Travel Tips for the Festive Season in Mauritius Island

As Christmas and New Year approach, Mauritius comes alive with parties, beach barbecues, and late-night celebrations. Roads get busier, police controls increase, and reliable transport becomes essential. Using taxi services during festive seasons can keep you safe, stress-free, and on time—if you plan ahead.

Here are practical tips tailored for festive travel in Mauritius.

1. Don’t drink and drive – let taxis do the driving

Police roadblocks and breathalyzer tests are far more frequent around Christmas and New Year. Beyond fines and license suspension, drunk driving can cost lives.

• If you plan to drink, commit in advance to not driving.
• Use licensed taxi services, ride-hailing apps, or hotel-arranged transport.
• Share taxi details (number plate, driver’s name) with a friend or family member.

Treat taxis not as an expense, but as insurance for your safety during the festive rush.

2. Book your taxi early to avoid last‑minute rip‑offs

During peak nights (Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day), taxis are in high demand and prices can spike.

• Pre-book your rides for going to and returning from parties.
• If your hotel offers transport, ask for the rate before you confirm—last‑minute hotel taxis can be expensive.
• When possible, book the same driver for the return trip and fix the time and price in advance.

Planning your taxi services during festive seasons a few days ahead often gets you better rates, more reliable drivers, and less waiting around.

3. Always agree on the fare before hiring a taxi

This is one of the simplest ways to avoid misunderstandings and arguments at the end of your ride.

• For non-metered taxis, confirm the total fare before you get in.
• Clarify if the fare is per ride, not per person.
• For longer journeys, ask if the price includes waiting time, tolls, or night surcharges.

If something feels unclear, ask the driver to repeat the amount or write it down. Clear communication up front means a smooth, drama‑free journey at the end.

4. Stay vigilant in crowded festive hotspots

You mentioned loving this point, and it’s a crucial one—especially during big celebrations.

Festive events, fireworks displays, markets, and beach parties attract large crowds. They’re fun, but also prime spots for pickpockets and opportunistic theft.

• Keep bags zipped and in front of you, not hanging loosely behind.
• Avoid showing large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
• Don’t leave phones, wallets, or cameras unattended in taxis or on tables.
• When your taxi arrives, always double-check you’ve taken all your belongings before you get out.

A little extra awareness can save you from spending your holiday at the police station instead of the beach.

5. Plan your airport transfers and late-night returns

Flights and party nights collide during the festive period, creating pressure on transport.

• Pre-arrange your airport taxi at the time you book your accommodation.
• Share your flight details with the driver so they can plan around delays or schedule changes.
• Many reputable providers offer airport transfers, sightseeing tours, and custom day trips—ask your hotel for recommendations or check verified online reviews.
• For New Year’s Eve and big party nights, schedule your return pick‑up time and agree the fare in advance.

Reliable airport transfers and late‑night rides remove the stress of hunting for a taxi with luggage or in the early hours of the morning.

6. Stay safe in the Mauritian summer heat: hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

It’s summer in Mauritius right now, which means high temperatures and strong sun—often combined with alcohol, dancing, and long hours outdoors.

To stay safe and alert while using taxi services during festive seasons:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, not just at night.
• Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks.
• Keep a reusable water bottle with you, especially on long journeys or after beach parties.
• Wear light, breathable clothing and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Dehydration can leave you dizzy, confused, and vulnerable—exactly what you don’t want when you’re far from home, trying to find a taxi late at night.

7. Keep backup options and emergency contacts handy

Even the best plans can change—especially during the holidays.

• Save the numbers of two or three reliable taxi drivers in your phone.
• Have the contact details of your hotel or host in case you get stranded and need help arranging a ride.
• Take note of the local emergency numbers and your country’s embassy/consulate details if you’re a foreign traveler.
• Keep a bit of extra cash for transport in case apps fail or cards are not accepted.

A small backup plan gives you peace of mind when festive chaos hits.

Using taxi services during festive seasons in Mauritius can be safe, convenient, and stress‑free—if you book early, agree on your fares, stay aware of crowds, and look after your health in the summer heat. With a few smart decisions, you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying the celebrations, the island, and the people you’re with.