travel blog mauritius

How to Spend One Week in Mauritius: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

I can’t stop talking about Mauritius.

Visiting this island was a revelation. This was one of the most exciting countries I’ve been to in years. I’ve been full-on singing its praises on a daily basis.

Here, you’ve got everything: stunning beaches, volcanic craters to hike up, exceptional food, kind locals, low prices, and a safe environment. What more could a traveller ask for?

As an added bonus, taking a road trip is the perfect way to see Mauritius. This island is made for driving, with high-quality roads and short distances between attractions. Because guys?

This country is small.

Real small.

As in, you could drive the entire circumference of Mauritius in five hours.

So, with a full week on the island, you can imagine that you could do quite a bit. By the end of our (admittedly, action-packed) seven days, I felt as though I’d seen a significant chunk of the island and really started to get to know the country. I can’t wait to return to discover more.

Most excitingly of all: Mauritius is so easy to travel on a budget. Our flights from Europe were seriously cheap (€300 direct from London with Air Mauritius), and once we touched down, it was even better. It’s actually one of the cheapest countries I’ve been to! Excellent, well-rated guesthouses start at $30 a night, street food comes in at less than $1 a meal — this isn’t a country that’ll break the bank.

Of course, there are plenty of luxurious, world-class resorts that you can choose to relax in — this is a honeymoon destination, after all. It’s just that there’s also a wealth of seriously inexpensive accommodation. That was what surprised me.

With a week in Mauritius, you’ll be able to see my three favourite parts of the island. I recommend spending two days in each of the southwest, the west coast, and the north, then your final day driving down the rugged east coast. With an itinerary like that, you’ll be coming away having seen many of the things that makes Mauritius so special.

With all that being said, let’s look at the itinerary in more depth.

Here’s how to spend one week in Mauritius:

Day One: Arrive and Head Straight to the Southwest

The international airport in Mauritius is located in the southeast of the island, where there’s not an awful lot of attractions for tourists. As soon as you land, then, I recommend jumping in a rental car and driving west to Le Morne or La Gaulette. It’s only a one-hour drive to either place, so don’t worry about being too tired if you’re coming off an overnight flight; the journey is an easy one.

So, Le Morne or La Gaulette — which one to set your GPS for? Well, the former is full of resorts and aimed at higher-end tourists, while the latter is perfect for budget travellers. The two villages are only 5 km from each other, so it’s easy to hop between the both of them. We opted for La Gaulette and loved it — and saved so much money by staying there.

Odds are, on the first day of your trip, you’re not going to be too interested in hitting up the tourist attractions, so give yourself time to unwind. We checked in to our accommodation, had a quick nap, then drove straight to Le Morne. It’s home to one of the best beaches on the island, so a fantastic place to fight off the jetlag.

When it comes to dinner, there’s one restaurant you must make the effort to visit while you’re in La Gaulette and that’s Café and Restaurant Heritage Sunset . I know — catchy name, right? But this place is so worth visiting.

It’s a cosy, family-run restaurant that serves up traditional Mauritian fare, and it’s such a welcoming space that you’ll feel like you’re dining with the family in their home. And the food was amazing! I recommend the octopus vindaye, in particular. This was our introduction to Mauritian food (so underrated! I’ll have a post about it soon) and it was the perfect way to get things kicked off.

Where to stay in La Gaulette: We stayed in Mountain View , which offered phenomenal value for money. As you can see from my photo: we had a huge apartment to ourselves, with a well-equipped kitchen and spacious balcony. We paid $46 per night for all of that space and couldn’t believe how affordable it was, especially given the skyrocketing prices worldwide post-pandemic. This place was great! Friendly staff, excellent location within walking distance of dozens of restaurants and a huge supermarket, and it was clean and quiet. The Wi-Fi was speedy, too, which is always a bonus.

Day Two: Seven Coloured Earths and More

There’s a whole bunch of touristy attractions in the southwest of the island. They’re all worth doing, though, and all of them can be hit up in half a day. So even though you’re most likely in Mauritius to beach it up, I do still recommend taking some time to get your sightseeing on.

First up: the famous Seven Coloured Earths. But before you get there, on the drive to the park, you’ll pass a viewpoint, marked on Google Maps as Viewpoint Chamarel. It’s a great one, so I recommend parking up there first and taking some photos. From the viewpoint, you’ll be looking down on La Gaulette and Le Morne and taking in that sparkling turquoise ocean.

Next, enter Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, which has an entrance fee of 225 Rupees ($5) — definitely worth paying for! When you enter the park, head straight to the Seven Coloured Earths. This is one of the most popular attractions in Mauritius, so I recommend getting there at opening time (8:30 a.m.) if you can.

Here, you’ll find a series of vibrant sand dunes that feature seven distinct colours: red, yellow, blue, green, purple, violet, and brown. The colours are caused by different minerals in the sand and it was pretty impressive to see in person! Although take note: you can only really see the colours in full sunshine, so I’d try to avoid visiting on a cloudy day.

Located beside the Seven Coloured Earths are half a dozen giant tortoises. This was an unexpected treat for me and I spent a solid ten minutes just watching them munch on the grass.

The final highlight of the park complex is the Chamarel Waterfall, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Mauritius. At a height of 83 meters, or 272 feet, it’s definitely an impressive one! There’s a couple of viewpoints here — one beside the car park and one a 10 minute hike up a hill. I preferred the viewpoint at the latter, so recommend taking the extra time and energy to climb up there.

The final stop on your touristy-tour of the southwest of Mauritius is going to be Maconde Viewpoint. This is another famous viewpoint in Mauritius, where you can climb up a few dozen steps and look back towards the mountains and winding roads of the island. This is well worth heading out to, as it really helps give a sense of how mountainous this country is!

Most likely, you’ll be done with all of your sightseeing by lunchtime. If so, venture over to Eldorade Resto & Bar in La Gaulette for lunch. It’s a cosy little restaurant with excellent samosas and fresh seafood.

With the afternoon ahead of you, I recommend heading back to Le Morne for another stint of sunbathing. Maybe cocktails on the beach? A swing in a hammock in the ocean? It’s all possible here.

Day Three: Adventure, Followed By Flic-en-Flac

Day three is going to take us to the best-named place on the entire island: Flic-en-Flac. But first, let’s set out on an adventure.

You’ve got two options for your morning of day three: a hike or a boat trip.

A lot of people picture Mauritius as a flat island due to all of its beaches — a bit like the Maldives, I guess — but it has a volcanic history and is subsequently pretty mountainous. If you love a hike as much as I do, you’re going to definitely want to tackle the walk up to Black River Peak: the highest point in Mauritius.

Despite being the highest, it’s actually a pretty easy stroll — just 560 metres in elevation — and you should make it to the top within 90 minutes or so. (I recommend grabbing a pastry from Vanisha’s Magical Cakes before you leave La Gaulette to eat at the summit.) Oh, and the views from the top of the peak? Spectacular.

If hiking isn’t your thing, opt for a morning boat trip.

This will take you out to Ile Aux Benitiers: an island that’s located just off the coast of La Gaulette. If you want to go about it the adventurous way, simply walk down to the beach and chat to a local fisherman to see if they can take you across: this will cost about 1,500 Rupees (€30/$33) and be fairly bare bones but great for independent travellers. Alternatively, you could book online through GetYourGuide in advance and pay $50 for the experience.

On a typical boat trip, you’ll get to snorkel around the spectacular Crystal Rock, swim with wild dolphins, and finish it off with a BBQ on the beach at Ile Aux Benitiers. (Obviously if you just head out with a fisherman, you should pack your own lunch).

Once you’ve checked off your activity for the day, it’s time to get back in the car and set off for Flic-en-Flac. This is just a 40 minute drive from La Gaulette, so no stress. Everything is so close by in Mauritius.

If you haven’t eaten lunch by the time you arrive to Flic-en-Flac, there’s only one place you should consider heading and it looks a little like this:

I would say that the farata I had from this humble food stall was the best thing I ate in the entire country. Farata is what Mauritians call paratha: basically a flaky flatbread. This stall wraps it up in a roll and fills it with a generous helping of curry. One of them costs just 40 Rupees (less than one U.S. dollar!)

Dave and I ordered one each, then within seconds of our first bite, were queueing up again to get two more! So good! The stall is open between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., although it usually sells out by 3 or 4, so don’t bank on it being a dinner option. At lunchtime, there are huge queues, so expect to wait for up to half an hour. The photo above was taken at 10 a.m. when they’d just opened.

For the rest of your afternoon, kick back and relax on the beach in Flic-en-Flac.

Like Le Morne, this is another beloved beach on the island with warm, calm waters and sparkling, white sand. What I love about Mauritius is that so many of the beaches have grassy stretches beside the sand and plenty of trees that aren’t palm trees. What that means is that you can lie down in the shade, avoid getting sandy, and not have to worry about a stray coconut knocking away your consciousness.

Where to stay in Flic-en-Flac: We stayed in Aux Plaisirs de la Viex at a price of $47.50 a night. This was the most expensive place we stayed at in Mauritius but it did have a swimming pool! Like I’ve said and will keep saying: Mauritius offers so much value for money! This was a lovely guesthouse with welcoming, friendly owners. The rooms were clean and modern, and there was a large balcony for beers at sunset. It was in a good location, less than a 10 minute walk from the beach and surrounded by dozens of great restaurants. And that swimming pool! It was particularly nice to have access to a pool.

Day Four: Beach Daze

We’ve been packing in the activities and movement during the first few days of the trip, so allocate day four to rest. Flic-en-Flac is home to one of the best beaches in the country and you’re in Mauritius after all: why not enjoy it?!

In terms of food recommendations, we kicked off our mornings with a coffee and a pastry from La Kaz à Pain. Lunches must only be had at the aforementioned Farata AKA Vinoda, and for dinner we loved Marco Polo Resto & Bar and Mosaic (definitely try the prawn rougaille there!).

There’s a few activities you could opt for if you’re not really a beach person, but they’re not particularly interesting, so don’t say I didn’t warn you!

There’s Trou aux Cerfs, which sounds like it should be a really cool activity. It’s an extinct volcanic crater that you can drive up to and walk around. However, it’s mostly just a dip in the ground with a lake in it. The views from the crater are quite impressive, though, so you might find the trip out there worth it for those.

There’s also Quatre Bornes Market, which you might find interesting if you’re keen to see how the locals shop. There’s a few stalls offering fruits and vegetables, but it’s mostly clothes and household goods for sale. Prices are quite inflated, too, so I’d recommend keeping your market browsing for tomorrow, when we’ll drive through Port Louis.

Day Five: Head North

For day five, we’re heading to the north coast of Mauritius, which is probably the most touristy part of the island.

If you’ve read this site for any amount of time, you’ll already know I tend to prefer lesser -visited regions when I travel, but in this case, I have to hold up my hands: this was my favourite part of Mauritius. I really loved it there.

Before we get to the north coast, however, we’re first going to spend a few hours in Port Louis, which is the capital of Mauritius. You have to drive through it to get to the north anyway, so you might as well make a stop.

I found this part of the island fascinating and it’s likely the opposite of what you’re picturing when you think of Mauritius. As in, many of the streets look like this:

Don’t let the lack of beauty put you off visiting, however: there’s several great reasons to head to Port Louis.

The first of these is the food. Port Louis’ Central Market is going to be a real culture shock if you haven’t visited an African market before. It’s loud, chaotic, confronting, and exhilarating, all in equal measure. Truly an assault of the senses — but especially for the nose. Dave and I walked into the meat market and were greeted by a hundred carcasses, just hanging out in the room-temperature hall.

Outside of the meat market, there’s plenty of local food vendors offering up cheap eats. I also recommend the Port Louis street food tour to help you sample the local dishes without feeling intimidated. The tour lasts for three hours and takes you all over the city.

When you’re as full as can be, venture next to Aapravasi Ghat, one of only two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mauritius (the other is Le Morne). Aapravasi Ghat is a small museum (you could see it all in 30-60 minutes) that details the history of immigration in Mauritius.

After the abolition of slavery, the British needed a way to maintain the island’s thriving sugar plantations. And so began the first real experiment with indentured labour. Thousands of people arrived on the island — predominantly from India — where they worked in the fields in exchange for food, shelter, safety, and a new home.

Between 1834 and 1920, half a million indentured labourers arrived from India and today, the vast majority of Mauritians are descendants of these immigrants. (It’s also why the food in Mauritius is so good!)

The final place on your Port Louis hitlist should be Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens — I was so impressed with this vast space of greenery! One of the big draws of the gardens is the Giant Lily Pads, which can grow up to two metres in diameter.

What I was really excited to see, however, was the talipot palms. These rare palm trees grow for 75 years before they flower and fruit. And the energy that it takes to do so is so vast that the tree then promptly dies.

Moving on from Port Louis, you’ll now head up to the north coast to your accommodation for the next couple of nights. There’s three main options here: Grand Baie (super-popular with European tourists, tons of restaurants and nightlife, seriously beautiful water), Troux-aux-biches (best beach on this part of the island), or Mont Choisy (more local, quiet, great for budget travellers).

No points for guessing where we opted to stay.

After checking in to your accommodation, I recommend spending the rest of the afternoon or evening in Grand Baie. This is the best place on the island to go shopping for souvenirs. And for dinner, there’s a seriously excellent Greek restaurant called the Trojan Horse in the middle of town. I know, I know — but by this point, we were craving a deviation from curry.

Where to stay in the north of Mauritius: We stayed in Residence Le Point Choisy in Mont Choisy at a price of $30 (£24/€28) a night. Again, what great value for money! Our room was clean and modern, with a small balcony and decent bathroom. The staff were friendly and there were beach toys and umbrellas to borrow for free. It was in a great location, within walking distance to the beach and plenty of excellent restaurants.

Day Six: An Epic Beach Day

I was obsessed with the beach in Mont Choisy and it quickly became my favourite spot on the island. In fact, when I next return to Mauritius, I would most likely choose to spend a week just there; I warmed to it so much.

What did I like about it? I dunno, it just passed the vibe check. It was a feeling. It reminded me a lot of Otres Beach , back in 2012. It reminded me of Koh Yao Noi in 2013. Sayulita in 2014. You guys know the types of beaches I love.

It’s laidback, quiet, and beautiful — but importantly, less beautiful than nearby beaches so it doesn’t attract the crowds. There’s a multitude of food carts on the beach so you can eat lunch without having to leave your beach towel. There’s warm, calm, turquoise water that is perfect for swimming in. You’ll see some seriously remarkable sunsets.

It’s a little less manicured than everywhere else, but that’s what makes it so chill.

Still, the north of Mauritius is lined with beautiful beaches, so there’s plenty of other options if Mont Choisy isn’t your jam.

Trou-aux-biches is slightly prettier and has more options for eating, as well as more expensive accommodation. I thought I’d like this beach the most, but it just didn’t have the same cosiness of Mont Choisy.

Grand Baie is the most lively part of the north. You’ve got a very small stretch of sand at the marina but as you saw from my photo, the water is particularly impressive. It was identical in colour to Bora Bora ! There’s tons of restaurants here, too, so plenty of options for meals.

I thought the most picturesque beach of the region was Pereybere Beach. It was so, so, so beautiful! But it was also very crowded and there were a lot of touts trying to sell you a boat trip. Still, this one is definitely worth a look, but I’d save it for tomorrow.

Day Seven: East Coast Swooning

For your final day in Mauritius, I highly recommend dedicating it all to the east coast.

Not many people opt to stay on the wild and rugged east of the island — mostly because it’s extremely windy and who wants to get sandblasted on vacation? It is, however, popular with kite boarders, so there’s tons of watersport schools lining the beaches.

Even if you’re not into wind-themed activities on your holiday, there’s so many cool sights along the coastline. We spent about nine hours winding our way down to the airport — a drive that’s only 80 km (50 miles) in length! That should give you some idea of how much there is to do here.

Kick off your day with a breakfast visit to Theo Fourneaux: a lovely little cafe that does the best coffee in Mauritius, as well as some delicious pastries!

From there, it’s time to hop your way along the rest of the beautiful beaches in the north. Pereybere Beach is a must-visit if you didn’t hit it up the day before, and Bain Boeuf Beach is almost as impressive. Both are definitely worth a short stop to soak up some of those final beachy vibes.

Your next landmark is an iconic one. Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice: the red-roofed church in the photo at the top of this section. This is a famous Roman Catholic church located in Cap Malheureux, and is one of the most photographed buildings on the entire island. Do take some time to walk past the church and towards the beautiful beach. It’s quite the scenic setting, with distant islands, white sand, and clear waters.

The next beach on the list — Anse La Raie — is going to introduce you to the Mauritian gusts. With almost 300 days of wind per year, this beach is always lined with kitesurfers and windsurfers; it was so much fun to watch the beginners struggling to stand while the experts were soaring 20 feet in the air.

If you’re French, you might find it interesting to visit the Paul and Virginie Monument in Poudre d’Or. This site is connected to the renowned French novel Paul et Virginie, which is set on the island and narrates the lives of Paul and Virginie, raised together in Mauritius. In the story, their peaceful existence takes a tragic turn when a devastating shipwreck occurs. The novel was based on an actual shipwreck that the author witnessed in the Mauritius; this memorial marks where it happened.

If you’ve never heard of the book, don’t bother visiting, as it’s just a memorial stone. It’s not super exciting.

We’ve got one more stop before lunch: the Roche Noire Lava Tubes. Now, this is a pretty off-the-beaten-track activity in Mauritius, with basically no signage and absolutely no tourists. But we were glad we visited, as it was such an unusual experience.

The lava tubes here were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, when molten lava flowed from eruptions on the island’s central plateau. As the lava ventured on its journey, the outer layers cooled and solidified while the inner molten lava flowed onwards, creating tunnels or tubes. And now you can walk through them!

As you can see from the photo, it’s pretty dark inside, so you probably won’t get far with just a smartphone torch, but it’s still worth having a little wander inside. Where else in the world do you get to stroll through a tube of solidified lava?

For lunch, head into Flacq, which is the largest district in Mauritius. Much like Port Louis, it’s home to a central market that’s extremely bustling. It’s an excellent place to eat, though, and I recommend sampling any local dishes you haven’t had a chance to try yet. If street food isn’t quite what you’re craving, we had an excellent smoked marlin sandwich at The Cafe Radisson Blu Azuri Mauritius — it’s located just before the lava tubes.

From Flacq down to Mahebourg, near to the airport, you’ll encounter much the same as you have so far: windswept beaches as far as the eye can see!

We really liked Belle Mare Public Beach and recommend taking a few moments at Pointe du Diable (which is lined with canons from fighting between the French and British). You can also see the spot where the Dutch first landed on Mauritius (yes, there’s a lot of colonialism in the country’s history!)

And that’s about it for your road trip around Mauritius! We had a 10 p.m. flight that evening, so dropped off our rental car and headed straight into the airport. If you aren’t flying out until the following day, spend a night in Mahebourg at Ecozy Studio — $55 a night and an average rating on Booking of 10.

And That Was Mauritius!

I had an incredible week-long trip to Mauritius and have been singing its praises to anybody who will listen.

Not only is it relatively inexpensive to visit from Europe, but it’s affordable once you’re on the ground, is home to some incredible food, feels super-safe, and offers up some amazing beaches.

When are you going to book your ticket?

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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This is really helpful thank you! We are going at the end of March for 11 nights with our 9 year old daughter. Any other suggestions of things to do with a child? I like the idea of the seven coloured earths day and the boat trip. Thanks

Mauritius has definitely gone up the list after reading this. I had a workmate in London from there and it always sounded interesting.

Just wanted to make a recommendation for Janet.

Casela Nature Park near Flic en Flac is a great day out with kids. It’s an enormous park where you can see a huge variety of animals. There’s a mini safari and you can also walk amongst dozens of giant turtles.

There’s also a seriously long toboggan run which is great for both kids and adults.

What part of the island is best for snorkeling? We are planning 7 days at Christmas and have booked a hotel on the east side of the island, but after your read, I am rethinking.

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Velvet Escape

go explore. experience. and be inspired.

The ultimate one week Mauritius itinerary

“mauritius was made first, and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after mauritius” – mark twain.

It’s a quote I’ve seen often and anyone visiting Mauritius will come across that line at some point or other. Except, it’s not exactly what Mark Twain said 200-odd years ago when he first visited the island. The actual quote reads:

“From one citizen you gather [the] idea that Mauritius was made first, and then heaven; and that heaven was copied after Mauritius.”

I chuckled when I discovered the actual quote. What a difference a few words can make! However , I can totally relate to Mark Twain’s experience with Mauritians; a warm, hospitable people with big smiles, who are rightfully proud of their island’s great beauty. For anyone visiting Mauritius, it soon becomes evident what this pride is rooted in. With its spectacular lagoons, blinding white beaches, lofty peaks, beautiful people and delicious cuisines, Mauritius is well worth a visit as it easily ticks the boxes of anyone’s definition of paradise or heaven.

Mauritius itinerary and road trip route

On my first visit to Mauritius back in 2013, I fell for its beauty and charm in an instant. Since then, I’ve returned several times, got to explore all corners of the island and have written a lot about Mauritius on my travel blog. To sum it up, I’ve packed all the best places and activities into this suggested road trip itinerary of Mauritius , which can be done in one week or longer.

This Mauritius guide contains links to services I often use myself and can recommend: Skyscanner (for flight searches), Booking.com (for hotel bookings), Rentalcars.com (for car hire), GetYourGuide and Manawa (for easy-to-book tours) and Bookmundi for longer tours. If you make a booking via one of these services, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). These commissions help me to maintain my travel blog and share more experiences with you.

Getting to Mauritius

The flag carrier is Air Mauritius , which offers direct flights from various global hubs such as London Heathrow, Paris CDG and Dubai, utilising modern aircraft like the Airbus A350. Mauritius is also served by major airlines such as Emirates, Air France and British Airways.

Flying to/from Mauritius offers spectacular views on clear days so I recommend booking a window seat! Check out other amazing Mauritius views .

The SSR International Airport is Mauritius’ main entry point. I recommend picking up a rental car here for your Mauritius road trip.

Best of Mauritius itinerary

This one-week Mauritius itinerary starts at the Airport, then continues on a loop around the island anti-clockwise (east to west). In the southwest, I’ve included a separate, smaller loop which can be done as a day trip. I recommend spending a few days in both the north and south to experience the great diversity of the island.

• Blue Bay/Mahebourg (1 night in Blue Bay)
• North Mauritius (3 nights in the North)
• South Mauritius (2 nights in the South)

One week is sufficient to follow the route and visit many of the places listed below. However, I recommend extending your stay to at least 10 days to enjoy more beach time and the sights and excursions I’ve described.

• Driving in Mauritius is on the left side of the road. Roads are generally good and easily navigable. Traffic in and around Port Louis is heavy during rush hour so try to avoid the city and suburbs during these times.
• The best time to visit Mauritius is between May and December when it’s slightly cooler (the summers can be very hot and muggy) though the ‘winter’ months (July-August) can be wet. My favourite months to visit Mauritius are May/June and September/October. 

Best places to visit on a road trip in Mauritius

Southeast Mauritius

Blue Bay is a little village at the edge of one of the most stunning bays in Mauritius is the perfect place to relax after your trip to Mauritius. It’s also a only a 15-minute drive from the airport. The white, sand beaches and crystal clear water in a variety of blues are absolutely mesmerising! In addition, there’s a good selection of restaurants, cafés as well as water-based activities. Search for hotels in Blue Bay .

For a relaxing day trip, I recommend hopping on a boat for a visit to Ile Des Deux Cocos , a small island just across the bay. Join a Blue Bay snorkelling and Ile des Deux Cocos picnic excursion .

The small town of Mahebourg is only a few kilometers away. To get your first taste of local Mauritius life, go for a stroll along the Waterfront and visit the Mahebourg Market . Mahebourg is also a great place to discover Mauritian food, a tantalising mix of Asian, African and European influences. Join a Mahebourg street food tour .

At the Pointe Jerome jetty near Pointe d’Esny , you can go on a boat ride to the Ile Aux Aigrettes nature reserve. The island, made up of coralline limestone, is covered with dry coastal forest and is home to colourful birdlife such as the Mauritius fody and the olive white-eyes, as well as giant tortoises! It’s a surreal experience to hike across the island and encounter these giants on your path!

Another excursion option is a boat trip to Île aux Fouquets (or Lighthouse Island). The ride across the lagoon is nothing short of spectacular. On the island, you’ll find the ruins of an old lighthouse, walking paths and beaches. On the ocean-facing side, you’ll be able to experience the pounding waves of the Indian Ocean. This is also a great spot for bird-watching.

There are numerous accommodations to choose from in both Blue Bay and Mahebourg, from beach resorts to B&Bs and private villas.

The East Coast

From Mahebourg, head north along the east coast. You’ll pass green hills that erupt into lofty peaks, endless agricultural fields and small villages. The first thing you’ll notice is the island’s multi-ethnicity. At the markets, you’ll see people of Indian, Chinese, Malay, African, Creole and Caucasian backgrounds jostling at the stalls, and in the villages, mosques, churches and temples stand side-by-side. Search for hotels on the East Coast .

As you continue north, you’ll pass small towns like Grand Port and Grand River South East. In between, you’ll spot numerous ruins of forts and fortified walls guarded by canons, remnants of Mauritius’ colonial past. You can learn more about the often tempestuous history of Mauritius at the Frederick Hendrick Museum . One fact I quickly learned here was the origins of the name Mauritius: the first Western settlers were the Dutch who arrived in the 16th century and they named the island Mauritius after the Dutch Governor at the time, Maurits van Nassau.

Between Grand Port and Grand Sable, Distillerie Ylang Ylang ( location ) makes for a lovely stop. This little shop sells home-made essential oils and soaps made of ingredients sourced from her garden such as ylang ylang and frangipani. The owner will gladly show you around her garden and explain the different plants and uses.

Grand River South East

You’ll soon arrive at Grand River South East , a village that’s famous on the east coast for its natural attractions and water sports. Visitors can go kayaking along the river or sailing in the estuary. Don’t miss a stop at the roaring GRSE Waterfall .

Two wonderful accommodations that I absolutely enjoyed can be found in this area: Otentic and the Four Seasons Anahita . Otentic serves up a very local experience, including glamping by the river and cooking courses.

