mauritius top 10 places to visit

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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20 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN MAURITIUS (FULL GUIDE)

• by Tes Maccmilan
• November 15, 2020

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.

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

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!

THINGS TO DO IN MAURITIUS

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

VISIT THE CAPITAL: PORT LOUIS

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.

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

FISHING IN DEEP SEA

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.

CAUDAN WATERFRONT

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!

LOCAL CULTURE IN MAHEBOURG

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.

ILE AUX AIGRETTES

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.

HEAD NORTH TO GRAND BAY

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.

SCUBA DIVE IN BLUE BAY MARINE PARK

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 .

Mauritius was made  first, and then heaven; and heaven  was  copied after  Mauritius

AAPRAVASI GHAT AND LE MORNE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE

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.

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

EPIC HORSE RACING AT LE CHAMP DE MARS

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.

SPEND A DAY AT CASELA WILDLIFE PARK AND YEMEN RESERVE

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.

EXPLORE: DOMAINE DES GRAND BOIS AND DOMAINE DU CHASSEUR

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.

VISIT TRIOLET SHIVALA

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

CHECK OUT THE MARKET IN FLACQ VILLAGE

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)

ENJOY CHAMAREL’S STUNNING LANDSCAPE

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 colour.

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.

EXPLORE BALACLAVA RUINS AND DUTCH RUINS

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.

ENJOY BEACH TIME IN FLIC EN FLAC

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!

VISIT MARTELLO TOWERS

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)

EXPLORE BLACK RIVER GORGES NATIONAL PARK

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!

CHILL IN SOUILLAC, SAVANNE

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!

• Credits to Justin Carmack https://www.nomadasaurus.com/
• Topics: Lifestyle , Mauritius , Things to do , Travel

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31 Top Things to Do in Mauritius: Best Places & Fun Activities (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 24, 2024

Are you looking for ideas for things to do in Mauritius? You came to the right place! In this article, you’ll find a great selection of some of the best things to do and amazing activities in Mauritius that you probably didn’t even know about.

Just as many people, I always had a perception that Mauritius is mostly a honeymoon destination and that people travel here for the sun and the beach. Well, it’s partially true. However, there is so much more to see and do in Mauritius than just the beach!

No matter if you are visiting Mauritius for your honeymoon, solo trip, or a family vacation, you really should take the time to explore the island beyond your luxury resort. It will be worth it!

In this article, you will find plenty of inspiration for all kinds of interesting and fun things to do in Mauritius . From historic places and the most famous Mauritius attractions to the most-unbelievable adrenaline-rushing activities that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

This incredible selection of things to do in Mauritius will make you want to stay on the island a couple of weeks longer… Read on!

Good to know: This guide to some of the best things to do in Mauritius is created with the help of a group of international travel writers who recently explored this paradise island in collaboration with the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority. This would not have been possible without their enthusiasm and help.

It’s not a sponsored article, but a guide to Mauritius that I wanted to put together in order to show you how much Mauritius has to offer and how diverse it actually is. Because – before my trip – I wasn’t aware that there is so much to see and do in Mauritius, and probably neither are you…

In order to help you plan your trip to this beautiful island, I also created a map indicating all the best places to visit in Mauritius . You can find it all the way at the bottom of this article.

TIP: If you don’t want to hire a car and are looking for private- or group tours that bring you to some of the best places in Mauritius, you can find the best selection of tours here .

Now take a look at this incredible selection of the very best things to do in Mauritius. You’ll definitely find plenty of inspiration for places to visit and fun activities for your vacation in Mauritius!

You can use the overview below or just scroll down and check the whole list. You’ll be amazed at how much there is to see and do on this Paradise Island. Find out!

Best Things to Do in Mauritius – OVERVIEW

• Black River Gorges NP
• Chamarel Waterfall & 7 Colored Earth
• Le Morne Brabant
• Tamarind Falls
• Boat Trip to Ile aux Cerfs
• Baie Du Cap Maconde View Point
• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
• La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park
• Trou aux Cerfs
• Ganga Talao – Grand Bassin
• L’Aventure du Sucre
• Château de Labourdonnais
• Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site
• Quad Biking
• Sub Scooter Diving
• Jeep Safari & Picnic in Heritage Nature Reserve
• Submarine Experience
• Casela World of Adventures
• Helicopter Tour
• Flyboarding
• Swimming with Wild Dolphins
• Kayaking in Tamarin Bay
• Beach, Snorkeling, Diving, and Water Sports
• Le Domaine des Aubineaux
• Bois Cheri Tea Gardens and Factory
• Saint Aubin – La Maison de la Vanille
• Horse Racing at Champ de Mars Racecourse
• Port Louis Central Market
• Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis
• Bagatelle Mall
• Best Things to Do in Mauritius on the Map

Where to Stay

Since this list contains so many places to visit and amazing activities in Mauritius, I sorted it per topic. First, let’s take a look at the most beautiful natural attractions in Mauritius :

1. Black River Gorges National Park

Located in the southwest of Mauritius, Black River Gorges NP is the biggest and the most beautiful National Park in Mauritius. Lush green rainforest and beautiful hills are home to over 300 species of different plants, various birds, boar, monkeys, deer, and a big colony of giant fruit bats. If you visit just one National Park in Mauritius, make it this one!

This beautiful park is accessible via several roads, has two information centers, picnic areas, and over 60km of hiking trails. Needless to say it’s best explored on foot.

The main highlights of Black River Gorges National Park are Gorges Viewpoint , Alexandra Falls , Macchabée Viewpoint , and Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire (the highest mountain of Mauritius).

Practical information: You can visit the park on your own or join a guided hike .

2. Chamarel: 7 Colored Earth, Waterfall & More

Suggested by Patrizia from the Italian blog Fashion For Travel .

Chamarel is a charming village in the southwest corner of Mauritius and one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. It’s best known for two things: Rum Distillery and 7 Coloured Earth Geopark .

The geopark is a large area and you need a ticket to visit it. The most incredible and famous attraction of the area is the so-called 7 Coloured Earth . It’s a vast area of sand dunes with different colors of sand going from red to brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow. Especially when the sun shines all the colors are impressively bright and intense… This place is simply amazing.

In the same area, you also have a tortoise park. At the moment, there are 6 giant tortoises living here. Originally from the nearby Seychelles islands , they are about 150 years old.

Not far from the 7 colored earth, you can see another attraction of the area – the Chamarel waterfall . It’s the highest single-drop waterfall of Mauritius, about 100 meters high. You can reach the viewpoint of the waterfall by car, or you can hike to the base pool of the waterfall where you can also swim. Just beware that it’s a 3-hour hike.

Ebony Forest is a somewhat lesser-known attraction of the Chamarel area, but it’s well worth a visit. It’s your chance to see many ebony trees along with many different kinds of birds and mesmerizing blue geckos! Nature here is incredible and the views on the coast and the UNESCO site of Le Morne – simply stunning. This extremely wide forest area can be seen with guided jeep tours or walking.

Practical info: Geopark is open daily from 8 AM to 5.30 PM. There is a gift shop and a café on site. You can get the entrance ticket in advance or upon arrival. Here is the best private day tour that visits this area , as well as some other main tourist sights of southwest Mauritius.

3. Le Morne Brabant

Suggested by Rob from Love And Road .

Le Morne Brabant , or simply Le Morne , is an imposing mountain rising 550 meters high in the southwest of Mauritius. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Le Morne is famous for its history, a place used as a shelter by runaway slaves, and for its beauty. You can admire the mountain from the beaches nearby, but if you have some time and are fit enough, you can hike all the way to the top.

I hiked Le Morne and it was one of the best experiences in Mauritius. First things first, however. If you want to hike to Le Morne, I recommend hiring a guide. It is possible to hike by yourself, but it is not as safe as hiking with a guide. Furthermore, going with a guide you will learn about Le Morne’s history, fauna, and flora.

Le Morne trail starts easy, on a clear path and under the trees, which helps to beat the heat. About halfway the walk gets really challenging and you may even need both hands to help with the climb. But it’s so worth it! The views are spectacular! Our guide knew all the good spots for photos and we did a few stops to catch our breath.

To reach the top, it took us about 2 hours and we were rewarded with outstanding views. From the top, you can see so many shades of blue and the stunning underwater waterfall, an optical illusion created by the currents dragging the sand to the deep sea. Totally worth the 2 hours of climbing up.

TIP: Go as early as possible because the heat is tough. Also, make sure you wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and don’t forget your camera. 

Practical information: Le Morne trail has a total length of about 7km. It took us 4 hours in total. If you are staying at one of the hotels nearby, they can arrange a driver/guide for you to visit Le Morne. Alternatively, you can simply book a guided tour online . Some Le Morne hiking tours also include a hotel transfer.

4. Tamarind Falls

Tamarind Falls , also known as Tamarin Falls are a series of 7 cascades on the Rivière Tamarin. It’s located in a beautiful canyon in the southwest of Mauritius, not far from the Black River Gorges NP. The area has more than 10 waterfalls, some with deeper ponds where you can also swim.

There are several hiking paths here, but they are not very well indicated. As stunning as it is, the area is quite confusing and some parts can be dangerous, so it’s best to hike here with a knowledgeable local guide.

Various hiking tours are available, some of just a couple of hours, while some others that go deeper into the canyon, take almost the whole day.

Practical information: If you want to book a guided hike, you can find several nice options here . One of the most popular tours is this highly-rated 3-hour Tamarind hike .

5. Boat Trip to Ile aux Cerfs

Mauritius is a rather big island that is surrounded by so many other smaller islands. Most of these islands are tiny and uninhabited. Some have white-sand beaches, amazing snorkeling, and offer lots of activities for daytime visitors, while some others are just a couple of rocks in the sea… No trip to Mauritius would be complete without taking a boat tour to explore the islands near the coast of Mauritius .

We took this Mauritius catamaran cruise that included snorkeling , a visit to historic Ile aux Fouquets (locals call it the Lighthouse Island ), Grand River South East waterfall, and some free time on Ile aux Cerfs .

This paradise-like island has stunning scenery and so many activities that it has become one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Mauritius. Delicious BBQ lunch on board and all-inclusive drinks made the day completely perfect.

Practical information: There are countless options when it comes to visiting the little islands nearby – from speedboat tours to full-day catamaran excursions.

TIP: The most popular boat trips are those that go to Ile aux Cerfs . Here is a similar catamaran trip as the one I did (although they sometimes use speedboats too). This highly-rated speedboat trip covers the exact same itinerary. An advantage of going on a speedboat is that you have more time for sightseeing and relaxing on the island.

6. Baie Du Cap Maconde View Point

Suggested by Sara from In Africa and Beyond .

Baie Du Cap Maconde View Point (at Captain Matthew Flinders Monument) might not be a major landmark, but it’s one of the most popular viewpoints in Mauritius and so definitely worth a visit when touring the island. This little rocky cliff between Le Morne and Baie du Cap in the South of Mauritius is set on a hairpin bend on the coastal road. This area is known for its picturesque landscapes and incredible seascapes.

Known as Cape Brabant in the past, this area was not easily accessible before 1920 when the first road was built. It is believed that it used to serve as a refuge for runaway slaves from the Makonde tribe of Mozambique, from where it got its current name.

From the road, there are some steep stone steps to climb (just a very short climb, though). From the top, you can enjoy spectacular views of the coastline, the nearby village, Macondé Rock, and the Savanne Mountains in the background. Sometimes, you may also see local fishermen catching fish, or boats out at sea. The views are well worth a short stop!

Practical information: If you’re using Google Maps, search for Captain Matthew Flinders Monument for the exact location of this viewpoint (see map ). The viewpoint starts getting busy from around eight in the morning so if you want to have it to yourself, you’ll have to go there really early. It can also be quite windy here.

7. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Suggested by Mathilde from the French blog Voyager en Photos .

Probably one of the most popular things to do in Mauritius is visiting the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden , also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden . Located in Pamplemousses on the north of the island and just a short drive from Port Louis, it is well worth a short visit.

Created in the 18th century, Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is the oldest botanical garden in the Indian Ocean. The original idea behind it was to experiment with the acclimation of tropical species to the climate of Mauritius Island.

This lovely botanical garden is a very peaceful and relaxing place where you can discover many species of tropical trees and other plants. The giant water-lily pond is one of the main attractions and is not to be missed.

You can make a pleasant walk through the garden between the giant palm trees and other beautiful plants. Giant tortoises from the Seychelles Islands are roaming freely and will be the highlight of the visit for the kids. If you look carefully, you may also see some giant bats sleeping in the trees.

Practical info: No advance booking is required. The garden is open daily (including public holidays). Count about 1 hour for a visit. If you don’t have a car, there are private and group tours available .

8. La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park

La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park  is a privately-owned nature park focussed on eco-tourism. Located in the south of Mauritius, it’s a natural wonderland with plains and mountains, waterfalls, streams, and a big variety of flora and fauna. The scenery here is truly beautiful.

The main attractions of the park are the waterfalls, the 23 Coloured Earth, and a small Geology Museum. In addition, you can opt for a big range of fun outdoor activities such as quad biking, off-road buggy riding, zip-lining, a hanging bridge, and more. Lots of activities are possible for children as well.

There is a restaurant on-site, but its reviews aren’t great. So you may want to bring your own picnic. If you opt for several outdoor activities, you can easily spend a whole day here. Or just come to look around and enjoy the scenery.

Practical information:  Open daily from 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM. Tickets for a regular visit are quite cheap and so it’s worth it just to see the area. However, outdoor activities are quite pricey – see here .

9. Trou aux Cerfs

Often listed as one of the best natural tourist attractions in Mauritius, Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano in the center of the island. Best known for its green lush crater with a small lake inside, it also offers nice views of the area.

There is a road going all the way to the top, so you can easily see the crater just by driving up to it. I haven’t visited it myself, but the people who did tell me that it’s not really that impressive. So it’s up to you to decide if it’s worth your time or not.

It’s a nice quick stop if you are nearby. For example, if you are hiking to the earlier mentioned Tamarind Falls or visiting the Le Domaine des Aubineaux (see further). But it’s probably not a place you want to go out of your way for.

Now, let’s take a look at the most interesting cultural attractions in Mauritius .

10. Ganga Talao – Grand Bassin

Suggested by Verushka from Spice Goddess. On her blog, you can read about what it’s like to visit Ganga Talao during the annual Maha Shivaratri Hindu festival .

Ganga Talao , also known as the Grand Bassin , is a sacred lake and one of the best places to see in Mauritius. Its significance is compared to that of the Ganges river in India. Back in the ’70s, some holy water from the Ganges River was brought and mixed into the lake, establishing a symbolic link between the two places.

This beautiful crater lake is surrounded by several temples built along its shores. One of the most impressive Hindu temples and one you should definitely visit when in Mauritius is the Ganga Talao Hall .

It’s an incredibly beautiful temple that not only draws Hindus but people of all faiths. At the entrance, you will find statues of the Hindu Gods Lord Shiva and Mother Durga. Serving as gatekeepers of this sacred place, the copper-colored statues have incredible details carved into them. The Shiva statue, Mangal Mahadev, is 33 meters (108 ft) high and is said to be the tallest statue in Mauritius.

As you wander down the stairs, you will get a really good view of the beautiful lake and the other temples. Within the main temple, you’ll find a sacred Hindu stone Shiva Lingam.

No matter when you visit, there is always a hive of activity here with locals and tourists of all faiths praying and leaving offers. Despite this, there is always a sense of tranquility at Ganga Talao.

Practical information: If you have a rental car, you can visit this site on your own. Alternatively, one of the best options is to book a private tour of the South-West of Mauritius and see this as well as other main Mauritius sights in one day. This is one of the best-rated tours in Mauritius!

11. L’Aventure du Sucre

In my opinion, visiting L’Aventure du Sucre is one of the best things to do in Mauritius. It’s both educational as well as fun. It’s a great place for everyone who doesn’t like boring museums but wants to learn more about Mauritius island, its people, history, and culture, as well as taste some local rum. A visit here will make you see Mauritius with very different eyes.

Located in the beautiful Beau Plan Sugar Estate, L’Aventure du Sucre is an events center that also houses a museum, a restaurant, and a shop. The museum is set inside an old sugar factory. A visit here is like stepping back in time, yet the place is very modern and the exhibits are well thought-off.

Every museum visit includes rum- and sugar tasting. In addition, cocktail-making lessons and sugarcane-cutting tours are available. There is also a very good restaurant on site.

Practical information: L’Aventure du Sucre is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day, including public holidays. Free guided tours are available. For ticket prices and up-to-date practical info, please consult  the website of the museum .

LEARN MORE: my experience visiting L’Aventure du Sucre

TIP: Combine a visit to the Mauritius Sugar Museum with that of the nearby Botanical Garden of Pamplemousse. You can take  a day tour that visits both these places and more  or  hire a private driver for a day .

12. Château de Labourdonnais

Chateau de Labourdonnais is a Victorian mansion on a sugarcane plantation that has been restored and now serves as a museum. Located in Mapou district in the North of Mauritius. It’s just a 20-30 minute drive from the idyllic beach spots of Grand Gaube, Grand Baie, and even Port Louis. 

I’d recommend an afternoon at the chateau and estate because of how much there is to learn, see and do. You can visit the beautifully restored Victorian manor with its antique furniture and interiors in their original set-up, indulge in a rum tasting, or take a tour via the Labourdonnais Express mini train. Furthermore, they also have a really nice La Table du Chateau restaurant.

A personal highlight was the rum-tasting bar in a beautiful courtyard. Labourdonnais rum is one of Mauritius’ very best brands and there are a couple of different varieties you can try, including spiced and lemongrass-infused rum.

Practical information: An average visit with a meal, rum tasting, and a walk through the museum and gardens/orchards can take 2-3 hours. The estate is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except for some holidays. All entry costs can be paid for at the gate on arrival, however, tables at the restaurant and the Labourdonnais Express tour will need to be reserved in advance. For more practical information, please check the official website .

13. Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site

Suggested by Verushka from Spice Goddess. As a South African Indian whose ancestors came to South Africa under the same conditions, she recommends this UNESCO heritage site as one of the must-see places in Mauritius. On her blog, you can read more about visiting the Aapravasi Ghat .

If you like to learn a bit more about Mauritius’ past and its history, one of the best places to visit is the Aapravasi Ghat UNESCO World Heritage Site . It’s a 19th-century Immigration Depot site located in Port Louis that gives visitors a glimpse into the ‘Indentured servitude’ experiment that the British established in Mauritius.

Now known as ‘the great experiment’, it was a system put in place in order to replace slaves by ‘free’ labor.

The abolition of slavery in European colonies in 1834-35 was a problem for the sugar plantations in Mauritius which depended on slave labor. The emancipated slaves were demanding higher wages and better living conditions. At this time India was experiencing a highly depressed economy and the hardworking Indian population seemed to be a great solution to the problem.

It is estimated that half a million laborers passed through this site in Port Louis between 1849 and 1923. A big majority of them came from India. This migration is the reason why about 70% of the current Mauritius population has Indian roots.

The exhibits at the Aapravasi Ghat give you a glimpse into the lives that these brave souls led. Their living and working conditions were not ideal or lived up to the promises they were made to believe.

Practical information: The Aapravasi Ghat exhibition is FREE to visit. There are guides available should you wish to have a guided tour. The official website has been taken offline, but they are open daily except on Sundays, so if you want to visit, just pop up if you are in the area.

And now it’s time for the fun part – the best activities in Mauritius . Take a look at this surprising selection!

14. Quad Biking

Suggested by Nienke from The Travel Tester. On her blog, you can read more about her quad biking experience in Mauritius .

Quad biking is a great way to discover Mauritius off the beaten path. There are many places where you can go quad hiking on the island. We did quad a tour at Domaine De L’Etoile . Located on the lush east coast of the island, it’s a stunning area with 1200 hectares of protected wild flora and fauna. Its landscaped English gardens reminded me of the green, hilly landscape of the Teletubbies…

Domaine De L’Etoile is the biggest private nature reserve of Mauritius. It’s also the base of TerrOcean, an adventure activity company that offers a wide range of fun outdoor activities (most also suitable for kids). You can go hiking, horseback riding, buggy, zip-lining, etc. I joined a quad bike tour and I can highly recommend it to everyone!

On the quad biking tour, you rush through forests, valleys and sugarcane fields… It’s also an easy way to get high up the mountains for the most stunning views over the area, all while following a guide that knows the area best and can tell you all about it. You can choose to be a driver yourself, or sit on the back seat of the quad. Either option will give you a great experience! 

After your thrilling ride, you can make a pit stop at the on-site restaurant overlooking the Grand River South-East.

Practical information: Quad tours at Domaine L’Etoile are now suspended and it’s not clear if/when they’ll reopen again. For the best currently available quad tours in Mauritius , take a look here .

15. Sub Scooter Diving

Suggested by: Greta from Greta’s Travels. On her blog, you can find more information about diving with a sub-scooter in Mauritius .

If you’re looking for the most epic things to do in Mauritius, you have to add  diving with a sub-scooter  to your Mauritius bucket list. This is a unique experience that you can only have in Mauritius !

Luc Billard, the co-founder of Blue Safari, invented the sub-scooter (also known as scuba scooter or underwater scooter). At the moment Mauritius is the only place in the world where you can do this activity. As you might imagine from the name, the sub-scooter is a crossover between a scooter and a submarine. 

It looks like a Vespa with a big glass dome that covers your head and creates an air bubble keeping your head dry as you explore the underwater world in Mauritius! There are oxygen tanks that circulate the air inside the dome so that you can breathe normally. It can be used by two people.

The sub-scooter goes to about 3m depth and moves at a speed of 4km/h, without ever touching the seabed floor so as not to damage the reef.

As someone who doesn’t love scuba diving, I loved the scuba scooter experience. It gives you a bit more freedom and the opportunity to get close to the fish. It’s a really fun and unique experience, definitely one of the best things to do in Mauritius.

It’s the most unique activity in Mauritius. While not cheap, it’s definitely worth the money if you are looking for something really special to do in Mauritius.

Practical information: Blue Safari is located in Trou aux Biches, on the northwest coast of Mauritius. This activity is suitable for most people and also for kids from 8 years old. You spend about 40 minutes underwater, but including transfers to the platform in the middle of the sea, safety briefings, changing clothes, etc. the whole experience will take a couple of hours. You can find more information and book a tour here .

16. Bel Ombre Nature Reserve

Suggested by Emily from Wander-Lush. On her blog, you can read more about visiting Heritage Nature Reserve in Mauritius .

The verdant  Heritage Nature Reserve (nowadays best known as Bel Ombre Nature Reserve ) is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mauritius. Located in Bel Ombre on the island’s southwest coast, it’s a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as off-road driving and trekking on offer. Another great way to explore the area is by going on a safari jeep tour , followed by a relaxing picnic in a beautiful setting.

The 1,300-hectare Reserve takes in Frederica Nature Park, a rehabilitated sugar plantation, and the adjacent Macchabée-Bel Ombre, a protected forest that was listed as a UNESCO Biosphere in 1977.

The area is home to some of the island’s most precious fauna, including rare native birds such as Mauritius Kestrels and Echo Parakeets, as well as fruit bats, monkeys, and deer. It’s one of the last places on the island where you can see endemic trees such as black ebony and takamaka growing wild.

Safari tours of the Reserve are led by expert guides from the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation. Via back roads and bumpy dirt tracks, jeeps weave between Frederica and the primary forest area, climbing hills for a view of the ocean and dipping into deep green valleys.

Highlights include visiting the historic Frederica Lodge, the old stone sugar mill (a relic of the Reserve’s previous life), black-rock streams and waterfalls. There’s also a beautiful picnic area where you can eat an alfresco lunch inside a ‘picnic pod’ – a special tent suspended off the forest floor.

Practical information: Heritage Nature Reserve is a private park and can only be visited with a guide. Tours include a jeep ride to the Frédérica waterfalls, followed by a picnic or a fun off-road buggy ride. Here you can see what’s available and book your tour in advance .

17. Submarine Experience

Suggested by Bo Saldaña from El Mundo OK .

If you are looking for something very unique and unforgettable to do in Mauritius, I recommend the submarine experience . This thrilling ride of about 45 minutes under the sea is an adrenaline-inducing adventure. Give it a try, if you dare. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget.

I visited the island on a press trip and never knew that Mauritius had this surprise waiting for me. I was not aware of undertaking this adventure until we arrived at the Blue Safari Mauritius. As you can imagine, I felt very curious and at the same time a bit afraid. After all, going on a submarine is not something you do every day…

Following the briefing, a small boat transported us to a larger boat docked a bit further away from the coast. When the captain of the 10-passenger tourist submarine that would take us to the bottom of the sea welcomed us and explained the procedure, I became a little more scared. I was thinking of throwing in the towel…

But then I gathered all my courage and got on board. The moment they closed the door of the submarine, in my mind I told myself that I could not do anything else anymore, but make the most of it. So I calmed down and began to enjoy the experience which turned out to be truly amazing!

We dove slowly to 40 meters under the surface and it was like being in a dream. It felt like I was hallucinating; watching the fish of different colors and sizes moving freely next to the corals was mind-blowing. We even saw a giant turtle. At times, I felt like we were watching a National Geographic movie or documentary, but then in real life.

Furthermore, this experience really helps you to understand our planet better. I am now more aware than ever that there is all this incredible underwater world and that we must be responsible and take better care of our planet.

All in all, going on a submarine was an incredible adventure and one of the most memorable things to do in Mauritius. It’s something I would recommend to everyone. And if you are a little afraid, as I was, it is a great way to help you face your fears and open up your mind to new experiences.

Practical information: This activity is suitable for most people and also for kids from about 4 years old. It takes about 2 hours, with about 40-45 minutes underwater. It’s not cheap, but it’s one of the most special things you’ll ever do, so definitely worth the money. See here for more information and bookings .

18. E-biking

Suggested by Annika from the Swedish blog Resfredag .

A fun activity and a great opportunity to get a bit off the beaten path in Mauritius is to go for a guided e-bike day trip. It’s fun, it’s easy, and it allows you to travel slower and appreciate the scenery more. We did an e-bike tour on the south part of the island and I would definitely recommend it for anyone looking for something fun to do in Mauritius.

What makes e-biking so special is the chance to see more of the local side of Mauritius. We were cycling through tiny villages, past pristine beaches, finally reaching one of the most magnificent and beautiful viewpoints in Mauritius: La Roche Qui Pleure. It was such a fun day!

Practical information: Bring sunscreen and sunglasses. E-bike tours are usually also suitable for kids from about 1.47m (4’8) height. The exact tour described here is no longer available, but you can find other e-bike tours in Mauritius here .

19. Casela World of Adventures

Suggested by Veruska and Giuseppe from The Foodellers .

One of the best activities we recommend in Mauritius is Casela World of Adventures , also known as Casela Nature Park . It’s a sort of outdoor amusement/animal park, both for families with kids as well as adults. It’s something different to do on Mauritius Island; perfect if you are like us and get easily bored on the beach.

We went zip-lining and took part in a 1-hour safari quad . You can pump your adrenaline at the Nepalese Bridge overlooking the canyon and from there jump on the 400m zipline. So much fun!

The quad safari takes place on a rugged plateau and allows you to see zebras, ostriches, and African antelopes without bothering them. It is surely something you don’t expect to see in Mauritius. At first, we were quite skeptical about the safari, but we really loved it.

We visited in the morning and the place was already packed (it was mid-November and a school holiday in Mauritius, so it might be less busy in other periods).

Since this is a natural park for families and children, a lot of activities with animals are carried on all day long. The good thing is that the more adventurous activities take place in a separate area of the park, where it’s not as crowded. Our best tip to enjoy the park is to go directly to the attractions you’ve chosen to do and skip the animal/zoo part.

We haven’t taken part in any of the activities where you interact with animals and we highly recommend you do the same. Stay away from animal feeding, petting, and any other activity that includes playing with wild animals. Come here to enjoy the Thrill Mountain and the Quad Safari and have fun doing something completely unexpected in Mauritius!

Practical information: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except on some holidays. Here, you can see various options for tickets and activities at Casela Nature Reserve .

20. Helicopter Tour

Suggested by Keith from Velvet Escape. On his blog, you can find more inspiration and information for a  helicopter tour of Mauritius .

Mauritius is world-famous for its breathtaking coast, with its crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and shimmering white beaches. And there is no better way to appreciate all this beauty than from the air.

So if you are looking for something really special to do in Mauritius, I can highly recommend a helicopter tour . The jaw-dropping panoramas and the amazing colors are simply unforgettable. Spectacular views over the azure-blue sea and green mountains will take your breath away!

To me, this is one of the most memorable experiences ever and one of the best things to do in Mauritius!

Practical information: One of the most impressive aerial sights in Mauritius is an underwater waterfall that is located in the southwest of the island (close to Le Morne mountain, mentioned earlier). Many Mauritius helicopter tours go there. There are several companies and prices vary a lot, so do some research before you book.

21. Flyboarding

Suggested by Roobens from Been Around The Globe .

If you are looking for something different and really fun to do in Mauritius, I highly recommend flyboarding. You’re gonna love it!

Even if you’ve never done it before or if you’re not comfortable in the water, don’t worry. You’ll have a life jacket and just float on the water. Furthermore, it’s easier to do it than it looks at first sight.

Basically, you’re standing on a type of hoverboard powered by gas turbines. It’s also called Flyn’Dive-Board . As your guide turns it on, you go up in the air, above the water. It really feels like flying! It takes a few minutes to get used to it and to master balance, but once you get to know how it works, you just don’t want to stop. It’s so much fun!

We went flyboarding with a few people and none of us had done it before. At first, we were all hesitant to do it, but we gave it a try and had a great time! As fun as it is, the flyboarding experience only lasts 20 minutes. Make the most of it! 

Flyboarding is not a common activity and it’s not something you can do every day, so I really recommend you give it a try. It will make your time in Mauritius even more special!

Practical information: At the moment of the last update, flyboarding is no longer available at the place where we went. But this changes all the time, so if you are interested, check online for the possibilities.

22. Swimming with Wild Dolphins

If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in Mauritius, then you cannot miss the ‘ swim with the wild dolphins ‘ boat trip! It’s one of the most memorable things to do on your Mauritius vacation.

After a short ride, your boat will stop in the middle of nowhere and while you’re wondering what will happen now, you’ll immediately see some dolphins coming out of the water. The bright light of the early sun and the shape of those wonderful creatures so close to you is something you won’t forget, but… the best is yet to come!

Don’t jump into the water just yet! Your boat will run very speedily away far from dolphins, then suddenly stop and your driver will hurry you to jump in the water and look down. The first time I jumped in, I saw 6 big dolphins and a baby dolphin, swimming just a few meters under my belly. It’s simply incredible! 

I made about ten different jumps during my boat trip and once I got so close to the dolphin who was about to come out of the water that I could have touched him. This was such an incredibly emotional moment. Unforgettable and highly recommended!

Practical information: Dolphin trips always take place early morning as that is the best time to see them. But it’s totally worth the early start! Here you can find a big selection of swimming with dolphins or dolphin-watching experiences .

23. Kayaking in Tamarin Bay

Suggested by Sandy from Voyager – Sandy & Vyjay .

There are many places where you can go kayaking in Mauritius . In fact, pretty much every luxury resort offers kayaks, SUPS, and other non-motorized water activities free of charge… But one of the nicest places to do this might be the area between Tamarin Bay and Grande Riviere Noire .

What makes Tamarin Bay special is its picturesque scenery, overlooking the peak of the majestic Rempart Mountain which dominates the horizon. The impressive mountain combines with the blue skies, white clouds, emerald waters, and lush greenery to create an illusion of a stunning life-size painting. Furthermore, dolphins are often seen in this area.

In addition, several rivers flow into the ocean here – Rivière du Rempart and Riviere Tamarin on Tamarin Bay itself and Riviere Noire further down south. So you can also kayak between the mangroves. We paddled into a narrow passage of water. Mangroves flanked both sides, the only sound was that of our paddles striking the water. We stopped paddling and just sat in our kayaks savoring some moments of bliss in what seemed like paradise. It’s a unique and beautiful experience in itself.

Practical information: We kayaked from our hotel, Veranda Tamarin . There is also a public beach nearby, so it might be possible to rent a kayak there, but I am not sure. Otherwise, you can always join one of the guided boat tours in this area . Alternatively, there is a nice kayak tour that goes to Amber Island on the northeast of the island.

24. Beach, Snorkeling, Diving, and Water Sports

No guide to the best things to do in Mauritius would be complete without mentioning all the amazing watersports and beach activities that you can do in Mauritius.

In addition to the really special water activities like going on a submarine, diving in a sub-scooter, or flyboarding mentioned earlier in this article, you can also go snorkeling, diving, and do countless other fun activities such as sailing, kayaking, SUP, water skiing, banana boat rides, and more… Many hotels offer free glass-bottom boat tours, so you can even see the underwater world without having to get wet.

Practical information: If you are staying at one of the luxury 4 or 5-star resorts in Mauritius, you’ll usually find a big range of available activities at your hotel. Usually, a lot of these activities are included in your stay. Otherwise, you can book glass-bottomed boat trips , diving trips , or dolphin and whale-watching trips online . The possibilities are literally endless.

TIP: If you are still looking for a hotel in Mauritius, you may want to check out The Ravenala Attitude . It’s a great-value luxury 4-star resort with a great all-in formula that includes a big range of activities.

The three places mentioned below are the main attractions along the Mauritius Tea Route . Find out!

25. Le Domaine des Aubineaux

Suggested by Julie from A Lady in London .

Le Domaine des Aubineaux is one of the three estates on La Route du The (Mauritius Tea Route, sometimes also called Mauritius Tea, Rum, and Vanilla Route) . The other two are Bois Cheri and the Saint Aubin house (see below). Each one specializes in something different, from tea to rum. This house’s focus is on the history of domestic life on the island.

Located in Curepipe in the center of Mauritius Island, Le Domaine des Aubineaux is a historic house/ museum. Constructed in 1872 from the wood of sailing ships that came to Mauritius, it was the first house built in the English colonial style on the island. Interestingly, It was also the first private residence to be wired with electricity.

Originally a family residence, Le Domaine des Aubineaux is a museum with original furniture that belonged to the people that lived here for generations. Visitors can tour the house from attic to washrooms and see what life was like for some of the island’s inhabitants. Outside, you can explore the expansive surrounding gardens, that have different walking paths under the camphor trees. It’s also possible to have tea or lunch on the veranda.

Practical information: Museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The restaurant here is very good, so it might be a good stop for lunch. Combination tickets are available if you want to visit several houses of the Mauritius Tea Route.

26. Bois Cheri Tea Gardens and Factory

Suggested by Lavina from Continent Hop .

The second place along the Mauritius Tea Route is Bois Cheri Tea Factory. Located in the town of Bois Cheri, it is the biggest and oldest tea plantation in Mauritius. A visit here takes you through a sensory journey of how the tea leaves are picked to how they’re dried, flavored and packed. Irrespective of whether you’re a tea or coffee person, the Bois Cheri Tea Gardens will entice you!

The guided factory tour is a great way to get acquainted with the whole process of tea production and its importance to Mauritius. You can then visit the museum and finish off your tour with a tea tasting. The breathtaking panoramic view you get of the South of Mauritius while tasting is unlike any other!

You’re given a big pot of hot water and boxes of various teas are placed before you. Some of them include exotic ingredients like Moringa and Rooibos. What made it special for me was that you could try all of the teas on offer, including herbal and green teas, as many times as you like!

