thoughts
Mauritius is safe and welcoming, but transport works differently than many travelers expect.
Understanding the taxi system in advance will:
Save time
Avoid stress
Improve your overall holiday experience
Your journey starts the moment you land.