The Four Seasons Anahita, on the other hand, is a sprawling, luxurious resort with amazing villas and facilities coupled with top-notch service and food. Read more about my stay at Four Seasons Anahita .

From here, you can also go on day trips to Ile Aux Cerfs , one of the most popular leisure islands on the east coast. Join a full-day Ile Aux Cerfs excursion .

You’ll soon arrive in Flacq where there are numerous attractions as well as one of my favourite resorts in Mauritius: Constance Prince Maurice . Read more about my stay at Constance Prince Maurice . I recommend a visit to the Flacq Market and the Sagar Shiv Mandir Hindu Temple .

North Mauritius

Many visitors choose to base themselves in north Mauritius as there’s a wide variety of things to do and places to visit. Some are convinced that Mauritius’ best beaches are found here. You’ll find a string of beachside communities, historic attractions, a plethora of restaurants and wherever you go, dreamy views of the lagoons, beaches and the outer islands. Search for hotels in North Mauritius .

Here are the best places to visit and suggested activities in north Mauritius:

North Mauritius beaches

There are many sandy beaches with calm turquoise water to choose from, perfect for water activities such as windsurfing and stand-up paddling. Beaches I can recommend include La Cuvette , Mont Choisy , Pereybere and Trou aux Biches.

The outer islands, such as Flat Island , also offer amazing beaches and snorkelling opportunities. These islands can be reached by private chartered boats or as part of a catamaran excursion. Join a full day catamaran excursion to the northern isles .

Cap Malhereux

This village at the northernmost point of Mauritius is absolutely charming and is home to one of the most photographed spots on the island: Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malhereux , a picturesque church facing the lagoon.

Chateau de la Bourdonnais

The beautiful 18th century Labourdonnais Estate has one of Mauritius’ most beautiful estate mansions as well as extensive gardens. Visit the beautiful estate mansion, stroll around the extensive gardens and do a rhum-tasting.

Unique underwater experiences

In Trou aux Biches , the Blue Safari centre offers some very cool underwater experiences to enjoy the local marine life. They organise diving expeditions but also underwater experiences which are accessible for most people such as sub-scooter (a kind of underwater Vespa!) diving and submarine excursions. Book this submarine scooter excursion . Read more about the sub-scooter excursion .

Another marine-based activity in north Mauritius I can recommend is exploring the mangroves on Amber Island from a kayak .

L’Aventure du Sucre

An interesting place to learn more about the history of Mauritius is L’Aventure du Sucre , a living museum dedicated to the colourful history of sugarcane in Mauritius. Sugarcane plantations were founded by the French colonists in the 18th century to support a sustainable settlement on the island. Labourers were brought in from India while sugar mills and railroads were built to process and transport the sugar.

Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens

Near to L’venture du Sucre, you’ll find the beautiful Botanical Gardens . Enjoy the tropical greenery in these historic gardens and don’t miss the impressive giant water lilies (Victoria Amazonica).

Join a full-day North Mauritius guided tour that includes Port Louis, L’Aventure, the Botanical Gardens and Cap Malhereux.

Where to stay in north Mauritius

There are many accommodation options in the north. Some of my favourites include 20 Degres Sud , Trou aux Biches Beachcomber , The Oberoi , The Ravenala Attitude and Angsana Balaclava .

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius. It’s a bustling city with various markets, historical sights and a newly-developed waterfront area. Interesting places to visit in Port Louis include the Blue Penny Museum , the Central Market , the Waterfront and Fort Adelaide (for panoramic views of the city). I recommend spending a half day exploring the city and having lunch at the Waterfront. Port Louis also has a vibrant street food scene. Check out the Central Market and Chinatown for a taste of Mauritius! Join a Port Louis street food tour .

Pieter Both mountain

Just outside Port Louis, you can’t miss the jagged peaks of the iconic Pieter Both mountain. It’s possible to climb this mountain (with climbing gear) so I would only recommend it to experienced climbers.

South Mauritius

From Port Louis, head south to my favourite part of Mauritius! South Mauritius, with its striking mountains, verdant valleys, thick forests, blinding white beaches and colourful lagoons, is absolutely spellbinding! Many of Mauritius’ natural attractions can be found here, such as Chamarel Waterfall , Black River Gorge National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage listed Le Morne Brabant mountain. Search for hotels in West and South Mauritius .

Here are some of the best places to visit in South Mauritius:

Beaches in South Mauritius

Some of my favourite Mauritius beaches are here in the south. They include Tamarin (against an impressive background of lofty peaks), Flic en Flac and Le Morne (at the foot of Le Morne mountain).

Black River

Black River or Rivière Noire is the embarkation point for boat excursions to see the resident dolphins off the coast. It’s a wondrous experience to get in the water and see (and hear) these dolphins in their natural habitat. Join a Black River dolphin/whale watching excursion .

Tamarin Bay

Tamarin is a popular place for its variety of water sports and excursions. Hire a kayak or SUP to explore the small bay and the mangroves of the Riviere du Rempart, or join a catamaran excursion and enjoy the view of Tamarin, backed by the majestic Rempart mountain.

One of the most famous waterfalls in Mauritius, Chamarel Falls emerges from the thick jungle and plunges almost 100 meters into a gorge. There are upper and lower viewing platforms – walking between the platforms allows you to spot the birdlife and enjoy the flora.

On the way there, drop by at the Chamarel Viewpoint for some beautiful panoramic views. You can also opt to stop for lunch at the Le Chamarel restaurant, which offers delicious local fare and stunning views.

Seven Coloured Earth

Near Chamarel Falls, continue to another natural attraction: the Seven Coloured Earths . This is a small area formed by volcanic activity to form dune-like mounds covered with different coloured sands. It’s best viewed on a sunny day when the colours really pop.

Also in the vicinity is the Ebony Forest, with its unique species of trees that are endemic to Mauritius. This nature reserve has well-maintained paths and canopy walkways. Join a Wild Southwest full-day tour .

Grand Bassin Hindu Temples

Grand Bassin is a crater lake with colourful Hindu temples along its shoreline. This is an important pilgrimage site that’s well worth a visit.

Tamarind Falls

These beautiful cascades are popular with hikers and those who enjoy canyoning. Join a Tamarind Falls hike or canyoning adventure .

Black River Gorge National Park

The Black River Gorge National Park is home to the largest protected forest in Mauritius. There are over 50km of hiking trails through thick rainforests, deep valleys, gushing rivers and beautiful waterfalls. The park has over 300 species of flowering plants and 9 bird species unique to Mauritius, such as the pink pigeon. Join a 3-hour guided hike in the Black River Gorge .

Le Morne Brabant mountain

Le Morne Brabant is a 556 meter basaltic monolith. This mountain was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. It’s a pretty challenging hike (especially the second half) and I recommend going with a guide, and only in the early morning before it gets too hot.

The views from the mountaintop are simply worth the effort though! On a good day, you’ll be able to see the famous ‘underwater waterfall’, an optical illusion formed by coral reefs and sand banks. Join a Le Morne Brabant guided hike .

Mauritius Tea Route

The Mauritius Tea Route is a popular touristic route in the south that covers three plantation estates: Le Domaine des Aubineaux , Bois Cheri Tea Factory and Domaine Saint Aubin . This is a wonderful route to follow to gain an insight into the colonial history of Mauritius and its plantations. Enjoy the beauty of these estates and learn about tea, rum and vanilla production on the island. Join a Tea Route guided tour .

Where to stay in south Mauritius

There are many beautiful accommodations scattered along the west coast from Flic en Flac down to Le Morne. My favourites include Sugar Beach , Maradiva Villas , Dinarobin Beachcomber and Heritage Le Telfair .

Note: this post was brought to you as a result of the #MyMauritius blog trips, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with Create, AHRIM, Mauritius Tourism and Air Mauritius. As always, all opinions above are mine, and mine only.

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14 Responses

What a comprehensive guide! Planning a trip to Mauritius, and this itinerary is exactly what I needed. This itinerary is like a treasure map for a perfect week in Mauritius!

Gorgeous land and beautiful people <3

[…] Read about my trip to Mauritius. […]

[…] Read about my week in Mauritius. […]

Hi LIsa, On my recent trip there, I spent a week in Reunion and 4 days in Mauritius. If you have two weeks and you love adventure, I suggest visiting Reunion first (check out my Reunion Island guide: https://velvetescape.com/best-of-reunion-island-guide/ ) for 7-8 days and the rest of your time in Mauritius. See my post on things to do in Mauritius: https://velvetescape.com/things-to-do-mauritius/ Both islands are only a 45-minute flight from each other so it’s easy to do. Have a great trip!

Cheers, Keith

I’ll be traveling from the US for 2 weeks. I want to see Mauritius but think 2 weeks is too long for MRU. I’m a pretty aggressive traveler and can manage to pack my schedule. I like adventure, I like beach too but I can’t lay on the beach for more than 3 days. Any suggestions on where else I can I drop by? I know Reunion is nearby. Thanks!

Hi Dean, I see your point. No offence taken. 🙂 This article is basically a report of one of my trips to Mauritius. If you’d like to have some ideas of what to do in Mauritius for a week, you’re welcome to have a look at this article: https://velvetescape.com/things-to-do-mauritius/ There are hikes, vistas, markets, history and nature activities included. Hope this helps.

I hope you get to see my point. This is not personal. I was not impressed at all. What you detailed is a trip of a privileged person with a fat wallet. What I saw in this 2 part journal are expensive hotels. You can see them in every tropical nation nowadays (Maldives, Thailand, Seychelles, French Polynesia, Hi and many many more). I myself have been to many as well. But here is the thing, I couldn’t tell where you have been. These cookie cutter fine hotels are everywhere. This is all man made. Made in boardrooms of corporations. For this you can pick any place, nothing unique. This is just an article of a rich man who showed us where he stayed and what he ate (and what you ate was mostly imported and/or a destruction of our planet). When I searched what to do in Mauritius for a week, I was hoping to see, trails, waterfalls, vistas etc.

Lucky You !!! It’s an amazing trip you have done. Mauritius is in my bucket list! Your photos are really amazing! Thank you for sharing your experience and detailed information about Mauritius…

It ‘s an amazing travel you have done… Really nice pictures

[…] […]

[…] This is the second of the two-part ‘My Week in Mauritius’ series. If you missed the first part, head on to My Week in Mauritius – Part 1. […]

Hello Balaji, It really depends on what time of the year you go (low/high season). I can definitely recommend September when the weather is nice and it’s just before the peak season. It also depends on which hotels you choose and if you go for a package (many resorts offer attractive packages which include accommodation, meals and activities). If I were to make a rough estimate, a trip like the one I made, staying at these hotels plus tours cost around USD 10,000. This excludes flights. I hope this helps.

Kind regards, Keith

Very nice. approximately how much money we need for this entire trip.

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Epic Mauritius Itinerary: How To Spend 10 Days In Paradise

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Mauritius | 6

Located off the east coast of Africa, Mauritius is a small island nation that’s best known for its tropical beaches and swanky resorts. In reality, it’s so much more!

Lush rainforests, incredible wildlife and waterfalls galore make Mauritius a bucket list destination for nature lovers. It also offers a rich cultural heritage thanks to its diverse mix of Indian, Creole, Chinese and French ethnic groups. 

So, with so much to see and do, where do you even start? I’ve put together a Mauritius itinerary for 7-10 days with all the best things to do. 

This Mauritius itinerary is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to make the most of their time on the island. Whether you want laidback or action-packed, you can easily customise it to your travel style. 

I’ve also included where to stay to help make planning your trip easier. 

How to use this itinerary 

Discover the best things to do on the island in this 10-day Mauritius itinerary!

This Mauritius travel itinerary is designed to be completely customisable to you and your preferences. 

It starts in the east of the island and goes around it anticlockwise so both the beginning and end are close to the airport. You can easily do this itinerary back to front too. 

I’ve deliberately kept this itinerary fairly laidback with activities spread out across the 10 days but you can bunch them together or swap them out if you’re short of time. 

I’ve also included optional activities if you want more. Feel free to fit in more lazy days too! 

Whether you’re spending a week in Mauritius, 10 days or more, there’s plenty here to keep you occupied. 

Read More: The Ultimate Mauritius Packing List: What To Wear In Mauritius

How to get around Mauritius

There are several ways to get around Mauritius depending on your travel style. These are: 

Probably the most flexible way to travel around Mauritius is by renting a car and driving. 

Most roads are pretty well-maintained but it’s still a good idea to practice caution when going along small side roads. I’d also avoid cities and business areas during rush hour as the traffic can get busy! 

In terms of a permit, you’re allowed to drive in Mauritius with your domestic license for up to four weeks. 

Use Rentalcars.com to get the best price on car hire in Mauritius. If at all possible, go electric or offset your car’s emissions to mitigate your environmental impact. You can do this here. 

Self-guided tour

If you want the freedom of doing it yourself with the structure and ease of an itinerary done for you, the best option is a self-guided tour. 

Pure Breaks is a travel agent specialising in tailor-made responsible holidays that suit your interests. 

Best of all, it does the hard work for you to make sure your trip is an eco-friendly one by partnering with eco-resorts and activities around the island. 

You’ll travel via private transport to make it easier. Pure Breaks uses Coquille Bonheur, an award-winning responsible tourism company – so you’re in good hands! 

Small-group tour

Since Mauritius is a relatively small island, there’s no need to do a big multi-day guided tour. 

However, if you do prefer that structure or you want to make the most of your time, I recommend booking day trips and activities. Read about the best top-rated ones here.

Then all you need to do is strategically choose accommodation nearby! 

Keep reading to find out more about the best activities you can do. 

Editor’s tip: still not sure how you want to get around Mauritius? Don’t panic! Plenty of hotels offer transfers to nearby attractions and they will be able to help you out. There are also plenty of taxi companies! 

Mauritius itinerary for 7-10 days 

Day 0 – arrive .

Where to stay: Preskil Island Resort  

You’ve just landed in Mauritius and you’re ready for your trip to begin! Book a transfer to your resort or hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing. 

It’s a long journey to Mauritius so you’ll want to rest and recuperate before you dive straight into your itinerary!  

Day 1 – Île aux Aigrettes

Spend your first day exploring the islands off the east coast of Mauritius. For wildlife lovers, Île aux Aigrettes is a must. This protected nature reserve is home to giant tortoises! 

Sadly, the native species of giant tortoise suffered the same fate as the dodo and went extinct in the 1700s. However, giant tortoises are a vital part of the island’s ecosystem as they help with seed dispersal. 

In an effort to restore the natural ecosystem, the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation introduced the Aldabra Giant Tortoise from Seychelles in 2000. The best place to see them is the tiny reef islet of Île aux Aigrettes. 

Here, giant tortoise conservation is in full swing and you can see adult tortoises roaming (albeit slowly) across the land. You can also see other rare native species of floral and fauna, including ebony trees and birds such as the Pink Pigeon and Mauritian Fody. 

By visiting Île aux Aigrettes, you can directly support important conservation work by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation. The only way to visit is through a guided eco-tour with a ranger. Make sure you book at least 24 hours in advance. 

Note, there aren’t any restaurants or leisure activities at Ile aux Aigrettes, Île aux Cerfs is a better option for those – but there aren’t any giant tortoises…

Île aux Cerfs 

Further up the east coast of Mauritius is Île aux Cerfs, a large private island boasting white sandy beaches, a couple of restaurants and a golf course. 

A popular activity to do here is a full day cruise on board a 45-ft catamaran. Highlights include snorkelling, dolphin watching and a BBQ! 

If you want to visit both islands, you can either do Île aux Cerfs on day one or day two as my suggested accommodation for the second night is close by. 

Editor’s tip: as you drive up the east coast, make a stop at Boutique Vallée de Ylang Ylang, a lovely independent gift shop selling a range of natural skincare and essential oils. 

Day 2 – Full day at Otentic Eco Tents 

Where to stay: Otentic Eco Tents 

On day two, I recommend staying and spending a full day on your Mauritius itinerary at Otentic Eco Tents because it’s such an amazing place. 

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Otentic is the only tented ecolodge in Mauritius. Accommodation is in the form of safari tents, complete with cosy beds and outside (but enclosed!) showers at the back. 

All furnishings are rustic and handmade from upcycled materials. 

Home cooking is a speciality here. The glamping site has its own vegetable garden and employs local people from the neighbouring village to cook some of the best food in Mauritius. Honestly, it was one of the highlights of my trip!

Otentic offers a range of activities including kayaking, snorkelling, hiking, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and bike hire. You can book a transfer to the beach / Ile aux Cerfs too. 

Day 3 – Snorkelling & the north 

Where to stay: Lagoon Attitude Resort 

Anse La Raie Lagoon

Head north to the top of Mauritius for a relaxing day of snorkelling and beaching. The island is home to some beautiful coral reefs and you can meet the local marine residents by snorkelling in a protected marine reserve. 

Anse la Raie Lagoon is a Voluntary Marine Conservation Area (VMCA). This means local hotels, residents and industries have agreed to not fish or carry out any other destructive activities. 

You can do a snorkelling tour of the marine reserve through Lagoon Attitude Resort, a key member of the VMCA project. Help keep the reserve healthy by refraining from touching the reef and wearing reef-safe sunscreen. 

Afterwards, chill at your resort or hit the beach at Grand Baie via Cap Malheureux. 

Cap Malheureux 

Cap Malheureux is a scenic drive along the north coast with beautiful views out towards the northern isles. 

Although a seemingly quiet enclave, its name, meaning Cape Misfortune, comes from the number of ships dashed against the rocks. It’s also the historic site where the British invasion forces defeated the French in 1810. 

Look out for Notre Dame Auxiliatrice, a pretty red-roofed church which is worth a quick stop for as you pass by. 

Grand Baie 

If you’re looking for your fill of tropical beaches, Grand Baie on the northwest coast has plenty. Some of the best ones include: 

Pereybere Beach

The first beach after Cap Malheureux, Pereybere is popular among travellers. It’s excellent for snorkelling and offers plenty of restaurants and cafes. 

La Cuvette 

For somewhere a little more rustic and quieter, head to La Cuvette. Fewer boats in the bay here make it a lovely spot for a quiet swim or snorkel. 

Grand Baie Beach 

Beautiful crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches make Grand Baie Beach a must-visit. You can enjoy watersports activities here too. 

Read More: 19 Best Places To Stay In Mauritius For Every Budget

Day 4 – Port Louis & Botanical Garden

Where to stay: Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Start the day at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden in Pamplemousses. 

Founded by Pierre Poivre (which translates to Peter Pepper in English, yes) in 1770, it’s the oldest botanical garden on the island and a lovely place to learn more about tropical plants. 

Discover plants from all around the world, including Asia, Africa, America and more. 

Enjoy a leisurely few hours wandering around the garden and taking in the sights. Make sure you visit the colonial-era mansion and take a photo of the famous giant water lilies!

The entrance fee is Rs 200 (Mauritian rupee) for non-Mauritian visitors. 

Port Louis 

From the botanical garden, it’s just a short drive to Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius. It’s a compact but relatively busy city. I’d recommend exploring on foot rather than navigating the streets if you’re driving!

There are enough sites in the city to keep you busy for the rest of the day. Head to Le Caudan Waterfront for lunch and shopping; visit the Central Market, the first market in Mauritius; see Blue Penny Museum with its collection of rare stamps and Chinatown with its French-style houses.

Other popular sights include Fort Adelaide which offers views of the Port Louis skyline; Jummah Mosque with its blend of Creole, Indian and Islamic architecture and the UNESCO World Heritage Aapravasi Ghat, an immigration depot built by the British in 1849 to receive indentured and contracted workers.  

A great way to experience a place from a local perspective is to do a walking or guided tour. There are Port Louis tours I recommend: 

• Full Day Tour of Port Louis – this includes the botanical garden and Cap Malheureux church so it’s a good option if you want to cover a lot of ground!
• Port Louis, Mont Choisy and National Botanical Garden Tour – this is a private tour of the city and botanical garden. It also includes a trip to Mont Choisy beach. 
• Port Louis Street Food Tour –  I recommend this tour if you’re a foodie. It’s an amazing way to experience the local culture. The three-hour tour takes you to food spots only the locals know about. Book this one in advance as it’s likely to sell out!

Day 5 – Chamarel 

Where to stay: Heritage Le Telfair or Lakaz Chamarel 

Time to see a different side to Mauritius beyond the beaches and lagoons. Today, explore the island’s tropical interiors in Chamarel. 

There are two amazing places to visit here: 

Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earth Geopark 

One of the best things to do in Mauritius, Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is home to a stunning natural spectacle of sand dunes that are streaked with different colours – much like Rainbow Mountain in Peru. 

The best time to visit is on a dry, sunny day as that’s when the colours really pop. 

You’ll need to pay an entrance fee (about Rs 200) but it also gives you access to the viewpoint of Chamarel Waterfall and tortoise pens. 

The geopark is a protected area of conservation. 

Ebony Forest Reserve 

Just around the corner from the Seven Coloured Earth is Ebony Forest Reserve , a refuge for threatened native flora and fauna. Here, you can go hiking and support rewilding projects either by donating or planting your own tree. 

The most popular activity you can do in the reserve is a guided or self-guided tour up a 300m raised walkway through native bush to reach Sublime Point Lookout. 

Just as its name suggests, the viewpoint gives you stunning panoramic views across Mauritius to the coast. 

You can either stay at the lookout and enjoy refreshments at the tiny cafe or continue hiking up to the summit of Piton Canot for even more amazing views. 

Admission to Ebony Forest Reserve is Rs 300 for hiking. Prices differ depending on the activity you want to do. The money you pay directly supports vital conservation work too. 

Day 6 – Heritage Nature Reserve 

Heritage Nature Reserve is 1300 hectares of unspoilt nature nestled close to the wider UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Bel-Hombre in the south of Mauritius. It’s owned by Heritage Resorts but anyone can visit whether they’re a guest or not. 

Here, you can explore a tropical landscape of native forest, mountainous terrain, rivers and lush vegetation. 

There’s plenty of wildlife to see here too, such as the Pink Pigeon, Mauritian Fody, Echo Parakeet and the Mauritius Kestrel. 

Keep an eye out for giant fruit bats soaring above the canopy. Don’t worry, they’re fruitarians so completely harmless!

Activities in the reserve focus on education and conservation. You can take a tour with an expert guide or if you prefer to cover more ground you can do a guided quad bike or 4×4 tour. 

For a more relaxed approach, you can have a leisurely three-hour picnic lunch in the heart of the reserve. I recommend booking this in advance.

Afterwards, go back to your resort for a well-earned rest. It’s been a busy few days! 

Day 7 – Le Morne Brabant, Black River Gorges & Grand Bassin

Today is all about spectacular natural scenery, history and culture. There are multiple stops you can do. These are: 

Le Morne Brabant 

The most westerly part of Mauritius, Le Morne Brabant is a peninsula which is known for its huge basalt monolith rising 556 metres above sea level. 

It’s a dramatic sight and just off its coast, sand and silt give the illusion that the island is about to be sucked down a waterfall! 

Le Morne Brabant is a UNESCO World Heritage site not just for its scenery. 

It’s a symbol of freedom with a tragic past. 

During the time of the slave trade, many escaped slaves from Madagascar and mainland Africa lived on Le Morne Brabant. Conditions were harsh and there was little food, shelter and water. 

It’s said that after the British passed the Slavery Abolition Act in 1834, a group of soldiers visited Le Morne to tell the runaway slaves they were finally free. 

The sight of the authorities coming caused the former slaves to jump to their deaths rather than risk being captured. 

Today, this popular sunrise hike with a certified climber gives you the chance to learn more about the historical significance of Le Morne Brabant and enjoy panoramic views of the island. 

It’s approximately four hours to complete so you can always move Black River Gorges and Grand Bassin to the following day’s itinerary. 

Black River Gorges National Park 

It’s time to start heading eastwards and inland to Black River Gorges National Park. Here in the highlands, temperatures are slightly lower than at sea level so it can be a welcome break from the heat. 

You can make this stop as long or as short as you like by hiking up the many peaks in the park. Alternatively, keep it quick by visiting Alexandra Falls or enjoying the view from the Gorges Viewpoint. 

Grand Bassin 

On the other side of Black River Gorges is Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao. It’s a sacred crater lake 550 metres above sea level with Hindu temples and small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other gods dotted along its shoreline. 

Ganga Talao has been an important Hindu pilgrimage site since 1887 and is at the heart of the island’s biggest Hindu festival – Maha Shivaratri – which celebrates the god Shiva. 

In 2007, a 33-metre statue of Shiva was erected and towers over the trees to this day. 

You can walk around the lake, meditate, pray and spot local wildlife including fish, eels and monkeys. It’s a site well worth adding to your Mauritius itinerary!

Day 8 – Bois Cheri & Blue Bay Marine Park 

Where to stay: Preskil Island Resort 

Bois Cheri 

Before you make your way back to the east coast, stop by Bois Cheri Tea Factory and Museum. 

Tea has been grown commercially in Mauritius since the 19th century. Today the biggest producer is Bois Cheri with a plantation of 250 hectares. 

You can learn about the history of the Mauritian tea trade in the museum and take a guided tour of the plantation and factory to see how it’s produced. 

Next, take a short coach ride through the plantation to the tea tasting chalet which sits on a hill above a small reservoir. This picturesque spot offers tea tasting and you can relax with a brew of your choosing. There’s also an on-site shop where you can sample a few rums. 

During your visit, look out for deer and long-tailed macaque monkeys through the trees. You can also stay here at Bubble Lodge, an eco-glamping experience. Book in advance though as it sells out quickly! 

Blue Bay Marine Park

Finish the day back where you started on the east of the island at Blue Bay Marine Park. 

Declared a national park in 1997, it’s a protected area and home to stunning reefs – although there is some coral bleaching here, as a result of global warming. 

You can snorkel or take a glass-bottomed boat tour out on the water and see how much marine life you can spot. This tour includes a delicious Creole picnic lunch too. 

 As always, remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen to ensure the survival of the remaining coral. 

Day 9 – Relax or do some optional activities!

Your last full day is free so you can do whatever you want. Have a rest at the beach or at your resort – or scroll down and take a look at some optional activities I’ve suggested below. 

Day 10 – Depart Mauritius 

Time to head home or to the next destination on your travels. 