Practical information: The tea factory is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, except on Sundays and public holidays. The factory tour is very short, but with tea tasting and all, you should probably count 1-2 hours for a visit. Bois Cheri is a popular stop on the Mauritian Tea Route and one of the best ways to visit it is with this amazing and highly-rated tour .

27. Saint Aubin – La Maison de la Vanille

Le Domaine de Saint Aubin , located in the south of the island, is probably the nicest of the three estates along the Mauritius Tea Route. Built in 1819, this beautiful colonial house used to stand next to the sugar factory, surrounded by sugarcane. It has been moved to its current location in the ’70s and now serves as a restaurant and a museum.

The Domain is home to the Vanilla House ( La Maison de la Vanille ) and the Rum House ( La Maison du Rhum ) where you can learn everything about vanilla as well as about rum making. And yes, you can taste some rum. In addition, there is a tropical spice garden, a playground for the kids, and a petting farm.

There is also a nice restaurant and activities like quad biking are available as well.

Practical information: The domain is open daily. If you don’t have a car (or if you want to taste rum), I recommend visiting it with this highly-rated tour that also includes Bois Cheri and other interesting places in that area .

And, finally, no list of the best things to do in Mauritius would be complete without mentioning some of its more local attractions . Take a look!

28. Horse Racing at Champ de Mars Racecourse

Suggested by Céline from the French blog Je Papote .

If you want to discover the local Mauritian culture, you have to go to the Champ de Mars racecourse in Port Louis ! Horse racing is THE national sport of the country. Seeing a horse race here is so typically Mauritian and not to be missed if you are looking for something really special to do in Mauritius!

Inaugurated in 1812, the Champ de Mars is the oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere and the second oldest in the world. Horse races are an institution in themselves on Mauritius island. They take place every weekend from the end of March to the beginning of December and are also broadcasted live on television.

In September, you can attend the big race of the year, the Maiden Cup, the most popular race of the season.

Attending horse races is a great way to share a memorable moment with local Mauritians, many of whom come to bet here every single weekend. The atmosphere is incredible with the shouts of supporters of all ages.

There are plenty of food courts and during the breaks, you will be able to taste the typical specialties such as dholl puri (sort of flatbread stuffed with split yellow peas), gateaux piment (Mauritian chili cakes), and others.

Practical information: Admission is free unless you wish to watch the races from the VIP lodges. I love following the races from the plain – I find the atmosphere there really adds to the experience. But if you want to have an all-in VIP experience with transfers, Crown lodge, and food included, you may want to book a special package.

The races are held on Saturdays and Sundays starting at noon. It’s a popular thing to do in Mauritius on the weekends, so expect quite some crowd. If you are planning to stand, make sure to get there early for the best spots.

29. Port Louis Central Market

Suggested by Madhurima from Orange Wayfarer .

If you know a bit of Mauritius’ history, you will be intrigued to find plenty of cultural anecdotes to the Indian subcontinent. However, you won’t find much typically-Indian chaos by the azure blue seashore… For that, you’ll have to visit the century-old Central Market at Port Louis !

It is an amusing place with vibrant street life, an abundance of stalls, and myriad stories unfolding at every corner. The Central Market at Port Louis has my heart! This place is also a delight for every street photography lover. 

The market was built by the French in the 18th century. It’s a favorite with locals and tourists alike. One part of the market houses stalls selling fresh vegetables. I found pumpkins, tomatoes, herbs, and some tropical fruits, differing in size from the produce back home in India.

In the interiors, you’ll find plenty of small stalls selling home-cooked food. No visit to the Central Bazar would be complete without trying a sumptuous Dholl Puri. In the front, the market has a segment selling myriad masks, handcrafts carved out of coconut shells, fridge magnets, and other souvenirs. Haggling will take you far at the Central market. Locals recommend starting at 40% (!) of the original price quote.

Practical information: The market is open daily from 5 AM to 5.30 PM. Sundays – till 11.30 AM.

30. Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis

The oldest shopping center in Mauritius, the Caudan Waterfront , is located along the edge of the harbor in Port Louis. Named after a Frenchman who had a saltpan here in the 18 th  century, it became a collection of unused (or abandoned) warehouses. Nowadays, it is a lively place and a local favorite, that houses boutique stores, restaurants, hotels, a cinema, and much more.

The Blue Penny Museum, that is home to two of the rarest stamps in the world can also be found here. There is an arts and crafts market here, fountains, monuments, and play areas for children. Huge cruise ships can often be seen docked here too.

The Caudan Waterfront is a pleasant place to take a stroll, have a fresh seafood lunch, or some ice cream. It is also one of the most popular Instagram locations in Port Louis due to the umbrella-covered promenade which changes colors every now and then. The umbrellas provide shade as well as a pretty photo backdrop.

Practical information: The Caudan waterfront shopping center is open daily, except Sundays, from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM. Some restaurants in this area are open daily and most are open for dinner.

31. Shopping Bargains, Food & Spa at Bagatelle Mall

Suggested by Lea from the German blog Escape-Town .

Let’s be very honest – you won’t be coming all the way to beautiful Mauritius to visit a shopping mall. But, if you’re on the hunt for some value-for-money spices or have some spare time on a rainy day, Bagatelle Shopping Mall near Port Louis is a good local place to visit in Mauritius.

Located just off the main highway M1 that connects the capital with the airport, the mall offers all-day dining options with an open-air food court, international shopping outlets, a movie theater, and two supermarkets.

Food Lovers is great for international products and bites to eat on the go. Intermart is bigger and has a huge range of spices . Most of them are way cheaper than at the markets, especially if you’re looking to buy cinnamon, chilies or vanilla beans. You can also get local rum (New Grove, Saint Aubin, Labourdannais) there, as well as local beers (Phoenix, Thirsty Fox, Blue Marlin) at good prices.

If you’re looking for a good steak dinner, Savinia is the place to go. They’re experts in dry-aging and preparing meat. The food is delicious and the salted butter caramel ice cream is to die for.

For those of you less enthusiastic about shopping, there is also a Spa that offers a large variety of massages and beauty treatments for small budgets. I went for the 60min Swedish massage to get my back relaxed before jumping on an overnight flight at a cost of around 17 EUR. In comparison, the same massage would cost you at least 5 times the price at the luxury resorts nearby.

Practical information: Opening hours of the mall are 9.30 AM to 8.30 PM daily, on Fridays and Saturdays it’s open till 10 PM, on Sundays and public holidays till 3 PM.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Mauritius

To make it easier for you to plan your time in Mauritius, I created a map indicating all the best places to visit and things to do in Mauritius mentioned in this article. Take a look below. You can also download this map to your phone, but you’ll need an Internet connection in order to use it.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Mauritius is a big island with so many accommodations for all budgets. Just keep in mind that distances are big and it takes a long time to cross the island and get from one place to the other.

If you are planning to do lots of sightseeing, you may want to stay at 2-3 different parts of the island for a few days at each place. This would save you a lot of driving! That way you can also opt for a more expensive resort for a real beach vacation in combination with cheaper accommodation for those days when you are exploring.

Alternatively, if you are looking for just one ‘base’ location, stay in the ‘middle’, either on the western or the eastern coast of the island. That way, you can stay in one hotel and can make day trips to the other areas. For this, the western side of the island (around Port Louis) is the most convenient as most Mauritius attractions are located relatively close by.

My experience: I stayed at three different hotels in Mauritius: LUX Belle Mare Resort on the eastern coast, Grand Baie town all the way in the north, and The Ravenala Attitude on the northwestern side.

Location-wise for sightseeing and price-quality-wise, The Ravenala Attitude was the best of the three. Grand Baie is a great town to stay for those who want to experience the more local side of Mauritius, beyond the resorts. Lux Belle Mare was the most luxurious hotel, one of those places you don’t want to leave to go sightseeing…

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare resorts, hotels, and other accommodations in Mauritius. Simply select your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

So, these are the best places to visit and the very best things to do in Mauritius.

Unless you have two weeks on the islands, you probably won’t be able to see everything. But this selection should give you a very good idea of what there is to see and do in Mauritius and help you choose places and activities that interest you the most. Enjoy your trip!

More tips for your trip to Mauritius:

• Airport transfers:  Private and shared Mauritius airport transfers
• Private tours: Private Day Tour of the South West of Mauritius or Private Day Tour with Customizable Itinerary
• Hotel: The Ravenala Attitude Review
• What to see: Ile aux Cerfs Tour and L’Aventure du Sucre

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Wednesday 24th of May 2023

Hello, found your blog and so helpful. I just want to seek your recommendation where is best to stay if I will do the hike for Le Morne?

Saturday 27th of May 2023

Hi Kris, there are quite a few hotels/accommodations in Le Morne if you want to stay as close to the hike as possible. Have a great trip!

Sunday 23rd of January 2022

Lovely article, very helpful...thank you!

Monday 24th of January 2022

Glad to hear that, Derek. Have a great time in Mauritius!

Sandra Proctor

Friday 19th of February 2021

I love your blog and the many details within about Maritius.....I'm thinking about such as a honeymoon adventure. Is it possible to get a copy of your blog emailed for future reference should the plan work out? Your insight into adventure options, hotels stays etc would be most useful

Sunday 21st of February 2021

Hi Sandra, I'm glad to hear that you find our blog useful. All the information is right here on the website and you can potentially save it as a pdf if you absolutely need it on paper (you can use the print to pdf option in Google Chrome). As for the hotels, you can find some info in this article and also in our review of the Ravenala Attitude hotel. There are so many nice places to stay in Mauritius that it's really up to you, your preferences, and your budget. Good luck planning your honeymoon!

Wednesday 3rd of June 2020

it was very helpful

Thursday 4th of June 2020

Glad to hear that, Yashmit. Enjoy your trip to Mauritius!

Tuesday 31st of March 2020

Hi! I was wondering what the must need items were for traveling to Mauritius and if you needed any vaccinations? Thank you so much

Wednesday 1st of April 2020

Hi Sophia, I didn't need any extra vaccinations for Mauritius, but it depends on which shots you already have. You can find more information on what vaccines are suggested (none are obligatory, from what I see) on this website. As for other items - again, it depends on you and what you are planning to do in Mauritius. Swimwear, water shoes, and sun protection are a must. I'd pack a UV t-shirt as well. If you are planning any hikes, then light walking shoes are good to have and a light backpack with a rain jacket and a water bottle, etc. Hope this helps.

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• Los Angeles

The 13 best things to do in Mauritius

It may be a tiny island in the Indian Ocean, but there are so many things to do in Mauritius, from adventure to serenity

It may be a tiny island in the Indian Ocean, but Mauritius is going to surprise you. Sure, it has the ‘tropical island’ part nailed down, but there's much more to this place than meets the eye. For a trip you’ll never forget, you've got to check out Mauritius. 

The best things to do in Mauritius cover plenty of ground, from a collection of thrilling activities to some of the best hotels you’ll come across, bookended by botanic gardens, nature reserves and restaurants that will have foodies in raptures. Throw in the icing-sugar-fine golden sands of its plentiful beaches and you have a very special destination indeed. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏨 The best  hotels in Mauritius 🏖️ The best beaches in the world 🏘️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world

At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Mauritius

1.  the sir seewoosagur ramgoolam botanic garden.

What is it? One of the world’s best botanical gardens.

Why go? These beautiful gardens are often compared to Kew Gardens in London. At Kew, however, you have to go inside giant glasshouses to see and smell some of the world’s most fantastical tropical plants. Here in the Pamplemousses area of Mauritius, you see them growing in an outdoor garden in a setting often not too dissimilar to their natural habitat.

If you want to find the tree that helps cure flatulence and learn about how the water lilies that emerge white amongst the vast Amazonica lily pads close red a day later, book a private guided tour.

2.  Bel Ombre Nature Reserve

What is it? A 1,300-hectare nature reserve run by the local Heritage hotel group.

Why go? The literal highs and lows of the diverse landscape of the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve  are best explored by quad bike. Steer through sugar cane fields, be mesmerised by the spectacular view over the Domaine de Bel Ombre and seek out waterfalls, rock pools and endemic bird species such as the Pink Pigeon, the Mauritius Black Bulbul and the Mauritius Kestrel.

3.  Le Morne Brabant Mountain

What is it? Le Morne Brabant Mountain is found on the Le Morne peninsula on the southwestern edge of the island.

Why go? This rugged mountain full of hidden caves was used as a shelter by runaway slaves and has become a symbol of freedom and a Unesco world heritage site as a result. To learn about the flora and fauna and wildlife that you spot en route and to ensure that you climb safely, it’s recommended that you book a guide.

4.  Chez Tante Athalie

What is it? An authentic restaurant that will bring you the true taste of Mauritius.

Why go? Mauritius was first discovered by the Portuguese in the sixteenth century, it was subsequently occupied by the Dutch, the French and the Brits. Now an independent state, the food of Mauritius has been influenced by the tastes of its former occupiers and that of migrant workers who have settled on the island from Indian, China and Africa. As a result, the food is a tantalising blend of European, Indian, Chinese and Creole-inspired dishes. Nowhere is this more apparent than on the menu of Chez Tante Athalie . Dine overlooking the grounds, which are eccentrically dotted with vintage cars and always full of brightly coloured birds flitting about.

5.  L’aventure Sucre

What is it? L'aventure Sucre tells the story of sugarcane, which has been the main crop in Mauritius ever since the Dutch introduced it in the seventeenth century.

Why go? Close to the Botanical Gardens and situated in an old factory on the Beau Plan Sugar Estate, this museum tour begins with an interactive exhibition that reveals how sugar cane is processed and ends with a tasting of different sugars and rums. There is a rather good restaurant on the estate too. Le Fangourin serves local delicacies and tasty desserts with a hint of local sugar and it also has a fantastic rum-focused cocktail menu.

6.  Black River Gorges National Park

What is it? A 16,680-acre national park in the southwest of the island that is left pretty much as nature intended.

Why go? To get back to nature and experience a truly unspoilt patch of the island where endangered native plants and animals still manage to survive. Here there are around 311 species of native and endemic flowering plants and nine species of birds that can only be found in Mauritius. Follow the trails along the gorges, but take your own supplies, you won’t find a shop here.

7.  Fun Adventure Mauritius

What is it? Mauritius is a haven for water sports lovers, everything from water-skiing to scuba-diving, kite-surfing to sea-karting is on offer. You can find them all at Fun Adventure . 

Why go? The warm waters that surround the island make it an ideal environment for water sports and most of the large resort hotels offer a range of non-motorised water sports at an all-inclusive price, so you have nothing to lose from giving them ago. Sea-karting is currently unique to Mauritius, pilot one of these speedboat carts for a novel way to explore the coastline.

8.  Port Louis

What is it? On the northwest coast, Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and a world away from the small villages and coastal resorts that make up much of the island.

Why go? It’s a chance to see what everyday urban life is like in Mauritius. Enjoy the French colonial-inspired architecture of the old city and the relaxed shopping and dining area at the Caudan Waterfront. You will have to wade past the big international brand stores, but there are some hidden local retail gems hidden between these. Chinatown is a fun place to visit too.

9.  Casela Nature Park Zip Line

What is it? An extra-long zip line that flies you over Casela Nature Park , a mix of safari and adventure park.

Why go? Not for the faint-hearted, this scenic and often hair-raising thrill ride will have you zipping over canyons, sweeping over the incredible scenery and splashing into the water. Some of the lines are singles, some doubles and some quadruples where four people link up for the ride.

10.  Ganga Talao

What is it? In the south of the island Ganga Talao, or Grand Bassin as it’s more often called, is a crater lake situated in the secluded mountain region of Savanne.

Why go? At the very heart of the country, this beautiful tranquil lake is about 1800 feet above sea level and the banks are dotted with Hindu temples and gods. During the festival of Shivaratri, between the end of February and the beginning of March, many Hindu pilgrims in Mauritius walk bare feet from their homes to the lake and celebrate on arrival. Guests are welcome to share the spectacle, but out of respect to the worshippers, you should dress modestly. At quieter times of the year, it’s also a lovely place to walk and spot monkeys playing in the wild.

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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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The perfect one day in brisbane itinerary(2024 guide), gopro hero 13 review – the ultimate camera guide [2024], related posts, gopro hero8 black review – is it worth buying in 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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Best Places to Visit in Mauritius: Attractions, Nature & Beaches

Home » Destinations » Africa » Mauritius » Best Places to Visit in Mauritius: Attractions, Nature & Beaches

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Updated: 28th January 2022

Tumbling waterfalls shrouded by lush rainforest, volcanic crater lakes adorned with kaleidoscopic Hindu statues, and verdant tea plantations ideal for tranquil kayaking are perhaps not the first scenes that spring to mind when you imagine this idyllic island nation. They are, however, just a few of the best places to visit in Mauritius beyond the cyan waters and silky soft white sands, which make it one of the world’s best beach destinations .

Often touted as a dream honeymoon destination , thanks to the plethora of luxury resorts and seemingly endless beaches, many overlook the other offers of one of the world’s best islands to visit .

While, for some, the irresistible cocktails crafted with local rum and warm, welcoming Indian Ocean waters are enough of a draw, there are plenty more reasons to visit Mauritius . Here are some of the best places (in my opinion) to explore and experience, whether you want to devour delicious dishes, discover the culture, or dig into some adventure-fuelled activities.

Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)

Sitting some 500 metres above sea level and set amongst the verdant mountainous southwest, the volcanic crater lake of Ganga Talao is one of the best places to visit in Mauritius both for the beautiful wild setting and to dig a little deeper into the island’s predominant religion, Hinduism.

Start your visit with a stroll around the serene lake, often with animated monkeys keeping an eager eye, before admiring the temple, small shrines and statues of influential Hindu gods.

During the significant pilgrimage, around February or March, for the Maha Shivaratri Festival , hundreds of thousands of worshipers flock to the lake.

