Discover the Enchanting Paradise of Mauritius: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to Mauritius, a mesmerizing island nation nestled in the Indian Ocean. Renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture, this tropical paradise offers a unique blend of natural wonders, thrilling adventures, and warm hospitality. This travel guide is your passport to unlocking the secrets of Mauritius, helping you navigate its diverse landscapes, immerse yourself in its rich heritage, and create unforgettable memories in this idyllic destination. 1. Unspoiled Beaches and Coastal Delights: Mauritius is synonymous with breathtaking beaches, boasting powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters that seem straight out of a postcard. Explore the stunning coastal gems like Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare, and Flic en Flac, where you can soak up the sun, indulge in thrilling water sports, or simply unwind amidst tranquil surroundings. Don't miss the chance to discover the vibrant marine life while snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs that fringe the coastline. 2. A Tapestry of Cultural Experiences: Mauritius is a melting pot of diverse cultures, shaped by its rich history of Dutch, French, and British colonial influences, as well as its Indian, Chinese, and Creole heritage. Immerse yourself in the lively markets of Port Louis, where the scents of spices and the vibrant colors of textiles and local crafts will captivate your senses. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals, sample mouthwatering street food, and celebrate the vibrant festivals that showcase the island's cultural tapestry. 3. Nature's Bounty: Beyond the beaches, Mauritius is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Embark on a journey through the lush valleys of Black River Gorges National Park, where you can hike along picturesque trails, encounter unique wildlife, and marvel at cascading waterfalls. Explore the otherworldly beauty of Chamarel, home to the iconic Seven Colored Earths and the mesmerizing Chamarel Waterfall. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, renowned for its vast collection of indigenous and exotic plant species. 4. Thrilling Adventures: For adventure enthusiasts, Mauritius offers an array of exhilarating activities. Head to the southwest coast to experience kiteboarding or windsurfing in Le Morne, known for its ideal wind conditions and stunning lagoon. Engage in exhilarating zip-lining adventures, quad biking through rugged terrains, or embark on an off-road safari to explore the island's wild beauty. For a more tranquil experience, set sail on a catamaran cruise to discover hidden coves and enjoy mesmerizing sunset views. 5. Luxury Resorts and Indulgent Retreats: Mauritius is renowned for its luxurious resorts, offering world-class amenities, pampering spa treatments, and breathtaking views. Whether you seek a romantic getaway or a family-friendly escape, you'll find a range of accommodations that cater to your preferences. From private villas overlooking the ocean to all-inclusive resorts nestled amidst lush gardens, you can relax and rejuvenate in style. Conclusion: Mauritius is a destination that will enchant and captivate your heart with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exhilarating adventures, cultural immersion, or indulgent retreats, this island nation has something for everyone. Let this travel guide be your companion as you embark on a remarkable journey through the paradise of Mauritius, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

PCR TESTS

No PCR tests are required for Vaccinated Travellers. Negative PCR tests are required for children between the ages of 6 to 17.

VACCINATION CARD

Traveling with your proof of vaccination document is very important and will be checked before your flight. You would need to carry it as well when you are traveling around the island.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel Insurance is required for traveling to Mauritius. Very important that the travel insurance covers you for COVID 19 otherwise they won't let you board the flight.

PROOF OF ACCOMMODATION

Ensure you have your proof of accommodation printed out for your trip in the likelihood of immigration asking for it. The airline , especially Air Mauritius will ask to see your accommodation information.

FLIGHT ITINERARY

On each call, you will be provided with action points and bits of homework to help you make progress in between our calls.

LANGUAGES SPOKEN

In Mauritius they speak English , French and Mauritian Creole.

WHAT TO PACK

SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen is not negotiable and very important on any island breaks. Don't be leaving there looking like prune juice.

MOSQUITO REPELLENT

in the evenings so you have no mosquito bikes and spend the holiday scratching. Also carry some aloe vera , just in case.

SEABANDS

for those who know they get sea sick and those who aren't sure. This is great to have for the speedboats or any boat adventures.

AQUA SHOES

HATS AND SUNGLASSES

The sun is hot in there, hats to keep your face from being crispy and sunglasses to look cool.

CASH

Cash is king as they say, and would be good to have some one you when you go out of the resort for trips or local restaurants.

COPIES OF YOUR PASSPORT

This is important to have in case of emergencies. In addition copy of your vaccine certificate and carry both with you.

VITAMINS & PAINKILLERS

This is important to boost your immune system and the painkillers for the imminent hangovers.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MAURITIUS

PEAK SEASON (MID DECEMBER TO MID JAN)

Start of Summer though hot and humid this is a good time for those not bothered by humidity.