Optional activities for your Mauritius itinerary 

Have a bit of time to squeeze in some more things to do? Here are some of my top recommendations below: 

Beach-hopping

Explore the island’s pristine tropical beaches. A few of the best ones are: 

• Flic en Flac – a white sandy beach and one of the longest on the island. It has beautiful views out towards Le Morne Brabant
• Grand Baie – you can take your pick of beaches around here. They’re great for watersports
• Trou aux Biches Beach – just south of Grand Baie, this beach is a sunbather’s and snorkel lover’s heaven. It has good sunsets too. 
• Belle Mare Beach – go here for picture-perfect turquoise waters and bright white sand. 

Skydiving 

Want to see the island in all its glory from above? Do a tandem skydive with Skydive Mauritius! Jump from 10,000ft and get HD pictures and videos of your experience. 

Catamaran Cruise to the Northern Isles

Do a full-day boat trip up the three Northern Isles of Mauritius. The activity includes snorkelling, drinks and BBQ lunch. If you’re lucky, you might even see whales and dolphins! 

Dolphin and whale watching 

Go whale watching and swimming with dolphins at Black River. Hop onboard a speed boat with an expert team who will provide you with live commentary. Soft drinks are included but you’ll need to bring your own snorkel. 

The tour is operated by Dolswim LTD which respects and interacts with the marine life safely. 

Tamarind Falls Hiking Trip 

Do a three-hour guided hike up to the spectacular Tamarin Falls. Walk through tropical rainforest and cool off with a swim in the natural pools!

Editor’s tip: don’t forget travel insurance! Even if you think you won’t need it, it’s always a good idea to have it, just in case. My go-to right now is Holiday Extras as it offers good cover (including gadgets) for a reasonable price.

The best places to stay in Mauritius

I’ve highlighted some key resorts throughout this itinerary which are strategically located so you can do your activities easily. Here’s why I chose them over the others on the island: 

Otentic Eco Tents 

As previously mentioned, Otentic Eco Tents is a unique ecolodge. It’s also a good budget-friendly option.

Otentic has two locations: one by the Grand River and the other at the foot of Bambous Mountain. Both sites are small and intimate which makes them very popular. 

The Bambous Mountain location is smaller and has a vegetarian-only menu! 

Heritage Le Telfair 

Part of the Heritage Resorts group, Heritage Le Telfair is a five-star luxury resort that has an eco-conscience. It’s Green Key certified, donates surplus food to NGOs and has an on-site recycling plant. Even excess oil is turned into biofuel. 

The resort owns Heritage Nature Reserve, a 1300-hectare protected area of conservation. 

Heritage Le Telfair is probably one of the most beautiful resorts I’ve ever visited (I was lucky enough to stay there once on a press trip). It’s a great option for a honeymoon or special luxury treat. 

Lakaz Chamarel 

A real tropical oasis, Lakaz Chamarel is nestled high in the Mauritian hills. It’s an ideal place for those who want a holiday of quiet relaxation. 

Accommodation is in the form of villas surrounded by trees and vegetation to give you privacy. There’s an on-site restaurant focused on Mauritian cooking, free yoga sessions and spa facilities. 

Lagoon Attitude 

Lagoon Attitude is another chain resort but it’s taken huge strides in sustainable innovation. There are water refill stations all over the grounds and not a piece of single-use plastic is found in the rooms. 

There’s an on-site marine discovery centre for guests, schools, local tour operators and marine biologists to come and learn about marine conservation.

The resort also encourages guests to take a bag out with them and collect any rubbish they see on the beach and in the water. 

My favourite thing about Lagoon Attitude is the zero waste refill station for tea and coffee. Simply fill up glass pots of what you need and take them back to your room!

Mauritius travel itinerary: final thoughts

As you can see, Mauritius is an island that offers so much beyond the beaches and resorts. Whether it’s relaxation, history, culture, nature or adventure, there’s something for everyone here.

I hope you found this Mauritius itinerary for one week to 10 days useful for planning the best trip possible. If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below!

I was hosted by Pure Breaks and Mauritius Now during my trip to Mauritius. All opinions are my own. 

• Best Mauritius Tours: 11 Top-Rated Excursions You Need To Book
• How To Visit Ile Aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve
• Best Hikes In Mauritius: 14 Epic Trails You Need To Do
• Ultimate Mauritius Travel Guide

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This post may contain affiliate / compensated links. As an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. For full information, please see my disclaimer here .

About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

There’s so many beautiful sounding sights to see in Mauritius. It would be hard to balance doing things and just wanting to relax in the scenery. Sign me up for the tour of the tea plantation!

Absolutely! There’s so much to see and do.

Mauritius has been on my radar for a while now. Definitely bookmarking this for later. So much to see and it looks gorgeous.

Oh great! Hope you get to go there 🙂

We’ve been talking about Mauritius for our next long-haul holiday but I honestly didn’t realise there was quite so much to do. Definitely time to start saving now!!

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Last Updated on 14/03/2023

A little bit of Salt

Adventurers, dreamers, and connoisseurs of the extraordinary - this blog is tailor-made for your wanderlust. We represent three of the most stunning resorts in Mauritius: JW Marriott Mauritius Resort , Le Meridien Ile Maurice and The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa Mauritius , eager to unveil the unparalleled magic of our island home. From exquisite culinary journeys to untamed natural paradises and uncharted cultural treasures that ignite the senses, we're throwing open the curtain on Mauritius' deepest secrets. Get ready to have your breath taken away as we share the island's mesmerizing bounty. Our stories will transport you to pristine shores, lush interiors brimming with life, and cultural immersions that stir the soul. With each captivating tale, you'll find your desire to experience Mauritius firsthand growing irresistible. The only question will be - when can you book your next flight? Stay tuned, explorers. An entire world of blissful island discoveries awaits. Let the Mauritian adventure begin with a little bit of Salt .

Culinary Delights Await Young Chefs at Our Mauritius Resorts

Who says the kitchen is just for grown-ups?

Discover The Exquisite Flavours of Mauritian Fruit

Mauritius presents a symphony of fruit, a vibrant tapestry showcased in roadside stands and bustling local markets.

Cool down with a tropical cocktail

There's something truly magical about sipping on a refreshing cocktail while basking in the warmth of the tropical sun and soaking in the breathtaking beauty of Mauritius.

Experience the Joie De Vivre of Running in Paradise

Running. It’s an act of self-love. It’s about endurance and new discoveries.

Island Adventure Awaits: Explore Mauritius & Our Resorts

Ready for the island life? We've got three spots that'll blow your mind.

Dive Into Relaxation: Our top Wellness Tips

Looking to refresh, recharge and indulge in some self-care on your Mauritius getaway? Our resort offers plenty of ways to relax, reset and tap into a sense of wellbeing. Here are our top tips for making the most of our wellness offerings.

Floral Fabulous: A Guide to Mauritius' Best Blooms

Mauritius is a florist's dream come true. Bright flowers flourish in the tropical weather, bringing pops of colour to the scenery. All around the island, three types of flowers are the most popular.

Active Adventures: Our Guide to Mauritius' Best Hikes

Our hotels invite you to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty through a selection of Mauritius’ best hikes.

Must-Try Local Delicacies and Where to Find Them

Mauritius, the jewel of the Indian Ocean,is a melting pot of cultures and flavors that have blended harmoniously over centuries. From the aromatic curries of its Indian heritage to the delectable street food influenced by Chinese cuisines, this island nation offers a gastronomic adventure like no other.

Delight Your Taste Buds: Our Restaurant Spotlight Series with Destination Dining

Embark on a tantalizing journey through the 14 exceptional restaurants found across the JW Marriott Mauritius Resort, Le Méridien Île Maurice, and The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa.

Coastal Road, Le Morne Peninsula, Le Morne, Mauritius.

Copyright © 2024. A Little Bit of Salt | All Rights Reserved.

9 INCREDIBLE Things To Do In Mauritius

From exploring the colourful capital, paddle boarding and cooking traditional food, to sampling the island’s top rums, checking out the natural wonders and relaxing on paradise beaches, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Mauritius!

I’ve just returned from a mock-honeymoon! No, I’m not getting hitched anytime soon, but the trip I went on felt like one of those incredible paradise getaways that are saved for the most special of life events. Mauritius was as dreamy as the photos I’d seen before I went. The sand was soft and white, the sea was clear and turquoise, and the people were warm and welcoming.

Over the course of a week we enjoyed breakfast on the beach, walks at sunset, waterfall hikes, sunset yoga, and very tasty meals – from street food to gourmet delicacies. It turns out there are SOOOOO many things to do in Mauritius.

We split our time between Heritage Le Telfair – a gorgeous 5* luxury resort in the south of the island, and going on adventures. With just a week on the island, here are a few things you absolutely cannot miss!

Things To Do In Mauritius: Get Out On The Water

The best way to get into the island spirit is to venture out in the water, and in Mauritius there are plenty of fun activities to try out (depending on how brave you are!) As there’s a reef protecting a lot of the beaches, you won’t find any big waves until you go a little way from the shore. Along some parts of the reef (particularly in the south where we were based) you’ll find a long row of kite surfers catching some serious height!

Wakeboarding and water skiing are also popular, but my favourite activity was stand up paddle boarding. I find it really relaxing, and with the water lovely and warm, falling in didn’t seem so bad either!

At Heritage Le Telfair you could try out plenty of other activities including sailing, kayaking and snorkelling. Plus, on our final day we hopped on board a glass bottom boat and were lucky enough to see plenty of tropical fish and a very cute turtle!

Things To Do In Mauritius:  Visit Port Louis  

To really get to know Mauritius, take a trip to its vibrant capital Port Louis. You’ll see the locals picking up their shopping, going to work, kids heading to school, insane amounts of traffic, colourful port areas and more! Compared to the rest of the island, it’s not particularly ‘pretty’ but it is real, and for me, this is all part of the travel experience.

A highlight was exploring the food market on a Saturday morning. It had a real buzz as vendors sold fresh coconuts, limes, Asian vegetables and tea. I loved seeing all the exotic produce on offer, including the famous tea man who had a tea to help every ailment, from heart palpitations to cellulite!

Things To Do In Mauritius: Head Off On A Food Tour

What a surprise – one of my top things to do in Mauritius involves eating! Mauritian cuisine is an incredible melting pot of Indian and Chinese cultures, and some of the tastiest meals are found on the streets. Street food is cheap, delicious and certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. To find out the best places to try, we headed off on a Taste Buddies food tour.

It was a great way to really get to grips not only with the culture and the cuisine, but learn about the people who’ve set up their food stalls in the city. Each had an interesting story and it gave the food more meaning once we knew the stories behind it. It felt like one of the best non-touristy things to do in Mauritius.

Over the course of a few hours, tour guide Nic introduced us to farata (Mauritian roti filled with vegetables), coconut water, sugar cane juice, dholl puri (yellow split pea wrap), peanuts, fried vegetable dumplings, and sticky rice with peanut salt. I’d definitely recommend it as a way of exploring Port Louis.

Things To Do In Mauritius: Practice Your Swing

I’d never really imagined playing golf on holiday, not unless it was of the crazy golf variety, but when we had a chance to play on one of the top championship golf courses in the world, I decided to give it a swing! I took a golf induction at Heritage Golf Course (soon to be hosting the AfrAsia Open) and learned about technique and posture while hitting a few balls on the driving range. It was surprisingly fun, although I’ve still got a lot to learn.

Things To Do In Mauritius:  Explore The Waterfalls

Everyone knows Mauritius for its pristine beaches, but it’s got a wild side too! Hike up into the forests and nature reserves and you’ll find rivers, rapids and the odd waterfall too. This one was up in Chamarel, close to the intriguing phenomenon the Seven Coloured Earth. Definitely one of my top things to do in Mauritius! 

Things To Do In Mauritius:  Marvel At The Seven Coloured Earth

Well, what a crazy sight! The Seven Coloured Earth in Chamarel is a natural phenomenon where the colours have evolved with weather conditions and soil composition. As a result the dune-like earth is coloured red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow. It’s something you HAVE to see if you’re visiting the island.

Things To Do In Mauritius : Sample The Island’s Rum  

During our time in Mauritius, we spotted fields full of sugar cane. Similar to the Caribbean islands, Mauritius also has a good reputation for its rum production. Tucked away in the mountains on the south side of the island is the Rhumerie de Chamarel – one of the island’s newest distilleries. They make high quality rums, with a mix of flavours, some incorporating the island’s abundant spices. As well as picking up a few bottles, you can tour the distillery and sample some of their collection.

Things To Do In Mauritius: Take A Cooking Class  

As a total foodie, I was over the moon to have the chance not only to eat my way around the island, but to cook some traditional dishes too! We donned chefs hats and aprons, and learned from the pros at Heritage Le Telfair. We kicked off by making a tasty palm heart salad served with smoked marlin.

Then, after enjoying so many great curries on the island, I was excited to cook up my own chicken and prawn curry. The spice blend was so tasty, and we added quite a bit of chilli to get it to a really great spice level. For dessert, it was back into the kitchen to fry some bananas with a big splash of island rum. While it was fun to learn some new recipes, it was even more special to listen to what the Mauritian chefs had to tell us about the island’s unique cuisine, their backgrounds and their fave dishes.

Things To Do In Mauritius: Relax

…well this is Mauritius after all! Many people visit on holiday and spend half their time at the beach and then rest by the pool, and there’s nothing wrong with that!

The beaches are beautiful, with soft white sand, palm trees and tropical waters. With a reef protecting a lot of the beaches, the water is calm, perfect for swimming, snorkelling or just floating around. 

Thanks to Heritage Resorts  for hosting me on this trip. I hope you’ve enjoyed hearing about my top things to do in Mauritius. As always, opinions are my own.

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

6 thoughts on “9 INCREDIBLE Things To Do In Mauritius”

This sounds like it was an incredible trip Chloe!

It really is a stunning place! Perfect for adventure but great for relaxing too!

Ah Mauritius is on my wish list!

SOOOO stunning. Definitely works for your luxury angle too. Get out there soon!

Hey, did you travel in October to Mauritius? Currently looking for a destination for my 30th birthday this year!

Yes! We went the first week of October. It was absolutely gorgeous – would make a great birthday trip 🙂

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Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel

Land Beyond Palm Fringed White Coast: Travel Guide to Mauritius

About this blog post: Are you seeking an escape route from the mundane, to a beautiful island paradise hidden behind the the flanking palms and ripples of warm tropical waves? There there, lo the volcanic island of Mauritius. In this Mauritius travel blog, I try to answer all your queries on Mauritius travels, and break the myth that it is “just” luxury. Mauritius is bound to surprise you with intense Indian cultural root and an intriguing past of slave labor, lest we forget.

Planning a honeymoon or solo trip to Mauritius? Read all of my travel articles here .

Mauritius: More than a Honeymoon Island for the Cultural Traveler

MMS, as they mark the honeymoon islands on Indian ocean: Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles. All of them feature pristine blue water bordering cottony clouds overhead. Beautiful, warm places. Abundance of seafood. Yet, they tell an intriguing story of culture and history for the eager listener.

For example, Mauritius. She was a volcanic island and just that. No human lived here to disrupt. A flock of dodos thrived on her pink supple earth till the French voyagers stopped by following suit with the Dutch and the Portuguese. Dodos made their way from the branches to clay-pot eventually and went extinct.

Soon after, the French found out the island can be used for sugarcane plantation. The last bit of African Savannah was swiftly replaced with sprawling sugarcane field. The British won over the island here after. Slaves who worked on sugar cane plantations were renamed as indentured laborers. Instead of mainland Africa, manpower were brought in from the East coast of India. Vessels filled with our Desi people left from Calcutta port with a dream for a “new-found-land” where misery and toil was supposed to be non existent.

Flanking sugarcane plantations gently sway by the highway of Mauritius as you journey to the interior of the land. This is a melancholic song.

My heart becomes mellow as I bite on the dholl puri. Yellow Split Pea wrap? Pure BS. This is our staple, ruti and dal. I could not help but tear apart my eyes from the limpid waters, there is a living and thriving part of almost India living inside the island nation of Mauritius. Traveling the expanse of the island that is limited to a two hours drive from north to South, I discovered layers of diversity, very much like my home!

Mauritius on the Indian Ocean

Located at a distance of 1700 km from the mainland Africa, Mauritius constitutes a nation along with neighboring Rodrigues island and a number of other islets and atolls.

Several cruises and commercial sea vessels ply between Mauritius and mainland Africa, especially South Africa.

Mauritius ranks high on HDI and is considered as one of Africa’s leading economy, with high per capita income. A fellow traveler from South Africa states that Mauritius is the tax haven of Africa, very much like what Switzerland is to Europe (or the world?).

Being a welfare state, Mauritius allows free healthcare and education.

Also read: Why Mauritius must feature on your bucket travel list

Traveling to Mauritius: Air Mauritius Review

It took me 5 hours on a direct flight to reach Mauritius (Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, code MRU) from Mumbai international airport. I flew economy with Air Mauritius, the national carrier.

The flight was scented with a floral spray. Food was warm and delectable. In flight entertainment system had as many as 30 Bollywood biggies and a number of documentaries of African wildlife. The in-flight magazine named islander showcased a glamorous bespoke island lifestyle! I was stoked to be in Mauritius!

The crew gifted me a small pouch with a number of goodies. A sleep mask and a sock being the best addition to the kitty.

On Air Mauritius flight, you also get complimentary beverages, both alcoholic or not. Leg space for economy class is decent however if you are a tall person, you should aim to take the isle seats on economy. I had a blanket and a pillow and I choose the window seat to sleep like a baby. The flight from Bombay to Mauritius was full.

Direct flight to Mauritius is available from London, Nairobi, South Africa and Zimbabwe as well. From USA, Mauritius is a whooping 36 hours flight journey. But if an African island nation is in your mind, what can be better than Mauritius?

Scoring a Visa for Mauritius (Visa on Arrival)

I remember fretting over obtaining a visa in Mauritius the night before my travel to Mauritius. I am an Indian passport holder.

It was a breezy affair to be honest.

We stood in the queue for immigration for close to 40 minutes. There were at least 50 travelers and 6 stations. The lady who tended to my passport had a red bindi on her forehead.

Things I had to show to get my Mauritius visa on an Indian Passport:

• Immigration forms duly filled
• My confirmed return ticket from Mauritius
• My confirmed stay in the island. I stayed at Kazalala and Ravenala Attitude Hotel . I had a letter from Kazalala confirming the same. the letter is important.
• two passport sized photographs
• Enough funds to cover stay, activities and food. I showed USD 500
• Mauritius Visa is granted for 60 days. Your passport should have more than 6 months’ validity.

I was traveling to Mauritius on an invite by the MTPA, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority. It took me 5 to 10 minutes to complete the Visa on Arrival process in Mauritius.

Also read: How to spend a long weekend in North Goa

Important things to know about Traveling to Mauritius

• Honeymoon, yes. But there is so much more to Mauritius!

A number of stylish resorts dot the coastline of Mauritius island. They are beautiful and beautiful is an understatement. They leave no chance to enable romance bloom amid luxury. You can just just lounge by the beach and soak in the sea. Mauritius is the best place to practice the magnificent art of doing nothing.

Alternatively, you may choose to go out for half day excursions in Mauritius. Depending on where you are staying, north, south or East of the island, choose your activities. May be go for a tea tasting session at Boi Cherry tea plantation. If you are traveling with a family of small kids, visit the Casela zoo. Learn the compelling past of sugarcane plantation. If you are an urban soul, make it a point to visit Port Louis, the city center.

And if you are a mermaid, you can always dive deep into the heart of the ocean! Indian Ocean, also known as Ratnakar , a vault of jewels! Following is a section on Things to do in Mauritius where I list out my favorite activities.

2. The Nine Districts of Mauritius

There are nine districts in Mauritius. Each of them features their own attraction to tourists. The country is densely populated. Following a list of nine districts to help you plan your travel accordingly.

• Black River
• Pamplemousses
• Plaines Wilhems
• Port Louis (Capital of Mauritius)
• Rivière du Rempart

Since there is an overwhelming Indian connect, there is a large number of temples in Mauritius. The ones I saw had South Indian architectural style with a massive Gopuram and intricate walls.

Also read: Travel guide to Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yoi: Secret island paradise of Thailand!

3. The sea is a lagoon in Mauritius (mostly)

I noticed it while the flight was alighting in Mauritius. Then I found it intriguing at the beach. The ocean is a calm body with limpid turquoise water. There is a barrier at a distance where the waves break first. It also acts like a natural shark barrier, if that worries you! 

A coral reef encircles almost all of the island. It is a living and thriving body of marine life, with sponges, corals, schools of fishes in myriad hues. As a result, the water body close to the beach is tranquil like a lagoon. It is mostly visible on the eastern side.

4. The other island : Rodrigues

Close to the main island of Mauritius, lies another pristine and sleepy island named Rodrigues. Like dodo of the mainland, they harbored Solitaire birds, now extinct. If you are looking for offbeat and more local experience, I would suggest include a trip to Rodrigues. You may take a plane from Mauritius or Reunion if a 2 day ship is not what you prefer.

Inhabitants of Rodriguez are descendants of African slaves and adhere to Christianity. Needless to say, culture in Rodrigues is way apart from mainland Mauritius. You can camp on the beach while in Rodrigues.

5. Creole is a culture and a way of life in Mauritius

I keep saying there is a little India living and thriving at the heart of Mauritius. However, she has developed intricate cultural nuances over the time, mixed with European and African influence as well. So expect a Mauritian to refer to Monsoon as La Monsoon, as a part of widespread french influence of everyday language. English is the official language of the islands and other islets and atolls. Invasive Bollywood makes Hindi indispensable and easily understood in everyday life. 

And why not? First came the Arabs. Then the Dutch. French and the British followed. Along came Africans and Indians. the Chinese traders. A man-less island was built for human habitat from scratch. 

This is Creole. This is Mauritius. And it is beautiful beyond words to observe a cultural potpourri from this vast expanse of the world. 

The soul of Creole manifests itself the best in a food platter. The daal. The parathas. The fish samosas. The Mauritius biryani with that coveted addition of potato. The tea addicts brother and sisters! Oh my God! I was always on the lookout for the invisible umbilical cord with India and Mauritius showed me plenty!

Language understood and spoken in Mauritius: English, French, Hindi and of course, Creole.

6. Festivals of Mauritius

Talking about humans from around the globe, can we be bereft of festivals and celebrations? Mauritius celebrates a number of festivals irrespective of religious bias. 

• Maha Shivrati (Hindu pilgrimage to Grand Bassin)
• Ganesh Chaturthi
• Cavadee (Tamil event of firewalking and sword walking)
• Christmas and New Year
• Chinese Spring Festival/New Year
• Eid-ul-fitr
• Golf Tournament 
• International Creole Day (FIK)
• Indian Ocean Island Games

Also read: Most beautiful beaches in Thailand!

7. Exploring Mauritius by Car/ Bike/ Public Transport

The island has long stretches of beautiful smooth highways connecting north to south. It is a pleasure to drive on these roads. In fact, if you are planning on traveling in Mauritius independently, you must sign up for one such self drive car.

Uber is not operational in mMauritius. Just use local taxi is you want someone else to drive you.

Holiscoot lets you rent royal enfield too if biking is what you love! Pick up is from the hotel you ascertain Bicycles are available on rent (or for free) in most of the resorts. In fact, cycling is encouraged as this is a slower and more earthy way to explore the island.

I prefer to travel by public bus. With 900+ bus stops (!) on the island itself, Mauritius presents a very sweet deal for commoners like us! The vivid green bus stops await you eagerly to serve.

Few things to keep in mind while using the effective and economic bus service in Mauritius.

• Bus Service in Mauritius operates from 5:30 in the morning till 8 pm with regular frequency.
• Port Louis has Bus Service till 11 pm though.
• Express bus has AC service.
• Airport is well connected with Bus Service with the rest of the island.
• Two major bus stops in Port Louis are Victoria Square and Immigration Square. Walk-able distance.
• us ride in Mauritius is cheap so keep change in your pockets. Of course, use MUR (Mauritius rupee) for payments.

8. Local Currency of Mauritius

Mauritius runs on local Currency Mauritius Rupee. Card is widely accepted at hotels and resorts. For a visit to the local market for souvenir shopping, get some cash handy.

Exchange rate of MUR as on April, 2020

• 1 USD: 39 MUR
• 1 Euro: 43 MUR
• 1 MUR: 1.93 INR

In my experience, the best place to exchange currency in Mauritius is at the airport. Otherwise, I seldom came across exchange shops on the island. You can make an effort to visit port Louis and easily walk into a bank or ATM to withdraw cash. ATMs are rare occurrences elsewhere. You may also ask your hotel to help you with exchange but it may not be the best exchange rate of the day.

9. Plug in used in Mauritius to charge your electric device

Three-pin sockets (what you find in India or London) and the Continental two-pin variety were in use. I carried an universal plug in but it was not needed!

10. Hotel Package Deals: How travel package works in Mauritius

Assuming you are booking your stay at a luxury resort in Mauritius, you will be presented with two options, Half board or Full board (All-inclusive). 

Half board includes buffet breakfast and dinner. No hard drinks. 

Full board includes all the meals with drinks.  I stayed at the Ravenala Attitude Hotel and this system was followed with added afternoon tea and snacks. If you are traveling to Mauritius with a family and ids, all inclusive is a sweet deal.

11. Tipping culture in Mauritius

Tipping is not a mandate in Mauritius but encouraged. Keep a small change for the waiter who serviced you. 10% to 15% is decent.

12. Mauritius follows GMT+4 time format.

Best time to visit Mauritius

A tropical island, Mauritius is a year round destination with bright sunshine and occasional cloud covers. 

However be prepared for a fresh shower every other evening. It is sweaty and humid during the day. If it does not rain, sunsets in Mauritius will take your breath away. 

In January and February, a few cyclones may rock the coastline. It is never cold in Mauritius. Though they say October to May is winter! 

I visited Mauritius in November. It rained on a few evenings.

Best things to do in Mauritius

You will be surprised to know the complete list of activities that are available in Mauritius, given the tiny size of the island nation. There is something on offer for everyone. However, here I am highlighting the best things to do in Mauritius. These activities are a mix of water adventures and cultural gems.

Did you know? For a growing number of Indians, Mauritius is a preferred spot for destination wedding!Isle de France of Olden times!

