What to do in Mauritius The 15 must-sees

1. What to do in Mauritius Relax on the beach at Morne Brabant

Located in the south-west of the island, Le Morne is a Unesco World Heritage mountain. As well as taking a walk to see this natural wonder, you should take the opportunity to spend some time on the splendid surrounding beaches. While some are private, with access reserved for hotel guests, visitors can always head for the Morne Brabant beach, one of the most beautiful on the island. Wild and unspoilt, it invites you to relax and unw ind. Enjoy the turquoise blue of the sea, the fine sand and the shade provided by the palm trees behind. All you have to do is sit back and relax, and paradise is yours. Would you like to experience a thrilling adventure climbing the 465 m Morne Brabant, admiring breathtaking views over the lagoon, discovering plant and animal species and the island's incredible history?Click here to book your group eco-hike!

2. A visit to Port Louis

While we love to visit Mauritius for the beauty of its nature and beaches, we mustn't forget to discover its main towns. Port Louis is the capital, and during a getaway we discover local life and the history of Mauritian culture. You'll reach the Place d'Armes to admire the royal palms and cannons. Then it's on to the Central Market to stock up on fruit and vegetables. At the Craft Market, Mauritian handicrafts are on display, with objects, clothing and products typical of the island. The oldest shopping center is called the Caudan Waterfront, and features restaurants, snack bars, street vendors and artists. The square also comes alive at weekends with concerts and shows. For a cultural treat, you can also visit the Blue Penny Museum to learn more about the history of Mauritius. Take advantage of your stay to discover the streets of Port-Louis and its history, while immersing yourself in local culture thanks to this this popular street food tour, where you can sample culinary specialities for a real taste of Mauritius!

3. What to do in Mauritius An expedition to Plate Island

Ile Plate is an uninhabited island a few kilometers north of Mauritius. When crossing by boat, the clear color of the sea makes you want to go for a swim. And that's just as well, because once you arrive on the island, you'll discover 4 to 5 kilometers of white-sand beaches on which to lay your towel and simply soak up the sun and the peaceful atmosphere. You'll then need a mask and snorkel to explore the beautiful seabed. After the beach, it's a good idea to head south-west to see the lighthouse on Ile Plate, which you can enter, gain height and then enjoy a sublime panorama with a touch of paradise.

4. Mahébourg, an authentic fishing village

On the edge of the immense bay of Grand Port, you'll find the pretty village of Mahébourg, with its authentic, historic atmosphere. Just take a stroll through the streets to contemplate the colonial-style architecture and understand that the area has seen a succession of Dutch, French and British settlers over the past centuries. You can also stop off in the stores, stroll around and enjoy a chat with the warm-hearted locals, who are always open to meeting and exchanging ideas. Later, you'll want to visit the National History Museum, which houses engravings, maps, crockery and objects from the ^18th century. A place that tells the island's maritime history, notably with the exhibition of shipwreck remains. Finally, at Pointe Canon, you can take out your camera and immortalize Lion Mountain and the Grand Port mountain range on one side, and Mouchoir Rouge islet and Aigrettes Island on the other. Pointe Canon is also known for its annual commemorative ceremonies celebrating the abolition of slavery on February¹. If you'd like to discover the wonders of Mahébourg, why not embark on an enchanting tour of the village and surrounding area? book it right here!

5. What to do in Mauritius A tour of the Black River Gorges National Park

For hiking enthusiasts, the Black River Gorges National Park is a must. It's here that you can delve deep into the native forest and observe the beauty of waterfalls and rivers. It's a great place to walk, stop for a picnic, then resume the walk with the aim of observing the various plant species and trying to spot the 9 species of birds endemic to Mauritius. It is also recommended to reach the top of the reserve and the viewpoint, which offers an exceptional panorama of the Alexandra Falls and the southern region of the island. Be sure to bring good shoes, as the paths are steep.

6. Cap Malheureux, an escape to the north of the island

Cap Malheureux is named after the many shipwrecks that have occurred on its shores. The symbol of this must-see place is the red-roofed church, which stands in front of the bay. On Sundays, the mass is enlivened by song and dance, and many street vendors sell fruit and local produce. Between the red roof of the church, the green of the vegetation and the blue of the sea, visitors are presented with a postcard landscape, and once on the beach, they can also see the islet of Coin de Mire in the distance. Coming here at sunset is awonderful opportunity toadmire the gradation of colors, with the added bonus of fishermen's boats bobbing on the waves. This one-day guided tour will take you to the main attractions in the north of the island, including the famous Toit Rouge church by the sea at Cap Malheureux.

