Emergency Numbers & Access
SAMU (114) provides ambulance service. Public hospital emergency care is free for everyone including tourists.
Response time: 15-30 minutes
Cost: Public hospitals free; private $100-500+
Healthcare System
Mauritius offers free public healthcare to all, including tourists. While public hospitals handle emergencies well, private clinics provide faster, more comfortable care. The island has good medical infrastructure for its size.
Designed for: All residents and visitors (public system free for everyone)
GP Access & Costs
Free at public health centres; walk-in at private clinics
Typical wait: Same-day at private clinics; 1-3 hours at public facilities
Availability: Good across the island; private clinics concentrated in tourist areas
GP Visit
Free public; $30-60 private
Private GP
$30-60
ER Without Insurance
Free at public hospitals; $100-500+ private
Medication
Basic medications free at public hospitals. Private pharmacies well-stocked. Prices moderate.
Pharmacy & Medication
Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm; hospital pharmacies 24h
OTC: Good range available
Controlled substances: Strict drug laws — carry prescriptions for all medications. Drug offenses carry severe penalties.
Practical Tips
- Public hospitals provide free care including emergency treatment for tourists
- Clinique Darné and City Clinic are top private facilities
- Most doctors speak English, French, and Creole — communication is easy
- Diving insurance recommended if doing water activities — decompression chamber available
- Sun protection is essential — UV index is very high year-round
Who can get care in Mauritius?
Emergency care for anyone
Emergency departments in Mauritius treat everyone regardless of residency or insurance status.
Public system for visitors
Short-term visitors can use the public system broadly on the same basis as residents.
Seeing a Doctor as a visitor
Free at public health centres; walk-in at private clinics Typical cost: Free public; $30-60 private Typical wait: Same-day at private clinics; 1-3 hours at public facilities
Insurance needed for entry or visa
Not a formal entry requirement, but medical cover is strongly recommended. Emergency care without cover: Free at public hospitals; $100-500+ private.
Documents worth having ready
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Return ticket
- Travel insurance recommended
- Proof of accommodation
Local contacts in Mauritius
Emergency services
114 (SAMU) / 999
SAMU (114) provides ambulance service. Public hospital emergency care is free for everyone including tourists.
Pharmacies
Mon-Sat 8am-6pm; hospital pharmacies 24h
Good range available
What is the emergency number in Mauritius?
114 (SAMU) or 999 in Mauritius. SAMU (114) provides ambulance service. Public hospital emergency care is free for everyone including tourists.
How much does a Doctor visit cost in Mauritius?
Free public; $30-60 private Private consultations: $30-60.
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Sources: Mauritius Ministry of Health, WHO Mauritius, CDC Travelers Health 2024
Last reviewed: March 2026 by ViscaCare