Things to do in Mauritius if you are a water-baby

• Take a catamaran cruise to the electric blue waters of Indian sea. Sumptuous seafood is available on board. Sip on Mauritian rum makes it a very sweet deal.
• Snorkel. Go deep sea diving. Shark cage diving.
• Parasailing, water skiing are popular sports at the beaches of Mauritius.
• Dive without getting wet with the underwater submarine.
• Deep sea fishing. If you are lucky, you will be accompanied by whales or dolphins.
• Best beaches in Mauritius: Flic and Flac beach, Le Morne, Grand Baie

Also read: 33+ beautiful beaches in G

Things to do in Mauritius if you are a Culture connoisseur

• Groove to the tunes of Sega dance. A fast paced joyous dance form couple with drum beats.
• Visit the century old Central market of Port Louis were fresh produce from the depth of Mauritian countryside is brought for trade.
• Pay a visit to the Aprabashi Ghat, a UNESCO heritage site telling the compelling story of indentured labors’ migration from the Indian subcontinent.
• Visit l’Aventure du Sucre, the museum of Sugar Plantation.
• Visit and learn about the history of Tea Plantation in Mauritius with Bois Cheri.
• Visit Grand Bassin, a sacred pilgrimage spot for the Hindus of the island.
• Scroll at the waterfront and check out the art galleries of Mauritius.
• Climb atop Fort Adelaide and get a view of the bay and the race course.
• Indulge in a cooking session by sighing up with one of the local cooking classes of the island! If you have fallen in love with Rum, learn to stir up a few rum cocktails as well!

Also read: Walking at the heritage quarter of Old Phuket Town, beyond the over-touristy Phuket!

Things to do in Mauritius if you want to be close to nature under glorious sunshine

• A visit to the seven colour Earths of Chamarel is a prized experience in Mauritius.
• Witness sunset over the Gold Course from Chateau Bel Ombre.
• Visit the Pamplemousse Botanical Garden and learn about Flora and fauna endemic to the island. Catch a few flying fox in the sky!
• Go hiking if you love the mountains. Once a volcano, Mauritius has a number of highlands away from the crowds. The most melancholic and prized ascent is one at the Le Morne Brabant. It is where the indentured slaves ran away and established a free settlement. Once the island of Mauritius was liberated and the army came all the way up to bring them back home, they committed suicide by jumping to the sea right the from cliff. Le Morne is a UNESCO heritage site.
• There are a number of waterfalls in Mauritius. The Alexandra Falls at Black River Gorge National Park is the most iconic one among them.

If you are looking for a relaxing holiday in Mauritius, consider the following tips!

None can blame if you want to lounge by the ocean and that is your supreme plan for the day! Mauritius, after all, is called paradise for her sugary beaches!

Resorts usually provide a number of non motorized boats for its guests to venture into the lagoon next. In those glass bottom boats, you can see the water underneath and probably will catch a baby shark dancing! Go for it. Or don’t. There is a bean bag. There is a coconut tree. The sea kisses your feet. What else you can even ask for?

Things to do in Mauritius if you are an urban soul!

• Go for a gold session. There are multiple golf courses in Mauritius, some are at the north of the island. One (heritage Golf Course) is in Southern tip. Check out this map .
• Go for shopping at Port Louis.
• You can even participate on Horse racing at Champ De Mars, Port Louis.
• Take a helicopter or microlight tour over the island in Mauritius.

Ideal Neighborhoods to stay in Mauritius

2 days in the South, 2 days in the East, 2 days in the north and rest of the time in the west! That is the ideal way to experience Mauritius. Told me the owner of Kazalala bnb. 

It can be a bit of too much movement, TBH! On a relaxing holiday, you may not want to move every two days. And the West is the best in Mauritius, let me tell you! What grandiose in their sunsets! 

However, the eastern beaches have a beautiful reef barrier at a distance. The south is still untouched and retains a charm specific to peaceful coves. The north is chaotic yet abuzz with people and events! And it is close to the capital, Port Louis, how can we forget?

It is so difficult to choose a perfect place to stay in Mauritius. However, loosely speaking, I would suggest allocating your days and time for each area. Do not lose out on South. The West is too beautiful to be ignored. So is the Grand Baie area of Mauritius! 

Some of the finest beaches and neighborhoods of Mauritius:

• Flic en Flac
• Trou aux Biches
• Sugar beach

How to Decide on a Budget for Mauritius Travel

Is it expensive to travel in Mauritius? 

I got this question a lot while traveling in Mauritius. 

Please understand, when you are planning a honeymoon, you will not shy away from spending a little extra to make it a grand affair. 

Mauritius has seamlessly projected itself as a honeymoon destination with all the right value offerings. There are plenty of options to bring the moon to the earth’s surface, say your spouse asking for it. 

Luxury is redefined. Gourmet culture is celebrated. Shopping is rewarding. 

For a week-long honeymoon in Mauritius at a four star good value property (say Ravenala Attitude ), you need to shell out 1.2 lakh INR ( Euro 1400). For a five star property, the price will go up at INR 5 lakh or so.

If you are aiming for a higher price, sky’s the limit really. 

What about those looking for a budget vacation? Is Mauritius not affordable for the budget travelers?

It is absolutely affordable for budget travelers. I have known a couple of friends who have been to Mauritius and spent as low as 20k INR per person for a week-long vacation. That said, please remember a number of activities will be cut off the list. 

A few budget hacks for exploring Mauritius that are actually fun:

• Trust the bus service or rent a bicycle from your hotel or BnB. 
• Choose to stay with the BnBs or local guest houses. 
• Hang out with locals at the beach, especially on Sunday evenings.
• Go on hiking trails but be cautious of wildlife. 
• Chase the hidden waterfalls at Black river gorge. 
•  Explore Central Market, a century old fresh market at Port Louis which is free to explore.
• If you are religious, check out Grand Bassin or Ganga Talao, the nerve center of Hinduism on the island. You can also check out the rolling tea gardens at Central Highlands.

Also read: 2 weeks in Malaysia: the only itinerary you need.

Try out the Scintillating Creole Cuisine

Seafood? Check! Biryani with potato? Check! Delectable Japanese sushi? Yes please! Dholl Puri, an iconic food that crossed the seven seas with its people? Of course!

Mauritius resembles an inquisitive experimenter’s lab when it comes to cuisine. There is no dearth of resources. There are equally participative takers for the end result! So served is a fillet of grouper topped with zucchini curved as a fish scale! What a delight to have such great food served and savoured!

Creole cuisine: Cuisine of Mauritius

As an Indian, I can not help but notice amazing influence of Indian cuisine on Mauritian kitchen. The samosa is stuffed with seafood but it is samosa at the end. Curry, Daal are used in abundance. Coconut is served on top to garnish, just like we do here at the sun continent. Rice and Fish curry is a basic meal in Mauritius. And it is a delight to share the table with a local, and finding those missing links of our shared gourmet culture.

The Dholl Puri (dal puri as we call it here) that you get to eat in Mauritius is a true delight, and surprise! The bread never felt more supple. the filling of chick peas never taste more savory! You can choose what filling goes in it but the basic one goes first, just so that you know how history found a way through maritime affairs! It is amazing! It is an experience of its own!

Best places to eat Dholl Puri in Mauritius: Dewa and Sons. From ferrying on the back of a bicycle inside an aluminium box, to becoming a household name, Dewa and Sons has become a brand and how! There would a long queue jostling for that brilliant sauce of Chilli and coriander.

Do not miss a luncheon on a traditional banana leaf, a thali (very much like South India, yes again that Indian connect) and served with piping hot rice and octopus fry, followed by tomato based fish curry. Butter beans are added sometimes. Gateaux Piments (local chilli cakes) is served too.

Truth be told, I was taken aback when I discovered a humble biryani stall at one corner of the Port Louis! Star Deg as it was named, the seller was equally enthusiast in sharing how this came to be in this island. I noticed, a potato found a place in the Biryani of Mauritius.

Also read: The Best Kolkata Mutton Biryani with Potato!

Sample itinerary for 7 days in Mauritius

I often get asked, how many days are good enough to plan a vacation in Mauritius. My answer is unequivocally, 10 to 14 days. However, it is not a bad idea to spend at least 7 days on the island! 

Following is a sample 7 days Itinerary for Mauritius that takes you through all the 4 corners of the island. You can tweak the itinerary a bit, add in more days for leisure or make room for more activities depending on your interest. This particular Mauritius itinerary for a week is heavy on cultural experience. 

Day 1 : Reach Mauritius International Airport (MRU) and head towards your hotel. Ideally close to the Turtle Bay. Reserve a dinner table at the iconic French restaurant Chateau Mon Desir at the Maritim resort. 

Day 2 : Reserve this day for lounging at the beach. Explore the sprawling resort you are staying at. Soak in some sunshine. At sunset, groove to the tunes of Sega dance. Live up the night life in the Grand Baie area at night. 

Day 3: Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius demands your undivided attention for a day at least if not more. Its fascinating central market, somber UNESCO heritage site of Aprabashi Ghat, sumptuous biryani and Dholl Puri stalls will enthrall you. As you head from one neighborhood to the other, you will be stunned by the nuanced cultural mix of different ethnic communities, the Chinese, the Bohra Muslims, the Hindus. 

For lunch head towards the waterfront area. It is also a sprawling shopping complex to pick up a souvenir from Mauritius. My favourite is the dodo bird. By going extinct, it is a constant reminder to mankind’s sin and demands celebration. 

Head back to your hotel. Make a pit stop at one of the sugar cane plantation if you have time.

Day 4 : Did you know the rolling meadows of Mauritius house the country’s iconic tea gardens? If there were Britishers, there would have to be a culture of evening tea. Nay?

Born was the organization named Bois Cheri. For 15 Euro per person, you can head to the tea plantation, the mill, the museum (where a Kolkata connection awaits and a steam engine), and the chalet allowing magnificent views of the South coast of the island. 

Since you are close to the south, reserve a fine dining experience at the Chateau Bel Ombre. By far, dining at the Chateau Bel ombre is the finest and the most exclusive travel experience of my life. It definitely deserves a detailed blog post. 

Day 5 : Living close to the waters, and you will not take a dive in the mystic belly of Indian ocean? Reserve a cruise with the catamarans for this day. If you are feeling adventurous, do not forget to opt for scuba diving. End of the day, witness a florid sunset while sipping on rum, a local produce of Mauritius.

Day 6: Take a guided hiking tour to the UNESCO world heritage Le Morne Brabant, home to the runaway slave who jumped at the sea bed on predicting army advance from mainland Mauritius. The peak is at 700 meters and there is a defined trail. For a beginner hiker, some parts of the trail can be a challenge. Alternatively, you can visit Pamplemousse Botanical Garden for prized natural siting followed by Seven Coloured Earths at Chamarel.

Day 7: Day to bid adieu to the paradise called Mauritius. Sign up for a spa session at the resort for today. Explore the property. The resorts in Mauritius are a world of its own! Visit a local fishing village. Pay respect to the Gods at Ganga Talao. And fly back home as the sun sets!

Also read: 2 weeks in Myanmar: the lesser known jewel of South East Asia!

FAQs about Traveling in Mauritius

Is it safe to travel to Mauritius?

I traveled with a group since it was a press trip however I extended my stay for a while and explored the island by my own. I never felt threatened.

At night, streets are not always lit. I think this is an issue (or is it?) in Africa as a whole. Is it a cultural thing? I do not know!

Practice regular travel safety tips like not befriending random person, do not drink with newly made friends, welcome every move with controlled suspicion and you are good to go. Violent crimes and crime against women are not completely unheard of in Mauritius yet they are considerably low in proportion.

Is there Mosquito in Mauritius?

There are plenty of mosquito in Mauritius. You meet them during hikes. You meet them at the beach. You meet them while eating ice cream at the water front. Be prepared (for snakes too if you are venturing into the wild interiors).

Can you drink tap water in Mauritius?

I never did. But internet says it is doable. I repeat, I did not drink tap water in Mauritius.

Best sim card system in Mauritius for first time travelers?

I used Orange and it had amazing network coverage, with great 4G connection everywhere on the island. You get to see an Orange outlet at the airport itself.

Is it safe to swim in Mauritius?

Remember the lagoon I spoke about? It is completely safe to swim within it. You can go snorkeling with kits as well. Beyond the reef, lies mighty Indian Ocean with endless deep at her heart. Stay away from her.

There are currents and high tides and low tides even at the lagoon.

Responsible Travel Tips for Mauritius

Water everywhere, not a drop to drink!

Water scarcity is a common issue plaguing all the islands of Mauritius. Rainwater is harvested and stored for year round use. Desalination of seawater is another option. 

Be cognizant of the fact while using water in Mauritius.

Explore Rodrigues beyond Mauritius

Go off the beaten path leaving behind the much trodden tourist trails. Say, venture out for Rodrigues island. The neighboring island is virtually off from the major tourist maps and painfully beautiful nonetheless.

Support local Artists/Business in Mauritius

Say you are staying in the island for a week or so. Book a stay with one of the boutique BnBs for a duration. And live it up in a resort for the rest of the day. You would be enchanted with local hospitality of Mauritius, that is a promise.

Support local brands like Mauricette who make amazing tee shirts. I loved all of their tees with a Dodo print on it!

S Naigon is an intriguing artist who sits by the entrance at Waterfront in Port Louis. His art work ranges from sketches to branches to cane. His specialty is sculpting rusty tree branches with the help of fingers.

Also read: Tracing back doors at the Stone Town, Zanzibar!

My heart longs for more of Mauritius

I was pleasantly surprised in Mauritius. A tiny island nation had plethora on offer, apart from the fact it housed our brethren from Indian ancestry. Bit by bit, we shared meals, dreams, laughter and so much more. Mauritius etched a permanent place in my heart. Here are a few activities which I loved. If you love soaking in the cultural glory of a destination, do not ignore these tips:

• Dining at chateau Bel Mmbre
• Staying at Kazalala BnB (would choose this over luxury stays any-day, loved it so much)
• A trip to the central market at Port Louis
• Visit to the Unesco Heritage site Aprabashi Ghat. It is a mellow sombre experience and a must for any Indian visiting Mauritius. The scenic drives through sugarcane plantations will never be the same again.

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7 Responses

Love all of your photos from Mauritius! I was there last November and wish I had more time to explore all the amazing places on the island like you did!

Wow, Mauritius looks absolutely stunning! So interesting to learn more about this island nation. I would LOVE to visit one day.

Wow I dream of visiting Mauritius one day. Thanks for such an extensive guide.

Mauritius is the honey moon destination for most of the newly married couples. It is having all the means of fun and enjoyment of it.

Hey thanks for posting this useful tip hereMauritius travelguideblog, I really hope it will be helpful to many. Appreciative content!!This is really Wonderful information, thanks a lot for sharing kind of content with us.

Great Article! Thank u for sharing this article

Wonderful blog had a small query Is no documentation needed before reaching the immigration counter in Mauritius, for the visa..that is nothing needs to be done for it while in India?

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10 Days in Mauritius: The Ultimate Itinerary (First Time Visit)

10 days in mauritius: best things to do and see.

You’re planning a 10-day trip to Mauritius and you’re looking for the best Itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and sunshine practically all year round, Mauritius is the dream trip for those looking for relaxation and a laid-back holidays while enjoying amazing natural landscapes.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this recommended Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 days in Mauritius .

During your trip, you will enjoy the most beautiful beaches, hike in the Black River Gorges National Park, go to the top of the Morne Brabant , explore Port Louis (the capital city), scuba dive in the lagoon and a lot more!

For this itinerary, in addition to the best things to do and must-see attractions , I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Mauritius in 10 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1) The north: Grand Baie / Cap Malheureux / Trou aux Biches (2 days)

2) the pamplemousses botanic garden / l’aventure du sucre (1 day), 3) port louis (1 day), 4) tamarin falls: the seven waterfalls trail (1 day), 5) flic-en-flac (1 day), 6) le morne brabant (2 days), 7) belle mare and île aux cerfs (1 day), 8) mahébourg and blue bay (1 day), where to stay in the north of mauritius: stages 1, 2, and 3, where to stay in the south of mauritius: stages 4, 5 and 6, where to stay in the east of mauritius: stage 7, where to stay in mahébourg: stage 8, 10-day mauritius road trip: rent a car, renting a boat in mauritius, you’re traveling in mauritius these articles will help you.

After a few hours of flight, you’ll touch down early in the morning at Mauritius International Airport, close to Mahébourg, in the southeast.

Drop off your bags at your accommodation and let’s dedicate the first two days of this 10-day Mauritius itinerary to explore the northern region of the island .

To make the most of your trip, rent a car from one of the airport agencies for easy and unrestricted movement. Booking.com Cars is the place to go to easily compare all the car rental offers in Mauritius.

The best part? You can cancel for free if you change your mind!

Not into driving? No worries! Buses are a decent option , but be warned, some trips can be a bit lengthy .

On the first day of this awesome Mauritius tour , head towards Grand Baie , one of the liveliest cities on the island. It’s a magnet for tourists and home to some seriously rich folks ! (Just check out those jaw-dropping seaside villas!)

Start your day by walking on the lovely public beach . If you take the bus, you’ll get off directly in front of the beach. A bus stop with a view of a gorgeous white sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise water.

Quite a sight if you’re not used to such stunning scenery!

How about starting your morning with a leisurely stroll along Grand Baie beach ?

Picture this: colorful boats gently swaying on the water, warm sand beneath your toes, and plenty of delightful food stalls tempting you with a variety of snacks, fruits, and mouthwatering Mauritian specialties to savor!

After your beach bliss, let’s take a stroll to Sunset Boulevard , the lively shopping street in town. In case you’re in the mood for some retail therapy!

Treat yourself to a scrumptious “roti” on the beach (a pancake stuffed with savory curries), dholl puri, or samosas. And to satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in a pineapple carved into a flower for dessert , or have a freshly hollowed-out coconut right on the spot.

If dining at a restaurant is more your style , fret not! Grand Baie has got you covered with a wide range of options by the sea. I had a delightful lunch at Eatwithfingers (you can find it on Vingt-Pieds Road—hop on a bus or take your wheels), a super cool new restaurant serving up homemade plant-based dishes that are not only modern and delicious but also served in a super family-friendly ambiance.

After this half-day in Grand Baie, I recommend you continue discovering the northern beaches by heading now about ten kilometers from there, towards Pereybere beach . It’s a lovely little beach where it’s nice to swim, relax, and admire the sunset .

Voyage Tips - Advice On Saturdays and Sundays, the beaches can get crowded (Mauritians tend to meet up with family or friends and camp on the beach on weekends). If you want to relax in peace , it’s better to schedule beach days during the week .

For the second day of this 10-day adventure in Mauritius , we keep on rolling with dreamy beaches (because, let’s be honest, that’s why we’re all here!) and make our way to Trou aux Biches .

This charming little tourist town nestles in the northwest of the island , and its beach is one of the finest in the region . Picture this: white powdery sand, turquoise sea, swaying palm trees, and vibrant bougainvillea… A postcard-perfect paradise!

For this second sun-kissed day on the island, here’s the plan to make the most of Trou aux Biches :

• Swimming and snorkeling to admire the local marine life
• Trying out water sports offered by the beach hotels (diving, parasailing, water skiing, sailing…)

In the afternoon , let’s change things up a bit and make our way to the northern tip of the island to check out one of my absolute favorite spots in Mauritius: the stunning beach of Cap Malheureux .

You can’t miss it! This one-of-a-kind location is absolutely unmistakable! The beach is overlooked by a bright red wooden church , which perfectly contrasts with the blue sky and sea.

Wander along the water’s edge, plonk yourself on the sand, and admire the sunset to wrap up this stunning day.

The next leg of your 10-day Mauritian road trip takes you to the Pamplemousses Botanic Garden , a lush botanical reserve created in the 18th century by a French botanist.

My suggestion for your morning: pay a visit to the garden , either with a guide or on your own, to explore a variety of tropical, local, and imported plants . You’ll come across all sorts of palms, baobabs, giant water lilies, an array of fruit trees , and aromatic plants… and be prepared to spend 1 to 2 hours exploring this fascinating garden!

Pack a picnic and lunch on the grass, by the water, or under the trees!

For the afternoon’s activity , stick around the Pamplemousses area and head to L’Aventure du Sucre, the sugar museum where you’ll get a comprehensive look at Mauritius’ history and local sugar production . “L’aventure du sucre” litteraly means the Sugar Adventure.

Don’t miss the end-of-tour tasting of various sugars , Mauritian rums, and jams. Allow 1.5 hours for a quick visit, or up to 3 hours for a detailed one.

For the third leg of your 10-day holiday in Mauritius, I suggest you explore the country’s bustling capital: Port Louis .

Port Louis, teeming and lively , stands in stark contrast to the divine beaches and lush greenery of Mauritius. With scant green spaces, sometimes discordant buildings, concrete, and crowds in motion, the vibe here is quite a departure from what you’ve experienced so far.

But Port Louis is a must-visit for anyone looking to discover authentic local life and Mauritian culture .

Things to do and see in Port Louis include:

• A quick trip to the central market on Queen Street , known as the “bazar” among the locals. It’s a buzzing city hotspot that’s not to be missed!
• A stroll in downtown Port Louis to explore the Place d’Armes, Jardin de la Compagnie, the government palace , charming cobblestone alleys, and the few rare old Creole houses that remain.
• A wander and shopping at Caudan Waterfront , the island’s oldest mall, shaped like a small village and built on the waterfront.
• Visit the Blue Penny Museum (located at the entrance of Caudan, near the parking), which will immerse you in the island’s history and culture.
• Dinner at Caudan in one of the seaside restaurants.

To discover the culinary specialties of Mauritius, I recommend you book a guided street food tour in Port Louis.

Lasting 3 hours , it allows you to visit the market and of course taste local cuisine . You’ll find all the details about this outing by clicking here:

Absolutely no doubt about it, this hike is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have during your tour of Mauritius. It was one of my favorite days during my 10-day stay on the island.

The starting point for the Seven Waterfalls Trail is near Curepipe , in the center-west of the island. You have two exciting routes to choose from : the short route of the 4 cascades (half-day) or the full route of the 7 cascades (full day).

I can’t stress this enough: take a guide with you ! Even though the paths are marked (albeit very subtly), it can be quite challenging to find your way when you’re unfamiliar with the area.

You need to book this guided hike by clicking on the following button:

So, get ready for a day of walking in the heart of the tropical forest where several cascades, each more beautiful than the last, await you. Of course, you can take a dip while soaking up the sublime surrounding nature.

Let’s now head to the west coast of the island, specifically to the lively tourist town of Flic en Flac.

It’s the liveliest city in the west . Here, tourists and locals blend seamlessly, creating an exciting atmosphere. It also boasts a remarquable concentration of luxury hotels .

You can bask in the beauty of a stunning and expansive beach with a breathtaking view of the Morne Mountain . And when the sun sets, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with cozy cafes, delightful restaurants, and beachfront clubs for an evening of pure fun.

For your day in Flic-en-Flac, I suggest:

• Enjoying the beach while lounging on the white sand or under the filaos trees
• Observing marine life (very rich and not far from the shore!) by snorkeling in the lagoon
• Tasting delicious and fresh snacks and fruits sold by beach vendors
• Having dinner in one of the beachfront restaurants
• And if you’re in the mood to groove and dance the night away, spending some time at the disco just across the beach is an absolute must!

It’s time for the sixth stage of this fantastic 10-day adventure in Mauritius! Now we’re heading south to the region of Le Morne Brabant Mountain .

Le Morne Brabant is a symbolic mountain in Mauritius , emblematic of a rich and tragic history linked to the era of slavery. That’s why, at the base of Le Morne mountain, right across the beach of the same name, you’ll spot the “ Memorial of the Unknown Slave “, a tribute to the slaves who met their end on the mountain.

So, for day one in the south, how about a trek to Le Morne’s peak ? While it’s a pretty doable hike , I wouldn’t recommend it for kiddos or those who aren’t fans of heights. Some paths can get pretty steep.

Sure, you can climb it solo, but grabbing a guide or someone familiar with the terrain might be your best bet. The guides are very cool and will drop tons of knowledge about the area. Plus, they’ll help you navigate and ensure you stay safe. Set aside roughly 3 to 4 hours for the round trip.

To book this hike with a guide , simply click on the following button:

Once you’ve conquered Le Morne, you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the southern coast and the azure ocean . It genuinely took my breath away – easily one of the highlights from my 10-day Mauritius adventure.

If you’re thinking of taking the guided route, book ahead of time .

After the exhilarating hike, I, for one, chilled out at the stunning Le Morne beach right at the mountain’s foot. Do yourself a favor and do the same. It’s your postcard-perfect white sandy beach , perfect for winding down.

Next up, the following morning: make your way to Chamarel to see one of Mauritius’s most iconic sights: the Seven Colored Earth (just a short bus or taxi ride from Le Morne) Admission is charged, but you can grab your tickets in advance right here .

First up, you’ll come across a waterfall and yup, you can dive in if you fancy a swim. Keep going, and you’ll find yourself in front of an expansive clearing of sand dunes , displaying an impressive gradient of colors.

You might find it hard to believe it’s all-natural, but trust me, it is, and it’s drop-dead gorgeous.

On your way out, consider stopping by the Chamarel Rum Distillery to learn all about Mauritian rum.

Next on the agenda, indulge in some mind-bending fun at the “ Curious Corner “, a quirky optical illusion museum right next to the Seven Colored Earth.. It’ll take about an hour of your time.

Got some energy still bouncing around in you? Then hit the road to the Black River Gorges National Park . It’s a trekker’s paradise with plenty of hiking trails revealing the tropical forest’s heart and soul, complemented by breathtaking views.

For day seven of your 10-day Mauritian road trip, the east coast awaits .

Wild and still pristine , the East is a trove of wonders, and an essential pitstop for a full Mauritian experience.

So, steer your way to Belle Mare with its breathtaking 10 km beach stretch . This part of the island boasts the country’s largest lagoons , making it a dream spot for snorkeling and diving.

By midday or early afternoon, set your sights on Trou d’Eau Douce beach , just a hop, skip, and a jump to the south. From there, you can hop on a boat to Île aux Cerfs .

Île aux Cerfs is a dreamy little island off the coast. Gonna lay it out straight: it’s a tourist magnet. But, oh boy, it’s worth it. The island is utterly mesmerizing ! The boat ride on the crystal-clear lagoon is an experience in itself.

