Golden beaches, lush rainforests, iridescent ocean waters — it does not get any better than blissful Mauritius!
This Indian Ocean paradise sits just off Africa’s east coast and it’s long been a destination for rest and relaxation. While its picture-perfect coastlines may be its main draw, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Mauritius. You could get a new perspective on the island nation by exploring its forests, UNESCO World Heritage sites and its vibrant culture. If you’re seeking a balance of exhilarating adventure and complete relaxation, a Mauritius multi-centre trip may just do the trick!
Keen to experience the ultimate tropical island escape? Get ready for a holiday of a lifetime with these inspiring Mauritius travel tips from our destination experts.
Relax at breathtaking beaches
Mauritius is fringed by more than 150 kilometres of golden coastline, making it an unbelievable place for a beach getaway. There’s a strip of golden sand to suit every requirement too, whether you want to soak up some sun, swim in azure ocean waters or dive below the surface to marvel at magnificent marine life.
Flic en Flac Beach is easily one of the best beaches for sunbathing and snorkelling thanks to its swaying palm trees and lovely, bath-like lagoon. Alternatively, you could venture to Blue Bay to swim in the crystal-clear shallows of its majestic marine park. For something a little more exhilarating, consider a kitesurfing session on Le Morne, in the shadow of the UNESCO-listed Le Morne Cultural Landscape .
The best time to visit Mauritius to sample its local surf scene is between November and April, with Tamarin Beach being particularly popular. It’s also a great jumping-off point for diving expeditions to Coin de Mire, a jagged rock north of the mainland that’s typically engulfed by colourful fish, graceful stingrays and even the occasional shark!
For some much-needed R&R, head to the calm, powder-soft shores of Belle Mare. Situated on the island’s east coast, it’s a true oasis for the relaxation seeker and home to some of the country’s most exclusive hotels.
Discover rainforests and national parks
If you can drag yourself away from the beach, you’ll find the island’s interiors are a wonderful playground for adventure-seekers.
Exploring the island’s Black Gorges National Park is easily one of the best things to do in Mauritius. It’s a must-see for bird lovers, with parakeets, kestrels and pink pigeons nesting among its trees. Prepare to hike up tumbling waterfalls or to the lofty Gorges Viewpoint for epic vistas of the sea and sky.
Elsewhere, you’ll discover the Seven Coloured Earth near Chamarel. The geological park hosts undulating dunes which are famed for their seven extraordinary shades caused by high concentrations of specific metals beneath the earth. Another of the country’s natural masterpieces is the Table Mountain of Mauritius (Le Morne Brabant). At 556 metres high, it’s an unmissable sight on Le Morne Peninsula and features caves which once provided a refuge for escaped slaves.
Let’s not forget Mauritius’s fabulous wildlife. Ancient Aldabra tortoises, prehistoric Nile crocodiles and crab-eating macaques are seen in abundance at the idyllic La Vanille Nature Park on the south coast. You could also stop at Pamplemousses Botanic Garden — the country’s national gardens — to admire giant water lilies and odd-shaped baobab trees.
Stay at indulgent hotels
You’ll be spoilt for choice with Mauritius’s excellent hotels. There’s something to suit everyone too, from low-key boutique venues to beachside resorts with ample amenities for adults and kids alike.
The five-star Constance Belle Mare Plage sits on the beach of the same name and spells tropical bliss. In addition to its silver sand beach, adjoining golf course and private coconut grove, it’s home to seven restaurants with plenty of opportunities to savour local cuisine.
Dreaming of waking up to sprawling views across Le Morne Peninsula? You can’t beat the award-winning Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa. Stay in a secluded villa and enjoy access to your own pool, a private dining service and the serene onsite spa. It’s also just a short drive from Flic en Flac Beach: one of the island’s most attractive natural swimming spots.
If you prefer boutique accommodation, take a look at 20 Degrees Sud near Grand Baie. Featuring just 36 suites, it offers a more intimate resort experience and some outstanding gastronomy. A highlight has to be the M/S Lady Lisbeth — a sunset dinner cruise onboard a handsome 1920s teak boat.
Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa
One&Only Le Saint Geran
LUX* Le Morne
Constance Belle Mare Plage
Immerse yourself in local culture
With French, Dutch, Chinese and Indian influences, Mauritius is a true melting pot of cultures.
To experience authentic island life, there’s no better destination than Port Louis. Mauritius’s capital city sits on the north west coast and it’s teeming with things to see and do. A major highlight is the Central Market of Port Louis where you can pick up myriad tropical fruits and browse stalls selling all manner of local handicrafts. You’ll also discover finely-made fabrics at stores along Corderie Street, plus numerous shops and street food vendors in the city’s China Town just off Royal Road.
One of the best ways to learn about the nation’s culture is at a museum — and Mauritius has no dearth of good museums. Head to the Caudan Waterfront area of Port Louis and pop into the Blue Penny Museum to browse exhibits on the island’s diverse culture and heritage over the centuries. The waterfront additionally hosts the Caudan Arts Centre which has an eclectic programme comprising local dance and theatre shows.
Food forms a huge part of Mauritian culture, with its flavours and ingredients heavily influenced by African and Asian cooking traditions. Most hotels serve up popular dishes; however, there’s also a great street food scene, especially in the markets of Port Louis. Tuck into coconut-based seafood curries, Indian-style bread, and Chinese-inspired dumplings filled with meat, fish and vegetables. Dessert lovers can also try all kinds of cakes featuring coconut, molasses and sweet potato.
See more with a multi-centre itinerary
Thanks to the island nation’s location not far from mainland Africa, Asia and the Middle East, it’s easy to combine a holiday to Mauritius with another destination.
Booking a multi-centre trip will give you access to two or more new cultures and an array of wonderful attractions, both natural and manmade. You could spend a few days soaking up Dubai’s contemporary skyscrapers and stellar shopping scene before hopping over to Mauritius for a week of sunshine and snorkelling.
A safari adventure is another great option for a Mauritius multi-centre holiday. Discover our bespoke itinerary for South Africa and Mauritius — including game drives in Kruger National Park — or book a Kenya and Mauritius Twin Centre holiday for a chance to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Experience on of the world’s most idyllic tropical locales when you plan a getaway to magical Mauritius. Speak to our travel experts today to book your bespoke holiday to this tropical paradise!
Check out these sample itineraries
Multi Centre Holidays South Africa Mauritius
Dubai And Mauritius Multi Centre Holidays
Kenya And Mauritius Twin Centre Holiday
Indian Ocean inspiration
For more exciting destination ideas, browse these Indian Ocean pages and start planning your next adventure.
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