Shreya Shimpi
- How has the year 2026 been in terms of tourist arrivals?
For Destination Mauritius, overall tourism arrivals for the first 4 months of 2026 are showing an increase of +4%. From January to mid-May 2026, we welcomed 25,930 Indian visitors alone, reflecting 19.1% year-on-year growth. For India specifically, we are projecting 80,000 to 90,000 arrivals by year end.
- Which are your key source markets and where does India rank among them?
Our top source markets currently are France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy, reflecting our strong historical and cultural ties with Europe. India ranks fifth, and it is a position we expect to see shift significantly in the years ahead.
- Are you planning any special campaigns or strategies to increase your outreach in the India market?
Our approach to India is focused and multi-layered. We have been steadily expanding our on-ground trade engagement beyond the metros, conducting workshops across cities including Dehradun, Jaipur, Chennai, and Lucknow, and most recently wrapping up a roadshow across Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Indore this June. As announced at OTM in February 2026, we are now also targeting Tier 2 cities. Familiarisation trips are another cornerstone of our strategy.
- What is the USP of Mauritius in comparison to other beach destinations such as the Maldives?
Mauritius, as a premium destination, offers far more than beach and sand. We have a rich cultural tapestry shaped by African, Asian, European, and Indian influences, which means our food, our people, our heritage, and our way of life offer layers of discovery that a purely resort-based destination cannot replicate. We have UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant local markets, world-class golf courses, adventure experiences, and a culinary scene that genuinely reflects the diversity of our population. For Indian travellers in particular, there is a cultural familiarity, warmth and a sensibility that makes Mauritius feel like a “home away from home”. We believe that this combination of luxury, culture, and belonging is something very few destinations in the world can offer.
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