You can spend a glorious half-day chilling on Île aux Cerfs , exploring, swimming, or trying out various sporty and water activities . And yes, they’ve got shops and eateries to indulge in.

Bright and early the next morning, coast along the shoreline northwards, heading for Bras d’Eau National Park .

Spanning roughly 500 hectares, this forest reserve is the perfect recharge spot. It’s serene with few visitors , plunging you deep into nature’s embrace.

Getting there by car? Piece of cake. Just park at the entrance.

Opting for public transport? Drop off at Flacq, then grab a taxi to the park’s entrance.

I’d say, get there early to spot and hear local endemic birds like the Grey White Eye, the Woodcock, or the Kestrel. You might also bump into monkeys, bats, and wild boars.

Along your stroll, you’ll stumble upon ancient sugar mill ruins, a lime kiln , an old railway line, and several ponds.

Why not pack a picnic and enjoy it in the midst of nature’s wonders, immersing yourself in the delightful atmosphere?

As your final day in Mauritius approaches, consider heading south to conclude your journey while staying conveniently close to the airport.

You’ve been to the southwest already, so now it’s time to zip over to the southeast, to the delightful town of Mahébourg . Fun fact: this was once the capital of Mauritius . Today, it’s a quaint harbor and tourist town , oozing with laid-back vibes.

Here’s what’s popping in Mahébourg:

• Stroll through central Mahébourg to get a taste of local life. Eye the charming Creole houses, meander through quaint alleys, and take in those oceanfront views.
• Check out Rault’s Biscuit Factory for some scrumptious traditional Mauritian cassava biscuits. Trust me; you’ll want seconds (and thirds)!
• Swing by the covered market for some souvenir shopping. (Your friends and fam will thank you.)

Next stop: Blue Bay , just a few kilometers down the road. Blue Bay’s a posh touristy spot with an absolutely gorgeous beach .

Your time in the Mauritian sun is ticking, so I’d say spend the rest of the day chilling on the sandy shores , taking a dip, and maybe even hopping on a glass-bottom boat tour for some underwater sightseeing.

Tickets for the boat tour are available for purchase by clicking here .

If you’ve got some time on your hands, don’t skip the boat trip to Île aux Aigrettes , a must-see bird sanctuary. You can set sail from Pointe Jérôme.

Where to stay in Mauritius

When in Mauritius, you’ve got two choices:

• Book just one hotel for your entire stay . Mauritius might be tiny, but this means a tad more driving each day. Bright side? No packing and unpacking!
• Book different hotels for each leg of our 9-10 day Mauritius adventure. Less time on the road and a fresh new place to crash each night. Win-win!

Check out our top hotel picks for every leg of your journey based on your budget. Book ASAP , because the best rooms in Mauritius get snapped up in no time!

• Résidence Obleue : Situated in Peyrebere. Brand-new, modern, and bright apartment with a fully equipped kitchen from €50 a night. Strong points: The location, free private parking, the pool, and the rooftop. The top choice in the north for an affordable stay in Mauritius!
• Bleu de toi Boutique Guesthouse : Located a mere 5-minute walk from Peyrebere beach. Warm and nicely decorated double rooms from €75 a night. Strong points: The pool, the outdoor areas, the peaceful atmosphere, the top-notch staff!
• Corail Blue Private Villas by Lov : Located between Grand Baie and Peyrebere. Ultra-modern, enormous (180m²), and superbly equipped villa with a private pool from €145 a night, breakfast at €12. Strong points: The beauty of the luxurious villas, the private pool, the location, the comfort. Truly an exceptional place in the north of Mauritius !
• Seapoint Boutique Hotel : Located 4 km from Grand Baie. Luxurious and stunning double rooms from €340 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The breathtaking views from the rooms of the garden and the sea, the beautiful outdoor areas, the excellent breakfast, the proximity to the beach, the attentive staff, and the quality of service. The best choice for a luxury stay in the north of Mauritius!  
• Arkenstone Studios : Located close to Chamarel and Le Morne Brabant mountain. Modern, spacious, bright, fully equipped studio with a kitchen starting at only €50 a night! Strong points: The location for visiting the 7 Colored Earths and climbing the Morne Brabant mountain, free private parking, the view from the studio balconies, the friendly and helpful host, and the peaceful neighborhood. The best choice for an affordable stay in the south of Mauritius !
• The River House : Located in Tamarin next to the Black River Gorges National Park and Flic-en-Flac. Spacious double room with a terrace and splendid river views starting from €110 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The peaceful location, the stunning setting with the garden and the river, the beach only a 5-minute walk away, the fantastic breakfast, and the pool. It’s my favorite for its incredible value for money !
• Sands Suites Resort & Spa : Located in Tamarin Bay, right on the beachfront. Bright and spacious suites tastefully decorated from €350 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The magnificent views from the rooms, the services on offer, the delightful staff, and the delicious food. Recommended for a luxury stay in south Mauritius !
• Studio Manguillier : Located in Trou d’Eau Douce, just a stone’s throw from the beach. Very spacious, well-equipped apartment from just €50 a night and the bonus, breakfast is even included! Strong points: The view, the terrace, the hearty breakfast, the perfect location for visiting Ile aux Cerfs. Excellent value for money .
• Horisun : Located in Belle Mare, a 10-minute walk from the beach. Double room with balcony and beautiful view from €110 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The quiet location, the exceptional breakfast, the very pleasant staff, the zen ambiance, and bicycles available for riding to the beach. My favorite for its value for money !
• The Residence Mauritius : Located in Belle Mare. Elegant and super spacious double rooms from €200 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The excellent breakfast buffet, the kindness of the staff, the fantastic view, the pool, and the “on the water’s edge” location! A superb choice for treating yourself in Mauritius !
• Sacha Resorts : Nestled in Mahébourg, just 4 km from the airport. Modern and comfortable double room starting at €25 per night. Strong points: The warm welcome, the pool, and a kitchen at your disposal to whip up a meal.
• La Caze Roche Guest House : Located 9 km from the airport. Roomy, super comfortable double rooms starting from €70 a night, including breakfast. Strong points: Exceptionally hearty breakfast, the friendly and helpful owner, the prime location within walking distance to the sea and the Egret Island.
• Holiday Inn Mauritius Mon Trésor : Ideally placed right next to the airport. Stylish and bright double rooms from €160 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The comfy rooms, amenities such as the free shuttle to and from the airport, the quality of the breakfast. The best choice for a high-end hotel in Mahébourg !

For your 9-10 day trip to Mauritius, seriously consider renting a car. It’s hands down the best and quickest way to get around.

For your car rental needs, I’d recommend Booking.com Cars for three solid reasons :

• Compare prices among different providers : Get more bang for your buck and ensure you snag the best deal.
• The site offers a super affordable “full protection” insurance option . Optional, of course, but it’s a steal compared to what other rental places might pitch to you. If any damage occurs, you’re covered!
• Cancellations are often free : Handy if you change your mind!

I’m a regular customer of theirs! Their services have never let me down. If you know your travel dates, you should book right away to get the car you want at the best price. (And anyway, you can always cancel for free if you need to!)

Click the button below to compare prices right away:

If you want to rent a boat for a fun day at sea during your stay in Mauritius, I highly recommend using Samboat . Simply put, they have the most comprehensive boat rental offerings !

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small license-free boats, with or without a skipper: you’ll be spoiled for choice.

So, why wait any longer to book your incredible sea trip in Mauritius ?

Discover all my articles about Mauritius : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mauritius are listed there.

21 Best Things to do in Mauritius – All the best places to visit!

• Itinerary: 1 week in Mauritius – How to visit Mauritius in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mauritius – The definitive guide to visit Mauritius in 10 days!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mauritius – The perfect 14, 15 or 16 days itinerary in Mauritius

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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1 week in Mauritius: Epic 7-8 Day Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 weeks in Mauritius: 14-15 Day Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Visit Mauritius: Top 21 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

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The top things to do in Mauritius, from beaches to botanical gardens

Jan 8, 2022 • 8 min read

Mauritius is the image of Indian Ocean perfection, but there's much more to see than the beaches © Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld / Getty Images

One of the most beautiful islands in the world, Mauritius is the sort of multi-dimensional destination that’s as perfect for families as it is for couples on honeymoon, and just about anyone in between. 

Part of its considerable charm is entirely natural: Mauritius rises from the Indian Ocean like a vision. You can easily imagine how early seafarers must have felt when spotting its beaches and palm trees, forests and mountains, reefs and wild horizons.

Mauritius was also a prototype for multifaceted island tourism, combining the escapist notion of a luxury resort by the sea with rich cultural depth beyond the resort gates. As well as the beaches, you can dive into Mauritius' intriguing historical back-story, unique conservation success stories and sizzling hot culinary experiences.

Dive the West Coast

A stunning lagoon surrounds Mauritius, and these shallow waters are beautifully picturesque in their own right and offer spectacular diving at the reefs on the lagoon rim. Along Mauritius’ west coast, the waves break out near the horizon and the drop-off where the lagoon meets the open ocean is a world of underwater cliffs, populated by an astonishing array of marine life. Flic en Flac is the starting point for many of the best dives, including La Cathédrale, a fine spot to see scuttling lobsters.

Live in the moment on Rodrigues

One of Mauritius' most remote quarters, Rodrigues feels like it occupies a different time and space from the mainland. Life here is focused on the pleasure of day-to-day living and connecting with the land and the people who live full-time in this peaceful outpost. Spend your days taking boat trips to outlying islands, communing with giant tortoises, perusing the Saturday market at Port Mathurin, or diving and snorkeling off the south coast or around La Passe St François. While there’s plenty to do here, a big part of Rodrigues’s charm comes from something altogether simpler: the joy of just being here.

Hike the Black River Gorges

In the forested interior of Mauritius, Black River Gorges National Park is a precious and protected wilderness barely half an hour from the beach. Its dense forest is home to many native species of flora and fauna, including three endangered bird species: the Mauritius kestrel, the echo parakeet and the pink pigeon. As you hike through forests and past waterfalls, watch out for white-tailed tropicbirds flying high above the gorges or pink pigeons by the trail.

Head to the mountains of Chamarel

Of all the excursions away from the coast, a trip to Chamarel is one of the most rewarding days out in Mauritius. High in the hills and with glorious views down towards the coast in places, Chamarel has an emerging culinary reputation thanks to a growing number of casual family-run dining rooms and fine-dining restaurants hidden away among the trees. Other reasons to come include the famous colored sands of Terres de 7 Couleurs , Mauritius’ quirky museum of illusions and the Rhumerie de Chamarel , a fascinating, eco-friendly rum distillery.

Explore an untouched wilderness on Île aux Aigrettes

On the edge of the lagoon just off Mauritius’ pristine southeastern coast, Île aux Aigrettes offers a vision of the ancient and wild Mauritius that greeted early explorers. The old-growth ebony forest here is a reminder of how the whole of the main island appeared before the arrival of European colonists in the 16th century. Restored as part of a government-backed conservation project, the forest today shelters all manner of endangered bird and other wildlife species – be careful not to trip over a Mauritian giant tortoise! 

Relax on the beautiful beaches

The beaches for which Mauritius is famed encircle the island like a garland. All of the resorts have them, but there's so much sand around that you’re never far from a peaceful public beach where you can share the sea with picnicking local families rather than hordes of visiting tourists. The richest choices lie along the east coast, but southern beaches are quieter and wilder and the west coast is far better for those looking for activity out on the water.

Sample Mauritian Creole cooking

Diversity is a defining feature of Mauritian life, and the island's cultural melting pot really comes alive in the island’s culinary story. Indian, Chinese, Franco-Mauritian and Creole influences come together in Mauritian kitchens – dining here is at once a genuine pleasure and a globe-trotting adventure. The island boasts world-renowned chefs and endless places to sample local delicacies and staples. If we had to pick one place to try, it would be the stellar home-style cooking of chef Marie-Ange at informal Restaurant Le Barbizon in Chamarel.

Learn about unusual botany at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens

There are times in Mauritius when it seems as if the wild tangle of tropical vegetation is visibly growing larger before your very eyes. Nowhere is this truer than in the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens at Pamplemousses, originally founded as the vegetable garden for the nearby Mon Plaisir Château in 1735. The garden has expanded considerably from its original footprint – the stars of this gargantuan show are the giant Victoria amazonica water lilies and soulful giant tortoises, but there is so much unusual botany to turn the head that you'll need a few hours to explore.

Imagine the past at Mauritius' historic mansions

Uninhabited until the Dutch took possession of the islands in 1598, Mauritius was at various times, a colony of the Dutch, French and British, before gaining independence in 1968. Under European rule, giant sugar and tea estates filled every available pasture of the Mauritian interior, and watching over these prized plantations were French-style colonial mansions, which today are some of the Indian Ocean's greatest architectural treasures.

Like mini chateaux adapted to the tropics, these stately homes have gorgeous gardens, high ceilings, ornate verandas and cantilevered windows to catch the breeze. Check out the Eureka Mansion in Moka or Château Labourdonnais near Pamplemousses, for fine examples of the style.

Have the ultimate resort experience

If the main reason you’re traveling here is for some relaxing downtime by the water, the beach resorts of Mauritius have few peers. Some resorts are the height of exclusivity – if you’re staying at one of these lavish properties on a honeymoon or luxury break, you may never want to leave the resort grounds. Other resorts cater wonderfully well for families, with kids clubs, water sports and more. It doesn’t matter which secluded corner of the island you head to, there'll be abundant resorts to choose from. Expect large and luxurious rooms, multiple swimming pools, ample gardens, world-class restaurants, organized activities and perhaps a no-indulgence-spared spa.

Meander the Rodrigues Coastal Walk

Rodrigues already feels like the end of the earth, but the coastal walk from Graviers to St François just confirms it. There’s nothing to interrupt the views over the ocean to the distant horizon, save for the occasional cloud or passing seabirds and the silence has to be experienced to be believed. Best of all, it’s the only way to reach Trou d'Argent , which surely must be Mauritius prettiest beach.

Look for whales & dolphins

If east coast Mauritius is known for its resorts, the west coast is all about getting out on and under the water. Spinner or bottlenose dolphins are frequently sighted in the lagoon off Tamarin , and you can avoid the free-for-all by going to see them with Dolswim , who follow strict rules to ensure the dolphins are not disturbed. From July to October or November, humpback whales migrate down through the open ocean off the west coast and can be spotted breaching beyond the lagoon.

Sample seafood by the sand

Global culinary influences and celebrity resort chefs are one thing, but there’s no finer dining experience in Mauritius than grabbing a table at a beachfront shack in Trou aux Biches on the north coast or St Francois in Rodrigues, and ordering the freshest Indian Ocean seafood imaginable. Take your pick from lobster, prawns, octopus, grilled fish, calamari and more, and decide whether you want it served grilled or smothered in a red Creole sauce, then sit back and enjoy your seafood feast with a view.

Explore by boat for epic views from the water

Mauritius and remote Rodrigues may get all the attention, but there’s an often-missed archipelago of inner islands within a day’s boat trip of the main island. To the east are Île aux Deux Cocos and  Île aux Cerfs – crowded in parts, but offering some gorgeous quiet corners. Pretty Île aux Bénitiers lies off the west coast, and away to the north, there’s even more choice – Coin de Mire, Île Plate and Îlot Gabriel are all delightful. Combine exploring with time spent snorkeling and a picnic lunch, and you have one fine Mauritius day.  

Climbing Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant, the dramatic peak rising abruptly from the southwest shore of Mauritius, is a Unesco World Heritage-listed site. It served as a home for a group of people dubbed the Maroons, who escaped from slavery and took refuge on this once remote peninsula. Upon learning that a group of officers was heading to their camp, the Maroons leaped to their deaths rather than be captured again; legend has it that the officers were dispatched to inform the Maroons that slavery had been abolished. The tough but thrilling climb up this poignant peak offers views of most of Mauritius and a humbling monument commemorating the people who died.

Mauritius   is on our 2022 Best in Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations  click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during COVID-19 .

You may also like: Why Mauritius is great for winter sun (and other top times to come) How to explore Mauritius on a budget First time in paradise: the best things to do in Réunion Island

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Bulgaria’s Black Sea Resorts

A montenegro road trip, le mans 24 hours – then and now, rouen – the city of a hundred spires.

Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the island of Mauritius is in reality, just a tiny dot amongst 1,000’s of miles of open water. It did however back in 2015 become the focus of my attention for 5 years as I worked for a UK tour operator successfully promoting the destination to the UK travel trade. This Mauritius travel blog will I hope, help you to understand the best things to do and places to see on this paradise island.

A brief history of Mauritius revolves around three distinct rules of the government. Between 1598-1710 the island was under Dutch rule with their most famous act being the eradication of the famous Dodo for meat consumption…I have never forgiven them! From 1715 – 1810 the island became a French territory having been abandoned by the Dutch – presumably due to them running out of Dodo meat. Then from 1810 to 1968, the island came under British rule following a takeover during the Napoleonic wars. Finally, the island gained its independence on 12 March 1968.

Port Louis, on the west coast, is the capital of Mauritius. Whilst not being the most attractive city there are signs of development and progress both cosmetically and in efforts to divert traffic around the city which has been a problem. Popular features that draw in visitors include Le Caudan Waterfront, the Port Louis Horse Racing Track, and the Mauritius Postal Museum.

Key Information

Getting around.

The airport of Mauritius is located in the southeast corner of the island. Its official name is the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport but to you and me let’s just call it Mauritius Airport. Daily flights arrive from all corners of the globe especially holidaymakers from South Africa, France, and the UK.

Flights One of the drawbacks of going to Mauritius is the flight from the UK. A total of 12 long painful hours direct or you can break it up by going via Dubai. I took this image of the flight route on board my last visit. I was over Ethiopia and pulling my hair out with frustration and boredom let alone cramp! If you can afford to upgrade the flight – it’s worth every penny.

By Road Mauritius is a small island measuring 45 by 65 kilometers however travelling distances can be long, hot, and tiring. The area around the capital Port Louis often gets snarled up during rush hour so try to avoid those times if possible. There are two major roads, the M1, which heads from the capital Grand Baie to the airport, and the new M2, which heads north from the central plateau and bypasses Port Louis. All other roads are generally fine although care should be taken due to the lack of pavements in a few towns and stray dogs.

Car Hire The rental of cars in Mauritius is popular as it allows you the flexibility to travel around the island at your leisure. The fact, that Mauritians drive on the same side of the road as the UK makes driving easy.

Taxis As with anywhere in the world, ensure you get a price before departing. Even though taxis are regulated by the hotel or province and they are on a meter it is still worth that peace of mind. My experience of taking taxis has been great with pleasant drivers and comfortable vehicles.

Bus Catching the local bus in Mauritius is a really fun experience and great value for money however do not expect too much in the way of comfort. Buses operate between all the major towns of Port Louis in the North, Quatre Bornes and Curepipe on the central plateau, Flacq in the East, and Mahebourg in the South East.

Bike Hiring a bicycle is possible although personally, I would not, given the traffic levels in the north particularly.

Boat Catamarans, speedboats, and fishing boats are all available to hire.

Helicopter For those of you looking to take the quickest route from top to toe… and show off, you can always charter a helicopter.

What is the best time to travel to Mauritius? This is a question that gets asked time and time again, often from those who have heard from someone who has had a bad experience due to the weather. The main thing to remember about Mauritius is that the island is in the tropics and it’s a tiny dot in the middle of the Indian Ocean. The weather changes and it changes fast so anything can happen. For example, never believe an online weather forecast until you are within 24 hours of arrival as it’s likely to be wrong. 

Another key consideration worth remembering is that the weather cycle is the opposite of the Caribbean. So when it’s lovely in the Caribbean from January to April – it’s not so great in the Indian Ocean as it is cyclone season. Vice versa when it’s not so great in the Caribbean during their hurricane season – it’s lovely in the Indian Ocean – that’s September to December. From May to August it is generally pleasant although cool in the evenings however, like I said at the beginning – anything can happen! As a useful guide check out this monthly guide to the weather in Mauritius:

Weather Guide

January January is the hottest and wettest month in Mauritius. The average maximum temperature is 30C. Rain tends to be short and sharp bursts and the sun soon comes out again. There is a chance of cyclones in January. Mauritius gets hit by a cyclone twice in a decade.

February A hot and humid month in Mauritius. It is the second rainiest month after January and there is still a chance of cyclones in February. The weather in February isn’t the best time to holiday in Mauritius. The island is less busy with tourists after the busy months of December and January.

March Warm temperatures but there will be some rain. There continues to be the chance of cyclones, although this is not common.

April A hot, humid month with some rain. There is still the potential for cyclones. Depending on when the Easter holidays fall this time will be busy.

May May sees a drop in humidity and average temperatures in May are a minimum of 19C. This is low season in Mauritius so hotel prices are attractive. Temperatures are mild and there is generally not so much rain.

June The month of June is still generally warm, dry, and pleasant with daytime temperatures of 24C. The evenings are cool and you will need a shawl or a jumper.

July The month of July brings mild temperatures and low rainfall. Daytime average temperatures are in the low 20s. Winds can pick up in July so choose a sheltered coast in the North or East. Evening temperatures are cool so bring warm clothes.

August The month of August brings warmer temperatures and low rainfall. Daytime average temperatures are in the low 20s. Just like in July winds are strong. Evening temperatures are cool so bring warm clothes.

September The month of September has the lowest rainfall and long periods of sunshine with day time temperatures in the low 20s. Once again evening temperatures drop to about 18C so bring warm clothes.

October The month of October has average daytime temperatures of 26C and low rainfall. October is a very good time to visit Mauritius.

November Average temperatures are high at about 28C in November. This is the perfect time to visit Mauritius.

December The early part of December is warm and dry. However, as the month continues the rainfall and humidity increase meaning Christmas can be wet but hotels will be sure to lay on entertainment if this is the case.

Places To Stay in Mauritius

With over 150 hotels in Mauritius, there is a huge choice of different accommodations. These include luxury, budget, all-inclusive, adults-only, family-friendly, rustic eco-lodges, and business hotels. Add to this self-catering apartments and villas and Mauritius is sure to have something to suit. Some of the top luxury hotels in Mauritius include:

One & Only St Geran JW Marriott Mauritius Resort The Oberoi Beach Resort Shanti Maurice The Residence Lux Grand Gaube Shangri-La Le Tousserok Constance Belle Mare Plage Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita .

Popular hotel groups on the island that include some all-inclusive options include Constance Hotels, Heritage Resorts, Beachcomber Hotels and Luxe Resorts.

Food & Drink

One of the many delights of a holiday in Mauritius is to enjoy the cuisine which is heavily influenced by Indian, African, French, and Chinese methods.

Seafood dominates many a menu with the usual catch of the day plus the likes of blue marlin, octopus, and shellfish abundant. Often these are matched with palm heart salad and various tropical fruits.

Seasonally you may find venison and wild boar. Beef and chicken stews are popular. Indian and Chinese restaurants are prevalent throughout the island, serving up delicious curries and spicy dishes.

Local Mauritian street food is available in all the main towns and markets. Pancakes, fruits, samosas, spiced meats, and curries alongside homemade sauces and pickles. Coconut and chilli flavouring is common. Chinese noodles and accompanying dishes are widespread. The African heritage can be seen in the Creole rougaille together with spices, tomato, and rice or bread.

Mauritians enjoy their tea and fresh fruit juices. For beer, the locally produced Phoenix beer is light and fresh. Wines are imported with many coming from neighbouring South Africa. Rum is a tradition and varieties include Pink Pigeon, Green Island, and Chamarel.

Sports & Activities

Sea Karting As you can see I enjoyed a couple of hours of sea karting in Mauritius a few years back. While not the cheapest of excursions it is one of the most exhilarating in Mauritius. Two or three people in a Sea Kart and flying around the bay like lunatics. Great fun.

Scuba Diving The coral reefs around the island make diving in Mauritius popular. There are over 100 sites with perhaps the most well-known the Blue Bay Marine Park on the South Eastern coast and Coin Di Mire Island or as otherwise known Gunners Point (image in the main heading) of the North West coast. Various wrecks around the island also represent good opportunities to view lionfish, eels, and rays.  If you want to see some large species of animal then the area called Pass St. Jacques is where you can spot bull shark, barracuda, and grey and whitetip reef sharks.

Swim with Wild Dolphins A few years ago I was lucky enough to swim with wild dolphins off the Le Morne peninsula in southwest Mauritius. If you are up early just after sunrise and take a boat just beyond the coral reef there is every chance a pod of dolphins will come and join you for a swim. After a couple of hours of playtime, you can be back in your hotel for breakfast.

Sunset Cruise A late afternoon catamaran cruise is one of the best ways to not only enjoy a few drinks and a BBQ with friends but also a great way to see Mauritius from a different perspective. There is always the chance to spot dolphins as well as the flying fish that occasionally jump out of the ocean.

GolfThere are nearly 20 really good-quality golf courses in Mauritius. Some are 18 holes and some just the 9 however they attract visitors largely from South Africa for both individual holidays as well as corporate events and groups. The best courses are Iles Aux Cerfs, Belle Mare Plage, Avalon, Tamarina, Anahita, Paradis, Heritage Golf Club and Mont Choisy.

Horse Racing You would not really expect to find horse racing in Mauritius however the Champ de Mars Racecourse is in fact the oldest course in the southern hemisphere. It is located in Port Louis and hosts regular meetings throughout the season.

Casella Nature Park For a great family day out visit Casella Nature Park on the West coast. The park covers 350 hectares and is divided into 5 zones. Thrill Mountain, Predator Kingdom, African Safari, Pangia Birds and Rides and World of Events. There is so much to do from zip lining to rollercoasters and buggy safaris to feeding the giraffes. Casella is a full day’s entertainment that the kids will never forget – and some of the adults too mind. Here is me parked up at a Zebra crossing.

Hiking Le Morne If you are looking for adventure then an excursion to hike Le Morne mountain will definitely be on your to-do list in Mauritius. A pick up from the hotel and upon meeting a guide at the base of the mountain you start to work your way up through the forest following well-worn trails. The route gets steeper before you arrive at a plateau which is halfway and where you can enjoy views of the West Coast and parts of the South. You can continue to the top but this is for the brave. Learn also about the heartbreaking sad history dating back to 1834 of Le Morne and the slave trade.

