Where is Mauritius Located?
Where is Mauritius located on the map? Mauritius is an independent nation located in Eastern Africa. Check out the following images to see location of Mauritius on maps.
Mauritius Location in World Map
Mauritius is located in the Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometers east of Madagascar. From East Africa you would have to cover about 1,700 kilometers to dock on one of the islands. Mauritius is roughly the size of the country Luxembourg and comprises two larger and several smaller islands.
The largest island is also the namesake of the country: Mauritius. 200 kilometers to the west you will find the island of Réunion, which, however, belongs to France. Together with another island called Rodrigues, these are part of the Mascarene island chain.
Mauritius is located in the middle of the Indian Ocean. The island of Mauritius is the largest island in the state of Mauritius.
Location Information of Mauritius
Latitude and Longitude
Mauritius is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) off the southeast coast of the African continent, east of Madagascar. The country’s approximate coordinates are 20.348404° S latitude and 57.552152° E longitude. Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, which also include Réunion (a French overseas region) and Rodrigues Island. Despite its relatively small size, Mauritius has a unique location that gives it both tropical beauty and a strategic position in global maritime trade routes.
Capital City and Major Cities
Capital City: Port Louis
The capital and largest city of Mauritius is Port Louis, located on the island’s northwest coast. Port Louis is the economic and administrative heart of the country, with a population of over 150,000 people in the city proper and around 300,000 people in the metropolitan area. The city serves as the center for commerce, banking, government, and tourism. Port Louis has a rich history, influenced by a diverse mix of cultures, including African, European, and Asian. The city’s harbor is one of the busiest in the Indian Ocean, serving as a crucial trade and transportation hub for the region.
Major Cities
- Beau-Bassin Rose-Hill: The second-largest city in Mauritius, Beau-Bassin Rose-Hill is located inland from Port Louis and has a population of about 110,000. It serves as a commercial and residential area and is part of the larger urban agglomeration surrounding Port Louis. The city is known for its parks, markets, and vibrant local culture.
- Curepipe: Located in the central plateau of the island, Curepipe is a town known for its cooler climate due to its higher altitude. It has a population of about 80,000 and is a hub for shopping, dining, and cultural activities. The town is also the gateway to the Black River Gorges National Park, a popular spot for hiking and eco-tourism.
- Vacoas-Phoenix: Situated near Curepipe, Vacoas-Phoenix is a large town that acts as a residential and commercial center in the central region of Mauritius. The combined population of Vacoas and Phoenix exceeds 100,000. The area is known for its shopping malls, local markets, and natural beauty.
- Triolet: Located in the north of Mauritius, Triolet is the largest village in the country, with a population of around 30,000. It is home to several historic and cultural landmarks, such as the Triolet Shivala Temple, which is the largest Hindu temple in Mauritius.
- Quatre Bornes: A smaller town situated to the southwest of Curepipe, Quatre Bornes is known for its residential areas, shopping districts, and active local community. It is often considered part of the greater urban area surrounding Port Louis and has a population of about 80,000.
Time Zone
Mauritius operates on Mauritius Standard Time (MST), which is UTC +4:00. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year. Mauritius shares the same time zone with several other islands in the Indian Ocean, including Seychelles, and parts of the East African coast such as Comoros.
Climate
Mauritius experiences a tropical maritime climate, characterized by warm, sunny weather with distinct wet and dry seasons. The climate is influenced by the trade winds, the surrounding Indian Ocean, and the island’s topography, which includes mountains and coastal plains.
- Temperature: The island enjoys mild to warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months (June to September) to 30°C (86°F) in the hotter months (November to April). Coastal areas tend to be warmer, while the central plateau experiences cooler temperatures due to its elevation.
- Rainy Season: The rainy season in Mauritius lasts from December to April. During this period, the island experiences higher humidity and rainfall, particularly in the central and southern regions. The heavy rain often comes in short bursts but can cause localized flooding. Tropical cyclones are also a risk during these months, though the island is generally less affected than other parts of the Indian Ocean.
- Dry Season: The dry season, from May to November, is characterized by lower humidity and pleasant temperatures. The northeast trade winds provide cooling breezes, making this period the most popular for tourism. This is also when the island experiences its lowest rainfall.
- Cyclones and Storms: Cyclones are a seasonal threat, particularly between January and March, with the peak occurring in February. While the island is not always directly hit, Mauritius does experience the effects of strong winds and heavy rains, which can cause temporary disruption to daily life.
