Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking an Airport Transfer in Mauritius
Introduction
Booking an airport transfer in Mauritius seems simple—until you realize you've made a mistake that costs you extra money, time, or unnecessary stress.
Many travelers unknowingly fall into common traps like choosing the wrong service, paying hidden fees, or booking last minute when prices surge.
To make sure your journey from SSR International Airport to your hotel is smooth and hassle-free, here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when booking an airport transfer in Mauritius.
Mistake #1 – Not Checking if the Service is Licensed
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is hiring an unlicensed taxi or private driver. While some may seem like a great deal, unlicensed services often come with hidden risks such as:
Overcharging tourists with inflated prices.
Poorly maintained vehicles that may not be safe.
No insurance coverage in case of an accident.
Unreliable drivers who may not show up on time.
How to avoid this mistake:
✔ Always book with a licensed transfer company or your hotel’s recommended service.
✔ Check for official business registration and customer reviews.
✔ Avoid random drivers at the airport offering “cheap rides.”
Mistake #2 – Waiting Until Arrival to Book a Transfer
Many travelers assume they can grab a taxi at the airport without pre-booking. While this is possible, it often leads to:
❌ Long waits during peak travel hours.
❌ Higher last-minute prices charged by airport taxis.
❌ Limited options if you need a bigger vehicle or have special requirements.
During peak seasons like December to March, taxi demand skyrockets, and availability becomes an issue. If you wait until arrival, you may end up paying more or settling for a less reliable service.
How to avoid this mistake:
✔ Pre-book your transfer online at least 48 hours before arrival.
✔ Choose a service that guarantees your ride at a fixed price.
✔ Confirm your booking details (pickup time, driver contact, etc.) in advance.
Mistake #3 – Not Checking for Hidden Fees
Some airport transfer services advertise low prices but charge extra fees once you arrive. These can include:
Luggage fees for large suitcases.
Late-night or early-morning surcharges.
Extra costs for child seats or additional passengers.
Waiting time charges if your flight is delayed.
How to avoid this mistake:
✔ Always ask for a full price breakdown before confirming your booking.
✔ Check the company’s terms and conditions for extra fees.
✔ Book with a provider that offers fixed, all-inclusive pricing.
Mistake #4 – Choosing the Cheapest Option Without Checking Quality
It’s tempting to go for the cheapest airport transfer available, but this can often lead to:
❌ Unreliable drivers who might not show up.
❌ Old, uncomfortable vehicles with no air-conditioning.
❌ Unprofessional service with rude or unhelpful drivers.
Price is important, but quality matters too. A slightly higher price can mean a safer, cleaner, and more professional experience.
How to avoid this mistake:
✔ Read customer reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or Facebook.
✔ Choose a company with high ratings and verified testimonials.
✔ Look for clear cancellation policies in case of any issues.
Mistake #5 – Not Providing Accurate Flight & Hotel Details
Even when travelers pre-book, errors in flight or hotel details can lead to:
❌ Missed pickups due to incorrect arrival times.
❌ Delays if the driver goes to the wrong hotel.
❌ Extra waiting charges if the flight lands later than expected.
How to avoid this mistake:
✔ Double-check your flight number and expected landing time.
✔ Provide the correct hotel address (some hotels have similar names).
✔ Choose a service that monitors your flight status for delays.
Final Thoughts
Booking an airport transfer in Mauritius should be quick and easy, but small mistakes can turn it into a frustrating experience.
✔ Always book with a licensed, well-reviewed service.
✔ Pre-book your ride to guarantee availability and fair pricing.
✔ Confirm all-inclusive pricing to avoid hidden fees.
✔ Prioritize quality over the cheapest price to ensure a smooth experience.
✔ Provide accurate flight and hotel details to avoid delays.
By avoiding these 5 common mistakes, you’ll ensure a stress-free, comfortable, and reliable start to your trip.