Chamarel In the south of Mauritius and in the village of Chamarel there is a rum distillery where you can see how rum is made as well as enjoy samples of both rum and other sugar-based products such as their jams. Many excursions offer the chance to tour the Black River Gorge National Park and they will include a stop at Chamarel for some incredible views of the valley from the Chamarel Restaurant. Alongside the restaurant is a viewing area where there are some local stalls selling souvenirs and then a picnic area where you are likely to find monkeys on the search for scraps. Also in Chamarel is a spectacular 95-metre waterfall.

Seven Coloured Earth Not far from Chamarel is the ‘Seven Coloured Earth’. This geographical oddity is a natural phenomenon of seven distinct coloured earths in different layers which have been formed from basaltic lava turning into clay minerals. These dunes are across a relatively small area of land which includes a cafe/restaurant, kids’ play area and some giant tortoises in a pen which to me seemed a bit of an afterthought.

Triolet Shivala, Grand Basin Close to Black River Gorges National Park and the village of Chamarel is the Triolet Shivala at Grand Bassin, a sacred lake to Hindus and the most holy location in all of Mauritius. Hindus believe that it was formed when Shiva spilled drops of water from the Ganges River in India. This is the largest natural lake in Mauritius. Alongside the lake is a temple where you may get a blessing from the local priest. There are also a number of colourful statues of gods to admire.

Festivals & Events

Mauritians celebrate many festivals throughout the year. One of the most recognized music genres of Mauritius and Réunion is Sega which is often heard and seen at events or on the beaches where brightly dressed ladies dance and move to the rhythm and beat of Mauritius.

With its many cultural influences, I have summarised some of the most important festivals and events throughout the year:

January At the end of January or early February, the Chinese New Year takes place and is celebrated with fireworks, and festivities. Thaipoosam Cavadee is celebrated by the Tamil Community in Mauritius in late January or early February.

February At the end of January or early February, the Chinese New Year takes place and is celebrated with fireworks, and festivities. Thaipoosam Cavadee is celebrated by the Tamil Community in Mauritius. In early February there is the Maha Shivaratri pilgrimage, when half a million Hindu people make a pilgrimage to the holy lake of Grand Bassin. The Holi Festival is in late February or early March. The event involves plenty of music and festivities as well as the traditional throwing of coloured powder and water at one another in the streets.

March The Holi Festival is in late February or early March. The event involves plenty of music and festivities as well as the traditional throwing of coloured powder and water at one another in the streets. The island gained its independence on 12 March 1968 and so this is an important public holiday for all Mauritians.

April Mauritius has a reasonably large Christian community, so Easter is celebrated across the island. Tamil New Year is celebrated in April with dance performances and live music. Ugadi, the Telegu New Year festival, is celebrated by the Telegu population of Mauritius.

May The festival Eid Al Fitr is the Festival of Fast-breaking and an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of Ramadan.

June to August Quiet months for festivals.

September Pere Laval Feast Day is on the 9th of September, a Christian holy day when pilgrims start on a long march to the shrine of Father Jacques-Désiré Laval at Sainte-Croix for prayers. In September (and October), the festival Ganesh Chaturthi see Mauritian Hindus celebrating the god Ganesh with various events.

October In October (and September), the festival Ganesh Chaturthi sees Mauritian Hindus celebrating the god Ganesh with various events. In late October or early November, there is Diwali – the Hindu festival of lights when there are displays of fireworks and lanterns as well as celebratory dinners

November In late October or early November, there is Diwali – the Hindu festival of lights when there are displays of fireworks and lanterns as well as celebratory dinners

December Celebrations take place around the Christmas and New Year holidays period.

Best Beaches in Mauritius

The best beaches in Mauritius range from spectacular sandy bays to rugged rocky outcrops and from peaceful lagoons to wild and windy shores. All four sides of the island have different characteristics relating to both the weather and geology.

West Coast Flic en Flac, with its white coral sand and a reef-protected lagoon. Tamarin Bay has no reef so it is popular with surfers and bodyboarders as well as dolphins. Le Morne Peninsula, is a popular location for kite surfing as it is slightly more exposed than other west coast locations. The views are spectacular with Le Morne Brabant mountain as a backdrop.

North Coast La Cuvette Beach in Grand Baie is a public beach full of life and activity. Trou-aux-Biches is a narrow beach of crushed coral and sand. Mont Choisy is a public beach popular for many coming for a day out from Grand Baie.

East Coast Belle Mare, is six miles long, overlooking a large lagoon and lined with palm trees. It is considered one of the finest beaches in Mauritius. A boat ride from the Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa takes you to the island of Ile aux Cerfs.

South Coast The wild south coast of Mauritius is slightly wilder and has no reef. Head west on the south coast and you will find some peaceful more sheltered beaches.

Many of the lagoons are protected by the reefs so there is nothing to fear from sharks. There are nevertheless a few animals to watch out for. Stonefish and lionfish have stings that are extremely painful, sea urchins which are unpleasant should you step on one, and jellyfish which are, upon contact, painful and itchy.

The best nightlife in Mauritius is undoubtedly in Grand Baie which is 20kms to the north of Port Louis in the far north of the island.

Restaurants, sports, music, rustic cocktail bars and nightclubs are aplenty with my favourite having always been the Banana Beach Club where there is live music and a great vibe until the early hours at weekends and till midnight on most other days. The name – well it’s because a banana tree grows up through the centre of the open terrace. It also has a great restaurant and a taxi rank right outside so easy in easy out.

Port Louis has a reasonable amount going on in the evenings whereas the rest of the island’s late-night entertainments particularly in the south are restricted to that which is offered in the hotels.

Wildlife Conservation

La Vanille Nature Park Created in 1985 I have visited on a number of occasions to enjoy the wonderful park dedicated to the breeding and conservation of Giant Tortoises. My highlight was seeing this egg hatching and the start of a Giant Tortoise life that could last for nearly 200 years. I do however question their need to keep the crocodiles for entertainment purposes, rolling them out for feeding time to a screaming audience. Then there are the baby crocodiles, with mouths restrained with bands and offered to visitors for photos upon entry into the park.  They so need to rethink these matters but overall it’s an enjoyable excursion.

Ebony Forest The stunning Ebony Forest in Chamarel is one of the best-preserved native forests in Mauritius. It is an area of biodiversity and an important area for birds and endemic species of wildlife.

Iles Aux Aigrettes The small island Ile aux Aigrettes is situated in Mahebourg Bay, about 850 m off the southeast coast of Mauritius. It’s a wildlife haven for rare and endemic species of birds and plants. I took this photo of a rare pink pigeon here a few years back as they are enticed into feeders. A few giant tortoises roam around but they don’t seem in too much of a hurry. There is a reception center where you are greeted by knowledgeable rangers who will take you on a lovely tour of the little island.

Blue Bay Marine Park Located in the southeast of the island, Blue Bay Marine Park was declared a national park in 1997. It is known for its wide variety of corals, fish, and abundant fauna. This is a really popular place for marine study as well as diving for those with PADI qualifications or for those with a snorkel closer to shore.

Mauritius National Botanical Garden Located in Pamplemousse in the North of Mauritius the previously known Sir Seewoosagur Botanic Garden, is one of the most visited attractions in Mauritius. The gardens are over 300 years old and are populated by over 650 species of plants including Baobab and palm trees and also the giant water lilies for which it is famous.

The Black River Gorges National Park Located in southwest Mauritius this is the best area for those looking to hike its 50 km of trails and to view unique wildlife and over 300 native plants. Bird spotters head to the forest where they can, if patient, catch a glimpse of a variety of endemic species to Mauritius such as the Mauritius kestrel, Cuckoo-shrike, pink pigeon, olive white-eye, and grey white-eye. I took the photo of this monkey overlooking the national park from a spectacular viewing point just across from the Chamarel restaurant.

Charles Darwin Back in 1836 whilst on his famous Voyage of the Beagle, Charles Darwin became the first British naturalist to visit Mauritius. While on the island he caught a glimpse of many parrots, giant tortoises, geckos, and various other species of bird including no doubt these weaver birds that have always fascinated me on my trips and holidays to Mauritius.

Sustainable Tourism

Mauritius proudly boasts of achieving the Global Sustainable Tourism Council Recognized Standard Status. The island’s tourism abides by several new initiatives which are so good to see. It is believed that the accommodation sector alone accounts for 21% of the total carbon emissions on the island so a range of measures has been introduced including:

Using renewable energy sources like solar panels. Recycling includes composting waste materials. Rainwater and stormwater harvesting to water lawns and golf courses. Designing building codes for better air circulation and light penetration. Using sensors to decrease water and light wastage. Growing local vegetables and fruits. Buying local products such as seafood.

In addition to these measures (and I really wish the UK would follow suit), the government has made travel and tourism part of the educational curriculum and with that comes education in sustainability and eco-tourism and other green practices such as understanding the damage done to our planet by litter and waste.

I took this photo of a litter collection site on Grand Baie beach – on a few occasions I have seen the caring and wonderful people and local businesses get together to spend a day tidying and de-littering the entire town. As the sign says “Our Planet Needs You”.

A generation or two, maybe more, on this planet of ours have not been educated in sustainability or eco-tourism. How refreshing that the wonderful little island of Mauritius is taking such a strong lead.

I hope you enjoyed my Mauritius travel blog. Would love your feedback.

Top Things To See & Do

Visit Port Louis The capital of Mauritius. Enjoy the Le Caudan waterfront with its shops and restaurants, the central market and bazaar, Chinatown, the Port Louis Theatre , the Blue Penny Museum, the Postal Museum, and the Natural History Museum where you can hear the story of the Dodo.

Visit Mahebourg A fishing village, the town of Mahebourg gives a traditional feel to Mauritius. The local market is well worth a visit.

Ile Aux Aigrettes Located off the southeast corner of Mauritius this protected island is home to some rare species of animal including the Pink Pigeon, Green Geckos, Kestrels, and the Aldabra Tortoise.

Le Morne Brabant Mountain Why not hike to the top of Le Morne and enjoy some of the best early-morning views that the island has to offer?

Casella Wildlife Park A great family day out that the kids will love where you can go on a buggy safari ride a roller coaster or go face to face and feed the giraffes.

Take a  Sunset Cruise What could be better than a late afternoon cruise enjoying a few Mauritian beers, a spot of dinner, wild dolphins, and an Indian Ocean sunset?

Triolet Shivala Head to the holiest of locations to see the beautiful Grand Bassin Lake. You can receive a blessing from the local priest or just relax in the peace and calm of this most calming of locations.

Visit Chamarel The village of Chamarel and the surrounding area boasts ancient forests, unique flora and fauna, traditional restaurants, the three-coloured earth, a rum distillery, and a 95-meter waterfall.

Party In Grand Baie After a day on the beach, it’s time to get your Hawaiian or maybe your Mauritian shirt on and head for Grand Baie to enjoy the restaurants, bars, clubs, and the ambiance of the best night out in Mauritius.

Swim with Dolphins Get up early and join these incredible marine mammals for a swim. Watch them playing underwater, listen to their high-pitched “ticks” and feel their energy.

Blue Bay Marine Park Go snorkeling or diving and enjoy the majesty of the underwater world where you will see corals, fish, eel, octopus, and if you are really lucky, sea turtles.

Pre-bookable Excursions

More information.

The Mauritius Tourist Office provides a wide choice of useful information including places to go, things to do and what you can expect from the weather.

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20 Amazing Things to Do in Mauritius

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From beaches to safaris, here are the absolute best things to do in Mauritius.

Mauritius is a beautiful island nation off the southeast coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean.  The nation is comprised of  Rodrigues and Mauritius island as well as the outer islands, which are all part of the Mascarene Islands.

With amazing white sand beaches, stunning blue water, mountains, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and so much more packed in one country, you won’t run out of things to see in Mauritius!  Below is just a partial list of ideas of what to do in Mauritius that will make your vacation one that you will never forget!

Table of Contents

1) Visit Port Louis

2) try deep sea fishing, 3) head to caudan waterfront, 4) check out china town, 5) experience local culture in mahebourg, 6) ile aux aigrettes, 7) head to grand bay, 8) scuba dive in blue bay marine park, 9) check out aapravasi ghat and le morne cultural landscape, 10) visit champs de mars, 11) spend a day at casela wildlife park and yemen reserve, 12) explore domaine des grand bois and domaine du chasseurhas, 13) visit triolet shivala in triolet village, 14) check out the market flacq in flacq village, 15) enjoy chamarel’s stunning landscape, 16) explore balaclava ruins and dutch ruins, 17) enjoy beach time in flic en flac, 18) visit martello towers, 19) explore black river gorges national park, 20) chill in souillac, savanne, things to do in mauritius.

Here is our list of all the best things to do in Mauritius.

Port Louis is the capital and largest city, and is definitely one of the first places to visit in Mauritius.

There are so many different things going on here that you could spend more than one day and not cover it all.

For ideas on what to do in Mauritius, head on down to the picturesque central market or bazaar .

This is where you can find locally grown vegetables, exotic foods, local products and spices, arts, crafts and souvenirs. You can find the cheap clothing Port Louis is known for.

Some made locally and other items imported from India and China, they are a great value for you money.  It is where the locals also shop for their own stuff including items such as curry and teas.

You can also enjoy the  Port Louis Theatre while there. Overall a day in Port Louis is very fun one of the best places to see in Mauritius for the wonderful cultures and traditions.

If you’re interested you can even book a full-day guided tour of the city , which we recommend.

Overall, this colonial city is one of the best things to do in Mauritius.

Deep sea fishing is one of the more famous things to do in Mauritius.

There are many species of huge fishes in the surrounding sea, including blue and black marlin, yellow tuna, different varieties of barracuda and sharks, and so many more.

The Marlin World Cup is held off the Mauritius island every year in February-March. There are several world records for fishing, including the Mako shark, blue shark, Bonito, white tuna, and becune.

Many other catches have been close to the record as well.

Most all of the hotels will have fishing boats to hire for an experience of a lifetime!  Mauritius travel must include all watersports, but especially should include some deep sea fishing.

Join an all-day fishing excursion for the ultimate Mauritus sightseeing experience.

The Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis is a meeting place for locals and lovers alike. It also has a great shopping center.

There you can also enjoy street entertainers, a Kiddyland, a wide array of food options and many unique shoppes.

There are many historical buildings to visit on the waterfrom, including the Blue Penny Museum, The Stamp Museum, and the Mauritius Natural History Museum .

These museums should be at the top of your list of what to do in Mauritius to learn of the history of this amazing nation.

The Blue Penny Museum has many rare stamps, including the blue penny and penny orange stamps from 1847 which are among the rarest stamps in the world.

Caudan Waterfront, with it’s rows of shoppes and restaurants, is the perfect place to wander for the day and take in the culture.

While you are in Port Louis, another famous Mauritius attraction you must see is China Town . There are many shops and restaurants with the unique culture and flavor that you can only find here.

Pharmacies in this area not only have the modern remedies but the traditional Chinese ones that you can try.  There are so many vendors and stores selling traditional foods such as chow mein and fish balls that you simply must try.

Mark down China Town as Mauritius must-see!

Mauritius travel will not be complete if you do not visit the relatively undeveloped south section of the island.

Since the majority of this area has no beach it is visited less by tourists and therefore has less development.

This leaves it as the most untouched portion of the Mauritius island and is the best place to see in Mauritius to get a glimpse of true Mauritian life.

It has magnificent scenery and some of the wildest landscapes in the country all along the coastal road from Souillac to Le Morne.

You will also see the Mauritius attraction of Ile aux Aigrettes, the amazing Lion Mountain and the town of Mahebourg along the way that you will want to visit.

As one of the main fishing villages of the nation, Mahebourg is located in the southern section of the island and on the amazing Grand Port Bay.

This is definitely one of the places to visit in Mauritius to get a real feel of the true Mauritians with less outside influence.

The Market of Mahebourg is a wonderful experience where you will find so many unique products, tropical fruits and vegetables, fresh fish, local arts and crafts, spices, teas and much more.

It is where you will be able to become a part of the local customs and traditions.

It should be on everyones list of what to do in Mauritius.

Mahebourg is one of Mauritius attractions that unmissable, enjoy your day wandering the market and treat yourself to a traditional Creole lunch.

While in the southern part of the island, one of the great places to visit in Mauritius in Ile aux Aigrettes . This islet is made of an old calcareous coral reef partially covered by sand and soil.

It has international recognition because many of the plants found there grow nowhere else in the world, and it was declared as a nature reserve in 1965.

There are some of the world’s rarest birds here, such as the kestrel and the pink pigeon.  Other animals like the Aldabra giant tortoise and the green Gecko Phelsuma can be spotted in the country as well.

The Mauritius Wildlife Fund has made the entire Mauritius island a world-recognized standard for the protection of endangered species and natural resources.

If you feel like spoiling yourself, check out this great luxury relaxation tour at Ile aux Aigrettes that includes, lunch, drinks and activities.

For a fun-filled night out, the locals know what to do in Mauritius – they head to Grand Bay ! There you will find great restaurants, bars and discos as well as more opportunities for shopping.

The La Cuvette beach is a great place to relax and enjoy your visit.  This is a real tourist mecca, and you will find some wonderful Mauritius attractions here.

Blue Bay is probably the most popular places to see in Mauritius for tourists. With its magnificent beaches and crystal-clear waters, it is certainly the place where you will want to spend a lot of time.

The Blue Bay Marine Park is located on the southeast part of the Mauritius island, and is near the airport and several hotels, which are within walking distance making it very convenient.

It is an amazing place where you can scuba dive, snorkel, surf, sail or enjoy any water sport you desire, or spend the day sunbathing with a tropical drink in your hand. No better way to relax and enjoy your vacation!

There are over 50 different species of corals, some of them very rare, in a unique network of reefs that break the oceans waves to protect the bay.

There are also many fish species in the shallower water that will make any snorkelling or diving a fantastic experience.

If you’re not an experienced diver, but still want to give it a go, you can do an introductory dive at Grand Bay .

Atop the marine park is ‘Ile des Deux Cocos’, an islet within the lagoon should also be on your list of what to do in Mauritius while in this area.

Click here for our best tips on getting your open water certification .

There are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are both definitely things to see in Mauritius. Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape  are both magnificent sights not to be missed.

Aapravasi Ghat was a landing point for the indentured slaves, mostly from India, in the 19th century, following the abolition of slavery in 1834.

It is a fascinating piece of the nations history.

The Le Morne mountain and Aapravasi Ghat are amazing sites that this is definitely one of the best things to do in Mauritius.

Champs de Mars is a very popular Mauritius attraction for tourists and locals alike. It is one of the world’s oldest  horse racing tracks, and the oldest one in the southern hemisphere.

You will also want to include Pamplemousses, one of the world’s best botanical gardens in your itinerary of what to do in Mauritius.

This will be a wonderful day of sightseeing, and should be topped off with some delicious Creole food.

Other famous Mauritius attractions includes Casela Wildlife Park.

This nature reserve is full of  more than 140 bird species from all five continents.

It also includes tortoises, deer, fish ponds, lions, tigers and  monkeys just to name a few.

Another similar thing to see in Mauritius is the Yemen Reserve . While not as large as other reserves on the island, you will love this place!

You can get close to herds of deer and other animals as well as enjoy the wide varieties of plant life of the Mauritius island.  It also has a wonderful view of the sea.

For a more unusual idea of what to do in Mauritius, you will want to visit the Domaine des Grand Bois , or Domaine du Chasseurhas.   The lush vegetation makes this a beautiful place to spend a day.

You can also see several species of endangered birds, including the kestrel.

This can be found in the Anse Jonchée hills.

Be sure to enjoy the wonderful panoramic view of the sea while enjoying a delicious meal of seafood or venison and drink in a local restaurant.

Mauritius travel would not be complete without visiting the Triolet Shivala. This Hindu temple is located in Triolet, which is the longest village in the nation.

Built in 1819, this is the biggest Hindu temple in the nation and is devoted to the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Murugan, Brahma and Ganesha.

A visit to this temple is one of the things to do in Mauritius that will bring you much closer to the culture and traditions of the country.

• Address: Shivala Rd, Triolet
• Hours: every day, from 6 AM – 6 PM

As you become more familiar with Mauritius travel, you will want to be sure to visit the village of Flacq .

Located in the eastern side of the country, Flacq has become one of the most important villages of the area.

It is a meeting place for many of the inhabitants of the area.

The Market Flacq is the largest open air market in the country. \

This extremely colourful market is one of those wonderful things to do in Mauritius you will not want to miss.

• Address: Central Flacq
• Opening hours: every day, from 6 AM – 6 PM (except on Sundays, 5:30 AM – 6:30 PM)

Another fantastic thing to do in Mauritius is to visit Chamarel . This area has some amazing coloured soils that you will not want to miss.

It showcases an undulating landscape of the various and contrasting shades of coluor.

There are blues, greens, reds and yellows that are thought to be the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash.

Nearby are the waterfalls of Chamarel that rise up from the moors and showcase an abundance of the native plant life.

After spending the afternoon sightseeing in this area, you will want to stop in Chamarel Village and partake of the local cuisine while watching the sun set over Le Morne and the southern part of the island over the Indian Ocean.

The absolute best way to see Chamarel is by taking part in this epic full-day tour, that includes pretty much all the highlights of the area.

For history buffs, your Mauritius travel should definitely include some of the ruins that are still visible on the island.

The Balaclava Ruins was an old estate whose initial foundations were laid down by Mahé de Labourdonnais.

You can still see the original sea walls that protected the estate.

It is very close to Baie aux Tortues, which was names after the myriad of tortoises in the area.

The Dutch Ruins are also one of the things to do in Mauritius.

These ruins were the first Dutch fortifications.

Excavation is still ongoing at this site, which is fascinating to watch.  These ruins are located at Vieux Grand Port, the oldest settlements in Mauritius.

Flic en Flac is another must see to have on your list of what to do in Mauritius. Located on the west coast of the island, it has some of the magnificent beaches Mauritius is famous for.

Hotels are within a short walking distance to the beach and offer all of the amenities needed to make it a place you will want to spend days relaxing at.

Enjoy a relaxing spa, sip on one of the famous local ice cold Phoenix beer or Green Island rum at one of the outside bars after playing in the ocean all day!

Another historical place to add to the list of what to do in Mauritius is the Martello Towers.

This was the scene of an ancient rivalry between old colonial powers and the ingenuity of mankind.

It symbolises the end of  slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration.

It is a real symbolical place and one of the most important things to do in Mauritius.

• Address: Coastal Rd, Flic en Flac
• Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, from 9:30 AM – 5 PM, Sunday, from 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Price: 80 MR (60 MR on weekends)

The Black River Gorges is another fantastic of the things to do in Mauritius.  This amazing national park of 6,574 hectares was created in 1994 for the protection of Mauritius’ remaining native forests.

In Black River Gorges National Park ,  you will see magnificent landscapes, with endemic plants, including a conservation area and rare orchids, and rare bird species.

Go trekking with Get Your Guide to encounter up close many species of rare wildlife and enjoy gorgeous views!

Another place to see, and a great idea of what to do in Mauritius is Souillac .

This small seaside resort is right along the rugged coast of the Savanne district.

Best way to explore the resort is on two wheels , enjoy the scenery and get to know the locals.

It is famous for the garden that overlooks the sea at the southern end of the village.

It is named after its founder, Dr. Charles Telfair.

All in all, Mauritius is one of the most amazing countries you will ever see.

No matter what your interests are, you will find it here, all while having the most relaxing vacation you could imagine!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Justin Carmack

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Trustedhousesitters review – travel the world like a local, coral geographer review: a deep dive of australia’s top expedition ship, related posts, gopro hero 13 review – the ultimate camera guide [2024], 21 thoughts on “20 amazing things to do in mauritius”.

I visited Mauritius in 2017 for work and this month I am going back only this time with the family for their first visit.

We are staying at Victoria Beachcomber on the North West coast between Port Louis and Grand Baie

Can’t wait!

I am here now and found your article informative. Non-attraction-related things I would add: – Car rentals are expensive here. Get a moped instead (if know you know how to ride one) — it’s significantly cheaper (around $20 EUR/day). Try Daniel at dbsway.com (WhatsApp +230 5255 3617) – The vegetables and fruits on the side of the road are amazing. Always ask for the price first. – The airport transfer from the airport to Le Mourne (1.5 hrs) cost me $40 EUR (2000 MUR) – Rob

I am from South Africa…and visit Maurituis from 1989 and last 10years every year.2020 was the 1st year we mis our Maurituis trip my hubby was working in New Zealand and with covid we hope we can vist Maurituis November 2021.We love Grand Baie

I will not visit Mauritius this time due to the quarantine fee is very expensive, going to Maldives, no quarantine fees for the foreign tourists.

It is still a crazy time. Australia is the same with the quarantine fee. We will be staying here for another year we are thinking. We do hope you get there when this has all settled down and you can travel with no quarantine fee. 🙂

Nice information. I am planning to visit Mauritius in April. Is it the good time to visit Mauritius. Glad to know that there is plenty of other things to do besides sun sea and sand. I like travelling and write a blog too.

Thats is awesome Ajay. I don’t know about your current situation, but if you have to cancel your trip do reschedule for the future. After this current health situation, the tourism industry will need anything it can get Have a great trip when you go. Take care.

Tip #7 about Grand Bay is good, but the photo says anything else but “great restaurants, bars and discos…”

Wow. Wonderful candid coverage. I’m traveling to Mauritius in a week time. Please assist with more details on availability of Indian Vegetarian menus

Vegetarian food is available in the form of burgers, pizza , a type of roti which is called rochi, fruits and vegetables of local market which is good quality, a variety of breads and loafs. You can look for biryani places which will also have vegetarian. KFC and McDonald’s are available. Another pizza outlet Panarotti also has value for money.

Non vegetarian options are plenty. Particularly, in good restaurant hubs like Flic en flac. Bon voyage

I was worried about going to school there. But now I’m convinced. I cant wait to visit these places.