Economic Status
Mauritius has one of the most stable and prosperous economies in Africa. It is considered a high-income economy by the World Bank, with a well-diversified base that includes tourism, financial services, manufacturing, and agriculture. The country’s economy has undergone significant transformation over the past few decades, shifting from reliance on sugar exports to a more service-based economy with growing industries in information technology, textiles, and banking.
1. Tourism
Tourism is one of the cornerstones of Mauritius’ economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. The country is a popular destination for beach tourism, luxury resorts, and eco-tourism, attracting millions of visitors annually. The island’s coral reefs, clear lagoons, and white sandy beaches are major attractions. Tourists from Europe, Asia, and Africa come to Mauritius for vacation, particularly for water sports like diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing. The island also attracts cultural tourists due to its rich history and diverse population.
2. Agriculture
Mauritius was historically heavily reliant on sugar production, which remains an important agricultural product. However, in recent years, the agricultural sector has diversified, with crops such as tea, fruits (especially pineapples), and vegetables now being cultivated. Sugar production still dominates agricultural exports, but the sector now faces challenges such as price fluctuations and competition from other sugar producers.
3. Manufacturing and Industry
The textile and garment industry is one of the most important sectors in Mauritius. The country is a major exporter of textiles to international markets, including Europe and the United States. In recent years, Mauritius has focused on developing its financial services sector, particularly in offshore banking, insurance, and investment services. This has made Mauritius an attractive destination for foreign investment, particularly in the financial and tech sectors.
4. Fishing and Seafood
Mauritius has a well-developed fishing industry, which includes both artisanal and commercial fishing. The island’s location in the Indian Ocean makes it a rich source of seafood, including tuna, shrimp, and lobster. The fishery sector supports both local consumption and export markets.
5. Challenges
Despite its economic success, Mauritius faces challenges such as income inequality, unemployment, and environmental sustainability. The government has prioritized policies aimed at reducing poverty, improving education, and enhancing infrastructure development to meet the needs of a growing population and increasingly complex global economy.
Tourist Attractions
Mauritius is renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historical sites. The island offers a range of attractions, from its stunning beaches to its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
1. Grand Baie
Located in the north of the island, Grand Baie is one of the most popular beach destinations in Mauritius. The area is known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and a variety of water sports, such as sailing, jet-skiing, and diving. The bay also has a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops.
2. Le Morne Brabant
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Morne Brabant is a mountain on the southwestern tip of Mauritius. It has significant historical importance, as it was a refuge for runaway slaves during the colonial period. The mountain offers breathtaking views of the island and is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.
3. Black River Gorges National Park
This 67.5-square-kilometer park is the largest national park on the island and offers visitors a chance to explore Mauritius’ diverse flora and fauna. Hiking trails within the park lead to stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and indigenous species of plants and animals, including the Mauritius kestrel and pink pigeon.
4. Île aux Cerfs
A small island off the east coast, Île aux Cerfs is famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water. The island is perfect for water sports, including parasailing, snorkeling, and swimming. It is accessible by boat from the mainland.
5. Aapravasi Ghat
The Aapravasi Ghat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first immigration depot for indentured laborers brought to Mauritius from India in the 19th century. The site is significant for its role in the history of the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.
6. The Botanical Gardens of Pamplemousses
The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden in Pamplemousses is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. It is home to a wide range of plant species, including the famous giant water lilies, and provides insight into Mauritius’ colonial past.
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter Mauritius for stays of up to 60 days. However, travelers must have a valid passport with at least six months validity from the intended date of entry. U.S. visitors should also have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.
Distance to New York City and Los Angeles
Distance to New York City
The distance from New York City to Port Louis is approximately 10,500 miles (16,900 kilometers). Flights typically require one or two layovers, often transiting through European or Middle Eastern airports such as London, Paris, or Dubai.
Distance to Los Angeles
The distance from Los Angeles to Port Louis is around 11,000 miles (17,700 kilometers). Similar to flights from New York, travelers typically transit through major European or Middle Eastern cities. Direct flights are not available.
Mauritius Facts
| Size | 2,040 km² |
| Residents | 1.29 million |
| Languages | English and French |
| Capital | Port Louis |
| Longest river | Grande Rivière du Sud-Est (34 km) |
| Highest mountain | Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire (828 m) |
| Currency | Mauritian rupee |