Make it happen:  If you have a car, it’s an easy drive to the Grand Bassin. During February and March, when the pilgrimage takes place, hundreds of thousands of people visit the site, so worth keeping in mind. There are various tours of the island’s southwest if you are without a car, like this one , which includes time at the lake.

Le Morne Brabant

Situated on the island’s southwestern tip, the hypnotising magnificence of Le Morne Brabant is more than deserving of its UNESCO-listed status.

Flanked by fine white sandy shores and tranquil waters that glimmer in shades of cerulean and cyan, it’s a must-visit destination in Mauritius. If you have ever seen an image of the underwater ‘waterfall’ illusion, then you’ll recognise the basaltic monolith towering in the background.

Rising to a height of 556 metres and creating one of the most imposing backdrops for a beach day in the world, you’ll struggle to find a more impressive place to capture your holiday snaps on the island.

The mountain, for many, is a symbol and reminder of the island’s enslaved peoples’ fight for freedom, for it was in these isolated cliffs and wooded areas that many escaped to, forming small settlements. Spend some time learning about the Maroon Republic during your time on the island.

Make it happen : Depending on how you wish to experience the Peninsula, you can either drive or take a transfer to the beaches. If, however, you want to summit the peak, especially at sunrise, it’ll be best to book a tour with a local guide .

Ile Aux Aigrettes 

Just a brief boat ride from the mainland, the islet of Ile Aux Aigrettes is one of many isles and boat excursion tour options to consider. What makes this a must-visit place for wildlife enthusiasts in Mauritius is the focus on scientific research within the nature reserve.

Following some significant restoration work, it’s a paradise within a paradise, where you can witness giant tortoises roaming free (often found in pens, for protection, elsewhere on the island), the intriguing Pink Pigeon, and an extensive array of indigenous fauna and flora.

Make it happen : There are various tours and operators running trips to the Islands .

Bois Cheri Tea Factory

The largest tea producer on the island, Bois Cheri, is a delightful environment and promises much more than a decent cuppa.

Take a tour of the grounds, where row upon row of manicured tea plants guide you down to a blissful lake ideal for kayaking, before taking a tour of the factory. Witness the tea in all stages of the process, from drying to packaging, before enjoying a flavoursome tasting. The vanilla tea is one not to miss.

Verdant and lush, the setting cries out for much more than just sampling the infusions, though. Devour a gastronomic treat in the attached restaurant to the backdrop of the rolling hills of Mauritius and playful deer. For a unique overnight adventure, you can book a stay in the small bubble lodge with a transparent domed roof ideal for stargazing – complete with the promise of the perfect morning cup of chai!

Make it happen : The factory is open for visitors Monday – Saturday, from 9:00 – 17:00, and the roads are good for driving access. Some of the tours of the south coast include stops here.

Port Louis & Market

Be sure to leave time for some urban exploring during your stay, and of course, the capital city of Port Louis is the best place in Mauritius to do so.

The compact capital offers a great insight into day-to-day life on the island, particularly for those who have opted to stay in a resort. Le Caudan Waterfront is excellent for walking, with colourful umbrellas hanging above shopping passages and an abundance of bars and restaurants to rest at along the water.

One of the finest ways to experience and savour the flavours of the city is at the central market. The hive of activity is found on the ground floor, stocked with multicoloured fruit, veg, tea and snacks from the provinces, while local fabrics and goods are located upstairs. Often called the national dish of Mauritius, Dholl Puri is a must-try, specifically from the small vendors on the street outside. These flatbreads, stuffed with smashed split peas, are mouthwatering when topped up with a spicy chilli paste – though if your tastebuds can’t handle hot food with a kick, go easy!

Make it happen:  As the capital city, it’s easy to get to – including by local bus . The earlier you go to the market, the better, which is open from around 5:00 to 16:00, except on Sunday, when it closes earlier. 

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Formally called Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden , yet more typically referred to as Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, botanists and amateurs will be drawn in by the fine array of flora.

The oldest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere, dating back some 300 years, is only a short drive from Port Louis yet feels a world away as you trade in the atmosphere of the markets for a peaceful walk through towering palms and delicate flowerbeds.

The pool of giant water-lilies  (Victoria Amazonica)  is quite the sight, and their protection is paramount due to facing extension. Allow yourself at least an hour to explore the gardens, yet with 90 acres and over 600 plants, many indigenous, you could well find yourself here for a long time. 

Make it happen : Open from 8:30 – 17:30 daily, the gardens are less than a 15-minute drive or taxi from Port Louis.

The most popular destination for tourists to Mauritius, and with good reason, Grand Baie isn’t going to take you off the beaten path, but it serves up everything one could want for a water-based day out.

Water sports lovers will find their day quickly filled here, with sailing, windsurfing, SUP, and countless boat excursions – including scuba diving – available along this section of the coast.

With plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife until the early hours, even if you aren’t staying close by, chances are you’ll find yourself passing through Grand Baie at some point during your Mauritius holiday.

Make it happen:  A popular destination with many hotels nearby; chances are you may be close by – especially if you stay at the incredible Beachcombers resort as I did, an absolute dream of a hotel!

Rochester Falls

One of my favourite moments in Mauritius was the morning we spent splashing around the cold waters of Rochester Falls. There was just our group there until shortly after when a coconut seller joined us, his wrinkled handles expertly hacking open the green balls of goodness for us.

To access these relatively small falls, we ploughed our four-wheel-drive along rough mud tracks, shrouded in towering sugar cane so close we could reach from the windows and stroke it. On arrival, it was a slippy muddy climb down to the waterfalls, but the site of the falls and chilly awakening of the waters was more than reward enough for the effort.

Of course, there are many waterfalls dotted across the island, some easier to access than others, but for me, and perhaps it was the memory of that sweet coconut water as my feet cooled in the pool that made this one of my best places to visit in Mauritius.

Make it happen : You’ll need a bit of adventure, and perhaps a 4WD, to explore the dense vegetation out this way, but it is well worth it! Consider booking a quad bike tour to access the falls and experience another side of Mauritius.

Black River Gorges National Park

In the hilly south of Mauritius, the Black River Gorges National Park, the largest protected forest in the nation, provides ample opportunity to strap on your hiking boots and get lost entirely in leafy, dense nature. The landscapes are sublime, with the rolling hills meeting rainforest just as magical as the lapping waves on heavenly sands.

For many, the main draw is to witness the impressive Alexandra waterfall tumbling 150 metres down into the lush greenery below. However, with hundreds of species of plants, monkeys, delightful bird-watching options, and challenging hiking trails to tackle, you could easily and happily spend a day, or longer, discovering the national park.

Make it happen : There are many different ways to explore and experience the national park depending on your interests, but consider taking an eco-tour with a guide to get stuck in.

Chamarel Rhumerie

With sugar cane across the island, it should come as no surprise that one of the best places to visit in Mauritius is a rum distillery.

At Chamarel Rhumierie, you can expect a slick tour and tasting experience on the southwest coast – from the extensive grounds to the production rooms and the all-important tasting room, where cocktails are shaken and straight pours served. Perhaps, take a taxi for this one!

Make it happen:  You can visit Monday – Saturday, between 9:00 – 16:00, and the tour with tasting is less than €15.

Of course, there are plenty more amazing places to visit in Mauritius – Tamarind & Chamarel Falls, Ile Aux Cerfs, and countless other beaches – discover more reasons to visit Mauritius here . 

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Very Informative. Lots of love from the top of the world, Nepal.

The peaceful morning at Rochester Falls Picture is really magic!!Awesome content Dan!!!

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

15 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

Mark Twain wrote, “Mauritius was made first, and then heaven; heaven being copied after Mauritius.”  It’s easy to understand his sentiments.  Mauritius is a big draw for honeymooners because it means gorgeous beaches and lazy sunny days.  But there are tons of things to do on Paradise Island.

Next to Madagascar , Mauritius is a leader in wildlife tourism, outdoor adventure, fine dining, and luxury resorts.  Here you can see giant tortoises, rare exotic birds, enjoy kitesurfing coral reef snorkelling, golf, horseback riding, hiking, and more.

A real treat throughout your stay will be to sample delicious local food which takes its influence from Indian, French, Creole, and Chinese backgrounds.  You’ll love every minute of your holiday in Mauritius, let’s explore the best places to visit in Mauritius !

1. Grand Bassin

This high mountain lake, roughly 1800 feet above sea level, is a sacred Hindu site.

You’ll find a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the local belief is that the lake water is holy water from the Ganges River in India.  Mauritius Hindu’s make pilgrimage here during Maha Shivaratri, walking all the way from their homes.

You’ll love the 108 foot statue of Lord Shiva which was built in 2007.  It’s a beautiful lake with lovely views all around. Make the pilgrimage yourself and enjoy a nice mountain trek.

2. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens

Second only to London’s Kew Gardens is the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens.  Work in the gardens is ongoing and you’re encouraged to hire a guide from the staff in order to really appreciate the full spectrum of diversity here.

The SSR Gardens is one of the best known attractions on the island and the stunning centrepiece is a pond filled with Victoria amazonica water lilies – native only to South America.  These incredible flowers bloom white and then close red the following day.

Bird lovers will love Mauritius in general, but will especially love the garden for the Madagascar fody that call the place home.  There’s also a chance to see the aldabra tortoise.

3. Pointe d’Esny and Blue Bay

On an island full of beaches, Pointe d’Esny and Blue Bay are everyone’s top picks.  The coastline here is white sand, and there’s a well-preserved blue lagoon.

It’s dotted with holiday homes and the whole stretch really comes alive in high season. Blue Bay is best known for the Marine Park where they have the best coral reef formations in Mauritius.  Snorkelling here is a must.

At the opposite end of Blue Bay is the village of Mahebourg.  Here you’ll find a quaint historical village with a lively market teeming with traditional village life.  Everyone appreciates this peek into authentic Mauritius.

4. Black River Gorges National Park

Covering over 6,000 hectares of land, the Black River Gorges National Park is the ideal place to discover native forests and wildlife.  The park has over 300 species of flowering plants, the famous and endangered pink pigeon, giant fruit bats, and much more.

Located in the most spectacular part of the island, it’s difficult to overstate the importance of the conservation efforts that happen here.  Bring good hiking shoes because you’ll want to see it all and there are wonderful panoramic views of the islands many gorges, mountain peaks, and waterfalls.

If you only make one day trip from the coast, be sure this is your destination.

5. Mahébourg

Mahébourg is the place to experience old Mauritius, though few venture to this ancient capital.  Built where the Dutch first landed at the end of the 16th century, here is where you’ll find rustic restaurants with beautiful terraces, a buzzing market place, beautiful beaches, and tasty but oh-so-spicy street food.

There’s a nice little museum here with exhibits detailing the British-French battle for the island, as well as the bell saved from the Le Saint-Géran , a shipwrecked vessel integral to the local legends of Mauritius.

It’s a sleepy little town but those who make it here return again and again.

6. Ile aux Aigrettes (Egret Island)

Located in the Mahebourg Bay, the Ile aux Aigrettes, is a striking place, made entirely of coralline limestone.  You’ll notice the difference in the landscape right way – quiet different from the volcanic matter of the mainland.

Its believed by many to be the last resting place of the dodo and right now its home to the last of the dry coastal forest which was once found throughout Mauritius. These 27 hectares have been declared a natural reserve and you’ll discover some intense conservation efforts going on.  Scientists are working hard to reintroduce rare species and restore the forest to its former glory.

Everyone loves to come out to Egret Island to watch the giant Aldabra tortoises and catch a sighting of the pink pigeons.

7. Blue Penny Museum

Perhaps the best museum on the island, the Blue Penny has a wide range of interesting exhibits.  Named after the world-famous Mauritian one and two penny stamps from 1847, you’ll discover the islands history here, including exploration, settlement, and the height of the colonial period.

You can also learn about the Paul and Virginie legend. The famous stamps are located on the first floor and are considered a national treasure.  To preserve their vibrant red and blue colours, they’re only lit for ten minutes every hour.

History buffs will love the stories, antique maps, photographs, and Mauritius’ most famous statue.

8. Grand Baie

Considered to be the main tourism hub on the island, Grand Baie has humble roots as a small fishing village just 20 years ago.

Sometimes called Le Trop due to the incredible entertainment, you’ll find a ton of beaches, attractions, and excursions here.  Be sure to check out the Aquarium, and the interactive L’Aventure du Sucre museum. For the water lovers, try diving, waterskiing, sailing, and windsurfing.

In the evenings you’ll be surprised at the nightlife offerings and the incredible restaurants.

9. Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Coloured Earth

At 100 metres, Chamarel is the highest waterfall in Mauritius.  Remember to bring your cameras because there are some amazing shots to be had here.

This impressive sight has stairs leading to a viewing platform at the top where you can watch the water crashing below.  In addition to your camera, bring a swim suit if you’d like to take a dip in the shallow waters at the bottom of the falls.

The waterfall is located in Black Gorges National park and is often combined with a trip to the Seven Coloured Earth – made up of red, brown, and purple shaded sand dunes created by volcanic rocks which cooled at different temperatures.

10. Le Souffleur

This is a destination for the risk takers.  Le Souffleur is a half-formed grotto sitting on a steep cliff side.

There’s a geyser like fountain which can reach up to 20 metres high when the sea is rough.  To reach it you have to take a 4WD and get permission from the Savannah sugar estate near L’Escalier;  but it’s so worth it.

If you come at the right time, there’s a natural bridge nearby formed from the collapsed roof of a nearby grotto.

Maison Eureka is a well-preserved French colonial mansion situated high up in the centre of the island, closed to Moka.  Once owned by the islands largest sugar baron, this home is an unbelievable engineering masterpiece.

A complete wrap around balcony, 109 doors, and turreted rooftop windows are just the beginning. You can take a nice trek from the garden filled with bamboo and ebony and follow along until you reach a lovely little swimming hole beneath a waterfall.

Be sure to stop and admire the views of the Moka mountain range and stop for tea in the tea room.

12. Casela Nature & Leisure Park

This is your spot to enjoy an African safari on the island.  Here you’ll find lions, ostrich, zebra, giraffe, hippopotamus, and elephant, all seen from inside a safari mini-bus.

You can also rent a segway or a quad bike and have a bit of fun scattering the large herds of deer as you zip around.  Also, the longest zip line in the Indian Ocean is found here.  It’s so easy to enjoy an entire day in the park, especially with the parks great restaurant with striking views of the west coast.

Nature lovers will appreciate the more than 1500 birds, exotic flowers and planets, and the overall diversity of the park.

13. Tamarin Beach

Once known as Santosha Beach, Tamarin once offered some of the best surfing in the world. Locals called it Santosha so that no one could find it and develop it!

It’s a little past its prime and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back a few decades when you arrive, but honestly, this is part of the charm.

You won’t find the oversized and high walled resorts here,  but you will find arguably the best scenic backdrop in Mauritius.

14. François Leguat Reserve

This wonderful reserve re-creates the Eden discovered by the island first explorer.  At the end of the 17th century, François Leguat wrote that, walking on tortoise shell, he could take 100 steps around Rodrigues without ever stepping on the ground.

There are over 100,000 indigenous trees and thanks to a breeding program, hundreds of tortoises that roam the reserve.  You can also explore nearby caves while a local guide shares stories of the geological history of Mauritius.

Don’t forget to stop by the museum to learn the settlement history as well as the story oof the  Solitaire, the extinct cousin of the Dodo.

15. Domaine de L’Étoile

This is an old sugar estate now turned into an eco-playground. Domaine de L’Étoile has horseback riding, quad biking, archery, and buggy trips, all on the slopes of the Bambous Mountain range.  There are several self-guided treks – all which include an authentic Mauritian buffet lunch that is not to be missed.

There’s a zip line circuit here which takes two hours to complete and is, arguably the most fun you’ll have all day.  There’s a kids village, lovely ebony and cinnamon tree forests, and some left over movie sets from the 1972 movie Paul and Virginie, based on the popular island legend.

Those who are really lucky will spot a Javanese stag or two hiding in the forest.

15 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius:

• Grand Bassin
• Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens
• Pointe d'Esny and Blue Bay
• Black River Gorges National Park
• Ile aux Aigrettes (Egret Island)
• Blue Penny Museum
• Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Coloured Earth
• Le Souffleur
• Casela Nature & Leisure Park
• Tamarin Beach
• François Leguat Reserve
• Domaine de L'Étoile

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Home » Africa » Mauritius » 16 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius • DESTINATIONS IN 2024

16 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius • DESTINATIONS IN 2024

Mauritius is a little country with a lot to offer. Turn a corner, there’s something pretty. Catch a bus, prepare to watch the sky. Stubbed your toe?

At least you have a beautiful background as you madly hop around screaming bloody murder!

Suffice to say, there a tonne of beautiful places to visit in Mauritius, and any number of them could be considered  “best” . Of course, as has become something of a reoccurring theme with my Mauritius content, there are places that are mega-touristic and spoonfed to the people that are travelling to Mauritius, and then there are those that aren’t.

So this list has a bit of both because balance is good! I’ll cover a few of the most major tourist spots on the Mauritius island, however, perhaps not as many as you’d find elsewhere on the internet. That’s cause I just had to dedicate some wordage to a few other mean spots around the island. Peaceful quiet places just built for lazy days getting work done, talking some smack, eating some local bites, and max chillin’.

Does that sound like a good day? If it does, you’re my kinda person! Ready? Let’s go check out some of the best places to visit in Mauritius.

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Looking for a dope spot? This is the best area in Mauritius to chill!

The best places to visit in mauritius:, faq on the best places to visit in mauritius, summing up the best places to visit in mauritius.

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You get a little bit of everything Mauritius in the Le Morne area. Stunning beaches, slow village life, hulking mountains, hiking, waterfalls, and local eats… it’s the best!

• Climb Le Morne mountain for a spectacular sunrise or sunset.
• Hit the beach for s spot of kitesurfing, fishing, or just chilling.
• Explore more of Mauritius’s wild south coast.