Totally love this Blog, we going to Mauritius in December and don’t know where to start. After going through this site, I am so confident that we are going to have a blast. Selected 4/5 places to visit. Thanks so much for explaining in detail, esp the History of Mauritius I’m interested in. Looking forward to our TRIP…

Hi, we are so happy the article was helpful. Have a great trip. 🙂

To make all clear , don`t waste your time and money for Charamel – image in this post is unreal , market in Post Louise typical for tourists the same like in Funchal on Madeira, China town as well , Blue Bay overcrowded and greyish colour of water , Martello Towers nothing exciting , all around the world the same , Sardinia or Ireland. Walking with Lions very pricey . In general Island is a paradise , but those tips are typically commercial and you can be very disappointed . I hope my comment will be not edited ,as it is a good advice – my experience + trip advisor reviews . On my website , my recommendations will be only honest and I will avoid too. This post shows the same what I can find on another 100 blogs like this one , retyped information from internet. Shame Dear Nomadasaurus , your own posts are much better , but the 3rd parties writers I would not say anything good.

Wow! I had no idea there was so much to do in Mauritius. Up until now I didn’t really know much about this place but I guess I’ll definitely have to add it in my travel list. This place looks like it’ll definitely be fun to go to with a couple of people along. We’d be able to make so much wonderful memories and even deepen bonds and ties. Something like a team building activity I suppose? That doubles as a vacation. Hehe! I used to do those back when I was still in university. Anyway, happy travels and I enjoyed reading your guide!

Sounds like a great place for your team. Have a great trip Ana,

Great article and a lot of tips. Thank you! I just came back from Mauritius, I was doing a photo-shoot for Beachcomber Paradis, an awesome place just next to Le Morne. It´s a great spot to start with a kite-surfing. I am planning to get back soon and explore more on the island.

This is an extremely smartly written article and the pictures are awesome! I will make sure to bookmark it and come back to learn more about things to do in Mauritius (one of my favorite destination). Waiting for your next post very soon!

Great Post and Stunning Pictures. I’ve always known Mauritius for its turquoise sea, white sandy beaches and the huge range of sea treasures. The way you hint at the views of mountains and rivers, I’m sure it’ll be an enjoyable hiking trip through the fields discovering the nature paradise.

Just wanted to say that this is a great blog – so much detail!!.

Our honeymoon was in Mauritius, and we were on lazy/relax mode, so only did Casela off this list (loved it)

if we go back, we’ll try and hit more of these for sure.

Many useful tips there, thanks for sharing in the article! Indeed, there is much to do in Mauritius. Kite surfing as well as reef snorkeling are popular pastimes here, and while you are at it, make sure to try the delicious seafood!

However, there are tourist-targeting scammers and petty crime to be wary of.

Do be wary of the Grand Baie bazaar sunglass trap, hotel pricing scams, broken taxi meters, taxi driver unofficial guide partnership, snatch theft and many more!

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Top 10 Things to do in Mauritius

From exploring the authentic south of Mauritius on electric bikes to going on a food tour of Port Louis, here are 10 incredible things to do in Mauritius!

Hotel review: heritage le telfair golf & spa resort, mauritius.

For those looking to get away from it all and really relax, paradise can be found at the luxurious Heritage le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort in Mauritius!

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Mauritius travel blog — the fullest mauritius travel guide for first-timers.

Dubbed the Diamond of the Indian Ocean and the Star of the Indian Ocean, the Republic of Mauritius is always mentioned as the ideal destination for the world’s great vacations by its captivating natural beauty, with stunning beaches, tropical monsoon climate and the hospitality of the Mauritian people. So, is Mauritius worth visiting, how to visit Mauritius, what to do in Mauritius and how to plan a budget trip to Mauritius for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Mauritius travel blog (Mauritius blog) with the fullest Mauritius travel guide (Mauritius tourist guide, Mauritius guide) from how to get to Mauritius, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Mauritius to help you maximize your trip as follows!

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Mauritius has developed since the 60s of the 20th century. It is also one of the wealthiest nations in Africa. Per capita income is estimated over 10,000 USD/year. Most of the people speak both English and French and the native language is Mauritian Creole (Morisien).

About 2000 miles off the east coast of Africa is a group of islands, with the largest of which is called Mauritius, home to more than 1.3 million people. Formed by a volcanic hotspot in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is home to unique flora and fauna, a huge array of coral reefs, and a breathtaking sight: Underwater Waterfall. Although you may think the concept of “underwater waterfall” is impossible, there is a convincing physical explanation behind this spectacular phenomenon.

Overview of Mauritius (#mauritius travel blog)

The lovely island nation of Mauritius is a part of Africa, located in the southwestern Indian Ocean, about 900km east of Madagascar, with a border stretching less than 2000km. The policy of diversifying cultivation, sugarcane production, and promoting tourism has fueled the development of Mauritius, providing the continent with the highest per capita incomes, and turning this beautiful country into a natural paradise attracts people from all over the world, including Africans, Europeans, Chinese, Indians…

The Republic of Mauritius is a volcanic island nation located in the southwestern part of the Indian Ocean, about 900km east of Madagascar. Mauritius is known as a country with a long history going through many events and ups and downs, and is the only country in the world where the Dodo bird has ever lived.

Although there is no official language, the people of Mauritius mostly speak a variety of languages including English, French, Bhojpuri and the mother tongue is Mauritian Creole. Because it was once a colony of many powers, the religious system in Mauritius is also very diverse, including Hinduism, Roman Catholicism, Islam, and Protestantism.

Mauritius is 2,040 km² (3 times the size of Singapore), located about 900 km east of Madagascar, including the Rodrigues, Agaleda and Saint Brandon Islands. This island nation has 5 cities with about 1.3 million inhabitants. The capital Port Louis (named after King Louis XV of France) has more than 500,000 people living, accounting for nearly one-third of the country’s population. Of these, about 68% are of Indo-Malaysian descent, 28% are of African ancestry and 3% are Chinese.

Mauritius is also the “home” of the strange bird Dodo (named in Portuguese). Although this slow-breeding bird was extinct, the Dodo is still honored to be the main mascot in the national coat of arms.

When is the best time to visit Mauritius? (#mauritius blog)

Mauritius has a tropical marine monsoon climate, with the temperature and weather between seasons not too different, so no matter what time of year you travel, the sunshine here still gives you great moments of relaxation and wonderful vacation. The winter lasts from May to October is dry and warm with the lowest temperature is only about 22 degrees Celsius, the summer which lasts from November to April will have more rain, the weather is dry and humid. It should be noted that from January to March there will be tornadoes.

The best time to travel to Mauritius is from September to April every year. “But for budget travelers, it is recommended to go from May to August because the service price is cheaper at this time because it is not the peak season.

How to get to Mauritius? (#mauritius guide)

There are no direct flights to Mauritius from Vietnam. Visitors must fly to Singapore, then transit to Mauritius for another 6.5 hours. To get to this beautiful island nation in the middle of the Indian Ocean, it certainly takes visitors a full two days to and from. There is one main airline flying from Changi (Singapore) is Air Mauritius, with a frequency of 4 flights/week.

About 40km southeast of Mauritius’ capital, Port Louis, is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. From Vietnam, there are international routes of Air Mautirius, Malaysia Airlines, Emirates and Kenya Airways can take you to Mauritius quite conveniently, through just one transit. In addition, the port in the capital Port Louis also receives international cruises from neighboring countries.

For Vietnamese, Mauritius issues visa on arrival. Visitors only need to have a round-trip air ticket, hotel booking details, detailed travel itinerary or proof of finance with 100 USD/day to be approved for a visa.

There is also another option, you can fly from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City to Hong Kong or Paris and then connect to the beautiful island nation in the heart of the Indian Ocean, but this route is much more expensive.

What to do and where to go in Mauritius? (#mauritius travel guide)

Mauritius is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear blue sea with coral reefs and rich marine ecosystems. Blue Bay is the place for you to enjoy those things. Diving or taking a glass bottom boat is something you should not miss to explore the features of the ecology here. In addition, the Black River Gorges National Park is also the number one place to go and is very popular with tourists coming here. In Mauritius, there are many other interesting places such as the Charamel (“the land of the seven colors”), Casela Nature Parks with more than 140 species of birds from all over the world.

The capital Port Louis (#mauritius travel blog)

Port Louis – the capital of the island nation of Mauritius is a lively port city with a busy port and bustling commercial areas. It has the luxury resort Mont Choisy, or the Flic en Flac hotel famous for its long beaches and divers. For those who want to explore and explore the ocean floor, Rivière Noire is really the ideal place. In addition, Port Louis also has many other prominent neighborhoods such as Curepipe, Quatre Bornes, Rose Hill, Vacoas and Phoenix.

The first stop of the journey to beautiful Mauritius is Port Louis – the capital of this island nation. Coming here, you will have the opportunity to experience the bustling and vibrant life of indigenous people at local markets or in the areas around La Citadel and Le Caudan ports. In Port Louis, there is also a monument of the ancient capital Fort Adelaide (Citadelle) located on a high hill, where you can see the whole city of Port Louis.

Fort Adelaide (named after a queen) is located on the Petite Montagne hill. It was built between 1838 – 1840, the height above sea level is about 100 m. Standing from the fortress, visitors can see the horse racing field and the whole city. This work once helped the people of this country fulfill the strategic goal of protecting the harbor against foreign invasions and riots occurring in the city.

Walk the banks of the Caudan River to discover local shops and restaurants as you make your way down to the Central Market. Also you should visit the Blue Penny Museum to learn more about the culture and history of this isolated island.

The largest city, Port Louis, does not have as many tall buildings as the island nations of Singapore or Hong Kong. Mr. Utam said that excluding the center of the capital, the tallest house in the suburbs is only up to 2 floors. Because the cost of construction in this country is much higher than the money spent buying real estate. Therefore, they can buy a very large plot of land and build low-rise buildings to reduce costs.

Underwater Waterfall (#mauritius blog)

This island mainly known as the home of the now-extinct Dodo bird. More recently, Mauritius took the world by storm when it discovered a lost continent beneath it, called Mauricia. Now it’s back with another intriguing feature, a spectacular underwater waterfall. Just to be clear, it’s not an actual waterfall, but an illusion that can only be seen from above. Located on the southwest coast of the island known as the Le Morne peninsula, the phenomenon takes place in a turquoise lagoon. Thanks to the crystal clear water, it can see through it, which is the key to unraveling the mystery.

This phenomenon is due to sand and alluvial sediment in perpetual motion. Mauritius, being a relatively young island, happens to be on an ocean shelf above sea level. Off this particular coast, one notices a gradual, abrupt slope ending in a 4,000-meter-deep abyss. Thanks to this marine topography, various shades of blue can be seen due to the movement of sand and alluvial deposits along these slopes. It is the unique harmony of the shades that creates the optical illusion that has attracted so many admirers around the world.

There is nothing better than a helicopter ride over the Le Morne peninsula. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking for unlimited photos and footage. National airline Air Mauritius offers great deals on this memorable flight.

Africa’s most beautiful beaches

Mauritius has nothing more exciting than its stunning sea. Mr. Utam – tour guide said that the sea surface here is blue all year round, especially more brilliant when the sky is less cloudy and the sun is bright yellow. The sandy beaches are also very long and beautiful, many steep cliffs, majestic waterfalls, green forests. The closer to the edges of the island, the bluer the water.

The name Mauritius is associated with the sprawling sugarcane plantations, the world’s third largest coral reef surrounding the island blocking the waves 2 km from the shore creating a beautiful calm beach.

Having come to Mauritius, you have to have fun on the sea, watch the sea and enjoy different things. That is what the people here advise tourists. A unique feature in the beautiful island nation of Africa is that visitors can go whale watching, swim with dolphins at Flic En Flac beach and ride a cooter on the seabed.

Pereybere Beach

This beach is close to the restaurants and nightlife in Grand Baie, but quiet enough to feel away from it all. Here, the water overflows into a protected marine reserve, which is inaccessible to the island’s ever-growing hotels. The smaller islands a boat ride away are uninhabited except for a small coast guard station. It is home to some of the best diving and snorkeling in Mauritius…

Le Pouce mountain

The mountain known as Le Pouce overlooks Port Louis. It’s not the highest peak in Mauritius, but its location next to the capital makes it the most iconic. Reaching the top takes about an hour. On the way down, the walk to the city center takes two or three hours.

Nearby is the Creole house in Eureka. The colonial house has undergone a splendid restoration and the restaurant prides itself on serving the best of Mauritian cuisine.

The ancient village of Balaclava

Balaclava is an ancient village built in the 17th century, now only the ruins are left with ruined walls, but this is still an attractive tourist destination for you to learn about the lives of the people there.

What makes tourists most excited when visiting this village is seeing the extremely luxuriant and eye-catching Labourdonnais orchard.

Le Morne Brabant Peninsula

This peninsula is located in the southwestern region of the Indian Ocean, impressive with basalt rocks 550m above sea level along with many caves that promise to bring you exciting experiences when exploring. This is also the birthplace of many rare species of plants in the world such as the boucle d’oreille flower (the National flower of Mauritius) or the mandrinette flower.

Grand Bassin

When the volcanoes that created Mauritius died, one of the craters filled with water and became a lake known as Grand Bassin. It is also known as Ganga Talao, a name that links the iconic water to the Ganges River in India. The waters here also carry a similar religious significance, with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva dominating the lakeside.

Grand Bassin is a lake that is considered one of the holiest places in Mauritius, especially for the Hindu community. More than half of the island’s population visits for a few weeks during the Shivratri festival held annually in honor of Lord Shiva. On other days, it’s a quiet reflective place with a microclimate that’s cooler than the rest of Mauritius.

Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark

Address: H96Q+9VX Seven Coloured Earth in, Chamarel, Mauritius Hours: 8:30 AM–5 PM

On an exposed hilltop inside a park, the earth has magical rainbow shades of purple, red, violet, green, blue and yellow. The seven earth colors in Chamarel is a natural phenomenon where colors develop according to weather conditions and soil composition.

The colors are most vibrant at sunrise and they seem to change throughout the day as the sun moves and clouds pass overhead. Nearby, a narrow waterfall cascades down the cliff, and nearby Black River Gorges National Park protects what’s left of the island’s original rainforest.

Black River Gorges National Park

In the dramatic hills of southwestern Mauritius, you’ll find lush Mauritian forests filled with the unique native animals as their home. With thousands of giant fruit bats, nine endemic bird species and more than 300 species of flowers, Black River Gorges National Park is the best place to discover Africa’s flora and fauna.

This place is also famous for its 7 color earth with red, brown, gray, purple and brown sand dunes, located right in the middle of Chamarel plantation, looks very beautiful and spectacular.

Chamarel Falls will overwhelm you with a height of 83 meters and is also the highest waterfall in Mauritius.

Subscooter on the seabed

The most interesting part of the journey to discover the island nation of Africa is the Scooter ride on the seabed. The place where this activity takes place is about 10 km from the mainland, and of course guests are transported by canoe far away.

The Scooter is small enough for two people to sit inside, has accelerator pedals and steering wheel and an audio system to communicate with divers. The player is dropped to a depth of 2m, the water is close to the neck, and drive the scooter goes around watching corals and fish at certain distances under the guidance of divers.

In the activity, visitors are used by divers to use bread crumbs to lure the fish closer to take pictures. Time to drive Scooter under the sea from 25-30 minutes does not seem to satisfy many people. To experience this game, each visitor must spend from 150 USD depending on the time long or short. If two people share a seascooter, they will be charged 200 USD within 30 minutes including free photography and soft file return after finish.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Address: VHWJ+448, Pamplemousses, Mauritius Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM

Famous for its truly giant water lilies, the SSR Botanical Garden is a favorite picnic spot for the Mauritians, who like to spread out beneath tropical trees. Not all plants have been labeled, but anyone interested in flora stories can hire a guide at the entrance. In addition to the towering palm trees, the gardens also include many of the plants that produce the spices that brought the fighting Europeans to Asia to trade in new flavors. The 18th-century church of St Francis of Assisi faces the gardens, built for the wealthy landowners of the time.

Casela Nature Parks

Address: Royal Road, Cascavelle, Mauritius Hours: 9 AM–5 PM

The next destination on the journey is the famous zoological farm with Galapagos turtles. You have the opportunity to witness firsthand the turtles lying lazily basking in the sun. This island has a lot to offer and always pleases every visitor. If you have enough time, a visit to the 14-hectare Casela Nature Parks will make a lot of sense for you. It has about 1,500 birds (more than 150 species) and diverse animals such as lions, cheetahs, zebras, ostriches and monkeys. There is nothing more wonderful than when you get to see wild animals up close. It is a memorable experience for any visitor.

Mauritius is like a mermaid in the heart of the vast Indian Ocean has just awakened. This place is endowed by nature with unspoiled, clear and unbelievably clean beaches. When setting foot on the island nation, you will be overwhelmed by the pristine beauty of the long straight beaches. When the boat has just docked, you will admire the beautiful watercolor painting. When each light ray of sunlight shines on the beach, you will be immersed in a quiet space, each cool breeze from the sea rushing back as if dispelling all your sorrows. The turquoise water embraces the fine white sand beaches stretching far away. Each colorful coral reef is hidden under the clear blue water as if joining in the dance to welcome visitors from afar.

Coming to Mauritius, you should definitely not miss the paradise of Grand Bay, which owns the most wonderful and attractive beach. The beach embraces a large beautiful space like a fresco painted by nature. You can both watch the romantic sunset on the beach and participate in interesting activities and enjoy delicious seafood dishes at the seaside restaurants.

Dolphin watching

A highly romantic experience enjoyed by many couples and families in the island nation of Mauritius is dolphin watching on a catamaran cruise tour.

Enjoy luxury aboard a spacious, 60-foot-long Harris Wilson catamaran. And the best part is watching the adorable dolphins in their natural marine environment. You can immerse yourself in the water to swim with the colorful fish in the vast ocean.

Rum tasting

During your stay in Mauritius, you will discover fields full of sugar cane. Similar to the Caribbean islands, Mauritius also has a good reputation for rum production. Nestled in the mountains on the south side of the island is Rhumerie de Chamarel – one of the island’s newest distilleries. They make high-quality rums, with combinations of flavors, some incorporating the island’s rich spices. In addition to picking up a few bottles, you can tour the distillery and sample some of their collections.

Mauritian cuisine is a wonderful fusion of Indian and Chinese cultures, and some of the best meals are found on the streets. Street food is cheap, delicious and definitely not to be missed. To find out the best places to try, we embarked on the Taste Buddies food tour.

It’s a great way to really understand not only the culture and cuisine, but also learn about the people who have set up their food stalls in the city. Everyone has an interesting story and it gives meaning to the dish when we know the stories behind it. It feels like one of the most attractive  Island tourism Mauritius activities.

In a few hours, your tour guide will introduce you to Traditional Mauritian Roti (Farata) filled with vegetables, coconut water, sugar cane juice, dholl puri (Yellow Split Pea Wrap), peanuts, fried vegetable dumplings, and salted peanuts sticky rice.

What to eat?

The cuisine in Mauritius is very diverse with Asian, European dishes with fairly high quality standards. Fruits, vegetables, meat and even seafood are imported very often. Specialties in Mauritius include venison, camarons (spicy freshwater shrimp), gateux piments, and octopus. In terms of drinks, fresh coconut, Mauritian beer and rum are enough to get you a hearty feast. The fruits here are quite similar to many other countries such as bananas, watermelons, tangerines, mangoes, pineapples…

Regarding the typical drink of Mauritius, when you come here you can enjoy fresh coconut water, beer and rum of the very attractive indigenous people. In addition, in Mauritius, there is a delicious drink, with an extremely pleasant aroma, called Alouda made from yogurt and fresh fruits.

In Mauritius, there are many food markets, especially weekend markets with many unique fruits such as purple apples, red dragon fruits or typical Indian spices.

What gifts to buy home?

The currency of Mauritius is the Rupee, 1 USD = 45.5 MUR

Most of Mauritius’ shopping items are tax-free, so it has become a paradise for shopping for luxury products such as jewelry, perfume, and designer clothes. Antique household items and ship models are also popular souvenirs.

Where to stay?

As a country with strengths in tourism, the number of hotels and resorts in Mauritius is numerous, built around beautiful beaches on both the east and west coasts. If tourists like to watch the sunset, they can choose a resort in the west, and vice versa, to catch the sunrise, rent a hotel in the east of the island.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Salt Of Palmar, Mauritius, A Member Of Design Hotels™ ( Agoda , Booking )
• Constance Prince Maurice ( Agoda , Booking )
• Tamassa Resort ( Agoda , Booking )
• Constance Belle Mare Plage ( Agoda , Booking )
• Trou Aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa ( Agoda , Booking )
• LUX* Grand Gaube Resort & Villas ( Agoda , Booking )
• Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resorts ( Agoda , Booking )
• Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Mauritius on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Mauritius you can refer to

• Discover Mauritius
• Mauritius Essentials 3-Day Trip with Optional Wild Dolphin Swim
• Southwest Mauritius Swim with Wild Dolphins & Volcanic Wonders Tour
• Swimming with Wild Dolphins, Lunch on Benitiers Island & Transfer in Mauritius
• Mauritius West Coast Wildlife Tour
• Mauritius Casela Wildlife Experience 1 Day Tour
• Southern Mauritius Landscape Tour
• Catamaran Dolphin Cruise in Mauritius
• Catamaran to Ile aux Cerfs with 3 Activities Experience in Mauritius
• Mauritius Submarine Ship Tour
• Mauritius Southern Scenic Tour with Takamaka Winery Experience
• Skydiving Mauritius

Check out more Mauritius things to do here .

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Mauritius Travel Guide

Everything you need to know about visiting Mauritius Island, including up-to-date information and insider tips from a local to help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

Table of Contents

Mauritius Travel Planning

Top experiences.

• 44 Best things to do in Mauritius
• 10 Best beaches for swimming in Mauritius
• 29 Best beaches in Mauritius + Map
• 8 Best boat trips to take in Mauritius
• Best excursions & tours in Mauritius
• Best Instagram spots in Mauritius
• 30 Mauritius street food you need to try
• 20 Best places to visit in Rodrigues Island

Travel Tips

• Best (and worst) time to visit Mauritius
• 1 week in Mauritius itinerary for first-time visitors
• Mauritius itinerary for 7 days, 10 days, or 2 weeks
• Essential tips for driving in Mauritius
• Guide to renting a car in Mauritius
• How to get around Mauritius Island
• How to travel Mauritius on a budget

Where to Stay in Mauritius

Best areas & hotels.

• Where to stay in Mauritius: Best Areas & Hotels
• Best adults-only hotels in Mauritius
• Best family-friendly hotels in Mauritius

Hotel Reviews

• La Mariposa Hotel Review
• Glamping in Mauritius: Otentic Eco Tent Review
• Green Cottage Chamarel Review
• Vanilla House Review

Mauritius by Region

North mauritius.

• Best places to visit in North Mauritius
• Best things to do in Grand Baie
• Best things to do in Port Louis
• 70+ Street art in Mauritius + Map
• Best restaurants in Grand Baie

South Mauritius

• Best places to visit in South Mauritius
• Le Morne Mauritius: Best things to do
• Gris Gris Mauritius: Guide to visiting
• Chamarel Mauritius: Best things to do

West Mauritius

• Flic en Flac Mauritius: Best things to do

East Mauritius

• Best places to visit in East Mauritius
• How to visit Ile aux Cerfs
• Best things to do in Belle Mare

Mauritius Hiking Guides

Mountain and coastal hikes.

• Best hikes in Mauritius
• Le Morne Brabant hiking guide
• Best hiking trails in Black River Gorges National Park
• Le Pouce Mountain hiking guide
• Piton de La Petite Riviere Noire hiking guide
• Guide to visiting Macondé Viewpoint
• Guide to visiting Pont Naturel
• Guide to visiting Le Souffleur & Savinia Beach
• La Tourelle du Tamarin hiking guide
• Corps de Garde Mountain hiking guide
• Piton Savanne hiking guide
• Lion Mountain hiking guide

Waterfall Hikes

• 18 Best waterfalls in Mauritius
• How to visit 7 Cascades (Tamarind falls)
• Guide to visiting Eau Bleue Waterfall + Map
• How to visit Cascade Leon
• Guide to visiting Minissy Waterfall
• Guide to visiting Alexandra Falls
• Guide to visiting Cascade 500 Pieds
• Guide to visiting Eureka Waterfalls

Mauritius Travel Resources

Click on the icons below to book your car rental, airport transfers, accommodation, and experiences.

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Mauritius Travel Tips: Know Before You Go

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Your trust is really important to us: This post contains so-called affiliate links. Every time you buy or book something using these links, we receive a small commission. There’s no hidden surcharge or any other downside. That way, you can support us with our work. Thank you so much, Jenny & Basti

Here you’ll find all our tips for booking your trip to Mauritius as well as practical travel tips for your time there.

Table of Contents

Who is Mauritius perfect for as a destination?

The best time to travel to mauritius, booking a vacation in mauritius, where to stay in mauritius: our tips, what can you do in mauritius, practical travel tips for your mauritius travel planning, information and travel tips for your time there.

We were in Mauritius for three weeks and explored all the corners of the island for you.

This post contains all our practical travel tips for your vacation in Mauritius.

You’ll find all our tips for booking your trip to Mauritius as well as practical travel tips for your time there.

Also read our other posts about Mauritius:

What to do in Mauritius? The most beautiful beaches in Mauritius

For many people, Mauritius is the honeymoon destination par excellence and in fact we met many couples spending their honeymoon there.

But Mauritius isn’t just for newlyweds. Mauritius is an ideal destination for people who love dream beaches, because there the island is full of them.

Mauritius is also a great destination for everyone who wants to combine their beach vacation with a bit of sightseeing and culture.

Mauritius has a lot to offer in this regard: colorful temples, huge waterfalls, evergreen national parks, and old colonial buildings. So let’s get one thing straight: Mauritius is definitely very diverse!

Mauritius is a good destination all year round. Since Mauritius is in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are different from ours. The Mauritian summer coincides with our winter, and vice versa.

But it’s warm and sunny on Mauritius all year round. Even in the coldest months from June to August, temperatures still reach 26 to 28 degrees during the day.

The best time to travel and the peak season for Mauritius is between September and December , when it’s mostly unpleasant and cold back home.

In Mauritius, you can then expect relatively constant daytime temperatures around 30 degrees and the risk of rain showers is relatively low.

European spring from April to June is also a good time to travel. During this time, it’s somewhat cooler in Mauritius than during the peak season from September to December. But then the island isn’t as crowded and the prices for hotels are considerably cheaper.

