Denmark Joins Japan, Mexico, Germany, France, Brazil, Mauritius, and More in US Travel Advisory Update What Tourists Need to Know About Rising Safety Concerns in Popular Destinations

Published on December 10, 2025

Mauritius, one of the most idyllic island destinations in the Indian Ocean, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich natural beauty, has recently been subject to a raised travel warning by the U.S. Department of State. The island’s travel advisory has been escalated from Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, largely due to a rise in criminal activities affecting tourists. This change is an important signal for travelers planning to visit Mauritius in the near future, as the risks of petty theft and some incidents of violent crime become more prevalent.

For those who have long considered Mauritius as a top vacation destination, particularly for family vacations, honeymoons, or diving expeditions, the updated advisory presents an important update. While this island paradise remains an attractive travel spot, understanding the local safety landscape is now more critical than ever. The U.S. Department of State’s decision follows a noticeable uptick in crimes like pickpocketing, thefts in crowded tourist areas, and some instances of more severe criminal activities.

A Beautiful Island, Now Facing New Challenges

Mauritius, an island nation of around 1.2 million people, is world-renowned for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and luxury resorts. Its tranquil appeal has long made it a popular vacation destination, attracting travelers from around the globe. Tourists flock to spots like Grand Baie, Flic en Flac, and Le Morne to experience the natural beauty and serenity the island offers. However, recent developments, including the U.S. travel advisory’s update, highlight new risks that visitors need to be aware of.

While Mauritius has historically been a safe and welcoming destination, the country’s growing popularity has brought with it some safety concerns. The U.S. travel advisory now urges visitors to exercise caution, particularly in high-traffic tourist areas where petty theft is most likely to occur. These crimes are often opportunistic in nature, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from unattended bags and belongings. Particularly vulnerable locations include outdoor markets, crowded beaches, and areas around popular tourist attractions, where tourists are distracted by the scenery or shopping.

What the U.S. Travel Advisory Means for Tourists Visiting Mauritius

The U.S. Department of State has issued specific details on the types of crimes tourists might face while visiting Mauritius. Petty theft is the most common issue, with pickpocketing occurring in crowded areas such as the Port Louis Market, Grand Baie, and around the island’s popular beaches. ATMs are also noted as common locations for crime, where tourists can become targets of bag snatching or theft while withdrawing cash.

Serious violent crimes, including assaults, break-ins, and more severe offenses like rape and murder, while not widespread, have been reported in recent months. Travelers, especially women, are advised to remain alert to potential verbal harassment or other uncomfortable situations, particularly when traveling alone. As with any international destination, travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, and avoid secluded areas that may not have sufficient security presence.

While these threats are significant, they are far from exclusive to Mauritius, and visitors can still enjoy the island with the right precautions. The Department of State’s Level 2 advisory encourages tourists to exercise increased caution rather than avoiding the island altogether.

Key Locations for Tourists to Exercise Caution

1. Port Louis: The capital city of Mauritius, bustling with vibrant markets and crowded streets, is a major hotspot for pickpocketing and petty theft. Locations like the Caudan Waterfront and outdoor markets, where tourists shop for local goods and souvenirs, are known to attract thieves.
2. Grand Baie: Known for its lively nightlife, beach resorts, and shopping districts, this area can be crowded, particularly at night. Travelers should take extra care when out after dark, as thefts from beachgoers’ unattended belongings have been reported in this area.
3. Flic en Flac: A favorite for beach lovers, Flic en Flac is home to beautiful resorts and hotels. However, tourists should be cautious with their valuables on the beach, as well as when visiting nearby ATMs or enjoying water sports.
4. Trou aux Biches: Famous for its white sandy beaches and luxury resorts, this area is popular for diving and snorkeling. Visitors should always ensure their belongings are securely locked up when engaging in activities that might leave them distracted.
5. Le Morne: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its natural beauty, this area also experiences an uptick in opportunistic crimes, especially during hiking expeditions or when tourists are away from well-secured resorts.