Ready for that nicely balanced list? Let’s cut to the main serving of today’s course because this dirtbag is hungry!

From Mauritius’s honeymoon places to its famous places and the peaceful ones, let’s take a tour of the island.

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#1 – Mahebourg – An overlooked place to go in Mauritius.

• Close to the airport.
• Surrounded by prettiness.
• Has potentially the best mine bouille in Mauritius.

We’re starting off the list of places of interest in Mauritius with Mahebourg purely for its location – 10 km from the airport! Granted, the island is small enough that you could travel to any place in Mauritius straight after landing. Mahebourg gets overlooked though, so let’s show it some love!

• Why it’s awesome: Though not as old as the capital Port Louis, it’s still a really pretty city. It’s got a much more local feel both for the reduced amount of tourists and development when compared with Port Louis. It’s also perched in a perfect spot on the south-east coast and surrounded by some more of Mauritius’s handsomely attractive places.
• What to do there: Straight up, you gotta go to Coin Casse Croute and get yourself a mine bouille (Sino-Mauritian boiled noodles). Specifically, a seafood mine bouille. What kinda seafood? I dunno but holy sweet halim that’s a mine bouille that knows just how to treat my tastebuds! Other than that, the Mahebourg Waterfront is crazy pretty! If you’ve just landed, this will be your first taste of Mauritius’s twinkling turquoise waters. Lastly, for a bit of outside-the-city exploration, there are peaceful fishing villages scattered around outside Mahebourg, Lion Mountain towers over the coastline and is a prime place in Mauritius for some day hiking, and Blue Bay just outta town is the beginner course in those exquisite white and blue beaches.

Sidenote: Although there are some great places to stay Mahebourg, it’s equally viable, and maybe even preferable, to stay at Blue Bay (by the ocean) and take day trips into Mahebourg and the surrounding areas. That does mean you can’t eat that mine bouille three times a day though… hmm…

#2 – Port Louis – Sleepy city number two and the capital of Mauritius.

• A chill capital.
• Also a pretty capital!
• Cheap food.

The laid-back capital city of Mauritius. It’s quiet and there’s not a lot going on; it’s bustling when the school kids get out, drops off after sundown, and I love it for that. This ain’t no Asian metropolis – this is city life done slow island style!

• Why it’s awesome: Honestly, it’s just a nice place in Mauritius to visit. It’s not hectic or crazy; it’s a pretty port city with some crowds but nothing major. There’s cheap local city eats around (amazing, considering Mauritius can be quite expensive ) and some old-style colonial architecture mixed in with the modern trimmings. This isn’t the best place to visit in Mauritius nor the most stunning – backpacking in Mauritius is always going to be about those serene natural attractions – but I like it!
• What to do there: Much like Mahebourg, a walk along the Port Louis Waterfront is a pleasant stroll. Les Jardins De La Compagnie , a small but stacked garden, is equally tranquil. As for a historical place in Mauritius, Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site has got the important education on Mauritius’s slavery-based and colonial roots. Plus, it’s free! That’s a strong recommendation. Otherwise, to be honest, I never visited Port Louis much except for when I had some errands to run and felt like a little explore. Even for a place in Mauritius to visit at night for a spot of partying, Port Louis is not your best bet. It’s sleepy in every sense of the word.

Check out Chapeau La Paille for a dank and delicious dahl puri (like a roti burrito but different). Local bus stop eats just get better.

#3 – Flic en Flac – Top of Mauritius’s tourist places to visit.

• Top-notch beach.
• Excellent facilities.
• Crazy touristy.

Can I call Flic en Flac the tourist capital of Mauritius? I dunno, but I’m gonna do it anyway. It’s fully built for the tourist-in-Mauritius life. If that’s what you’re looking for, this is where to go in Mauritius without a shadow of a doubt.

• Why it’s awesome: Look, it’s certainly not my vibe. Flic en Flac has exploded and it’s not necessarily a pretty explosion: it’s more like a grotesque explosion with shrapnel and disembodied swimsuit bods flying everywhere. Developments, apartment complexes, high-end resorts, and souvenir shopping paves the way in Flic en Flac. All that said, it still definitely makes the shortlist of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. Besides, when is a BBQ at the beach ever not awesome!
• What to do there: Pack for the beach because it’s beach resort town things! Eat some breakfast, go for a swim, work on your tan, fall asleep in the sun and regret your life choices later… There’s also some proper good snorkelling and diving spots in Flic en Flac so that’s a nice bit of something to break up the nothing! For the beach holiday thing, it’s still one of the best places to visit in Mauritius with the family. Maybe, just not so much for the travellers. With a whole host of restaurants, clubs, casinos, and all the other jazz (Flic en Flac is arguably the top party place in Mauritius for more mainstream events), you’ll spend a lot of money while seemingly not doing a lot of anything.

Shoutout and reminder:  As Mauritius’s tourism has exploded, bad practices have crept in, particularly in Flic en Flac. There are a number of beachfront resorts and hotels in Flic en Flac that now have private beaches, off-limits to everyone including the locals. Stay somewhere cool; don’t stay somewhere gross.

#4 – Poudre d’Or – A peaceful place in Mauritius – my favourite.

• Not touristic at all.
• But still close to some of Mauritius’s famous tourist places.
• So, so peaceful.

If Port Louis is sleepy, then Poudre d’Or is comatose. A fishing village on Mauritius’s north coast and just an exquisitely quiet place to visit. Nothing ever happens in Poudre d’Or.

• Why it’s awesome: It really feels like you’ve abandoned all sense of Mauritius’s various tourist spots. There are a few local shops in town that shut down early, one snack that stays open late so people can get their takeaway munchies (down the road from the mosque), and the locals still gather at the village hall to watch the community television at night. The simple village life awaits.
• What to do there: Shit all! It’s sweet glorious village life. A little bit of aimless exploration is the name of the game. (There’s a creepy-ass ghost house on the point which definitely needs to be enjoyed.) It’s a good base for visiting a few other places in Mauritius’s north. Pamplemousses has the rather charming Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens and is good for a nice day trip. Otherwise, Grand Baie and Grand Gaube nearby are two extremely beautiful places to visit in Mauritius… which is exactly why they’re the next two entries on the list!

Oh, and there’s a ten-outta-ten friendly roti man near the bus stop on the west side of the waterfront.

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#5 – Grand Baie – Another tourist-favourite place to visit in the north of Mauritius.

• Sweet baby blues, I got lost in those eyes!
• Very touristic.
• But big enough to break away.

I’m not a fan of Grand Baie vibe-wise per se, however, it is undeniably exquisitely beautiful! If nothing else, it’s a must-see place in Mauritius though not necessarily a must-stay one. Unless you like your remote African island with resorts and casinos, of course.

• Why it’s awesome: Much like the Blue Bay twinkling turquoise introduction, Grand Baie brings more of the white sand and shining water, though maybe with a touch more green in the palette. Front-and-centre is painfully touristic but the good thing about Grand Baie is that it’s a grand… bay! There’s more than one spot around.
• What to do there: If you are looking for the Mauritian tourism thing, Grand Baie provides; casinos, activities (mostly of the aquatic variety), shopping, clubs, etc… it’s all there. Grand Baie is another of Mauritius’s must-visit places for diving too. To be totally fair though, you’ll probably be doing a fat lot of nothing on the beaches… which is good because that’s where Grand Baie truly shines! The main beach in the centre is, again, eh, but it chills out if you walk further along. Pereybere is another hit with the tourists, as is Mont Choisy on the other side. La Cuvette is a bit more tucked away though calling it a Mauritian hidden gem is reaching. For a nice balance between the majestic well-frequented beachness and the lovely localness, head to Trou aux Biches (pronounced True Ox Bitches if you’re a hipcat).

Oh, for food, yeah, sod the fancy restaurants! Hunt around for Ti Kouloir Snack for a mean boulette (dumplings) and mine bouille. It’s not on Google Maps; you’ll have to find it the old-fashioned way!

#6 – Grand Gaube – The perfectly chill alternative to Grand Baie.

• Has the scenery of Grand Baie without the vibe.
• A long time ago, this was the Amsterdam of Mauritius.
• An abundance of sea-penises.

Too many dicks. Some might call them sea cucumbers but semantics be damned! They’re booby-trapped penises on the seafloor and when I step on them, I want to go back to Australia with the snakes and the crocs. Ugh.

• Why it’s awesome: Well, it’s not for the sea penises! (Unless you’re into that sorta thing.) That’s kinda the payoff you have to make though: Grand Gaube has all of the sensual charm of Grand Baie without any of the emotional availability issues. Gorgeous scenery and much less touristed.
• What to do there: I dunno, man; it’s another beach. You know how beaches work – you got dis! Actually, I do got something super cool for ya! You’ll see a mountain on an island close to Grand Gaube – Gunnar’s Quoin/Coin de Mire . Go climb that sucker. You’ll need to seduce a local fisherman with your wily bartering charm (and rupees) to get you out there (AND BACK AGAIN), but it certainly makes for a much more unexplored place in Mauritius! Oh, and go get a mine frite (fried noodles) from the blue shack on the waterfront .

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#7 – Le Morne Brabant – Hiking, beaches, a yummy mountain: one of Mauritius’s beautiful places with a bit of everything.

• Something for everyone.
• A slow and tranquil feeling.
• Excellent sunsets.

Down on the southwest coast is Le Morne Brabant and the Le Morne peninsula… and it’s pure awesome! It’s like taking all the best bits of Mauritius and putting them in one sexy spot. Le Morne Brabant is easily one of the most romantic places in Mauritius if you like romancing geographic locations: sweet, seductive, and slow-dancing its way right into your heart.

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a perfect balance between the tourist/expat feeling of the west coast and the slow-tempo fishermen village life of the south coast. You get twinkling wide beaches and luscious forests to the shore. There are vibrant sunsets and dank munchies. There’s ganja around (shh) and one bang-on sexy mountain with curves in all the right places backdropping the whole thing. Le Morne is like being served a platter with doughnuts, pizza, joints, and celery for the vegans. Everybody’s happy!
• What to do there:  Climbing that mountain for sunset is a helluva start! It’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a rather substantial historical site in Mauritius . The beach is another solid choice. Le Morne is one of the best places in Mauritius to go for kitesurfing (fishing too). It’s also just a perfect base for exploring the south coast. You can venture along east for the wild south feels, or up north you’ll find Chamarel ,  Black River Gorges National Park , plus a tonne of other good bits. Just get out and explore!

Tourists tend to head to the part of town north of the peninsula or on the peninsula itself. For maximum prettiness, the peninsula is where it’s at, but I really dig the village south of the peninsula on the coast. It’s much more local and just has really good vibes.

#8 – Mauritius’s South Coast – The Wild South.

• Fewer people.
• Harsher beaches.
• Just kinda… wider feeling.

The south is dope and a criminally overlooked place to visit on the Mauritius island. Wider, emptier, a bit rougher, and just a bit further feeling away. Absolutely give the south of Mauritius a bit of attention; it’s one of the best things you can do in Mauritius if you ask me. It would be a shame not to soak it up!

• Why it’s awesome: There are sandy beaches on Mauritius’s south coast, but you’ll also find the wild beaches. Rocky shorelines flourishing with critter life and mercilessly hounded by some hectic swell. A little bit of exploration in the south – on and off the coast – always seems to offer some dope new spot or waiting secret. Also, the people are crusty yet friendly – yay!
• What to do there: Camping. There’s not even a question about it. Pack your gear and essentials because there are so many top places to camp on Mauritius’s south coast! Both Maconde Beach and Benares Beach are cool places to visit in Mauritius’s south and ripe for some beach camping. There are waterfalls and hikes too; even just walking the coast and cliff lines, though perhaps requiring a bit of bushbashing, makes for an excellent hike. You could opt to base yourself in Souillac – it’s a busy town and pretty central on the south coast – but honestly, the joy of the south coast is the sparseness. There are quaint little villages along every stretch. It may not offer the full feeling of being lost but the south of Mauritius is definitely one of the best places to visit for a bit of adventure!

#9 – Mauritius’s Mountains – The beautiful natural attractions of Mauritius with that wonderful isolated goodness.

• Sweet mountainy magic.
• Excellent day hikes.
• Island panoramas for days!

From pretty much anywhere you go sightseeing in Mauritius, there’ll be a mountain hovering above. Island mountains, beach mountains, mountains skirting the cities – it’s that sweet sweet isolated peak goodness! Do you believe in mountains?

…I do.

• Why it’s awesome: Dude… it’s a mountain! Beaches are cool and all, but they’re also super lame and boring. Mountainfolk are where it’s at! The mountains in Mauritius are not exactly world-famous trekking places. They all cut unique shapes with yummy faces and boulders (there’s not a strong rock climbing scene, so I guarantee that there are some waiting-to-be-discovered routes), however, none of the peaks exceed 900 metres. They’re perfect for a day hike for when you need to burn off those newly gained mine bouillie love handles.
• What to do there: Climb dem suckers! Most of the mountains in Mauritius have a trail, even if it’s tough to find or require venturing through some private land to reach. Like I said, they’re short but sweet day hikes suited for beginners – with some exceptions – to sweat it out and be rewarded with an island panorama (isolated peaks and small islands are a knock-out combo). They’re also ripe for camping. They’re not so high that it’s a harsh night’s sleep. In fact, in the midst of a summer humidity, they’re probably the best place to go in Mauritius for a good night’s sleep.

But you didn’t tell us where to go in Mauritius for some mountainous fun!

Yes, I did, right here in the Mauritius hiking guide ! Wam, bam, you’re welcome, madame .

#10 – Mauritius’s Waterfalls – More places for hiking in Mauritius with the option of cooling off!

• Like a mountain except there’s water.
• Like a beach except there’s hiking!
• Usually some cliff-jumping too.

You get a mad hike but then you get to finish it with a dope swim: they’re places to see in Mauritius with the best of both worlds! There are actually a metric shitton of waterfalls in Mauritius and a lot are pretty spectacular too. Some are secret and hidden – just waiting to be discovered – while others are super popular and for good reasons.

• Why it’s awesome: Well, they’re waterfalls! There’s water and its falling… it’s pretty simple really! Waterfalls are excellent fun.
• What to do there: Not all the falls require some hiking. There are plenty of waterfalls that are easily accessible… but that’s boring! The best waterfalls need to be earned. A top recommendation to check out is Sept Cascade (Seven Waterfalls). As the name implies, you get seven for the price of one! And the price is $0 – oh yes. I do, however, recommend starting the hike from the opposite end to most of the tourists (so you’re walking uphill facing the falls); you’ll have to check out the aforementioned hiking guide for this.

Waterfalls are excellent and one of the best places for couples to visit in Mauritius! Couples seem to love waterfalls. You get to hang out with your partner while they’re wearing minimal clothing, all wet and slippery, while in the middle of a gorgeous forest… Dammit, I think I need to go jump off a waterfall now.

#11 – The Beautiful Beaches of Mauritius – Duh.

If you’re taking a trip to Mauritius, you’re probably already cognizant of the presence of some bombshell beaches. That’s kinda what Mauritius is famous for. Well, that and the Mauritian rum. Ooh, rum and beaches – holiday set!

• Why it’s awesome: So goddamn pretty! We’re talking squeaky white sands, lagoon-like waters, and the feeling of looking through an impressionist’s colour-saturated mind’s eye. Actually, that’s a lie – no painter could ever accurately capture these motherfuckers.
• What to do there: I’ve already touched on a bunch of the beach goodness, but that’s barely scraping the surface. I’m pointing you to the guide on Mauritius’s best beaches that I wrote because it’s a hefty subject. The beaches are easily the best places to visit in Mauritius on a honeymoon by sheer virtue of that seems to be why all the honeymooners travel here. Holding hands, swimming together, applying each other’s sun lotion – bleh! Where is the adventure! There are a bunch of water activities on Mauritius’s beaches too, and a bunch would also be considered adventure activities. Diving, surfing, kitesurfing, burying yourself above the eyeballs and seeing how long you can last before you pass out – it’s a real good time! Just take the time to break away from Mauritius’s tourist beach places.

There are a lot of beaches.

#12 – Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao) – A historical place to see in Mauritius.

• Boom Shiva boom bhole!
• One of the more sacred places you can visit in Mauritius.
• Goes off in February!

Grand Bassin, or Ganga Talao, is another historical site in Mauritius and one with reverent importance to the Mauritian people that still hold to their Hindu origins. Once a year, sometime in February, Maha Shivaratri takes off and Grand Bassin still receives the proper Indian treatment… much to the dismay of many non-Hindu folks on the island.

Stop with the drums – I’m trying to sleep!

• Why it’s awesome: So, Grand Bassin is a crater lake; it’s not super impressive if we’re strictly speaking its scope, however, it is pretty. The 33-metre-high towering statues that greet you (Shiva and Durga Maa) at the lake are certainly things that it’s hard not to see in Mauritius too!
• What to do there: Wander around and check out the various temples and the lake; the Hanuman temple on the hill offers a sweet view on a clear day (potentially as far as Reunion Island). The real time to visit Grand Bassin is on the aforementioned Maha Shivaratri when people – particularly of Hindu background – make barefoot pilgrimages from across the island to the lake blaring speakers and dragging their ornate kawar . Much like India, Maha Shivaratri used to equally be the pilgrimage of stoners but alas, times have changed in Mauritius.

Why it’s awesome extended:  Initially, I wasn’ too enamoured with Grand Bassin – it was just a pretty Hindu lake. But as I spoke to people, particularly of the older generation, my feelings changed.

Grand Bassin has a number of folk tales and legends to connect it to Shiva, the Ganga, and Mama India. When the Indians were taken from their home and brought to Mauritius by the British, they risked losing their cultural identity and connection to their ancient heritage. Grand Bassin gave them a connection. I heard stories that gave me goosebumps.

