Is Mauritius in Africa? Where is Mauritius?
Mauritius is a popular tropical destination, famous for its beaches and luxurious resorts. But where is it in reality?
Is Mauritius in Africa?
Many people don’t know exactly where Mauritius is and can’t pinpoint its location on the world map.
Luckily for you, I have the answer and will provide all the information you may need about Mauritius’ location.
So is Mauritius in Africa?
Yes, Mauritius is in Africa.
Africa is the second-largest continent with 54 countries on the African mainland and islands. Mauritius is one of the 6 Sovereign island countries in the African continent.
The confusion on whether Mauritius is in Africa or not comes from its location on the Indian Ocean and the dominant Hindu region. This may lead to some people thinking that Mauritius is in Asia.
In addition, a long colonization history by various European nations has greatly influenced and shaped the nation.
Colonization came with immigration and settlements which impacted the culture. The Mauritian culture is a blend of African, European, Asian, and Creole influences.
At a glance, the Mauritian culture is very different from other African countries. A large population of locals has Asian features (Indo-Mauritians) causing further confusion.
Judging from the surface it’s easy to think Mauritius isn’t an African country. To fully grasp the history of this beautiful African island it’s important to understand the history (read here).
Where is Mauritius in Africa?
Mauritius is located on the Indian Ocean approximately 2,000 km off the southeast African coast.
Where is Mauritius on the map? On a world map start by locating Madagascar, then look on its right. There you will spot the small island country of Mauritius.
Mainland Mauritius is also surrounded by many smaller islands and islets, forming the Mascarene Archipelago.
Mauritius is closer to the French dependency island known as Réunion. However, due to its small size and representation on the world map it’s hard to spot without zooming in.
Therefore, the easiest way to locate Mauritius on a map is by spotting Madagascar first, as it’s a huge island on the map.
Is Mauritius in South or East Africa?
Mauritius is in East Africa.
This is another fact that many people always get wrong. Geographically, Mauritius appears on the southern side of Africa’s mainland.
However, regions in Africa are not as direct as one may imagine. According to the United Nations geoscheme of Africa, southeastern countries and islands like Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, and Réunion Island are part of East Africa.
Many if not all Africans associate with the UN regions so it’s right to say Mauritius is in East Africa. The regions are also formed from economic ties.
The southern African region has only 5 countries and the entire southernmost part of the continent is occupied by South Africa(Country).
Is Mauritius a part of South Africa?
No Mauritius is not part of South Africa.
South Africa and Mauritius are both independent African countries each with its own government.
Both countries have good relations with one another but none governs the other in any capacity. Citizens don’t need visas to visit the other country, a valid passport is enough.
Mauritius and South Africa are popular tourist destinations for both local and international tourists. It’s common to meet tourists from one country in the other.
Is Mauritius next to South Africa? No, Mauritius is approximately 3,075 km east of South Africa.
Mauritius Geography Facts
You might be interested in learning some Mauritius geography facts now that you know its location. Here are 5 facts I complied for you:
1. The capital city is Port Louis
It’s the largest city in Mauritius and the county’s economic, political, and financial center. Most populous city with over 140,000 people living in the city. Its location was convenient for ships during the pre-modern era as it was protected from strong winds and cyclones. Europeans arriving on the island established their administrative bases in Port Louis leading to its growth.
2. Over 1 million people live in Mauritius
Mauritius has a population of over 1.3 million people. Most people live in the capital city Port Louis.
3. It was home to the Dodo bird
The Dodo birds once roamed the island with no predators. When Arab spice traders and Portuguese colons arrived in 1505, the birds were hunted for meat. The Dutch colons arrived on the island, bringing foreign species such as rats, dogs, cats, and monkeys among others. These animals were predators of the Dodo bird eggs. The Dodo became extinct in 1681 after years of hunting and predation.
4. Mauritius has over 27 microclimates
Many people only know Mauritius as a tropical destination. Did you know there are many more climates to experience depending on when you visit the island?
Expect a tropical climate in summer, a subtropical climate in winter, Southeast trade winds from March to November, a cyclone season, and a rainy season. The climate will vary depending on which coast you choose to explore throughout the year.
5. Mauritius is geologically located on the Somali plate.
Is Mauritius in Africa: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions related to “Is Mauritius in Africa?” along with their answers.
Yes, Mauritius is considered part of Africa. Although not part of the African mainland, Mauritius is part of Africa and maintains good relations with African nations.
The capital of Mauritius is Port Louis which is also the largest city in the Mauitius.
Yes, Mauritius is an independent island country. Officially the Republic of Mauritius since 1968. The island has gone through many different colonial rules in the past but is now a fully independent country.
Mauritius is next to Réunion Island, a French dependency island. However, since this is a very small island and not many people know it, it’s right to say the county next to Mauritius is Madagascar. Madagascar is easier to spot on a map and is the largest country next to Mauritius.
Mauritius is in East Africa. Located off the southeast coast of Africa.
No, Mauritius is not considered South Africa. Both are independent African countries with their own governments.
No, Mauritius is not next to South Africa. Mauritius is about 3,075 km far from South Africa. It will take you 3- 4 hours to fly from South Africa to the next.
No, Mauritius is not part of the UK. The British did colonize Mauritius between 1810 – 1968 when Mauritius gained independence. Mauritius is not part of the UK.
Mauritius is in Africa not Asia. There seem to be many people who think Mauritius is in Asia as it has many Indo-Mauritius with Asian features, and Hinduism is the dominant religion. Mauritius is not in Asia.
Is Mauritius in Africa: Conclusion
Is Mauritius in Africa? Yes, Mauritius is in Africa. Even though it sits on the Mascarene Archipelago which is different from the African tectonic plate it is part of Africa. Many other Southeast African islands such as Madagascar, Mayotte, Comoros Islands, and the Réunion Islands are also part of Africa.