Mauritius is one big island with many things to do, places to visit, and restaurants all accessible by road. Mauritius mostly has stunning beach resorts, located on different beaches of the island. It is very convenient to hire a car in Mauritius and explore the entire island. Mauritius is the ideal place for people looking to lounge by the beaches and yet wanting to do visit different places.
Mauritius vs Maldives: Visa
Both Mauritius and Maldives has visa on arrival for Indian tourists, which is valid for 30 days. The visa is issued free of cost. Some valid travel documents need to be submitted at the immigration counter upon arrival at the airport.
Mauritius vs the Maldives: Budget
Maldives is slightly expensive as compared to Mauritius. Even though a flight ticket to Maldives from India costs around INR 15000, the transfer from Maldives airport to different resorts through speedboat or seaplane is very expensive. The food in Maldives is also quite expensive as most of the food items are imported from nearby countries. A 3 day trip to Maldives will cost a minimum of INR 70,000 to INR 80,000 per person. It is highly advisable to get an all-inclusive package instead of backpacking.
Mauritius has better deals for travellers with moderate food prices and a better budget range for all travellers. You can either go for luxury options or a mid-budget one. There is room for bargaining at the local markets, and you can even rent apartments through Airbnb to save some cash. A 4 day trip to Mauritius will cost around INR 50,000 to INR 60,000 per person.
If you are looking for a less expensive island holiday Mauritius is ideal for you. However, if you don't mind spending extra money for a luxury experience, Maldives is definitely better.
Mauritius vs Maldives: Weather
Maldives
Tropical climate, abundant rainfall and high temperature mark the weather of Maldives. The northern islands receive rain from May to October with tropical cyclones between August and November.Best time to visit: Between November and April
Mauritius
With humidity and moderately high temperature throughout the year, Mauritius has a tropical climate. Tropical cyclones engulf the island between January and April making it the wettest period.Best time to visit: September to December and April to June.
Mauritius vs the Maldives: For Adventure and Activities
Maldives is one of the best places in the world for diving and snorkelling with diverse marine life and corals of distinct hues. The marine life of Maldives comprises Manta Rays, turtles, baby sharks, and whale sharks. Apart from these, Maldives is also famous for dolphin cruise, catamaran sailing, kayaking, parasailing, and underwater walk among other water sports. Read more about water sports in Maldives.
Mauritius also offers a plethora of activities to make your holiday memorable and exciting. You can go hiking, cycling, kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, mountain trekking, hunting, birdwatching, windsurfing, waterskiing, rafting, horse riding and even quad biking as you explore the old colonial capital. The islands are easy to explore and give you an action-packed experience.
Choose Maldives if looking for the best water sports experience. However, if you want to enjoy hiking, trekking and other fun activities, Mauritius is better for you.
Mauritius vs Maldives: Transportation and Connectivity
The capital city Male is the only place in Maldives which is connected to the airport by road. The rest of the island resorts are connected to the airport by a speedboat, seaplane or a domestic flight. Once you are on the resort island, you can travel to Male or any other island only by renting a yacht, which is very expensive.
Mauritius is one big island with excellent road connectivity. Roads are smooth, with breathtaking views, making it very convenient to hire a self-drive car in Mauritius for sightseeing. An international driving permit is also not required to drive in Mauritius.
Mauritius is definitely a better choice if you are looking to roam around the island and explore different areas.
Mauritius vs Maldives: Family Holiday or Honeymoon Destination or Solo Travel
If you are looking for some privacy and me-time, then the Maldives will offer you your desired solitude hence making it an excellent option for solo travellers. The Maldives attracts the youngsters especially couples on honeymoon, surfers, divers, and even celebrities. Families with young children may feel a little out of place. Some overwater villas prohibit children under 12 and resorts do not offer enough activities for children.
With the myriad activities offered here, Mauritius is a perfect family and child-friendly destination. The resorts even offer kids' clubs to entertain and take care of the children so that the parents can enjoy their vacation. The activities mentioned above are available for all ages. Mauritius is incredibly safe; however, due to the number of visitors it attracts, Mauritius might not be a good option for couples seeking some privacy.
Honeymoon: Maldives
Solo Traveller: Mauritius/Maldives
Family Holiday: Mauritius
Mauritius vs Maldives: Nightlife
Maldives has almost zero nightlife with the options limited to the bars or restaurants inside the resort. It is also illegal to carry alcohol to Maldives, but most private resorts have liquor licences.
Mauritius has a happening nightlife with many bars, pubs and restaurants spread throughout the island. There is no bar closing time, so many places are open till early morning. It is also safe for tourists to roam around Mauritius at night. Read more about nightlife in Mauritius.
Mauritius is a better option if you are looking for a fun nightlife.
Both destinations have their unique charm and unparalleled experience which makes it a very tough choice. However, it entirely depends on what you are looking for. But no matter which place you choose, you will taste a slice of paradise for sure.