The history of Mauritius really isn’t so old; two to three generations back and you’ve already hit slavery (sorry, “indentured labourers” ). My friend’s great-grandmother knew the man who discovered Grand Bassin and was focal in many of those legends surrounding the place. Taking some time to learn about Grand Bassin gives a window into Mauritius’s history and cultural roots, at least regarding the Indian heritage aspect. For that reason, it’s both a very interesting and  important place to visit in Mauritius.

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#13 – The Underwater Waterfall – Oh yes, that’s a must-see place in Mauritius.

• It’s a waterfall that’s underwater.
• Ok, not really… it’s an optical illusion but still!
• Costly to see.

How many times in your life have you seen an underwater waterfall? I’d hazard a guess that the number is pretty low! Those pesky universal physics are always getting in the way of shit like that. If you’re looking for a unique place in Mauritius that you won’t find anywhere else in the world, it may be worth considering forking over the cash for this one.

• Why it’s awesome: Well, it’s certainly a very famous place in Mauritius to visit! Let’s talk about the elephant on the island though: it’s actually just an optical illusion (caused by the movement of sand on the seafloor). It’s definitely an optical illusion worth suspending your disbelief for though because dat shit be tight! Expertly beautiful.
• What to do there: The underwater waterfall is a place to visit in Mauritius’s south – off the coast at Le Morne. There’s no way to see it without paying for a helicopter tour (or flying your own). You could also snap some pics with a travel photography drone , but I’m not so sure that counts… What to do there? Well, you look at it and softly coo I suppose. It’s also probably also another romantic place to visit in Mauritius on a date… provided you’re not secretly conspiring to push them out of the chopper, of course.

#14 – Black River Gorges National Park – A place in Mauritius for a more unexplored feeling.

• Hiking bonanza!
• Tasty-ass river water.
• And wildlife galore.

There’s no deep spiritual connection to the motherland here! Just sweet baby Shiva nature shenanigans. Plus a shitton of birds!

• Why it’s awesome: Dude, it’s nature! Rolling gorges of green forests sounding with birdlife and the rivers and waterfalls weaving within. From up high, the views are magnificent taking you right to the stunning blue coastlines. Honestly, there’s not much else to say. It’s just a must-visit place in Mauritius for those that like trees and a strong absence of power outlets.
• What to do there: Hike! Yup, that’s it. Maybe pack a picnic too. Plenty of Mauritius’s hiking trails are in Black River Gorges from the moderate to the ass-kickers. If you’re looking for just one recommendation, do the Macchabbe Trail . It’ll give you a nice all-rounder taste of the park’s offerings at a medium spiciness and with plenty of opportunities to see some critters too!

#15 – Rodrigues Island – A point of interest even teeny-tiner than Mauritius.

• It just gets smaller.
• And better.
• And even more remote.

The smallest of the Mascarene Archipelago (Mauritius being the middle-man), Rodrigues is a top attraction in Mauritius and absolutely a must-see place considering you came all this way. Reaching Rodrigues is easy but costs ya. The ferry from Mauritius to Rodrigues leaves bi-monthly (give or take) and the price of a return ticket is maybe half the cost – $120ish vs. $230ish .

• Why it’s awesome: Slow, sleepy island life just got simpler. It takes the smallness of Mauritius and squeezes it down like a juiced orange (with pulp, of course). Stand on a hill and you’ll be able to see coast to coast. The people are hella chill too! There’s a heap of wildlife – some rare and endemic species too – and the fruit is bountiful. They even have there own exclusive lemon! What’s it taste like? Well, it’s bitter and sour… so kinda like a lemon!
• What to do there: Camping for sure, monsieur . Taking a cheap camping tent  for a weekend on the beach is a time-honoured Rodrigues tradition. Plus, you know, it’s free. Otherwise, just soak up the local life. That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of things to see on Rodrigues Island – it’s mega-pretty (there are even better diving sites too) – but you could probably walk around the whole thing in a couple of days… So instead, make some friends! Eat at the local markets, meet some mates camping on the weekend, smack their booties in a friendly game of chess. It doesn’t get much simpler than the tiny island life so just take it slow.

#16 – Reunion Island – Technically not a destination in Mauritius, however…

• It’s no less gorgeous!
• It’s also close by.
• And very similar culturally and historically.

If you wanna discuss the differences between Reunion Island, it’s going to be a more nuanced discussion. Mauritius and Reunion – the Papa Bear of the Mascarene Archipelago – has a similar historical and cultural base : French colonialism rooted in slavery, French-based (albeit different) Creole language, bangin’ munchies…

The big difference is that Reunion is still very much a part of France. It’s an overseas territory, so you’ll need a different visa (a Reunion Visa , not a French one). So while this may technically not an attraction in Mauritius, it’s certainly one of the best places to visit from Mauritius.

• Why it’s awesome: Reunion has got all the natural splendour of Mauritius’s many beautiful places: honeymoon beaches and verdant greenery spreading far. There are some added bonuses too, however. Geographically, Reunion tops out to some pretty devastating ranges in the middle; Piton des Neiges the highest point in the Indian Ocean actually! Plus an active volcano… that regularly erupts! If you’re looking for some properly crazy adventurous places to visit in Mauritius, you may want to consider switching islands… Oh, and the weed is cheaper and considerably less illegal! Boom Shiva.
• What to do there: Honestly, pretty much anything you were planning on doing when travelling to Mauritius. Reunion is like a sabbatical getaway island of paradise for the French Fryers. It’s more slow-moving island life, an osmosis of some serene beauty, and a gentle feeling of escaping the planet’s continental chaos. I.e., do nothing.

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Get insured before hitting up all the best places to visit in Mauritius!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Look, despite the whole “Africa is scary” shizz-bizz, Mauritius is still a very safe place to visit. Clean, bloodthirsty beast-free, and quite probably a lower sociopath-per-capita ratio than Western Europe. Or the States… Maybe not Canada though.

All the same, no backpacking packing checklist is complete without travel insurance. It’s mega-important!

What if you twist your ankle having a slow moonlit honeymoon walk down the beach with your lover? Well, then it’s honeymoon over! Now your lover hates you and is dumpin’ yo sorry ass for the sexy mailman you always distrusted.

Always consider travel insurance before ANY trip.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Mauritius

Is Mauritius an expensive place to visit?

Yes, Mauritius attracts a lot of honeymooners and therefore prices are high in Mauritius.

What is Mauritius famous for?

Mauritius is famous for being the home to the Dodo (an extinct flightless bird), stunning beaches and incredible but expensive resorts.

What is the best place to visit in Mauritius for couples?

The most romantic places to visit in Mauritius are the waterfalls which provide a romantic setting for picnics and quiet time together.

What is the best place to visit in Mauritius for families?

Flic en Flac is one of the most popular places to visit in Mauritius for families because of its awesome beaches and family-friendly activities.

Mmm, that’s certainly a list of some amazing places to visit in Mauritius. Hell, one’s not even in Mauritius! It still only scratches the surface though.

Mauritius does really bring the goods and you don’t have to look hard to find them. That said, the harder you look, the more you’ll find.

Mauritius still seems to have plenty of hidden gems that even the locals are still discovering. Considering its size, that really speaks volumes as to how much excellence is bursting from the seams here. That’s why I implore any visitor travelling in Mauritius to properly look.

Soak dat shit up because it’s so damn tasty: it’s like a Mauritian roti burrito floating in the Indian Ocean waiting to be munched. Munch dat shit!

Ask around, make some local friends, and see how awesome Mauritius truly is – and how special and unique its roots are – when you break away from the overdeveloped beaches with expensive restaurants lining them. Besides, there are plenty of secret beaches too.

So go find ’em.

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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• 55 Best Places To Visit In Mauritius In 2024 To Surf, Dive, And Relax Under The Sun

As a traveler, you might have visited various parts of the world. However, Mauritius, which lies on the southeast of Africa, is a paradise for travelers as it offers surf, sand, and sun under one roof. Holidaying here can be a memorable experience as there are varieties of things to do in Mauritius. Being the number one spot for honeymooners, the beaches, islands, forts, parks, museums, shopping hubs, and monuments will keep the tourists on their toes. To make it easy for you to choose your picks, here’s a ready reckoner of best places to visit in Mauritius for people with different interests. Whether you are a shopaholic or a nature lover, this list has all sorts of places for all travelers!

55 Amazing Places To Visit In Mauritius

All set to exlore the wonderous landscape, the mistorical places and attrcations and vibrant undewater life of Mauritius?Here is the list of the most popular places to visit in Mauritius for an enthralling vacation. Keep scrolling down and read along!

• Trou Aux Biches – A Place Where You’ll Lose Yourself
• Belle Mare Plage – Enjoy Sunrise Amidst Greenery 
• Ile Aux Cerfs – Perfect Weekend Getaway
• Pereybere – Water Sports And More
• La Cambuse – Swim Your Heart Out
• Le Morne – Water Sports And Nature
• Ilot Gabriel Beach – Go On A Cruise
• Chamarel Coloured Earth – Witness The Seven-Colored Sand
• La Cuvette Beach – Nature And Local Food
• Flic En Flac Beach – Longest Beach
• Mont Choisy Beach – Natural Wonder Near Airport
• Poste Lafayette Beach – Admired For A Variety Of Activities
• Black River Gorges National Park – Breathtaking Beauty
• Casela World of Adventures – Enter The World Of Wildlife
• Parc Francois Leguat – Turtles And More
• Trou Aux Cerfs – For Jogging Amidst Lush Greenery
• Tamarind Waterfalls – A Sight To Behold
• Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden – Enter The World Of Flora
• Rochester Falls – Bathe Under The Gush Of Water
• Mauritius National Botanical Garden – Witness The Huge Variety Of Plants
• La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park – For A Great Exploration Experience
• La Vanille Crocodile Park – Witness The Breathtaking Creatures
• Casela Nature Park Segway Tour – A Great Fauna Tour
• Chamarel Waterfalls – Largest Waterfall
• Blue Bay Marine Park – Behold The Underwater World
• Le Pouce – Ideal Place For Nature Lovers And Adventurers
• Eureka House – Greenery And More
• Photo Museum – For All The Photography Lovers Out There
• Sugar Museum – A Great Learning Experience
• Blue Penny Museum – Learn The Historicity
• Light House of Albion – One Of The Best Attractions
• Mahebourg – For Food And Architecture
• Grand Bassin – For A Religious Experience
• Mauritius Photography Museum – Learn The History Of The Island
• Rodrigues – For A Recreational Time
• Aapravasi Ghat – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Chateau De Labourdonnais – Reflection Of Victorian Era
• L’Aventure du Sucre – Historicity Of Sugar Production
• Champ de Mars Racecourse – Experience The Adrenaline Rush
• Grand Baie Bazaar – Endless Variety
• Port Louis Market – From Dining To Shopping
• Moka – For A Fun Lifestyle Shopping
• Flic En Flac – Clothes And Clothing Accessories
• Mahebourg Market – For A Great Flea Market Experience
• Le Craft Market – For All The Crafty Stuff
• Quatre Bornes Market – Numerous Options 
• Flacq Market –  For Clothes And Food
• Bagatelle Mall – One-Stop Shopping Place 
• Tamarin Beach – Impeccable Beauty
• Le Plate Island – Leisurely Escape
• Le Souffleur – For Mythical Sight
• Port Louis Waterfront – Soak In Sheer Excitement
• The Crown Lodge – Ultimate Horseriding View
• Notre Dame Auxiliatrice – For A Soul-Soothing Experience
• Domaine les Pailles – A Cultural Hotspot

Places To Visit In Mauritius For All Beach Lovers

Have the best of the sun and along with picturesque ocean views at these exotic beaches and free attractions which are some of the best places in Mauritius. An epitome of paradise on earth, here is the list of the most interesting places to visit in Mauritius that you must visit on your vacay!

1. Trou Aux Biches - A Place Where You'll Lose Yourself

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For those who love snorkeling and swimming, Trou Aux Biches should be the first place to visit in Mauritius. With gentle sands shelving calm, shallow and clear water, this is an ideal place for a beach picnic with family and friends. If you love street food, hog at the numerous stalls and cafes along the coast. A variety of cuisines can be tried here. It is one of the top places of interest in Mauritius .

How to Reach: Take a cab or private car from Port Louis via A4 freeway to reach Trou Aux Beach in 30 min. Famous for: Trou Aux Biches is best known for swimming and snorkeling.

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2. Belle Mare Plage - Enjoy Sunrise Amidst Greenery

For early risers, Belle Mare Plage beach in Mauritius is a good choice to enjoy the sunrise. Take a dip while the sun comes up; you would be glad to add Belle Mare Plage beach to your list of must-visit tourist attractions among the Mauritius sightseeing . Experienced swimmers can enjoy swimming in the currents, which are a bit stronger than other beaches in Mauritius .

How to reach: Belle mare plage is only 42 km away from the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and can be reached by cars, taxis, busses and private vehicles available at the airport.  Famous for: Belle Mare Plage should be the undoubted choice for windsurfing and swimming.

3. Ile Aux Cerfs - Perfect Weekend Getaway

Travelers from across the world come to Ile Aux Cerfs beach in Mauritius to spend time with folks and friends. Mostly jam-packed during the weekend, it can be fun if sand and sun make a good combo for you. A cool and relaxing one among the coolest places to visit in Mauritius, it has some wonderful lagoons too.

How to reach: The best way to reach Ile aux Cerfs is by a taxi-boat which can be boarded from Trou D'Eau Douce. Famous for: Water Sports lovers must come to Ile Aux Cerfs. Its a good place for snorkeling as well.

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4. Pereybere - Water Sports And More

The Pereybere beach is quite popular among travelers. Keep it in your list of places to see among all the Mauritius tourist places, if you love deep-sea diving and snorkeling. Even though the water is deep in comparison to other beaches on the island, it is pleasingly calm.

How to reach: You can reach Pereybere Beach from Grand Baie which is just 2 km away from the beach and you can find a number of taxis from there. Famous for: Corals and marine life at Pereybere is a treat for sea-life lovers.

5. La Cambuse - Swim Your Heart Out

Actually, you cant be confused about which ones to pick among popular tourist places in Mauritius , if adventurous sports pump your adrenaline. Keep La Cambuse beach as a must-visit. Termed as one of the undiscovered spots in Mauritius, it is located east of the airport. The white sand and crystal clear water will surely invite you for a dip, but beware, as it can be deceiving.

How to reach: You can either take a private cab or avail any of the public transports from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport to reach La Cambuse Beach. Famous for: La Cambuse is best suited for adventure swimming sports

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6. Le Morne - Water Sports And Nature

Le Morne beach is one of the best places to visit in south Mauritius for those who love water sports. Backed by Le Morne Mountain, it is a perfect place for swimming. Moreover, it is a perfect have for adventure seekers who are seeking to try hands at water sports activities in Mauritius .

How to reach: The fastest and budget-friendly option to reach Lo Morne beach is by taking a rented car or Uber from Mauritius airport. Famous for: Windsurfing and kiteboarding

7. Ilot Gabriel Beach -  Go On A Cruise

Located in the exotic location of Gabriel Island 20 km down the north coast of Mauritius, the Ilot Gabriel Beach is one of those unexplored beaches that not many people are even aware of. If you are traveling around from Grand Bay, then you can simply charter a boat to visit this island. The best part of visiting this beach is the picturesque beauty of the sunrise and the sunset. Not only does it make up for a completely romantic setting, but it also does bring you peace and calm which you most definitely won’t get otherwise. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Mauritius .

How to reach: The easiest way to get here is by taking a catamaran or boat ride from Pereybere or Grand Bay.  Famous for: Catamaran cruise

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8. Chamarel Coloured Earth - Witness The Seven-Colored Sand

Image Credit: SeverS74 for Pixabay

If you have been to Mauritius and have not been to this place, have you ever been to Mauritius? If you wish to witness something out of this world, visiting the Chamarel Coloured Earth is an absolute must for you. This stupefying attraction has gained popularity over time because of the fact that it comprises of sand of seven different colors which is most definitely going to leave you perplexed and shocked at the same time. The colors are not very prominent because of the tropical climate of Mauritius but if you mix the colored earth, you will be able to see a remarkable difference. The predominant colors you notice include that of the red, black, purple and cyan. This can even be considered as one of the ideal places to visit in Mauritius for honeymoon .

How to reach: Taking bus no 119 or 120 via route 5A is one of the easiest ways to reach Chamarel Coloured Earth Famous for: Sand in seven distinct colors Entry fee: INR 225 for adults and INR 75 for children

9. La Cuvette Beach - Nature And Local Food

This is one of the most amazing places to visit at Mauritius The La Cuvette Beach is situated in Port Louis and does make up for one of the most tourists visit beaches in Mauritius. The best part of this beach is the wide range of stunning views one can enjoy of the Grand Baie. It is an amazing spot to just relax and have a wonderful time alone, with friends or family.

How to reach: La Cuvette Beach can be easily accessed by taxis or shuttle services from Port Louis hotels. Famous for: Swimming, seafood, and beer

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10. Flic En Flac Beach – Longest Beach

This is one of the best places to see in Mauritius , especially if you are a beach baby. Located in the western region, Flic En Flac beach is considered to be the longest beach in Mauritius and therefore is one of the most popular beaches here. The coral reefs here will simply take your breath away. Don’t forget to add this place to your itinerary for sightseeing places in Mauritius. 

How to reach: Flic En Flac Beach is best accesses by buses or by taxis from Port Louis.  Famous for: Coral reefs, swimming, snorkelling, and luxury resorts

11. Mont Choisy Beach – Natural Wonder Near Airport

Lying in the northern region, Mont Choisy Beach is considered to be one of the best locations in Mauritius, as the whole scenery of this beach will leave you mesmerized. The beach is at a close distance from the airport and therefore reaching it is not a task. The glittery azure water and spell-binding corals will make your visit to this beach worthwhile and one of the popular places to explore in Mauritius.