Warning there will be big crowds during this time being the festive season.

SUMMER SEASON (MID JAN TO END APRIL)

Still a busy season but there will be less crowds during this time.

Summer season is hot and humid with a sprinkle of frequent afternoon showers. The showers don't last long being a small island they are short and sweet.

It's important to note that this is also cyclone season but they barely hit the island hence the short showers.

The water is between 27 to 29 degrees during this time. It also will be mango and lychees season. For those snorkeling there will be an abundance of tropical fish.

FALL & WINTER SEASON (MAY TO END SEPTEMBER)

If you are not a fan of humidity and the heat, this would be a good time for you.

The waters are still between 27 to 29 degrees, the months are cooler for the cool kids.

SPRING SEASON (OCTOBER TO MID DECEMBER)

IBeautiful spring time on the island, the weather is 30 degrees so its sunny , hot and humid at night.

During the day it is less humidity with lots of sunshine for those afternoon swims and cocktails by the beach.

Mauritius: Places to See

Black River Gorges National Park:

This beautiful National Park in Mauritius is in the South-West of the tropical Island. Black River Gorges is the biggest National Park on the Island.

For the hikers, this is a great place to explore with their various birds, deers and fruit bats. Entry to the park is FREE.

The main attraction of the Park includes the breathtaking Gorges viewpoint, Alexandra Falls , Piton de la Petite Riviere Noire and Macchabee Viewpoint.

7 Coloured Earth Geo Park (Chamarel Waterfalls & 7 Coloured Earth) :

The luscious and beautiful Geopark is home to the Chamarel Waterfalls and 7 Coloured Earth. In addition it has a tortoise park, hiking trails and fun activities like the big swing, zip-lining, quad biking and more for the family.

The Chamarel Waterfall is the first attraction when entering the Park and is the highest single drop Waterfall of Mauritius. You have the option of driving to the viewpoint or a guided 3 hour hike to the base of the waterfall for a swim.

The 7 Coloured Earth, the second attraction in the park, is a sand dune with different colours that is said to have resulted from a volcanic eruption caused thousands of years ago. Theres a lovely cafe by the dunes to enjoy a cup of coffee or have an ice cream with the views of the dunes. You can walk around the Dunes and see the tortoise park which has tortoise over 100 years old that were gifted to Mauritius by Seychelles.

For the hikers there is Ebony Forest where you can go on a guided hike through the Ebony Trees and be surrounded by beautiful birds , blue geckos , monkeys and all that nature provides. In addition you can see the views of the coast and UNESCO sites of Le Morne.

Travel Tip : Opens 8am to 17:30. Tickets can be purchased online or upon arrival. There's a cute gift shop and cafe :).

Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne is located on the South-West of the Island and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Important to note that this is a popular historical site for its beauty and where the runaway slaves would find shelter.

If you have time take a hike to the top of Le Morne. It's advised that you go with a guide on this hike for safety reasons and to learn the history of the area. The hike is 2 hours up and 2 hours down therefore you would need to take into account 4 hours for the total hike.

Travel Tip : The early bird catches the worm and least heat. Go early to avoid the scorching heat, carry lots of water, wear comfortable hiking shoes and your camera. Afterwards you can go for a swim at Le Morne Beach.

Underwater Waterfall :

Located in the South-West of the Island close to Le Morne Brabant. The Underwater Waterfall is one to ignite your wanderlust offers a spectacular illusion. The sand and silt of the ocean floor run off in such a way that it looks like it's pouring down a waterfall. You need a helicopter or seaplane to to view this marvel that is created by the flow of underwater currents.

Lagoon Flight (Seaplane) : +230 5975 2424

Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens:

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens, also known as Pamplemousses Botantical Gardens. This botanical garden is located in the North of the Island, not too far from Port Louis.

It's known to be the oldest Botanical Garden in the Indian Ocean. It's tranquil and beautiful garden with the stars of the show being the Giant Water-Lilly pond.

It's labelled to be one of the most instagramable places on the Island after enjoying a lovely walk and picnic, can take some beautiful pictures for the memories.

La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park

Another Eco Park to add on your itinerary. This wonderland is home to mountains, waterfalls, streams, plains, flora and fauna. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

The main attractions are the waterfalls, geology museum and 23 Coloured Earth. The Eco Park also has outdoor activities such as quad biking, zipling, hanging bridge and more.

Tamarind Falls:

Tamarind Falls are located in the South-West of the Island in a beautiful canyon, close to Black River Gorges NP. There are 10 Waterfalls with a few where you can take a cooling swim in.

