Mauritius’ long-awaited re-opening has finally been confirmed, with vaccinated international travellers now allowed to enter the island nation from mid-July.
The island will reopen in two phases, starting with a 15th July cautious re-opening that will enable vaccinated travellers to stay at ‘resort bubbles’ – approved Covid-19 safe resorts – for 14 days or more from 15 July onwards. (full list of resorts here).
“Mauritius is delighted to be welcoming international visitors from 15 July with our 14 unique resort bubbles that allow international visitors to enjoy a safe and secure holiday experience,” said Nilen Vencadasmy, chairman of Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA).
Should holidaymakers wish to leave the resort after 14 days to explore more of the island, they will need to have a negative PCR test done at the resort.
The Mauritian government has been lauded for its strict Covid-19 safety measures, which have shielded the small Indian Ocean Island from the worst of the pandemic.
While the tourism-dependent island is opening its borders after a long lock-down, it is doing so with extreme caution and strict safety protocols.
To enter the island during phase one of its re-opening, travellers aged 18 years or over must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and have a negative PCR test result from within five to seven days before departure. Travellers will also have to undergo a PCR test on arrival at the airport in Mauritius and on day seven and 14 of their resort holiday.
Phase 2 of Mauritius’ reopening is scheduled to begin on 1 October and will see all vaccinated travellers allowed entry without restrictions, provided they present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure.
Air Mauritius, Emirates and other global airlines are expected to resume flights to the island from 15 July, followed by other airlines from 1 October.
South African tour operators, such as Beachcomber Tours SA, are gearing up for Mauritius’ re-opening by releasing special offers for the Summer 2021/2022 season, with the expectation that the country’s vaccination roll-out will enable vaccinated South Africans to travel freely.
Book your summer holiday in Mauritius with your nearest Sure Travel Agency, or book online here.