How to reach: Located close to the capital city of Port Louis, the beach is very easily accessible by bus or cab.  Famous for: This beach is popular amongst nature lovers who are looking for a peaceful experience in Mauritius

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12. Poste Lafayette Beach – Admired For A Variety Of Activities

Image Credit: eduardoortiz for Pixabay

When looking for Mauritius tourist places away from the bustling city life, then this is the beach you should consider. The beach is surrounded by awe-striking palm trees and the azure water is mesmerizingly beautiful. You can simply sit by the beach and treat your senses to breathtaking views.

How to reach: Take the Melville Road from Grand Gaube and head towards B15 motorway in Goodland to reach Poste Lafayette beach. Famous for: Water activities like snorkeling, diving, parasailing, and more.

Places To Visit In Mauritius For Nature Lovers

These places to visit in South Mauritius along with north are perfect for nature lovers. The rich flora and fauna of this place blow your mind away. Here is a list of the most amazing places where you can take up nature expitions. Take a look!

13. Black River Gorges National Park - Breathtaking beauty

If wild adventure is your style, visit Black River Gorges National Park which is one of the famous places to visit in south west Mauritius. Spread in an area of approximately 68 km, it is best for the photographers looking for flower and fauna. If you are a researcher, then the park field stations can come in handy to know more about the national park. While trekking, one can find numerous wild pigs, rusa deer, privets, and Chinese guava. Some of the endangered species of birds and animals can even be seen in this national park. This is indeed one of the  best places to see in Mauritius .

How to reach: You can either drive from Pellegrin to Black River Gorges National Park or take a bus from Port Louis to reach the destination. Famous for: Hiking and camping Entry fee: None

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14. Casela World Of Adventures - Enter The World Of Wildlife

Excited about safaris? Experience the wildlife safari organized at Cascavelle, which is a must-see out of many places to visit in Mauritius, especially for the daredevils. Yes, the open jeep rides and elephant rides here are not for the faint-hearted. Be prepared for a face-to-face with tigers and leopards roaming freely in the safari trails. This is undoubtedly considered to be one of the most adventure places to visit in Mauritius .

How to reach: The best way to reach Casela World Of Adventures is by taking a bus, private car or a taxi from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport  Famous for: Wildlife Safari Entry fee: INR 740

15. Parc Francois Leguat - Turtles And More

Parc Francois Leguat is one of the sought-after wildlife parks in Rodrigues Island , Mauritius. It is even called the turtle park, as there are hundreds and thousands of turtles of different ages. This place should be preferred if you are looking forward to some quality family time. You must visit this place when looking for some of the best Mauritius tourist attractions .

How to reach: There are many private minibusses, cars, minivans, and busses available from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport to the Parc François Leguat. Famous for: Turtle population; BTW, do you like turtles? Entry fee:  INR 320 for adults and INR 160 for children

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16. Trou Aux Cerfs -  For Jogging Amidst Lush Greenery

Trou Aux Cerfs, or the Murr’s Volcano, is a 605 m high dormant volcano that is located in Curepipe, Mauritius. Its well-defined crater is about 350 meters in diameter and is 80 meters deep. Experts believe that this dormant volcano could become active anytime within the next thousand years. When going for Mauritius sightseeing , this is where you should definitely come!

How to reach: You can get buses and cabs easily from Curepipe, the nearest city to Trou Aux Crefs to reach this place.  Famous for: Jogging and jeep tours around the Crater Lake

17. Tamarind Waterfalls – A Sight To Behold

Tamarind Waterfalls are one of the best things to see in Mauritius. The waterfalls comprise a series of seven cataracts located on the Tamarin River and hence are often called the Seven Cascades. This is counted amongst those places to visit at Mauritius that will simply bring you closer to nature.

How to reach: There are local buses and taxis available to the Black River Gorges National Park from outside the airport that you can avail to reach the Tamarind Falls. Famous for: A variety of activities like hiking, canyoneering, cliff jumping, bird-watching, and swimming

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18. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden - Enter The World Of Flora

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden , or the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, is a popular tourist places in Mauritius, near Port Louis. This oldest botanical garden of the southern hemisphere was constructed by Pierre Poivre in 1770. When looking for some of the best tourist attractions in Mauritius , this is the place you must consider.

How to reach: While coming from Port Louis to Grand Baie, it is located right next to the motorway. Taking a cab or a private car is the best option to reach here.  Famous for: Large pond of giant water lilies

19. Rochester Falls - Bathe Under The Gush Of Water

If you love waterfalls, you are going to love this one. Rochester Falls near Port Louis are worth a visit owing to their picturesque beauty and surrounding flora. Soak in the lush greenery and spend some moments of introspection by the falls. The main attraction is the flank rocks that stand out in the whole scenery. You can also take a dive in the chilling waters and enjoy eating fresh tropical fruits. This one's definitely amongst those places to visit at Mauritius that will ensure a great experience for you.

How to reach: Rochester Falls can be reached by car or taxi from Souillac, which will take you to the base of the access points from where you can trek your way to the falls. Famous For: Rochester Falls and its serene ambiance.

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20. Mauritius National Botanical Garden - Witness The Huge Variety Of Plants

If plants and greenery and nature is one of your strong point of interests, the Mauritius National Botanical Garden is an absolute must-visit while you are in Mauritius. Spread over a vast area, the Mauritius National Botanical Garden is home to over 650 variants of plants in total. The garden also does hold a bit of historical importance as it was opened by a French governor back in the days and was a private garden before. It is considered to be one of the most amazing places to go in Mauritius .

How to reach:  While coming from Port Louis to Grand Baie, it is located right next to the motorway. Taking a cab or a private car is the best option to reach here. Famous for:  The different variants of plants around, especially the medicinal plants. Entry fee: INR 348 approximately

21. La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park - For A Great Exploration Experience

Next, on the list of the amazing tourist spots around Mauritius for nature lovers include the La Vallee Des Couleurs, Nature Park . The park is known around the world for being home to some of the rare and indigenous species of both flora and fauna. Take a complete trip around the park to witness the beauty of the rarest of formations around the Earth and get ready to get your mind completely blown away. There are also four beautiful waterfalls in the park itself which further accentuate the beauty of the place. Needless to say, it is one of the best  places to go in Mauritius .

How to reach: The nearest village to access La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature Park is the village of Chamouny at a distance of 3.5 KM. Famous for: Simply exploring and even quad biking Entry Fee:  INR 100 onwards, depends on the activities you choose.

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22. La Vanille Crocodile Park  - Witness The Breathtaking Creatures

The La Vanille Crocodile Park totally lives up to its name. It is home to some of the most misunderstood creatures around in the world, crocodiles. It also has a wide range of giant tortoises. The crocodiles are the showstopper of this park but you can also explore around a number of other kinds of reptiles and plants too in the area around. If butterflies are your thing, you can witness a wide range of rare butterflies in the park as well. It is one of the best places to visit for sightseeing in Mauritius .

How to reach: Take a left exit towards Route Maisonette on the way from Port Louis on the Riviere des Anguilles, again a left turn from restaurant Senneville to reach the park.  Famous for: Crocodiles, jungleadventure, playground for the kids Entry fee:  INR 100 for adults and INR 50 for children

23. Casela Nature Park Segway - A Great Fauna Tour

Image Credit: Alexas_Fotos for Pixabay

Yet another one of the must-visit nature lover’s spots is Casela Park. The best experience you could have around in this park is the walk that you get to share with the king of the jungle, Lions. Walking around with a Lion can be riveting and quite scary but the experience on its own is something you just can’t afford to miss out on.

The majority of the visitors and experts around suggest visiting during the winter months, especially during the month of September for an overall amazing experience in itself. This specific park has everything that your nature lover side can ever ask for. From a plethora of exotic plants and flowers to the other varying species of animals around, you can witness it all here.

How to reach: Travelers can arrange for transfer to the park either through their hotel, through their travel agents, or locally. Famous for: Lions, Zebras, birds and giant Turtles Entry fee: INR 300

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24. Chamarel Waterfalls - Largest Waterfall

The Chamarel Waterfalls is believed to be one of the largest waterfalls around in Mauritius. The best part about this waterfall is the perimeter and the surroundings which further add to the beauty of the place. It is surrounded by the rich vegetation of the Black River Gorges which accentuate the impending flow of the waterfalls. It is located in close vicinity of the Black River National Park so you can witness it too. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius .

How to reach: The nearest village to access the Chamarel Waterfalls is Chamarel Village at a distance of 3.2 Km. Famous for: Lush greenery and Black River Gorges

25. Blue Bay Marine Park - Behold The Underwater World

If water sports and snorkeling is your thing, you are going to absolutely love the Blue Bay Marine Park. Exploring marine life from around the underwaters is absolutely mind-boggling and everything you need to experience while in Mauritius. The park is also home to a wide range of mangroves, seagrasses, and even algae.

How to reach: You can reach Blue Bay Marine Park from Mahebourg easily by car or taxi.  Famous for: Snorkelling, marine life Entry fee: INR 7785 approximately

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26. Le Pouce – Ideal Place For Nature Lovers And Adventurers

Sitting at an elevation of 812 meters above sea level, Le Pouce is the third largest mountain of Mauritius. Amalgamating the experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, Le Pouce is a thumb-shaped peak that gives travelers an opportunity to witness some picturesque views of the Port Louis at a glance. It is believed that this mountain was first scaled in 1836 by Charles Darwin and slowly emerged as a popular peak to conquer amidst hikers and trekkers. This peak is a great spot for both of those people who are just beginning to start hiking or have already conquered a number of peaks in their lifetime with one of the best places to visit in Mauritius . 

How to reach: From Port Louis, book a taxi that takes you to the La Laura village in the Moka District. This will take nearly 30 minutes to reach Le Pouce. Famous For: Easy hike in spite of steep edges forming the trails towards a point that exhibits some of the greatest views of the Port Louis from up top.

27. Eureka House - Greenery And More

Built in 1830, Eureka House (Maison Eureka) is a major tourist attraction in Mauritius, located at Moka, Central Mauritius. This erstwhile colonial residence of English and French aristocrats has been converted into a museum dedicated to the colonial period of Mauritius. With its 109 doors and windows, it is famous as the largest house on the island. The museum has areas dedicated to music, art, maps, and Chinese & Indian houseware. Many small waterfalls, lush greenery, endemic plants, Lake Moka, and lavish gardens surround the museum.

How to reach: You can travel from Port, Louis towards the Bagatelle on the M1 highway to enter the Eureka house street. Famous for: Colonial Museum and beautiful vistas. Entry fee:  INR 175

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28. Photo Museum - For All The Photography Lovers Out There

List of places to visit in Mauritius r emains incomplete without a bit of history. Unlike shopping hubs, Photo Museum is for people with more serious hobbies in life. If you, too think that travel is incomplete without good photography, update your list of tourist places in Mauritius. The photography museum houses some of the biggest, finest, and oldest cameras. Established in the year 1960, it has the best collection of iconic photographs taken during the early 1800s.

How to reach: You can reach Photo Museum from Port Louis within minutes via cab Famous for: Amazing collection of historical photos of the island Entry fee: INR 645 per adult, and free entry for children under 12 year

29. Sugar Museum - A Great Learning Experience

And just when you thought places to visit in Mauritius got boring, the Sugar museum amuses you as a destination for sightseeing in Mauritius . It dates back to the time when sugar was given equal importance as gold. It is a treat for historians as it displays the 250 years old heritage of the sugar adventure that the whole country saw. Once you are free from the 1.5 hour tour, rum and sugar tasting sessions will be waiting for you to end the journey on a high note (hick-hick).

How to reach: Sugar Museum is in the north and can be reached by a 20-minute drive from Port-Louis. Taxis are easily available from Port-Louis to the Sugar Museum in Pamplemousses. Famous for: Becades-old machines that were used to extract sugar from sugarcane, botanical garden Entry fee: INR 380 per person

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30. Blue Penny Museum - Learn The Historicity

Image Credit: Martin Falbisoner for wikipedia.org

Yet another treat for the history lovers. If you want an alluring view of the art and history of Mauritius and want to go into the depths of the country, this place is a must-stop. The Blue Penny Museum is a place just out of your wish list. From a plethora of magnificent explorations around the island, this specific museum does showcase it all. The museum provides you with insight and a quick rundown of everything Mauritius is and how it evolved gradually over the course of years. Start with an overview of the three colonial periods - Dutch, French, and British, and move on to the history of the postal service of Mauritius. From its very first stamp to the rarest and world-renowned stamps, the museum houses many interesting things.

How to reach: The best way to reach Blue Penny Museum in Caudan Waterfront is via taxi which you can book through a tour operator. Famous for: The rarest red one-penny and blue two penny Entry fee: 245 for adults and 120 for children

31. Light House Of Albion – One Of The Best Attractions

While Mauritius is known around for its grandeur of beaches and other popular shopping destinations, everything would most definitely be incomplete without the Albion Lighthouse. It is located around in the west coast of Mauritius and makes up for one of the most popular Mauritius tourist spots in the country. The marvelous and quite unique architecture of the place is what sets it apart from the rest of the sightseeing options around. While back in the days it served as navigation for the sailors, it stands today as an important landmark representing the rich history of Mauritius.

How to reach: Lighthouse of Albino is accessible by bus from Port Louis Famous for: Amazing overview of the surroundings. A great spot to capture the natural beauty of the place around.

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32. Mahebourg  - For Food And Architecture

If history and knowing the rich culture of the place is something that intrigues you, Mahebourg is the city you absolutely can’t miss visiting out on your Mauritius sightseeing tour . The combination of the historical museums along with the hustle and bustle of the streets around is what attracts the majority of the tourists to visit this city while in Mauritius. It is also famous for its wide stretch of beaches from north till south. While there, make sure to not miss out on the wide range of delectable street food that the place has to offer.

How to reach: Land at the Mahebourg airport which is in Port Louis and from here, you can simply hire a taxi which will take you directly to Mahebourg nearly 5 kilometers away. Famous for: Historical museums, street food.

33. Grand Bassin - For A Religious Experience

Located around in Port Louis, the Grand Bassin in Mauritius is one of the most sacred places for the Hindus. It is often also regarded as Ganga Talao and is famous for one of the most significant Lord Shiva temples which are located 1800 ft above the sea level. Apart from the temple of Lord Shiva, you can also worship Gods like Hanuman and Lakshmi who have their individual temples there as well. The serene and tranquil environment of the place is what makes the tourists come back again and again to this place.

How to reach: The best way to travel from Mauritius Airport to Grand Bassin is to drive from the airport or to take a cab. Famous for: Maha Shivratri celebrations.

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34. Mauritius Photography Museum - Learn The History Of The Island

Port Louis is a place that signifies some of the most popular tourist destinations around in the entirety of Mauritius and the Mauritius Photography Museum is one of them. If you live and breathe photography, you are going to absolutely love this specific museum. The place does host one of the best photography pieces around and that too by some of the most popular photographers including Tristan Breville.

How to reach: You can reach here from Port Louis to the museum by car in minutes.  Famous for: Daguerreotypes, historical pictures of the island Entry fee: INR 150

35. Rodrigues - For A Recreational Time

If you are on the lookout for a place in Mauritius to just chill and relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Rodrigues Island is the answer to that. Often known as the Mauritius of 25 years ago, this place is nothing short of amazing. The delectable food around in the local restaurants is definitely going to tickle your palate. Not just that, if possible, mingle with the locals and get the best experience altogether.

How to reach: Being an island, you can reach Rodrigues Island either through the water, or the air. Air is preferably the better option to opt for. Famous for: Watersports, ziplining, and fishing

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36. Aapravasi Ghat – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Image Source Earning itself a spot in the list of UNESCO World Heritage SItes, Aaparavasi Ghat in Mauritius showcases that this place is not just about relaxing and tranquil beaches, rather there’s a lot more. In the earlier days, when slavery was uncontrolled in Mauritius, Aparavasi Ghat was built as the main depot for receiving laborers from various Asian and African countries which makes it one of the best tourist attractions in Mauritius . The laborers that were brought in were asked to work on the sugar estates.

How to reach: Aapravasi Ghat is located on the 1st Quay Street in Port Louis and is the best reach by taxi or cab. Famous For: In the present time, Aapravasi Ghat is proof to this major history of indentured labor that took place during British Rule. Entry fee:  None

37. Chateau de Labourdonnais – Reflection Of Victorian Era

Another one of the buildings that exhibit hints of colonization in Mauritius is the Chateau de Labourdonnais. This is one of the best places to see in Mauritius and people can witness the grand and massive mansion which was once a residence of Christian Wiehe who lived with his family but in the present days, Chateau de Labourdonnais is a famous and heritage tourism spot. The Victorian vibes showcased by the exterior designs and internal decor makes this building a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The antique aura, vintage furniture, cobbled paths, and lush green gardens of this building takes away the breath of spectators, making it one of the best places to visit in Mauritius with family. 

How to reach: You can take a bus or get a private taxi or cab to reach the destination.  Famous For: Victorian vibes and architecture of the building. Entry fee:  INR 175 for children between 5-12; INR 350 for teenagers & adults between 13-59; INR 250 for senior citizens 60 & above

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38. L’Aventure du Sucre – Historicity Of Sugar Production

Translating to ‘Sugar Adventure’, L’Aventure de Sucre is a famous museum that is all about sugar! Sitting in the enchanting village of Pamplemousses, this sugar museum gives travelers an opportunity to explore the ancient Beau Plan Sugar Factory that was up and running in the 18th to 20th century.

The idea behind this museum was to highlight the historical and cultural side of the production of sugarcane in Mauritius. Started by an amalgamation of three sugar groups namely Deep River Beau Champ Ltd, Constance La Gaiete Co Ltd, and Harel Freres Lts, this sugar museum was once a great contribution to the economy of Mauritius. Do add this museum to your list of famous places in Mauritius that you should visit.

