How to Call Mauritius
Complete guide to dialing Mauritius (country code +230)
Calling Mauritius from abroad doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're contacting family, friends, or business associates on this beautiful Indian Ocean island, understanding the proper dialing procedure ensures your call connects successfully every time. This comprehensive guide on how to call Mauritius will walk you through the essential steps, from entering the correct country code to formatting local numbers properly. We'll cover common mistakes people make when calling Mauritius internationally, share important phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful emergency and service numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the information necessary to confidently place calls to Mauritius from anywhere in the world.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
Understanding International Dialing Format to Mauritius
To call Mauritius, you need to follow the international dialing structure: Exit Code + 230 + Local Number. Mauritius uses country code +230, and local numbers are typically 7-8 digits without any leading zero to drop.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 230 (Mauritius country code)
- Dial the local number
From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 230 (Mauritius country code)
- Dial the local number
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00 or 011), then dial 230 followed by the local number.
Practical Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Mauritius Mobile Number from USA:
To call +230 5123 4567: dial 011-230-5123-4567
Mobile numbers in Mauritius typically start with 5.
Example 2 - Calling a Port Louis Landline from UK:
To call +230 208 1234: dial 00-230-208-1234
Landline numbers often begin with 2.
Example 3 - Calling a Business Number from Australia:
To call +230 467 8900: dial 0011-230-467-8900
(Australia uses 0011 as its exit code)
Important Notes About Local Numbers
Mauritius does not use leading zeros in its local phone numbers, unlike many countries. When you see a Mauritius number written locally as "5123 4567," you dial it exactly as shown after the country code—no digits need to be dropped.
Quick Reference
- Country Code: +230
- Number Length: 7-8 digits
- Mobile Prefixes: 5
- Landline Prefixes: 2, 4, 6
- No Leading Zero: Dial numbers exactly as displayed
Always verify current rates with your phone provider before making international calls to Mauritius.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Mauritius, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Mauritian phone numbers often appear with a leading zero domestically (like 0xxx xxxx), but you must remove this zero when dialing internationally. Always dial +230 followed by the number without the zero.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many people dial "00" before the country code out of habit, but the correct exit code varies by country. The US and Canada use "011," while most of Europe uses "00." Using "+" works universally on mobile phones and automatically applies the correct exit code.
3. Adding extra digits to the country code
Some callers mistakenly dial "+2300" or "+230-0," keeping the local zero. Mauritius's country code is simply 230—nothing more. After +230, dial the 7 or 8-digit local number directly.
4. Confusing mobile and landline formats
Mauritian mobile numbers typically start with 5, while landlines vary. Ensure you have the complete number, as both require the same dialing format: +230 followed by the full local number.
5. Incorrectly spacing the number
While spacing helps readability, incorrect spacing can cause confusion. The standard format is +230 xxxx xxxx for 8-digit numbers.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Mauritius, understanding local customs helps build respectful relationships. The island's multicultural society blends French, English, Creole, and Asian influences, creating unique communication practices.
Greetings and Language
Start calls with "Bonjour" or "Hello," depending on your relationship with the person. Many Mauritians are multilingual, but English and French are commonly used in business settings. Creole is more common among friends and family.
Business vs Personal Calls
Business calls require formality. Use titles like "Monsieur" or "Madame" until invited to use first names. Personal calls can be more relaxed, though initial politeness is always appreciated.
Timing Matters
Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:30-2:00 PM) when many take breaks. Evening calls after 8:00 PM should be reserved for close contacts. Business calls work best between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays.
Formality Guidelines
Start formal until the other person sets a casual tone. Older generations particularly appreciate respectful communication, while younger Mauritians may be more relaxed.
Voice Messages
Keep voicemails brief and clear. State your name, reason for calling, and contact information. Many prefer text messages (SMS or WhatsApp) for non-urgent matters.
Cultural Considerations
Mauritians value patience and courtesy. Don't rush conversations, as building rapport is important. During religious festivals or public holidays, expect delayed responses. Being understanding of the island's diverse cultural calendar demonstrates respect for local customs.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 999 or 112
Fire Department: 995 or 115
Ambulance (SAMU): 114
Coast Guard: 110
Emergency Services (General): 112
All emergency numbers in Mauritius are toll-free and accessible 24/7 from both landlines and mobile phones. The universal European emergency number 112 connects to all emergency services and is particularly useful for mobile users. English and French-speaking operators are available, as both languages are widely used in Mauritius alongside Creole.
Additional useful numbers:
- Police emergency hotline: 999
- Poison Centre: 213 2097
- Ambulance service (private): 141
When calling from a mobile phone, ensure your SIM card is active. Even without credit, emergency calls will connect. Save these numbers in your phone upon arrival for quick access during emergencies.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 150: Directory Enquiries for local phone numbers and business listings
International Services
- 10090: International Operator for assistance with overseas calls
Tourist Support
- +230 210 1545: Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority helpline for visitor information and assistance
Key Embassy Contacts
- British High Commission: +230 202 9400
- US Embassy: +230 202 4400
- French Embassy: +230 202 0100
- Australian High Commission: +230 202 0160
Other Useful Numbers
- 170: Weather Information Service
- +230 603 5500: SSR International Airport
- 191: Consumer Protection hotline
- 152: Traffic Police for road assistance and accident reporting
- +230 208 5061: National Transport Corporation for public bus information
Keep these numbers accessible during your stay for convenient access to services and support.
Tips for Calling Mauritius
When calling Mauritius (UTC+4), timing matters for successful connections. The country is typically 4 hours ahead of GMT, making early afternoon European calls ideal for reaching Mauritian businesses during their working hours.
Business hours run Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some offices closing at 4:00 PM on Fridays. Schedule important business calls in advance, as Mauritians appreciate punctuality and proper planning. Avoid calling during the lunch period (12:30-1:30 PM) when many offices close.
Peak calling rates usually apply during business hours, so consider off-peak times for personal calls to save costs. However, respect local time—avoid calling before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM.
Be mindful of public holidays including Chinese Spring Festival, Diwali, Eid, and Christmas, when businesses close. The island also observes numerous cultural celebrations that may affect availability.
For clear communication, speak slowly and clearly, as English and French are business languages, but some professionals may have accents. Poor mobile coverage exists in rural areas, so landlines offer better reliability. Always confirm appointments via email beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Mauritius is +230. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Mauritius from anywhere in the world.
To dial Mauritius from your cell phone, first dial your country's international exit code (often + or 011), then 230 (Mauritius country code), followed by the 7 or 8-digit local number. For example: +230-XXXX-XXXX.
Mauritius phone numbers don't typically have a leading zero. Simply dial +230 followed by the 7 or 8-digit local number. If you see a zero at the start, it's generally not needed for international calls.
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In Mauritius, dial 999 for police emergencies, 114 for fire services, and 114 for ambulance services. These emergency numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones and landlines.
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