Travelling solo as a woman can be an incredibly freeing and empowering adventure! While Mauritius is often depicted as a luxury honeymoon or family travel destination, it’s also a great country to explore on your own. If you’re considering a solo trip to Mauritius as a woman, we’ve put together this detailed guide just for you.
Is it safe to travel to Mauritius as a solo woman?
The first question on your mind when planning to travel abroad alone as a woman is often about the safety of your chosen destination. Mauritius is considered relatively safe, with petty crimes being the primary concern.
While there are not a lot of cases reported by foreigners, it is important to note, however, that the rate ofsexual assault in Mauritius is relatively high. In 2022, there were 601 recorded cases of sexual assault in a country of around 1.2 million people, with over 90% of the victims being women. The majority of these incidents, around 75% of the time, occur within private households, and there are few reported cases of sexual assaults against foreigners.
Although the rates of sexual assault against tourists are relatively low, Mauritius still grapples with being a patriarchal society, where street harassment and harassment on public transport are common occurrences, although they are rarely reported.
My take on this:
As a woman living in Mauritius, I feel fairly safe. I do not fear being mugged when talking on public transport or walking in the streets during the day. I do, however, experience street harassment and I think most women on the island do. At night, it is a whole other story. I would always recommend getting trusted taxis or driving when going out at night and not walking alone in the streets.
Safety tips for solo women travelling to Mauritius
Avoid secluded areas
You can take the bus, wander the streets, or even take a solo hike during your holiday in Mauritius. Just be sure to opt for areas with some foot traffic. For instance, if you fancy a solo trek, consider tackling Le Morne Mountain or Le Pouce on Saturday or Sunday mornings. This way, you can enjoy your alone time while still having enough company along the path to feel secure and at ease.
Do not walk outside alone at night
It’s generally recommended to avoid walking alone outside, particularly in quieter areas. If you reside in Grand-Baie or Flic-en-Flac, it’s usually safe to walk to nearby restaurants, bars, or pubs as long as you’re not too far from the central areas of both places. However, in any other location, it’s advisable to either hire a taxi or, if you intend to rent a car, drive yourself.
Make sure someone knows of your whereabouts at all times
It’s always a good idea to let your hosts or acquaintances on the island in on your plans for the day or any outings you have planned. If you feel comfortable sharing your live location with them, ensuring they’re aware of your whereabouts throughout the day and can assist in case of any issues, please do so. Also, make sure to have your host’s contact information as well as Mauritian emergency numbers readily available in case of emergencies.
Be sure to only meet people in public places
If you’re keen on meeting new people as a solo traveller in Mauritius, it’s important to do so in public settings for safety reasons. Bars, pubs, or the beach offer the perfect settings for socializing and making connections. Meeting for the first time in your accommodation or in the person’s accommodation is definitely something to avoid in Mauritius as a solo traveller.
How to meet people in Mauritius as a solo woman?
Travelling solo doesn’t always mean being alone throughout your entire trip. In fact, solo travel can often push you out of your comfort zone and lead to meeting new people you might not have encountered if you were travelling with others or in a group. If you’re interested in socializing during your holiday in Mauritius, there are plenty of ways in which you can do so.
Spend time at the beach
The beach is the ideal place to strike up conversations with fellow beachgoers. Don’t hesitate to approach the locals, as they will usually be happy to share about themselves and Mauritius. It is essential, however, to respect their space and boundaries, ask if you can join them or if they’re open to chatting, and be mindful of their comfort levels.
My take on this:
If men come up to you on the beach and make you feel uncomfortable, do not hesitate to fake a phone call or to speak to a family or friend group nearby. Men in Mauritius might not always take just no for an answer, so your best bet might be to bring other people into the conversation.
Go hiking in groups
If you’re a nature lover and enjoy hiking, it can be an excellent way to meet new people while in Mauritius. There are several hiking groups that host weekly or monthly events, providing a chance to socialise while exploring the island’s natural beauty. Two birds, one stone!
Tried and tested:
Check out La Natir Pu Zot Tou (editor’s note: Nature belongs to us all) , a woman owned hiking guide business. The owner hosts inclusive hiking groups and also offers one-on-one hiking trips. Other certified hiking guides are Nature Warriors, Keep The Pace or Yanature. The group Rando Trail & Nature is also a good place to start if you have questions about hiking in Mauritius as a solo woman.
Pubs and bars
While striking up conversations with groups of friends in a pub may be a bit more challenging than at the beach in Mauritius, it can still be a great way to meet new people. For more natural connections, consider attending special events like dance nights or board game nights. There are usually salsa, kizomba, or bachata events held weekly or monthly in the northern villages of Mauritius, particularly around Grand-Baie. And search online for events that tap into your hobbies and foster communication with other participants during your stay in Mauritius.
