Culture & Traditions

When visiting Mauritius, it's important to be aware of a few cultural issues. You don't need to stress because offending a Mauritian is quite a challenge in this tolerant land. When stepping into a place of worship, play it safe with modest clothing and the shoe removal drill. Some Hindu temples might nudge you to part ways with leather items like belts and a golden rule: hands off the deity statues.

Also, tipping is not the default move in Mauritius, so there is no pressure to tip if the service doesn't quite hit the mark—many all-inclusive resorts roll in a service charge, so no extra tipping is required.

But, if a dive instructor, waiter, or any staff dazzles you with top-notch service, a small tip is the ticket to express your gratitude. Keep in mind that salaries in Mauritius, especially in service industries, lean towards the lower side, so a tip goes a long way and is always warmly welcomed.

Music is an integral part of Mauritian culture, and the most popular styles are Reggae, Séga and Seggae. It is a type of ritual music.

It is a musical representation of Mauritius' way of life. It depicts the lighthearted, vivid, and joyful nature of Mauritius people. Men usually wear oversized shirts and baggy trousers, while women wear long, colourful skirts.

If you want to experience the local culture, you can get the séga clothes at the central market in Port-Louis or Grand Bay. You're in for luck, as tourists are often invited to join this cheerful dance. But the twist is that you must do this barefoot, whether on the beach or in resorts.