7. What to do in Mauritius Visit the Grand Bassin, a sacred site

Grand Bassin is said to be the most sacred place on Mauritius. The island's Hinduists make a pilgrimage here on the occasion of the annual Maha Shivaratree festival. The site boasts a large natural lake bordered by several Hindu temples. Visitors can enter the lake and, afterwards, make a point of visiting the two statues of the god Shiva and the goddess Durga. This is the largest female statue in the world, standing over 30 metres high. Wandering around the lake, you'll discover a luxuriant natural environment, and it's not uncommon to be teased by monkeys, many of whom come to the area to ask for something to eat.

8. Snorkeling in Blue Bay

The lagoons of Mauritius are incredibly beautiful, and one of them is a must-see on any trip: Blue Bay. This small bay is home to superb coral reefs and dense underwater life . To explore this splendid spot, you can either swim from the public beach, or board a boat. Going by boat is the best way to explore the most beautiful parts of the reef . In addition to a variety of corals, many colorful fish pass by the swimmers: parrotfish, Moorish idols, damselfish and sergeant majors are the species most easily spotted. Back on the beach after a good snorkeling session, many vendors set up shop on the beach, offering locals and holidaymakers alike something to recharge their batteries. Book your your half-day snorkeling excursion to two different locations in the Blue Bay Marine Park. You'll walk along the seafront from the pointe d'Esny and enjoy a typical Creole picnic on the île des deux Cocos.

9. Trou aux Biches beach, paradise on earth

Trou aux B iches is one of the most beautiful beaches in the north of Mauritius. All beach-related activities are possible here: lounging and reading on the soft white sand, swimming in transparent water at 28°C from November to April, scuba diving to observe the beauty of the seabed or water sports such as pedal boating, jet skiing, canoeing and windsurfing. At the back of the beach, truck-mounted vendors offer food and drink directly on the sand. You might think that the beach is overrun by tourists, but it has managed to retain its friendly atmosphere. Despite its qualities, it escapes mass tourism and remains a favorite spot for bathers.

10. What to do in Mauritius Spend time in Tamarin Bay

This magnificent bay lies in the southwest of the island. It is home to the village of Tamarin, famous for its salt, and an excursion here includes a visit to the small Les Salines de Yemen farm for an informative tour. Tamarin is a traditional fishing village, and it's not uncommon to come across fishermen spreading their fishing nets along the lanes for cleaning and repair. That's the charm of Tamarin Bay: authenticity, a plunge into the heart of marine life and local customs. Tamarin Bay is also a favorite spot for surfers. It's here that the waves allow you to enjoy the joys of this famous board sport. Another must is a boat trip to admire the spinner dolphins that call the bay home. Swim and snorkel with the dolphins on this off-shore day trip day trip by speedboat to Ile aux Bénitiers to Ile aux Bénitiers from Tamarin. Take the opportunity to admire the mountainous scenery and spectacular sea views.

11. Chamarel, the land of seven colors

Nicknamed the "land of seven colors", Chamarel is a clearing with seven hue variations: from ochre to purplish to red and brown. The peculiarity of this earth is that, even after trying to mix it, the colors always stand out and eventually separate. Don't miss the chance to admire this phenomenon, caused by the mineral oxides present in volcanic ash. It's an unforgettable experience , and an ideal place to propose if you're going away as a couple! Enjoy this this complete tour of the south coast of Mauritius to admire Chamarel Falls, the Land of 7 Colors, Alexandra Falls, the Black River Valley, Grand Bassin and Trou aux Cerfs.

12. What to do in Mauritius Discover the jewel of Ile aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cerfs is one of the jewels in the Trou d'Eau lagoon. Be careful, though, as you may encounter crowds at the height of the season, especially around the de?barcade?re. Don't hesitate to take a walk along the shady paths along the coastline, where you'll come across some beautiful, quiet beaches and secret coves nestled in the mangroves. If you decide to hire a boat right here, for example , you'll pass through wilder areas where it's not uncommon to see local fishermen casting their nets for a seine. The story goes that in the early 1900s, during the hunting season, deer, numerous in the private territories of the nearby coastline, would sometimes venture ashore to cross the inlet to the island and escape the stalkers. Of course, the deer have since fled, but popular legend has it that on certain evenings, at low tide, they return to spend the night on the island...

