In July 2026, Mauritius recorded 136,162 tourist arrivals, up 5.4% year-on-year. Over the first seven months of the year, the cumulative total reached 804,633 visitors, compared to 788,115 over the same period in 2025 — a 2.1% increase. Tourism revenues crossed Rs 55.89 billion between January and June.
Asia emerges as the new growth engine
The standout story of July is Asia's confirmed breakthrough. With 104,758 cumulative arrivals over seven months, Asia grew 14.4%, with every sub-market posting positive momentum:
- India: 51,005 visitors (+14.5% over 7 months, and a striking +28.1% in July alone) — the top Asian contributor and now the second-largest source market in July overall, behind France.
- China: 10,018 arrivals (+21.2%), reflecting the gradual return of Chinese tourism to the Indian Ocean.
- Middle East: 26,549 visitors (+10.5%), boosted by direct routes from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Europe holds steady, Germany in the spotlight
Europe remains the top source market with 491,373 arrivals (+0.2%). France leads with 180,034 visitors but dipped slightly (-2.7% in July). Germany, by contrast, posted a remarkable +15.4% over seven months, becoming Europe's second-largest market. The UK fell 14.6%, likely tied to the sterling/rupee exchange rate gap.
Cruise traffic surging
Maritime traffic jumped 55% year-on-year, with 23,804 cruise passengers welcomed between January and July. A strong signal for Port Louis, which aims to establish itself as a reference stopover in the western Indian Ocean.
Why this matters
Tourism accounts for nearly 20% of Mauritius' GDP. Its geographic diversification toward Asia reduces historical dependence on European markets and creates a structural growth buffer. With an average stay of 11.3 nights and rising revenues, Mauritius is consolidating its premium positioning. The rise of India (1.4 billion people, expanding middle class) and China suggests this rebalancing is only beginning.
Source: Statistics Mauritius / AllAfrica, August 2026