LIFE AND STYLE
Tourism Reaches New Heights, A Post COVID-19 Recovery

Mauritius, renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant cultural heritage, has experienced a remarkable 6.7% growth in its tourism sector in 2024. This growth follows a global recovery after the pandemic, and recent data highlighted an encouraging trajectory characterized by increased tourist arrivals, record revenues, and changing traveler profiles.
However, it’s essential to contextualize these figures against the pre-COVID record year of 2019, which still holds the highest total tourist arrivals at 1,383,488.
In 2024, Mauritius welcomed an impressive 1,382,177 tourists, marking a significant 6.7% increase compared to the 1,295,410 arrivals in 2023.
While this increase represents a renewed confidence in traveling to Mauritius, it is still slightly below the record set in 2019, which saw 1,393,488 visitors.
December 2024 was particularly notable, with 154,208 arrivals, an increase over the 149,145 recorded the previous December. Yet, it falls short by 1,311 visitors compared to the peak pre-COVID year.
Breaking Records in 2024
The growth in tourist arrivals can be attributed to a combination of strategic marketing efforts, enhanced flight connectivity, and a diversification of offerings that appeal to a broader audience.
The steady increase in arrivals each month indicates the island’s ability to maintain momentum throughout the year, rather than relying solely on traditional peak seasons.
January 2024 witnessed a notable surge, outpacing January 2023 with an impressive growth rate of 10.8%.
Changing Traveler Profiles
The demographics of travelers to Mauritius have also shown significant evolution. In terms of gender, women have consistently surpassed men among visitors.
For instance, in December 2024, female arrivals totaled 78,846, compared to 75,362 male arrivals.
This ongoing trend suggests that targeted marketing campaigns aimed at women are proving effective.
When examining transportation modes, air travel remains dominant, accounting for 97.5% of arrivals in 2024.
However, there has been a remarkable increase in maritime arrivals, with figures rising from 20,147 in 2023 to 33,777 in 2024.
December 2024 alone saw a notable rise in sea arrivals, reaching 2,873 compared to the total of just 3,904 for all of 2023.
Looking Ahead
Despite these positive developments, challenges remain. The average length of stay for tourists has stabilized at 11-12 days over the past two years.
Innovative packages that promote longer stays, such as cultural immersions or ecotourism experiences, could boost revenue per visitor.
Additionally, the rise in maritime travel indicates an untapped market for cruise tourism, which, if developed, could further diversify Mauritius’s tourist base.
A Rising Tide with Enduring Enthusiasm
Mauritius, long renowned for its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, has experienced a remarkable 6.7% growth in its tourism sector in 2024.
This growth, fueled by a combination of sustainable, culturally authentic, and innovative offerings, positions the island as a leading global tourism destination.
The constant rise in tourist arrivals, coupled with increased revenue, underscores the island’s continued success in the tourism industry.
Mauritians Remain Passionate About Travel
According to Charles Ng Tai Mui, patriarch of Atom Travel, one of the most reputable travel agencies in Mauritius and the local principal partner of Air Mauritius, 2024 was a remarkable year of recovery and growth for the sector.
“I am extremely satisfied with the results we achieved this year,” Ng said, adding that Atom Travel’s revenue increased by 12% compared to 2023.
“This growth is a testament to the enduring enthusiasm of Mauritians for travel.
In December alone, we organized a record 50 tour groups to various destinations around the world, including Europe, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Istanbul, India, and the Americas.”
Trends and Insights
Ng noted a growing interest in Rodrigues, particularly among senior citizens. “Rodrigues is emerging as a top destination, especially among seniors,” he observed.
However, in a more serious tone, Ng touched on the future of Air Mauritius, a subject he has previously avoided.
Despite the airline’s current challenges, Ng expressed his unwavering support and acknowledged the airline’s critical role in promoting the island globally.
“Air Mauritius is more than just an airline; it’s a national treasure. Since its inception, it has been a driving force in developing the tourism industry in Mauritius, facilitating connections between our island and the rest of the world.”
Tourism Statistics in 2024
The data highlights several key trends and insights:
- Global growth in tourist arrivals:
- Total arrivals in 2024: 1,382,177 visitors, representing a 6.7% increase from 2023.
- This growth reflects a steady recovery from the pandemic, fueled by marketing campaigns, increased air connectivity, and a renewed interest in international travel.
- Tourist arrivals in December 2024:
- December 2024: 154,208 visitors, up 3.4% from the 149,145 visitors in December 2023.
- December remains a critical month, driven by holiday season and favorable weather conditions, attracting European tourists seeking winter breaks.
- Origin of tourists in 2024:
- Mauritius continues to attract visitors from key markets:
- Europe: 64% of total arrivals in 2024
- France: 339,421 visitors (21% of total annual arrivals)
- United Kingdom: 158,188 visitors (10.2% of total)
- Germany: 123,825 visitors (6.7% of total)
- Africa: 26% of total arrivals
- Africa: South Africa 106,542 visitors (13.4% of total)
- Other African markets showing growth
- Asia: 12% of total arrivals
- India: 56,788 visitors (6.6% of total)
- China: 13,095 visitors (3.4% of total)
- Oceania (Reunion and Seychelles): 4%, with 140,618 visitors primarily from Reunion.
- Monthly trends in 2024:
- Continued growth: Most months in 2024 saw increases over 2023.
- Peak months:
- July 2024: 162,319 visitors (8.1% increase over July 2023)
- August 2024: 158,746 visitors (+7.4%)
- December 2024: 154,208 visitors (as mentioned earlier)
- Slowest months:
- February 2024: 86,713 visitors, despite a slight increase from February 2023 (+2.1%)
- June 2024: 94,527 visitors, corresponding to the pre-summer dip.
- Seasonal trends:
- High season: July, August, and December exhibit peak arrivals, coinciding with European summer vacations and year-end celebrations.
- Low season: February and June remain the least attractive months, though targeted promotions in certain Asian markets may help mitigate these declines.
Factors Driving Growth
- Accessibility:
- Increased direct flights from strategic hubs (Paris, London, Johannesburg, Mumbai) have facilitated tourist arrivals.
- Marketing campaigns:
- Mauritius strengthened its visibility in European and Asian markets, highlighting its beaches, cultural heritage, and gastronomy.
- Local events:
- Festivals, international conferences, and sports events have contributed to the tourism revival.
- Economic impacts:
- Tourism income: Increased arrivals contribute directly to the economy, with an estimated average expenditure per tourist of €1,200 and a duration of stay of 9.6 days.
- Job creation: The recovery supports approximately 100,000 direct and indirect jobs in the tourism sector (hotels, transportation, leisure).
- Multiplier effects: Agriculture (fruits, vegetables, fish) and craftsmanship also benefit from the increased demand.
Challenges to Monitor
- Tourist overflows:
- Peak months might strain local infrastructure (roads, airports, tourist sites) and natural resources.
- Regional competition:
- Mauritius must contend with alternative destinations like the Seychelles, Maldives, and Zanzibar, which also heavily invest in their tourism sectors.
- Climate change:
- Cyclones or heatwaves may disrupt tourist flows.
The year 2024 has marked a significant milestone in the recovery and growth of the Mauritian tourism industry, confirming Mauritius’ position as a preferred global destination.
However, to maintain this momentum, it will be essential to continue investing in promotion, infrastructure, and sustainable practices.
Additionally, diversifying markets and tourism offerings will be crucial to remain competitive in the face of global challenges.
Source: Le Mauricien