13. What to do in Mauritius Sunbathing on Belle Mare beach

Located on the east coast of Mauritius, near Mahébourg, Belle Mare beach is reputed to be one of the most sublime and unspoilt on the island. Under the canopy of majestic filaos trees, the beach offers a calm retreat, perfect for relaxing in complete tranquillity. Despite the presence of a number of luxury villas and hotels nearby, Belle Mare remains a remarkable example of unspoilt nature . Belle Mare attracts travelers and locals alike, who come here to relax on weekends and vacations. It's here that the authentic soul of Mauritius is revealed, with its charming villages, secluded spots and serene pace of life. In short, it's the perfect place to relax in the shade of the filaos, swim in exceptionally pure waters or snorkel.

14. Taste the culinary specialties of Mauritius

Mauritius is renowned for its cultural diversity and richly flavored cuisine. Here are just a few of the culinary specialties to try during your stay: - Mauritian cuisine is strongly influenced by Indian, Chinese, African and European cultures. Mauritian curry is an emblematic dish, prepared with meats (chicken, lamb, fish) or vegetables, cooked in a spicy sauce made from a mixture of curry, garlic, ginger, onions and other spices. - Dholl Puri, a kind of soft, thin lentil pancake, usually served with curries, chutneys and vegetables. It's a very popular dish, often eaten for breakfast or lunch. - Similar to Dholl Puri, roti is another flatbread variant of Indian origin. It is often stuffed with meat, vegetables or fish, and rolled up to be eaten as a snack. - Of Chinese inspiration, fried mine is a noodle dish sautéed with vegetables and pieces of meat or seafood. It is often prepared with soy and spice sauces. - Pimento cakes , spicy doughnuts made with lentils and chili peppers, which add a spicy flavor. They are usually served as a snack.

15. Flic en Flac beach

Flic en Flac was originally a modest fishing village with no tourist attractions, apart from its cemetery and hunting activities. Today, a number of luxury hotel chains have established themselves in the region. To fully savor the island's culinary wealth, a multitude of restaurants in the village will offer you typical prepared dishes, but don't miss the opportunity to taste the "gadjaks", the local snacks, in the snack bars lining the main beach. You can also take the opportunity to sunbathe on the public beach, which is relatively quiet during the week. Avoid the crowds at weekends.

What to do in Mauritius as a family?

Adream destination for a romantic get away, Mauritius is also perfect for a family vacation in the sun. It offers a variety of family activities to enjoy natural beauty, local culture and family fun. Take advantage of the beautiful white sand beaches and sunny days to swim, snorkel, dive or even kayak with your family. The Black River Gorges National Park is also an ideal place for family hikes in the heart of lush nature, and the Ferney Valley Reserve also offers excursions to observe the local flora and fauna. The Jardins botaniques de Pamplemousses, a historic garden housing an incredible variety of exotic plants, trees and colorful flowers, is also an educational and enjoyable walk for the whole family. The Casela World of Adventures is an amusement park offering a variety of activities, including buggy safaris to see exotic animals, zip lines and interactions with lions. Finally, Mauritius is the ideal place for glass-bottom boat trips to observe marine life and amaze young and old alike!

What to do in Mauritius in 10 days?

If you're lucky enough to spend 10 days in Mauritius, here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your stay by exploring the different facets of the island: Day 1-2: Discover Port-Louis and the Northern Beaches Explore the capital, Port-Louis, its central market, the Caudan Waterfront and the Apartheid Museum. On the second day, enjoy the island's northern beaches, such as Grand Baie and Pereybere. Relax on the sand, snorkel or explore the local stores. Day 3-4: Adventure in the Black River Gorges and lazing on the beach Hike through the Rivière Noire Gorges National Park, exploring nature and admiring waterfalls. On the fourth day, spend a relaxed day on a beach of your choice. Belle Mare or Trou aux Biches are good options. Days 5-6: Eastern exploration and Creole culture Discover the wild beaches of the east, like Belle Mare. Enjoy the tranquility of this region. On the sixth day, explore the fishing villages of the east and discover Mauritian Creole culture. Visit the village of Mahébourg and the National History Museum. Days 7-8: Nature adventure and relaxation in the South Join a dolphin-watching excursion and swim with the dolphins near the coast. On day eight, relax on southern beaches such as Le Morne. Soak up the sun and enjoy panoramic views of the emblematic mountain. Days 9-10: Exploring the Center and Final Magic Moments Visit the colorful lands of Chamarel and the Land of Seven Colors. Stop off at the Cascade Chamarel. On your final day, end your journey in style by exploring the Jardin de Pamplemousses, home to a rich collection of exotic plants. This itinerary is flexible and can be adapted to suit your preferences and interests. Be sure to take time to relax, sample the delicious local cuisine and explore the many facets of the island, from paradisiacal beaches to nature adventures and the discovery of Mauritian culture. Also check out our dedicated article " Visiting Mauritius in a week: our itinerary tips!"