We were in Mauritius from the end of May to the middle of June and enjoyed bright sunshine and pleasant temperatures almost every day. It hardly ever rained.

There’s a big difference between the east coast and the west coast during this time. Since the wind usually comes from the east, this side is a lot more unpleasant outside the main season and there’s significantly more rainfall than in the west of the island.

In the period from January to March you have to be prepared for more rainy days in Mauritius than in the rest of the year. It’s still warm though. During European summer from the end of June to mid-August, temperatures in Mauritius are at their lowest.

Of course it’s still pleasant enough with daytime temperatures of around the 25 degrees, but it might be a bit cooler than at home.

If you want to travel to Mauritius, you have to choose between different options when booking. Either you book your flight and your accommodation separately or you book a package vacation.

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. When you choose a package vacation, you don’t have to worry about a thing and can benefit from cheap package deals.

But if you book separately, you also have the option of trying out different hotels in Mauritius and you can also choose from a wider range of places to stay.

We’ve put together all the information and tips to help you find the option that works best for you.

Flights to Mauritius

The number of direct flights from Europe to Mauritius is still pretty limited.

A very interesting option is flying with the Arabic airline Emirates . Emirates offers daily flies to Mauritius from several European cities.

If you don’t like long-distance flights, then Emirates is the best option for you, as the flight time of approximately 12 hours is split up into two approximately equal flights of about 6 hours.

Plus you also have the interesting option of taking a longer stopover in Dubai on the inbound or outbound flight to explore the sights of Dubai for a few days.

Current prices for Emirates flights to Mauritius

Booking a package vacation to Mauritius

If you just want to enjoy your vacation without having to deal with booking a flight, a place to stay, or transfer from the airport, then a package deal is a good choice.

There a are a lot of good offers from major European tour operators.

The selection of hotels in Mauritius is pretty huge. There are a lot of luxury hotels on the island that really leave nothing to be desired. Of course, they come with a price tag attached, but you generally get what you pay for.

We tested a number of hotels in Mauritius ourselves and want to recommend one hotel per price category in this post.

Pure luxury: The Residence

There are a great many luxury hotels on the east coast of Mauritius, among them The Residence. We were there for three days and absolutely loved it: very nice rooms, excellent service, very good food, and simply an absolute all-round feel-good feeling.

The hotel has its price, but in this case it’s really justified. If you want to treat yourself, the Residence gives you the perfect opportunity to do so.

The Residence Mauritius on booking.com

Mid-range: Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel

“Welcome to your new home.” These were the warm words that welcomed us to the Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel in the northwest of Mauritius. And in fact we felt very welcome and felt very much at home here.

The rooms are new and spacious, the staff is super-friendly, and the beach is also beautiful. The hotel definitely offers great value for money.

Veranda Pointe aux Biches Hotel

Cheap: Mystik Life Style Hotel

The Mystik Life Style Hotel in the north of the island is a very cheap but good hotel. The hotel is new and very modern. And at that price, you certainly can’t complain.

Mystik Life Style Hotel

Of course you can just easily spend your entire vacation in Mauritius by the beach or pool. This that would be a shame, because Mauritius has more to offer.

Sights and attractions in Mauritius

Mauritius has surprisingly many sights. Since this post would be bursting at its seams if we were to list them all here, we’ve written a more in-depth post where we give you the low-down on all the sights.

Read our post: Our highlights & must-see sights in Mauritius

Activities in Mauritius

Mauritius is an excellent destination for water sports. There are also some very good surf spots in Mauritius. The most famous are Tamarin Bay in the west of the island, and Le Morne in the southwest.

You can also rent out kayaks or stand-up paddles at many hotels in Mauritius.

The underwater landscape of Mauritius is also very worthwhile, so divers and snorkelers will definitely get their money’s worth.

There are some exciting offers for exploring the underwater world of Mauritius, which can all be booked online:

Half-Day Snorkeling Trip with Picnic Lunch Underwater scooter tour

A post about the best travel tips for Mauritius wouldn’t be complete without practical information for preparing your vacation.

What should you to pack for Mauritius?

Even though it’s warm all year round, you should still make sure to take a warm sweater and long pants. Especially during the off-season from April to August, it can get a bit cooler in the evenings.

Mauritius uses a different power outlet system to most of Europe. Most hotels offer adapters or have also installed standard European outlets in addition to the Mauritian ones. But just to be on the safe side, we still recommend packing a travel adapter .

Sunscreen is also really important. Especially during the peak travel season from September to December, the sun blazes down on Mauritius, and as a pale European you’re very likely to catch a sunburn. You can get sunscreen everywhere on the island, but it’s much more expensive than at home.

Mosquitoes can be a real plague in Mauritius. Especially in the national parks, there are lots of mosquitoes all year round. Malaria or dengue fever aren’t a danger in Mauritius, but mosquito bites are annoying nevertheless. Mosquito repellent is useful in any case, but you can just as easily buy it locally.

Apart from that, there’s nothing special you need for Mauritius. We recommend taking a look at our list of what to pack for Southeast Asia where we show you what we packed on our journeys through Asia. Since the climate in Mauritius is very similar, you can pretty much use the same list.

Money and travel expenses in Mauritius

The official currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). The exchange rate is pretty much exactly 40 MUR to 1 euro. Of course you can find ATMs at the airport and in the larger cities.

Make sure to take a credit card with no foreign transaction fees so you can withdraw money worldwide for free.

Mauritius isn’t a cheap country to visit. You can easily spend a small fortune on the island, but you don’t have to. It’s certainly possible to have a cheap vacation in Mauritius.

To give you an idea of common prices, here’s a short overview:

• Bottle of water (1.5 l) = 20-30 MUR (0.50 to 0.75 euros)
• Bus ticket = approx. 30 MUR (0.75 euros)
• Gas (1l) = approx. 40 MUR (1 euro)
• Simple, local food = 120 to 240 MUR (3 to 6 euros)
• Western food = 200 to 600 MUR (5 to 15 euros)

Tipping in Mauritius

Tipping never used to be all that common in Mauritius. But thanks to all the tourists, it’s becoming more commonplace and a tip is always welcome.

In many hotels you have the possibility to put a tip into a staff tip box, where the tips are shared out among the employees. Of course you’re still free to give individual employees a personal tip if you want.

Taxis and guides are also happy for a tip, as are waiters at the restaurants.

How to get from the airport to your hotel

If you booked your vacation as a package deal, you generally don’t have to worry about your transfer because you’ll be picked up straight from the airport.

If you booked your hotel yourself, there are several ways to get from the airport to the hotel:

Hotel transfer service:  Most hotels offer their own transfer service. Just ask at your hotel. In our experience, hotel transfer services are always the most expensive so we never use them.

Taxi:  You can catch a taxi at the airport. Taxis in Mauritius don’t have meters, i.e. you have to negotiate the price with the driver before you leave.

Book a transfer online:  You can also always book your transfer online. We did it too, and everything went perfectly. Your driver will be there waiting for you holding up a sign and will take you directly to your hotel.

You can book a transfer here

Renting a car in Mauritius

The best way to explore Mauritius on your own is to rent a car. We did that ourselves and were absolutely satisfied.

But watch out: Traffic in Mauritius is on the left-hand side. That means the steering wheel is on the right side of the car, the gear shift is on the left, and the levers for turn signals and windshield wipers are reversed. At first, we always turned on the windshield wiper when we wanted to use the turn signal. But we got the hang of it after a while. Hehe.

If you’re not used to driving on the left-hand side, then we recommend renting a car with an automatic transmission. That way, you won’t have to worry about switching gears on the wrong side and can fully concentrate on steering the car.

Be careful in roundabouts, because you enter and leave them the other way round than you do back home. Sometimes it can also be confusing that many roundabouts are multi-lane and you have to take a different lane depending on the exit you want to take. But you get used to it quickly.

Traffic on Mauritius is generally pretty leisurely and outside the cities the roads are usually deserted. You can drive 40 kph in towns, 90 outside, and 110 on the freeway. You should stick to the speed limits because speed traps are set up all over the place.

An international driving license isn’t required for Mauritius. You can just use you driver’s license from back home.

To round off our travel tip post, we have some information for your time in Mauritius.

Eating and drinking in Mauritius

Mauritian cuisine is characterized by the influences of many immigrants. There are Chinese, Indian, and African influences. Of course, being an island, fish is one of the main items on the menu.

Curries served with fish, meat, or vegetables are typical for Mauritian cuisine. But compared to Indian and Asian curries, we didn’t like the curry dishes on Mauritius as much. But they’re not bad either.

Bread, butter, and a green chili paste are served as an appetizer. The chili paste is very tasty, but also very, very spicy. So be careful the first time you try it!

Mauritius is a sugar cane nation, which automatically also makes it a rum nation. Mauritian rum is considered to be particularly aromatic.

You can also get beer in Mauritius. The local beer brand is called Phoenix and actually doesn’t taste at all bad.

Internet in Mauritius

The Internet in Mauritius is very good. We had very good WiFi at each of our hotels.

We bought a Mauritian SIM card for mobile Internet. There are two major providers on the island: Orange and Emtel. We bought a SIM card from Emtel and paid just over 25 euros for a 25 GB package! We could only dream of that back home.

Language and understanding

The Mauritian population speaks Creole, a dialect of French. If you speak French, you should be able to get by just fine in Mauritius. Most locals also speak good English, so communication isn’t a huge problem.

Do you have more travel tips for Mauritius?

We’ve summarized all our travel tips in this post. Do have any more questions? Then let’s have them! Just leave us a comment!

Of course, we’re always happy for further tips and suggestions.

17 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Mauritius Travel Tips

• Africa / In the City / Mauritius

V isiting Mauritius soon? Here’s what you need to know before you go.

If you dig a hole straight through the earth’s center from the west coast, you end up in the ocean just south of Mauritius Island. Mauritius hadn’t been on our radar until recently, and after booking our trip, we realized there was much to learn about the island on the other side of the world. If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius Island, here is everything we learned during our time here to help you make the most of your visit.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: December 15, 2023

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• Where is Mauritius
• Things You Should Know Before Visiting Mauritus
• Where to Stay

Planning Checklist

More resources, where is mauritius.

Mauritius is off of the southeastern African coast in the Indian Ocean. Sixteen islands and islets comprise the Republic of Mauritius, including Mauritius Island, along with Rodrigues, Agalega, St Brandon, and many others.

Time Difference:  It is +4 hours Greenwich Mean Time (12-hour difference from PST)

See More: 15 Best Things to Do in Mauritus + How to Plan the Perfect Vacation

Things You Must Know Before Visiting Mauritius

1. english is the official language.

The three main languages are English, French, and Creole. English is the official language, but the majority language used is French-Mauritius Creole, which was accurate on our trip. Many hotel employees also speak German, Italian, and Spanish. If you plan on venturing outside the resorts and popular tourist attractions, learning some basic French will help you.

Most Mauritians are bilingual, and many are skilled in three or four languages, making them popular cruise ship recruits. They also speak Mandarin, Bhojpouri, Tamil, Hindi, and Urdu.

2. It’s Far! (From the US)

If you’re visiting Mauritius from the US, be prepared for two twelve-hour flights, especially from the west coast. Give yourself an extended layover (at least 6 hours) to clear customs and stretch your legs. You can make it even longer if you want a rest day or to visit a layover city. We planned to walk around Paris on our layover, but our flights got delayed.

3. Who’s Visiting Mauritius

Because of Mauritius’ location, we noticed most tourists were Europeans. France, the UK, Germany, and Spain bring the most tourists, followed by China.

When we visited, we got a few comments asking if we were from China. The borders have been closed because of the pandemic, so the Mauritians were excited that we might be among the Chinese tourists starting to visit again.

4. Bring your Benjamins

Mauritius isn’t considered a budget destination. Most people visit Mauritius for luxury, and they pay for it. Although you can travel here on a budget, there are better destinations if you’re looking for an affordable beach vacation.

5. Their Currency is the Mauritian Rupee

They use the Mauritian Rupee, and roughly USD 1 = MUR 43.95.

We only needed cash for tips and street vendors. Other spots took credit cards. You can exchange currencies at the airport and most hotels or withdraw from an ATM. If you withdraw from an ATM, we heard you should limit each transaction to MUR15,000. Otherwise, the machines might get jammed.

6. Tipping Is Not Mandatory but APPRECIATED

Tipping is not mandatory in Mauritius. Here is a quick guideline if you are looking to tip for exceptional service: Spas (5-10%), Tour guides (10%), Taxis (100-200 Rps), Hotels (100 MUR), and Restaurants (10-15%).

7. Visiting Mauritius during High and Low Seasons

Temperatures are warm all year , making it a year-round destination. The water temps stay between 71-80°F (22-27°C).

The high season is during their summers (October-April) and winters (May-September) . During peak season, you should book hotels three months in advance and activities/restaurants around one week before. Shoulder season runs March-April and September-October.

• Summers (Oct-Apr) – The mean temperature in the summer is 76°F (24.7°C). Dec to Mar are the wettest months. Thunderstorms are common but pass. During our December visit, the waterfalls were dry (usually late winter/early Summer) but had been dryer than average. Once the rain starts in Dec/Jan, the rivers and falls fill back up.
• Winters (May-Sep) – The mean temperature in the winter is 70°F (21°C). Winter is windier and the best time to visit if you like mild temperatures and sports that require wind, like kitesurfing.

Local Tip: They usually get a cyclone each season, and every ten or so years, it will hit the island directly. The last big one was in 1992, so locals have been expecting one any time now.

8. Places Close Early

Many places closed earlier than expected, and many businesses closed for holidays and Sundays. Also, certain restaurants have random days they aren’t open.

9. Renting a Car vs. Getting a Taxi

Renting an (automatic) car is an option on the island, and you don’t need an international driver’s license. Just remember they drive on the left side of the road, which can be disorienting.

Roads outside the city are easy to navigate and not too crowded, but driving in a city can be stressful. Navigating via google maps worked well going to popular attractions, and the roads were in good condition compared to other countries we’ve explored. Speed limits are usually around 40 kph (25 mph) in towns, 60 kph (40 mph) outside of them, and 110 kph (68 mph) on the freeway.

Taxi costs vary and are not regulated. For example, from Port Louis to Flic n Flac, it can cost between MUR 800 and MUR 1,000. Be wary of taxi drivers, since some are affiliated with shops they will try to take you to for “a good deal” to receive a cut of profits. But now that I think about it, it’s similar to some bloggers and influencers too.

10. Traffic can get crazy

It can take 1-2 hrs to get from one side of the island to the other. Keep that in mind when you plan activities or where you’re visiting. We had a lot of early days since we had to add in the travel time.

Traffic on the island starts around 8 am and 4 pm. Although we didn’t see traffic, they kept telling us how bad traffic was, so we always left earlier or way later to avoid it.

Local Tip: If you booked a hotel with breakfast but have an early activity, you will most likely miss breakfast. Ask for a to-go bag.

11. Tap Water is Technically Safe

Locals drink tap water, but it isn’t recommended for visitors. Regardless of safe drinking water, we pack this  self-cleaning water bottle (see all our favorite water bottles for travel here ) on all our trips to fill up at the hotel or airport.

See More: The Best Travel Water Bottle Tested on the Road

12. Mauritius has a lot of history, and Sugar is a Big part of it

Most of the fields in Mauritius are sugarcane fields, and sugarcane farms still dominate 70% of the land. One of the best places to learn more about the history of sugarcane in Mauritius is Sugar World (L’Aventure de Sucre). Here, you can also do a sugar tasting and a rum tasting.

Due to the sugar industry, after slavery was abolished, the British tested out indentured labor and spread it to the rest of the world due to their success. You can learn more about that at Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site, the remains of an Immigration Depot built in 1849.

Did you know the now-extinct Dodo bird is also from Mauritius? You’ll find them on souvenirs and branding all over the island.

13. Souvenirs

• Sugar from L’Aventure du Sucre – we bought several for friends back home that love baking or drinking coffee.
• Phoenix is the island’s most popular local beer. We never check our bags, but you can bring back some local beer or liquor if you do.
• Local Rum or Fruit Wines – Most cocktails are made with rum since they source from local rhumeries. There aren’t local grape wines, but you can find local fruit wines.

14. Scared of Bats?

The fruit bats, aka Mauritian flying fox, are among the largest bats and can reach a wingspan of 31 in (80 cm). We saw them often, flying around or on palm trees. If you’re scared of bats, you may want to look away. We’re not typically afraid of bats, but they were the biggest we’ve seen in the wild, so I can see them being intimidating.

15. World Class Diving Over Snorkeling

We weren’t impressed with the snorkeling at the reefs, but Mauritius has world-class diving. There are around 50 dive sites across the island. If we could have a do-over, we would have taken a PADI refresher course and booked some diving excursions instead.

Local Tip: Don’t forget coral-safe sunscreen . We were disappointed by all the bleached coral we saw.

16. The underwater Waterfall can only be Seen from a Helicopter

The underwater waterfall, an optical illusion, is a famous landmark you must see while visiting Mauritius. It can only be seen via helicopter, which is always weather dependent. Plan your ride early in your visit so that if it gets canceled, you’ll have plenty of time to reschedule.

17. Don’t Limit Yourself to the Resorts

Mauritius offers much more than just incredible beaches. Venture inland to see diverse landscapes, tea farms, temples, hikes, and more. Check our post for the best things to do when you’re ready to plan your trip.

Where to Stay in Mauritius

We split our stay between two different areas on the island to maximize our stay. In general,

• The  northern shore  is more touristy, 
• the  south  side is wilder,
• the  west  side is closer to popular attractions,
• and the  east side  is quieter, with more luxury resorts.

Local Tip: There are over 100 beaches along the coast. Most pristine ones in photos are private beaches for resorts and hotels.

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Mauritius hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Mauritius travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Mauritius, Reunion & Seychelles Travel Guide
• Mauritius and Rodrigues Road and Tourist Map
• French Phrase Book

Are you planning on visiting Mauritius in the near future? Have you been already? Are there any tips that we need to add?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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How to plan the ultimate trip to Mauritius

Jungle-clad gorges dotted with waterfalls, sweeping beaches fringed with palms and an intoxicating culture that draws influences from around the globe – little wonder that Mauritius is one of the most highly rated destinations in the Indian Ocean, if not the world. Perhaps Mark Twain put it best: “Mauritius was made first and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius.” Whether it’s your first or fifth time visiting this glorious island, the trip of a lifetime awaits.

As you’d expect, some of the world’s finest hotel brands have properties here and Mauritius’s landscape is so varied that you can have an entirely different experience depending on where on the island you are. So, how to choose where to stay? With more than two decades of experience, Turquoise Holidays specialises in exceptional holidays in exceptional places. Its team of passionate, highly knowledgeable experts are keen travellers themselves and have a little black book of contacts and tips to ensure your holiday is tailored exactly to your needs, interests and budget. Whether you’re travelling as newlyweds or a family, you’re in safe hands.

So if you’re looking ahead to next year’s travels and Mauritius is on your list, look no further than Turquoise. To tempt you further, here are some exclusive rates and offers at Turquoise-recommended hotels and resorts.

To receive a bespoke quote for your Mauritius trip, please contact the Turquoise team today at turquoiseholidays.com

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Time to Travel Mauritius in November 2024 with Complete Guide

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If you wish to visit Mauritius in November, it is going to be a great trip for you because this amazing island destination turns into a tropical paradise. The weather’s fantastic with warm temperatures around 25°C to 30°C and plenty of sunshine. This makes it a good time to spend basking on the beach. You can also indulge in taking some Instagrammable pictures around the clear waters of the ocean. 

November also marks the start of the rainy season, but showers are usually brief and don’t disrupt the fun. If you’re into nature, exploring Black River Gorges or checking out the vibrant Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths is a must. Plus, you might catch some local festivals and cultural events that add a lively touch to your trip. Let’s have a closer look at the Mauritian guide for November.

Is November a good time to go to Mauritius?

November is actually a great time to visit Mauritius! The weather is warm and inviting, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, which is perfect for enjoying the island’s stunning beaches. It’s just before the peak rainy season, so you might experience the occasional shower, but these are usually short-lived and won’t spoil your plans. 

The ocean is still lovely for swimming and snorkelling, and you’ll find the beaches pleasantly less crowded. Overall, November offers a nice balance of great weather and vibrant island life.

Mauritius Weather in November 2024

While visiting here during the month travellers can enjoy warm and tropical weather, making it a great time to visit. Temperatures typically range between 25°C and 30°C, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities like beach days, snorkelling, and hiking. The sea temperature is also pleasantly warm, making it a perfect time for swimming and water sports.

As for rainfall, November marks the beginning of the island’s wet season, but the rain is usually light and sporadic. On average, Mauritius receives around 60 to 100 mm of rain during this month. Showers tend to be brief and followed by sunshine, so they rarely disrupt outdoor plans. Overall, November offers a great balance of warmth and occasional rain, making it a comfortable month to explore the island.

What to Wear in Mauritius in November 2024?

Wondering what to pack for Mauritius in November? Keep it light and breezy! Since the weather is warm and tropical, pack comfortable summer clothes like shorts, dresses, and light T-shirts. Don’t forget your swimsuit for those perfect beach days. The sun can be strong, so bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Evenings can be a bit cooler, so a light sweater or shawl might come in handy.

November also sees some occasional rain showers, so a light rain jacket or poncho is useful. If you’re planning to explore nature spots like Black River Gorges or go hiking, pack comfy walking shoes. And for visits to temples or cultural sites, remember to dress modestly out of respect for local customs.

Visitor Arrivals: Is Mauritius Crowded During November?

The good news for you is, it’s neither too crowded nor too hectic! November is just before the peak holiday season, so while more tourists are starting to arrive, it’s still far from the heavy crowds you’d find in December or January. 

You’ll have plenty of space to enjoy the stunning beaches and popular spots like Black River Gorges or Chamarel won’t feel overrun. Hotels and resorts might be busier than in quieter months, but overall, it’s still pretty relaxed. It’s a sweet spot for enjoying Mauritius before the holiday rush!

Average Costs of a Trip to Mauritius in November

For airfare from the UK, you’re looking at around £600 to £800 for a round-trip ticket. This can vary depending on how early you book and which airline you choose.

When it comes to accommodation, Mauritius offers a range of options. Budget travellers might find cosy guesthouses or budget hotels for about £40 to £60 per night. If you’re aiming for a mid-range experience, expect to pay between £80 and £150 per night at decent hotels or boutique stays. For a touch of luxury, top-tier resorts and beachfront properties can range from £200 to £350+ per night, especially if you’re opting for all-inclusive packages.

Transfers from the airport are an additional cost to consider. Private taxis from the airport to popular areas generally cost between £30 and £50, while shared shuttles are more economical at around £10 to £20 per person. If you’re keen on exploring more of the island, renting a car can be a practical choice, usually costing about £20 to £40 per day.

For daily expenses, including meals and activities, budgeting around £40 to £60 per person should cover dining at local restaurants, some excursions, and entry fees to attractions. All in all, a one-week trip for two in November might range between £2,000 and £4,000, depending on your choice of accommodation and activities. It’s a sweet spot for enjoying Mauritius with good weather and moderate costs before the holiday season ramps up!

What to Do in Mauritius in November?

Mauritius is a fantastic destination for soaking up the island’s tropical charm and beauty. The warm weather, combined with the start of the rainy season, creates a lush, vibrant landscape, perfect for exploring. November also offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the busy holiday season, making it a great time to enjoy the island at a more relaxed pace. The blend of sunshine and occasional short showers adds a refreshing feel to the experience. It’s an ideal time to immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in fresh seafood, and take in the stunning views all around. Whether you’re planning to unwind by the beach or explore the island’s rich heritage, November offers a perfect mix of serenity and adventure.

Where to Stay in Mauritius in November?

Whether you’re looking for luxurious beachfront resorts with all-inclusive packages or charming boutique hotels tucked away in lush tropical gardens, you’ll find something that fits your style. There are also budget-friendly guesthouses and self-catering apartments for those seeking a more affordable yet comfortable stay. Many resorts offer fantastic amenities like pools, spas, and direct beach access, perfect for soaking up the island’s beauty. Whether you prefer a quiet escape or something more vibrant and central, there’s an ideal place to stay for everyone in Mauritius.

Where to travel in Mauritius in November?

Start with the iconic beaches like Belle Mare or Le Morne, where the warm waters and soft sands make for the ultimate relaxation. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Black River Gorges National Park for some amazing hikes with breathtaking views of lush valleys and waterfalls. The Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths are a must-see those rainbow-hued sands are pure magic! 

Port Louis, the capital, is great for a mix of culture and local flavours in its vibrant markets. Then, with November’s warm weather and fewer tourists, you’ll have space to explore without the crowds. Whether you’re into nature, beaches, or local life, Mauritius has it all!

What to Eat in Mauritius in November 2024?

Mauritius offers a feast of flavours that perfectly complements its tropical charm. Dive into a plate of spicy, aromatic fish curry, a local favourite that’s bursting with fresh seafood and vibrant spices. For something a bit different, try a hearty bowl of rougaille, a tomato-based stew loaded with meats or seafood. 

Don’t miss out on street food like samosas and gateaux piments, those irresistible chilli cakes that pack a punch of flavour. And for a sweet treat, enjoy a slice of fresh pineapple tart or a traditional coconut-based dessert. Pair your meals with a refreshing glass of local rum or sugarcane juice. November’s cuisine is as vibrant and diverse as the island itself, offering a taste of Mauritius you won’t forget

Best Tips for Visiting Mauritius in November 2024

Some quick tips for you to remember while visiting during November:

• Bring lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days and a light jacket for cooler evenings or occasional rain.
• The sun can be strong, so protect your skin with high-SPF sunscreen.
• Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated in the warm weather.
• November is a popular time, so book accommodations and activities in advance.
• Take advantage of the pleasant weather to explore beaches, parks, and hiking trails.
• Expect brief showers and plan indoor activities or have a rain jacket handy.
• Sample Mauritian dishes and street food for an authentic experience.
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be aware of local traditions.
• For easier exploration of the island, consider renting a car to reach off-the-beaten-path spots.
• Keep an eye on weather updates to make the most of sunny days and plan around possible rain.

Read Also: Visit Mauritius in October | Visit Mauritius in December  

When to go to Mauritius | Things to do in Mauritius | November in Maldives

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