Hiking is another option there but be advised that you need to hire a guide as they are more knowledgeable and can quide you safely to the falls.

Travel Tip : Here are the places to book your guided hike.

Trou Aux Cerfs, considered to be one of the best natural attractions on the island, is a dormant volcano. It's in the centre of the island surrounded by the small lakes and a green lush crater. This is a tropical island as usual, so the whole island is lush.

If you're nearby the area it will be a great stop but don't go out of your way to see it.If you find yourself hiking at Tamarind Falls or Les Domaine des Aubineaux then you can make this pitstop.

Baie Du Cap Maconde View Point

Located at Captain Matthew Flinders Monument this is considered to be a popular viewpoint therefore worth the visit. The viewpoint is between Le Morne and Baie du Cop in the South of the Island. It has beautiful seascapes and picturesque landscapes, but keep in mind that it is a little rocky.

Little history on the viewpoint, runaway slaves from Makonde tribe from Mozambique would find refuge here.

Travel Tip : This viewpoint gets busy from 8am in the morning. Yes, you read right. Ofcourse the early bird catches the best sunrise and best views to yourself.

Ganga Talao - Grand Bassin

Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin) is considered one of the best places to visit and known to be a sacred lake. The lake has a symbolic link to the Ganges River in India due to some holy water being mixed into the lake from the Ganges River in the 1970s.

The temple also has great views of the gorgeous lake and surrounding temples. You will be engulfed with tranquility and beauty. Basically a little slice of eat, pray and love vibes.

Travel Tip : Easy to get this location if you renting a vehicle. Or you can book a private tour, this will also include seeing the main Mauritius attractions in one day

L'Aventure du Sucre

Looking for another educational and cultural activity then visiting L'Aventure should be on your list. If you want to learn more about Mauritius, mainly about its history, culture, the people and some local rum tasting. Step back into time visiting this museum that's inside an old sugar factory in the gorgeous Beau Plan Sugar Estate. Adding the museum visit is also very enlightening and informative.

Inside there is an exceptional restaurant and shop. You can embark on a sugarcane cutting tour and cocktail making sessions.

Travel Tip : There are free guided tours. Check the website for more information.

Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site

Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can learn more about the islands past and history. The heritage site gives the visitors an overview of the 'indentured servitude' experience that the British established, also known as the great experiment. This system was put in place to replace slaves bf "Free" labour.

Here is a little history for the nerds. In 1834-35 slavery ended and as a result raised issues at the sugar plantations that depended on slave labour. Higher wages and improved living conditions were demanded by the emancipated slaves. So the solution to the problem you may ask, was to hire hardworking Indians who would be eager to come due to the economic depression in India during the time.

Over half a million Indian labourers passed through this Site and due to the migration , which resulted in 70% of the current Mauritian population to be of Indian roots.

Travel Tip : Visiting this Site is Free. There are guides available if you would like a more informative tour.

Chateau de Labourdonnais

Located in the Mapou district on the North of the Island is a beautiful Victorian Mansion called Chateau d Labourdonnais. This can be a great afternoon visit were you can enjoy some rum tasting or go on the mini train for a tour.

The manor was restored to it's original set-up with antique furniture and interiors. Don't forget to have a lovely lunch at La Table du Chateau. The rum at the manor known as Labourdonnais rum is considered one of the best brands on the Island.

Travel Tip : Prepare to spend 2-3 hours here including walking through the estate, rum tasting and eating. You would need to reserve a place at the restaurant in advance and the Labourdonnais Express Tour. Website

Ile Aux Cerfs

To complete your trip, visiting the Ile Aux Cerfs needs to be on your bucket list. Personally we preferred a private boat tour that included visiting Grand River South West Waterfall , snorkeling in the reef, free time at Ile Aux Cerfs and to end the trip with a very delicious island barbeque with all inclusive drinks. Best meal we had the whole trip, number 1 on the list of best foodie experiences.

Free time on Ile Aux Cerfs involves enjoying the white beaches and blue water. Always remember to carry sunscreen, rubber sea shoes as the area has lots of sea urchins. The Island also has a lot of water activities , our favourite was parasailing over the blue ocean. 90 minutes is sufficient time to spend as a couple or few friends, whereas families might need more time for the kids to enjoy the activities.

Travel tip : Carry cash for the boat hire, if you are booking it in person when you get to the Bay. The Barbecue also requires cash, so cash is king for this excursion.

BEST PLACES TO EAT

Sunshine Fusion

Address: MU, Coastal Road, Poste Lafayette 41519, Mauritius

Sunshine Fusion Restaurant