What Currency Is Used in Mauritius?

What currency is used in Mauritius?

If you're planning a beach holiday in Mauritius, importing goods, or paying a local service provider, understanding the country’s currency is essential. This guide is written for travellers, international businesses, expats, and online shoppers. It explains what currency is used in Mauritius, how it works, and how to manage your money effectively while avoiding unnecessary costs or confusion.

Mauritius’ official currency: the Mauritian Rupee (MUR)

The official currency of Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee, abbreviated as MUR and commonly symbolised as Rs or sometimes ₨. It has been the legal tender since 1876 and is issued and regulated by the Bank of Mauritius, the country’s central bank.

• Currency name: Mauritian Rupee

• Currency code: MUR

• Symbol: Rs or ₨

• Subunit: 1 rupee = 100 cents

Prices across Mauritius, including hotels, taxis, local markets, and shops, are all listed and paid in Mauritian rupees.

Coins and banknotes in circulation

• Coins: 1, 5, 10, and 20 rupees

• Banknotes: Rs25, Rs50, Rs100, Rs200, Rs500, Rs1,000, and Rs2,000

Banknotes feature important historical figures, native flora and fauna, and cultural landmarks. While some coins and notes may look similar to other rupee-based currencies, the Mauritian rupee is unique to Mauritius and not interchangeable with other countries’ rupees.

Where the rupee is used

The Mauritian rupee is the only legal tender in Mauritius. It is used throughout the island nation, from Port Louis and Grand Baie to Mahebourg and Flic-en-Flac. Whether you’re dining out, booking a tour, shopping at a market, or paying for accommodation, transactions must be settled in rupees.

While some high-end resorts may display prices in euros, pounds, or US dollars, payments are usually converted into rupees at checkout. For anything outside luxury hotels—such as local taxis, shops, or street food—MUR is the only accepted currency.

How the Mauritian rupee works

The Mauritian rupee operates under a floating exchange rate system, meaning its value is determined by the global currency market. The Bank of Mauritius may intervene to stabilise the currency, but it does not fix it to any one foreign currency.

As of 2024, exchange rates typically fluctuate around:

• MUR 43–46 per US Dollar

• MUR 54–58 per British Pound

• MUR 47–50 per Euro

Rates vary depending on economic indicators, tourism flows, and trade balances.

Benefits and considerations of using MUR

Advantages:

• Universally accepted across Mauritius

• Relatively stable compared to many other emerging-market currencies

• Easy access to cash via ATMs and currency exchange offices across the island

Considerations:

• Foreign currency is not accepted outside resorts or airports

• Change may be limited in remote areas—carry small notes when possible

• Exchange rates for card payments may include additional fees for foreign visitors

Common misconceptions

A common misconception is that euros or dollars are accepted throughout Mauritius. While some tourist resorts may quote prices in foreign currencies, all payments are ultimately made in Mauritian rupees.

Another misunderstanding is that the Mauritian rupee can be used in other countries with similar currency names. In fact, MUR is only valid in Mauritius, and it is not interchangeable with Indian, Sri Lankan, or Pakistani rupees.

Tips for managing money in Mauritius

• Withdraw cash from local ATMs, which are widely available and offer competitive rates—especially those operated by MCB, SBM, and HSBC.

• Avoid exchanging money at the airport unless absolutely necessary, as rates may be less favourable.

• Use a travel card with no foreign transaction fees for better control of spending.

• Carry a mix of cash and card, as some small businesses and taxis may not accept cards.

• Ask upfront which currency is being quoted, particularly in hotels—prices may be shown in euros or dollars but charged in MUR.

FAQs

Can I use foreign currency in Mauritius?
Only in limited cases—some hotels may accept euros or dollars, but MUR is the required currency for all local purchases.

Is the rupee accepted at duty-free shops?
Yes. You can pay in MUR at airports, although prices may also be displayed in multiple currencies.

Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, especially in hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. However, it’s wise to carry cash for taxis, markets, and small vendors.

Should I tip in MUR or foreign currency?
Tipping in Mauritian rupees is most appropriate and appreciated. A 5–10% tip is common for good service.

Real-life example

A couple from the UK arrives in Mauritius with £600. They use a fee-free travel card to withdraw Rs30,000 from a local ATM. They pay for hotel extras and excursions by card, and use cash for taxis, tips, and local meals. When buying souvenirs in a market, they find small notes are helpful. By managing their money in rupees and using local ATMs, they avoid unnecessary fees and get better value throughout their trip.