Safety Tips for Tourists: How to Protect Yourself in Mauritius

While the updated U.S. travel advisory does highlight the increased risk of crime, Mauritius remains a safe and welcoming destination for those who exercise caution. The following safety tips can help ensure that visitors have a trouble-free vacation:

1. Secure Your Belongings: Always store valuables, such as wallets, phones, and cameras, in secure, zippered bags or pouches that are not easily accessible to pickpockets.
2. Avoid Secluded Areas: Stick to well-lit, populated areas, particularly at night. Avoid walking alone after dark, and use registered taxis when traveling.
3. Use ATMs Carefully: Only withdraw cash at ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas, preferably those inside banks or tourist hubs.
4. Stay Aware in Crowded Areas: Be cautious when in busy markets or on crowded beaches, as these are hotspots for petty crime.
5. Travel in Groups: Whenever possible, travel with companions to avoid being targeted in isolated or risky situations.
6. Stay at Secure Accommodations: Choose hotels and resorts with good security and locked safes to store valuables.

The Bigger Picture: How Tourism is Affected by Safety Concerns

Despite the rise in crime, the latest travel advisory does not indicate any significant political instability in Mauritius. The island nation’s tourism industry remains a critical part of its economy, and local authorities have taken steps to address crime. Increased police patrols in high-traffic areas, tourist destinations, and beachside locations are a response to these growing concerns. However, the travel advisory serves as a reminder that while Mauritius is still considered a generally safe destination, tourists should always remain cautious, as they would in any other popular vacation spot.

For Mauritius, tourism is a cornerstone of its economy, and the government has implemented a variety of initiatives to increase visitor safety, such as boosting police presence in busy tourist zones and ramping up public awareness campaigns. The rise in crime has led to a greater focus on improving security, ensuring that tourists can continue to experience the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness without undue concern.

Countries Currently Listed in Level 2 Advisory (Exercise Increased Caution)

1. Mauritius
   • Risk: Increased petty theft and some violent crime against tourists.
   • Notable Locations: Port Louis, Grand Baie, Flic en Flac, Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare, Le Morne, Black River Gorges, Pamplemousses Botanical Garden.
2. Brazil
   • Risk: Petty crime, including pickpocketing, purse snatching, and assaults, particularly in large cities.
   • Notable Locations: Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador, Brasília.
3. China
   • Risk: Petty crime and occasional violent crime.
   • Notable Locations: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Hong Kong (although Hong Kong may be under a different advisory).
4. Cuba
   • Risk: Petty crime and some political instability.
   • Notable Locations: Havana, Varadero, Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba.
5. France
   • Risk: Petty theft, including pickpocketing, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Paris.
   • Notable Locations: Paris, Nice, Lyon, Marseille.
6. Germany
   • Risk: Petty theft in crowded areas.
   • Notable Locations: Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg.
7. Italy
   • Risk: Petty crime, particularly pickpocketing in crowded tourist spots.
   • Notable Locations: Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan.
8. Mexico
   • Risk: Crime, including theft, assault, and drug violence in some regions.
   • Notable Locations: Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, Monterrey.
9. Panama
   • Risk: Petty theft, especially in tourist areas.
   • Notable Locations: Panama City, Bocas del Toro, Boquete.
10. Albania
    • Risk: Petty theft and some political unrest.
    • Notable Locations: Tirana, Durrës, Vlorë.
11. Denmark
    • Risk: Petty theft in crowded areas.
    • Notable Locations: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense.
12. Sweden
    • Risk: Petty theft, especially in major cities.
    • Notable Locations: Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö.
13. South Korea
    • Risk: Minimal risk to travelers. Some petty theft in large urban areas.
    • Notable Locations: Seoul, Busan, Incheon.
14. Japan
    • Risk: Generally safe, with very low crime.
    • Notable Locations: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hokkaido.
15. Australia
    • Risk: Generally safe but risks in crowded tourist spots.
    • Notable Locations: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns.
16. United Kingdom
    • Risk: Petty theft, including pickpocketing, particularly in London and tourist areas.
    • Notable Locations: London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool.

Conclusion: Is It Still Safe to Travel to Mauritius?

The short answer is yes—visiting Mauritius remains safe, but tourists should exercise increased caution following the Level 2 advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State. Mauritius still offers some of the most stunning beaches, top-tier resorts, and world-class diving experiences in the world. Visitors can still enjoy everything the island has to offer—whether it’s a luxury beach resort, exploring the island’s nature reserves, or engaging in thrilling water sports—but being mindful of the potential for petty theft and exercising common sense when it comes to personal security is crucial.

Mauritius continues to be a sought-after destination for vacationers worldwide. With proper precautions and awareness, travelers can have an unforgettable, safe experience on this beautiful island.