You can use credit cards in most places, but you'll still want some cash for markets and tipping. Occasionally sterling and dollars may be used when paying in tourist areas, but the locals prefer rupees where possible.
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The official currency is the Mauritian Rupee - not the dollar and not the Euro. Some people have tipped in dollars or euros - much to the consternation of the recipients in Mauritius as these currencies are totally useless to the average Mauritian worker and they have to ask tourists to change these dollars into MUR.
Advantages of using cashIf your spending discipline breaks down when you use credit cards, cash may be a better choice while you let loose on vacation. No foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards charge an extra fee of up to 3% on purchases made outside the country, although you can find cards that don't.
Salaries are generally low in Mauritius so tips are always appreciated. However, do not feel obliged. Mauritians seem to know that a tip has to be earned, and they will naturally do their utmost to make you happy, whether it's for service in a hotel, restaurant or taxi.
Mauritius can be very expensive if you stick to the hotels, especially 4 star upwards. Supermarket prices are the same as here, and rising with oil prices, so even basics are not as cheap as they were. A lot of people on the forum complain about the rip off prices in euros that hotels charge, and they are right.
Most Mauritians are used to drinking tap water and eating in food stalls at every street corner. However, those not used to it should avoid doing so, as severe food poisoning may occur. It is thus advisable to drink mineral water and accept ice cubes only in hotels that treat tap water.
It's polite to accept any food and drink offered, and remember to remove leather shoes and belts and cover up when visiting places of worship. Women can dress in what they like, but we recommend covering up and dressing modestly in public places.
At some tourist attraction payments is Euro may be accepted, but mostly you need the domestic currency. Some places accept card payments, but we recommend that you bring some cash.
Essential Mauritius travel informationCurrency - The currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian rupee (MUR). 1 USD is equivalent to approximately 40 MUR. Daily budget for one person - A daily budget of around USD 50-100 USD per person is reasonable for mid-range travel in Mauritius.
Many Thais will tip at these kind of places. Although, again, this isn't a fixed amount and it's just as much for convenience as it is for gratitude or a comment on the quality. Assuming the food is good and your server are pleasant, the small tip will either be a small banknote – 20 Baht being the most common.
Malaria or dengue fever aren't a danger in Mauritius, but mosquito bites are annoying nevertheless. Mosquito repellent is useful in any case, but you can just as easily buy it locally.
While credit cards are easy to carry and more secure than cash, you should always have some local cash on you when traveling. It's just good sense. Besides the fact that some local shops and vendors won't accept credit cards, having some cash provides a safety net in case your bank shuts off your card for any reason.
While credit cards are accepted in most situations, currency can be more convenient for public transportation and small vendors. It's also wise to carry an emergency fund with enough cash for a few days, just in case your card gets lost or stolen.