Indian Ocean airports shape trips more than map distances suggest. A Mauritius-Reunion combination works differently from a Seychelles stay or a Madagascar route.
Knowing gateways, inter-island links and transfer times helps avoid losing a day to an over-tight route.
Main gateways
Mauritius uses Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. Reunion mainly uses Roland Garros near Saint-Denis. Madagascar relies heavily on Ivato for Antananarivo.
Seychelles concentrates many arrivals on Mahe before transfers to Praslin or La Digue.
Long-haul flights
From Europe, some islands are better served than others. Prices move with school holidays, season, competition and connections.
A cheaper ticket may become costly if it requires a night, a risky connection or a very late arrival.
Inter-island flights
Regional links exist, but they do not work like a metro system. Check frequencies, operating days and baggage rules.
For a multi-island trip, choose available flights first and build the route around them.
Transfers after arrival
In Mauritius, the drive from the airport to the north or west takes time. In Reunion, hotel choice often depends on arrival hour.
In Seychelles, a ferry or domestic flight may follow the long-haul arrival.
Practical advice
Leave buffer time between separate tickets. Check formalities, baggage, night transfers and wet-season weather.
The best ticket is the one that makes the trip smooth, not only the one with the lowest fare.
Airport checklist
Before choosing a flight, check the arrival time, visa rule, baggage limit, transfer price and backup hotel. Keep more time for islands with fewer daily flights. In Mauritius, compare car rental with airport transfer before leaving the terminal.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Mauritius ?
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in the south-east.
Which airport serves Reunion Island ?
Roland Garros near Saint-Denis is the main gateway.
Can you fly between islands ?
Yes, but frequencies vary. Check days and connection times.
Do you need a transfer plan ?
Yes, especially if your hotel is far from the airport or a ferry follows the flight.