Getting around Mauritius

The bus is by far the most economical way to get around the island. As there are bus stations in every town and bus stops everywhere (look out for the Bus Stop signs), you can visit the whole island this way, at lower cost. There are two types of bus: standard and express. The latter, in addition to being air-conditioned and not overcrowded, don't multiply stops and cover distances in much less time. These are the buses to choose whenever possible, bearing in mind that standard buses have many limitations: some drivers drive too fast, which makes the journey less comfortable, stops are frequent and, in rural areas, waiting times can be long.

What unusual activities can I do in Mauritius?

If you're looking for unusual activities in Mauritius, here are a few ideas for unique and memorable experiences: - Swim with wild dolphins: Join an early morning boat trip to swim with dolphins in their natural environment. This magical experience lets you see these majestic creatures up close. - Quad biking in the wilderness: Explore the wilderness of Mauritius on a quad bike. This adventure will take you through varied landscapes, such as sugarcane fields and green hills. - Scuba diving in an old sunken ship: Explore the underwater world of Mauritius by diving near the wrecks of sunken ships. This is a unique experience for experienced divers.

What inexpensive activities can I do in Mauritius?

If you're looking for affordable activities in Mauritius, there are plenty of options that will let you enjoy the island without breaking your budget. Here are just a few ideas: - Enjoy the island's beautiful beaches for free. Most public beaches are open to all, offering ideal space for relaxing, swimming and snorkeling. - Many hikes in the island's national parks and nature reserves are free or have minimal entrance fees. Explore the trails to discover the beauty of Mauritian nature. - Explore local villages, markets and cultural sites for an authentic experience. Some museums have low entrance fees. - Discover local markets such as Port-Louis' central market, where you can sample typical dishes and buy souvenirs at affordable prices. - Explore the surrounding area by bike or on foot. Rent a bike or go on a walking tour to discover the local landscapes.

When to go to Mauritius?

Mauritius is pleasant all year round. But the best time to visit Mauritius is at the start of summer in October, November and up to mid-December before the cyclones arrive: rainfall is low, the barometer is rising and the sky is blue enough to make the lagoon pale. If you're wondering where to go in October, Mauritius is one of the best sun destinations. April and May are also pleasant months , still relatively warm without being heavy. June, July and August are a little "cool" (water temperature around 23°C), while January, February and March are a little hot and, above all, humid, with the risk of cyclones.

Where to stay in Mauritius?

Mauritius' small size, flat terrain and well-developed road network make it easy to get from one point to another on the island in a day, or even half a day. As a result, itineraries with changes of hotels and regions are not common. The majority of travellers choose a single resort and from there radiate out across the entire island. Hence the importance of not making a mistake in your initial choice and selecting the region most suited to what you're looking for, or rather THE regions, the ideal being to stay in two different parts of the island if you have at least 8 days, and in three if you're there for 15 days. Here are our favorite local accommodations , depending on where you want to set down your suitcases! - Le Labourdonnais, the benchmark hotel in Port Louis Le Labourdonnais is the benchmark hotel in Port Louis, facing the waterfront and close to the shops. Its timeless luxury and 2 renowned restaurants attract business travelers and tourists alike. Click here to to book your room. - Hotel Constance on Belle Mare beach A modern, luxurious resort, the Hotel Constance is located on Belle Mare beach, reputed to be one of the most sublime and unspoilt on the island. Click here to book a room at this sports and wellness resort, which boasts 4 swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa and 2 golf courses. - Hôtel le Palmiste, 200 m from Trou aux Biches beach Located 200 m from one of the island's most beautiful beaches, close to one of the island's cheapest supermarkets, the "Popo", in the quiet of a street perpendicular to the coastal road, Hôtel le Palmiste is a rather quiet, family-run hotel that you can book right here! Tempted by a vacation in Mauritius? Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurance here , and leave with peace of mind!