The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius will open to international travel on July 15.

The island will open in phases during 2021 and the first phase, from July 15 to September 30, will enable vaccinated travellers to enjoy a resort holiday on the island, according to Janet de Kretser, Senior Consultant for the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) in South Africa,

She said holidaymakers would be able to enjoy facilities within their chosen resort premises, including the swimming pool and beach. If guests stay over 14 days and have negative PCR tests during their stay in the resort, they will be able to explore the island’s attractions. However, for shorter stays, they may leave the resort earlier and travel back home.

The announcement follows the acceleration of the vaccination campaign and the progress made towards herd immunity by the end of September.

The tourism industry’s frontline workers were prioritised during the vaccine roll-out.

“This enables a prompt and safe restart of the Mauritius tourism industry. The country’s response to the pandemic ranked among one of the best in the world, as the Mauritian Government responded promptly with stringent control measures and protocols,” said De Kretser.

She added that the safety of Mauritians and visitors had been a top priority since the outbreak of COVID-19 and the success was a result of a joint effort by the Mauritian Government and the island’s population.

With the phased reopening of the borders, at this stage some countries were scheduled to only be able to travel from Phase 2 in October, but more information would be made available in time, said De Kretser.

The travel trade is advised to check with their local MTPA office in the country of origin as to whether travellers from a specific country are allowed entry to Mauritius during Phase 1.

Travel regulations

Travellers to Mauritius (aged 18 years or over) – able to travel from July 15 – must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. They must undergo a PCR test between five and seven days before departure and a negative result is required to travel to the island.

Travellers will also have a PCR test on arrival at the airport in Mauritius and on days seven and 14 of their resort holiday, as applicable.

For Phase 2 (October 1), vaccinated travellers will be allowed entry without restrictions, upon presentation of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.

Unvaccinated travellers will be subject to 14 days in-room quarantine for both Phases 1 and 2 until further notice.