Tried and tested:
Salsa, Bachata and Kizomba (SBK) dance nights are regularly held at Sparc and Sapphire in the West, Banana Club and Kalatua Restaurant in the North and Gravity Max in Ebène in the centre. The group Latino Dancers Mauritius is a good place to start when searching for SBK nights on the island.
Social apps and dating apps
You can also connect with fellow travellers who share similar interests in Mauritius ahead of your trip using social media groups, apps, and even dating platforms. This way, you can find individuals with common interests, engage in discussions, and maybe even coordinate activities together ahead of your arrival.
Activities suitable for a solo woman travelling to Mauritius
There is a lot to do in Mauritius, and most activities are perfectly suited for solo female travellers.
Beach, beach, beach!
Picture this: it’s Monday, and you are on a beach in Mauritius. It’s warm and sunny and it is fairly peaceful around you with just a few people around. All you can hear is the sound of the waves. You decide to take a dip in the turquoise waters, and the only items on your to-do list are basking in the sun and indulging in your favourite book. At midday, you head to one of the food trucks to grab a bite and you find a spot in the shade to savour your meal. Doesn’t that sound absolutely perfect?
Sight-seeing
Mauritius abounds with breathtaking sights waiting to be explored. So, whether you hop in your car, on a scooter, or board a bus, set out on a journey to discover the many treasures this island has to offer. Whether it’s admiring the stunning view of the West Coast from the Chamarel viewpoint or visiting the sacred lake of Grand-Bassin, you’re in for an unforgettable experience! So charge your phone and your music devices, load them with your favourite tunes and enjoy your own company while seeing the best of what Mauritius has to offer.
My take on this:
If you’re keen on sharing expenses or just to meet with people, do try and get in touch with like-minded people via the Facebook group Mauritius We Love It.
Treat yourself to a spa day
As a luxury tourist destination, Mauritius boasts numerous high-quality spas. So, while you’re on holiday, treat yourself to spa treatments, depending on your budget. Whether it’s a massage, a facial, or a manicure and pedicure (or perhaps all of the above), take the opportunity to pamper yourself!.
Go hiking
Mauritius is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as mountain hiking, waterfall exploration, and coastal walks, all of which are suitable for solo female travellers. However, if you opt not to hire a guide, it’s important to choose well-travelled paths and go on weekends when more people are likely to be hiking. Alternatively, there are numerous guides available on the island who are likely to accommodate your fitness levels or hiking style and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Accommodation options for solo women travellers to Mauritius
Mauritius offers a wide range of accommodation options for solo travellers, catering to all preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to cosy homestays. For solo female travellers, choosing accommodation will largely depend on individual budgets and preferences. While there are options available for everyone, it’s worth noting that accommodations for solo travellers tend to be pricier compared to those for couples, pairs or groups.
Luxury accommodation for solo women travellers
Forsolo female travellers heading to Mauritius, there are plenty of safe accommodation choices if you’re willing to indulge a bit. The island is renowned for its upscale hotels, many located right next to stunning beaches, which provide all-inclusive packages and top-notch spa treatments for a truly luxurious holiday experience.
While it may be pricier to travel solo as accommodations typically cater to couples or groups, staying in Mauritian luxury hotels offers both safety and exceptional services that can greatly enhance your stay.
Budget accommodation for solo women travellers in Mauritius
If you’re travelling solo to Mauritius on a budget, considering homestays offering individual rooms can be a great option. There are numerous homestay options available on platforms like Airbnb, allowing you to learn more about your host through reviews or direct communication before booking. This can help ensure your safety during your trip.
Alternatively, if you prefer not to share space with a host, renting a house or studio through Airbnb is another viable choice. You can communicate with the host in advance, inquire about safety measures, and assess the accommodation’s suitability for a solo female traveller. This flexibility allows you to make informed decisions and prioritise your comfort and security.
You might have seen adverts depicting Mauritius as a safe places to stay in Mauritius, featuring couples enjoying a romantic dinner on the beach or families splashing water around in luxurious hotel pools. But there is much more to the island! If you’re a woman and solo travel is your preferred travel style, fear not. Our guide covers Mauritius travel safety tips and the Island Route app can help you plan it all. From thrilling adventures to warm encounters with the friendly locals, you’re bound to make new friends quickly. So, don’t hesitate any longer. Go ahead and book that flight you’ve been dreaming about! It’s time to embark on your solo adventure in Mauritius.
