First thing to know: Uber does not exist in Mauritius. The closest local app is called Yugo — price announced before the ride, card or cash payment, professional drivers. It works well around Port Louis, the plateau and the northern tourist areas, less so in the wild south. Expect Rs 400 – 600 for Grand Baie – Port Louis, often 20 to 30% less than a roadside taxi hailed without negotiation.
The classic taxi remains king, with its golden rule: the price is agreed BEFORE you get in, always. No meters here, everything is a matter of courteous negotiation. Useful benchmarks: a short town ride Rs 200 – 300, Grand Baie – airport Rs 1,800 – 2,200, Flic en Flac – Port Louis Rs 1,000 – 1,200. Hotel taxis charge 30 to 50% more than those from the next village — walking 200 metres can save you Rs 500.
At the airport, ignore the touts at the exit and head to the official taxi counter (Airport Taxi Service): fixed rates displayed by destination, a receipt and an identified vehicle. At night (after 9 pm), most drivers apply a 15 to 20% surcharge — that's the custom, not a scam. And if you're four with luggage, say so: some will add a small fee for a full boot, better to know upfront.
The best plan is still the regular driver: ask the first friendly taxi driver for his WhatsApp number, and he'll become your dedicated driver for the stay. A full excursion day costs Rs 3,500 – 4,500 for the car (not per person), tourist commentary included — many drivers are excellent guides, often trilingual. Local tip: send your WhatsApp location rather than an address; street names get fanciful outside the towns.