How to reach: Taxis are easily available from Port-Louis to the Museum and can be reached in 20 min.  Famous For: Showcasing the importance and historical side of sugarcane production in the golden days of Mauritius. Entry fee:  INR 450 for adults and INR 200 for children

39. Champ de Mars Racecourse – Experience The Adrenaline Rush

Apart from tropical weather and beaches, Mauritius is also known for another intriguing aspect, Horse Riding. Champ de Mars Racecourse is the second oldest racecourse in the entire world and has managed to maintain its fame since the colonial era and also called one of the best Mauritius tourist places. Built back in the 1800s, this racecourse has witnessed all the major historic moments of the country, including the independence of Mauritius in the year of 1968.

Prior to converting to a racecourse and independence, the Frenchmen used the racecourse as their training area for the military. Those who are fascinated by horse riding can travel to this destination anytime between April to November. This is when the racing season takes place in Champ de Mars Racecourse.

How to reach: The race course is located in the heart of the city and can be easily reached by car or bus. Famous For: Horse Riding racing season that commences in April and goes on till the month of November Entry fee:  INR 100-INR 200

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40. Grand Baie Bazaar - Endless Variety

Quite a popular one from the list of tourist places in Mauritius, Grand Baie is for ultimate street shopping. Impulse buyers head here since it is one of the best places to visit in North Mauritius. Buy souvenirs at this market from your trip. It is most famous for trinkets and skateboards.

How to reach: Grand Baie Bazaar is just 9 min walk from Port Louis hotels. Famous for: Malagasy and Mauritian crafts

41. Port Louis Market - From Dining To Shopping

From home decor to trinkets, this one is for cute souvenir shopping in Mauritius. It is particularly famous for herbs and bamboo products. Being one of the largest markets in the capital, you can find almost everything here. From fresh food items to handicrafts, buy whatever you want. Discover great places to dine and coffee shops in this market.

How to reach: The market is located in the heart of the city which is 48km away from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport Famous for: Herbs, shampoos.

42. Moka – For A Fun Lifestyle Shopping

If you're looking for those places to visit at Mauritius where you can shop your heart out and satiate your shopaholic spirit, then this is where you should come. This is the place for lifestyle shopping from your favorite brands such as Armani Jeans, Body and Soul, Celio, Colors & Senses, Esprit, and Hugo Boss, among others.

How to reach: Hagari Rail Way Station are the very nearby railway station to Moka. You can also reach from Bellary to Moka by road Famous for: Brand apparels and accessories

43. Flic En Flac - Clothes And Clothing Accessories

Come here for a blend of street shop kind of stalls, local souvenirs, sea products, trendy apparel and accessories, and more. It is among the popular Mauritius visiting places and one of the best markets in Mauritius to buy local produce on the island. The open-air market is busy over the weekdays so it is suggested you visit this market on a weekend. Buy cheap t-shirts, bags, hats, and some local tea from this flea market.

How to reach: Grab a cab or bus to the residential town of Quatre Bornes to reach the market. Famous for: Souvenirs and locally-produced products

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44. Mahebourg Market – For A Great Flea Market Experience

This is popularly known as the Monday Market which is unique for its one day of business per week. Monday Market is one of the must visit places in Mauritius for all shopaholics. On every Monday of the week, the waterfront area of Mahebourg turns into a huge flea market. People visiting here can find some of the amazing Mauritian souvenirs and local handicrafts which add life to the town. Usually the locals can be seen roaming around the Mahebourg Market because of its high bargaining rate.

How to reach: To reach it you will need some kind of boat transportation. It is easily reached from Tamarin/Black River Famous for: Handicrafts

45. Le Craft Market – For All The Crafty Stuff

As the name suggests, this market hosts around 36 stalls which hosts some of the best and unique craft collections which also makes this one of the best Mauritius tourist places. Starting off from the exquisite woodwork to the intricately detailed baskets and also some of the most amazing glass souvenirs. Alongside that this two-storey building is also known for selling some of the most artistic things like seashells and conch items. People can also find boxes of some of the ground spices and embroidered linen catch.

How to reach: The market can be easily reached by a bus, car, or bike.  Famous for: Show pieces, handmade dresses, soft toys, home decor

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46. Quatre Bornes Market – Numerous Options

Image Credit: Joshua for Pexels

When looking for clothing accessories and textiles, this market is where you should come for a satisfactory shopping experience. There are many shops in the market on either side of the narrow road, giving you umpteen options to choose from. You can buy a lot of things here, including souvenirs, t-shirts, casuals, and fabrics among other things.

How to reach: Frequent bus services operate between Rose Hill, Port Louis and the bus station in Quatre Bornes Famou s for: you should come here to buy textiles, casualwear, and clothing accessories

47. Flacq Market –  For Clothes And Food

Image Credit: André Stanley for Pexels

This market is known to be one of the largest markets in Mauritius and therefore the variety is endless. You’ll find many stalls with clothing accessories, souvenirs, and a variety of dishes. As the biggest open-air market in Mauritius, Flacq should definitely be listed in your itinerary if you want to learn about the vibrant local culture here.

How to reach: To reach it you will need some kind of boat transportation. It is easily reached from Tamarin/Black River, Case Noyale or Le Morne. Famous for: visit this place when looking where different clothing accessories and spicy food

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48. Bagatelle Mall – One-Stop Shopping Place

There are various tourist attractions in Mauritius which travelers should definitely not miss and one of them is Bagatelle Mall. This mall is frequented by locals as well as tourists because it has everything under one roof. With its central location in Moka, Bagatelle Mall will make your shopping experience memorable and productive. All the shopaholics won’t get enough of this place owing to the innumerable branded options available for all. You can also indulge yourself in delicious cuisine in the cafes or restaurants of this mall.

How to reach: Bagatelle Mall Of Mauritius is situated at the center of the island so it is very convenient to reach by bus. Famous for: Branded apparels and accessories

49. Tamarin Beach – Impeccable Beauty 

Also known as Santosha Bay, Tamarin Beach was amongst the most popular places for surfing in Mauritius. The place is home to impeccable beauties and hosts enthralling water sports activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and more. If you want to visit the most beautiful places in Mauritius,  make sure to add this beach to your itinerary. 

How to reach: The place is well connected and you can take a ferry or jetty to reach here. Famous for: Water sports adventures

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50. Le Plate Island – Leisurely Escape

Le Plate Island is also known as Flat Island got its name from being so flat like a plate. The place is known for water sports activities and offers scenic vistas of the surrounding nature. The leisurely island is known for its breathtaking sites. This is amongst the best Mauritius tourist attractions  which attract honeymooners as well families.

How to reach: The place is well connected and you can take a ferry or jetty to reach here. Famous for: Scenic vistas, water activities

51. Le Souffleur – For Mythical Sight

Quite hard to be reached, Le Souffler is a humongous cliff where sights of natural springs can be frequently witnesses. It is one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius which is not visit by many. This place features a natural bridge that offers insta-worthy pictures. Although this place does not offers many activities to indulge in, one may enjoy taking several beautiful clicks. Consider yourself lucky if you see the magnificent geyser fountain.

How to reach: For this secluded place, you need to take permission for crossing the Savannah Sugar Estate. Later, you can follow the snacking track that will take to this wonderful place. Famous for: Geyser fountain, breathtaking vistas

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52. Port Louis Waterfront – Soak In Sheer Excitement

Ideally positioned in Port Louis is this lively commercial development area that attracts numerous visitors every day. While being one of the most famous tourist attractions in Mauritius This place makes ultimate heaven for shopaholics and epicures where they get to treat their senses. This tourist spot features a multitude of eateries, casinos, restaurants, and movie theaters which offers a great amount of entertainment dose to travelers. If you wish to visit the best Mauritius tourist attractions, make sure to visit Port Louis Waterfront.

How to reach: Take a public bus to the Victoria Bus terminal and then hire a taxi to reach the waterfront. Famous for: Shopping options, restaurants, casinos, movie halls

53. The Crown Lodge – Ultimate Horseriding View

The Crown Lodge is meant for all horse-racing lovers. Taking place every Saturday, horse racing here draws the attention of numerous locals as well as travelers. From Crown Lodge, you can enjoy the perfect view of racing and other activities. It is better to buy an all-inclusive package which comprises an open bar and delicious meals. Besides this, you can also get to meet trainers as well as horse owners.

How to reach: Since this place is settled in a central location, you can easily board a bus or book a car. Famous for: Exciting horse racing and a perfect view of Mauritius Turf Club Entry Fee: INR 16,328 approximately.

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54. Notre Dame Auxiliatrice – For A Soul-Soothing Experience

Enjoying the vicinity of a beach, Notre Dame Auxiliatrice is a jaw-dropping Catholic church that welcomes several tourists every year. Boasting the backdrop of a scintillating island and the ocean, this is one of the famous churches in Mauritius. Its red sloping roof, lush green surroundings along the backdrop of the beautiful sea are what makes it stand apart from other churches. This is indeed one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius. If you want to attend the mass, make sure to visit it on Saturdays at 6:00 pm and on Sundays at 9:00 am.

How to reach: From the Immigration Square in Port Louis, you can take a public bus to reach Cap Malheureux within 30 minutes Famous for: Peaceful vibe and a scenic backdrop.

55. Domaine les Pailles – A Cultural Hotspot

A charming heritage center, Domaine les Pailles features a traditional mill, railway rides, a distillery, and an eatery where travelers can gorge upon toothsome meals. This place offers an ideal setting where couples, as well as families, can enjoy their day out in Mauritius. While spending a day here, travelers will get to know the old-world charm. When visiting here, make sure to indulge in a Safari ride as well.

How to reach: Domaine les Pailles can be eaily reached by a car, bike, or bus. Famous for: it’s best known for its cultural activities and picturesque vistas. Entry Fee: INR INR 259 approximately

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Mauritius has numerous amazing options of places that you can add to your bucket list. And now that you know about these places to visit in Mauritius, what are you waiting for? Make your dream trip to this island nation come true by planning a trip to Mauritius and makes memories that you can cherish forever.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Mauritius

Which is the best part of Mauritius to go to?

If you are looking out for some of the best places in Mauritius to explore then Balaclava is the perfect option for you. Located in the north of Mauritius, Balaclava is considered the most beautiful destination for those who are searching for some options near the beach.

Is Mauritius expensive for tourists?

To begin with, toiletries and cosmetics are two of the most expensive items in Mauritius that will surely create a hole in your pocket. Having said that, the cost and the expenses will largely vary on the basis of your accommodation options, the number of days that you will stay, transfers, meals, and sightseeing options.

Is it safe to travel to Mauritius during the coronavirus outbreak?

Mauritius is one of the few places with zero cases of coronavirus so far. It is very much open to tourists. However, a travel ban on all those who have been to Italy or China lately is in place.

What is the best time to visit Mauritius?

Being surrounded by African waters on all sides, Mauritius enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Mauritius is from the months of May till December. The weather remains cool and dry. Some days may turn out to be a bit sunny, whereas the weather remains moderate enough to explore some of the best places to visit in Mauritius.

How many museums are there in Mauritius?

All the history buffs out there who are planning their next international holiday in Mauritius must visit the exciting museums of this paradise. With two national museums of National History Museum in Mahebourg and the Natural History Museum in Port Louis, the Mauritius Museums Council also has many other museums like that of Blue Penny Museum, Musée de la Photographie, and Folk Museum of Indian Immigration under its purview.

Which are the top five attractions in Mauritius that should not be missed?

The top five or the best attractions in Mauritius that none of the travellers should miss on their visit are that of the Ile aux Cerfs, Black River Gorges National Park, Seven Colored Earth, Flic-en-Flac, and the Chamarel Waterfall.

What are the best places to visit for couples?

Ile aux Benitiers, Chamarel Waterfalls, Seven Colored Earth, Blue Bay Marine Park, Casela World Of Adventures, and Ile aux Cerfs are some of the best places to visit for couples in Mauritius.

What are some of the best activities to be enjoyed in Mauritius?

Snorkelling at Ile aux Cerfs, hiking at Black River Gorges National Park, island hopping, safari ride at Casela nature park, etc. are some of the best activities that travellers can experience on their next trip to Mauritius.

Is it safe to walk at night in Mauritius?

Mauritius welcomes tourists with the warmest smiles and the locals are very friendly in nature. But it is advised not to linger around exploring places to visit in Mauritius at night, especially in the poor-lit areas.

What is Mauritius famous for?

Mauritius was once home to Dodo which is unfortunately extinct now but the country still houses several endangered species of animals and plants which makes it a famous place apart from its bucolic nature and beaches.

What food do they eat in Mauritius?

Some of the top dishes offered in Mauritius are camarons (freshwater prawns cooked in hot sauce), dholl puri, fish vindaye, and rougaille.

Is tap water safe to drink in Mauritius?

Tap water in Mauritius is suitable for consumption and there is absolutely no need to spend money on bottled water. So, if you are planning your next vacation to Mauritius, feel free to drink water straight from the tap.

What are the best things to buy in Mauritius?

When in Mauritius, do not forget to buy I fused rum, Phoenix beer, Dodo souvenirs, a piece of coloured earth, and homegrown tea as these are the best things to buy in Mauritius.

What is the best area to stay in Mauritius?

If you are looking for an area in the southern part of Mauritius then look no further than Le Morne. Apart from this, you can also look for a stay in Grand Baie which is famous for enjoying the nightlife in Mauritius.

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The Best Places to Visit in Mauritius: A Top 10 List

• Blog , international , Mauritius
• - June 14, 2024

Are you planning to visit Mauritius with your family and friends? Mauritius is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is best known for its magnificent beaches, vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and thrilling water activities. For travelers like you, there are various best places to visit in Mauritius including Port Louis, Grand Baie, Black River Gorges National Park, and more.

If you also want to explore the best tourist places in Mauritius, you should book a cheap Mauritius tour package . Also, we compiled a list of the best 10 places to visit in Mauritius. These places are best for your family, friends, couples, and solo trips. So without wasting your precious time, let’s start our discussion over places to explore in Mauritius. 

Top 10 Places to Visit in Mauritius

Mauritius is an island country in the Indian Ocean. It is situated on the southeastern coast of East Africa, east of Madagascar. Being an island country, Mauritius has unbeatable beaches, rich marine life, great landscapes, water lagoons, and more.

When you start your Mauritius journey, explore Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius. Here you can see the influence of French culture through its architecture, food, and language. Port Louis is among the best places to visit in Mauritius due to its cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and 19th-century Champ de Mars horse-racing track. 

Popular Attractions in Port Louis :- Port Louis Waterfront, Champ de Mars, Port Louis Harbour

Location: Mauritius 

Best time to visit Port Louis: October to December

• Black River Gorges National Park

Black River Gorges National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Mauritius with family. It is located in the hilly south-western part of Mauritius over an area of 67.54 km² including drier lowland forest, marshy heathland, and humid upland forest. Black River Gorges National Park is home to rich flora and fauna. It also offers various treks and trails which take adventure lovers to the peaks. 

Popular Attractions in Black River Gorges:- Mauritian flying fox, wild boar, macaque monkeys deer

Location:- B103 – Plaine Champagne Road, Mauritius

Best time to visit Black River Gorges:- All Year Around

Tamarind Falls

Tamarind Falls is yet another major tourist attraction in Mauritius, known for its jaw-dropping views and green forest cover. To experience the magnificent Tamarind Falls, book your Mauritius tour packages from ASAPHolidays and explore the hidden and untouched waterfalls of Mauritius. If you love hiking and trekking, this place is absolutely perfect for you. To see this waterfall, you need to do a hike which is very slippery and steep, especially after rain. It is ideal for beginners, but it is best to have a guide along with you. 

Location:- Henrietta Branch Rd, Mauritius

Timing: – 8:30 am–5 pm

Best time to visit Tamarind Falls:- May to November

• Chamarel Waterfall

If you love chasing waterfalls, Chamarel Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Mauritius. Chamarel Waterfall is known for its scenic beauty and impressive flow of water. During the rainy season, you can see the heavy flow of Waterfall. It is a 272-ft-long waterfall where you can enjoy a fun family day or picnic day. To witness the beauty of Chamarel Waterfall, you need to hike for 3 hours. 

Popular activities to do in Chamarel Waterfall:- Hiking, swimming, picnicking, cliff jumping

Location:- H94P+P86, Chamarel, Mauritius

Best time to visit Chamarel Waterfall:- Between December and April

Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark

Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark is a true natural wonder and indeed one of the best places to visit in Mauritius. It is a geographical formation found in the Chamarel plain of the Rivière Noire District in southwestern Mauritius. Basically, it is a small area of sand dunes comprising sand of seven different colors (red, yellow, brown, blue, green, violet, and purple).

Best time to visit  Seven Colored Earth:- Throughout the year 

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden is one of the best places to visit in Mauritius with family and friends. It is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. Here you can see the great flora and fauna including the bats Pteropus niger (an endemic mammal of Mauritius). There are many varieties of water lilies and lotus in Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden. 

Location:- VHWJ+448, Pamplemousses, Mauritius

Best time to visit Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden:- Throughout the year

L'Aventure du Sucre

L’Aventure du Sucre is a popular museum in Mauritius. Later it was a sugar factory that turned into a museum to exhibit the cultivation of sugarcane. It is one of the unique places to visit in Mauritius. If you’re here with your kids, don’t forget to take them to L’Aventure du Sucre. They will love this place for sure. 

Location:- B18, Pamplemousses 21001, Mauritius

Timing: -10 am–4 pm (Sunday closed)

Best time to visit L’Aventure du Sucre:- All around the year

Underwater Waterfall

Have you ever seen an underwater waterfall? Mauritius is home to the world’s most breathtaking underwater waterfall. It is located to the southwest of Mauritius, offshore of Le Morne Peninsula. To witness this great natural wonder, you need to fly over this and capture this epic location with your eyes and camera. 

Location:- offshore of Le Morne Peninsula

Best time to visit Underwater Waterfall:- All around the year

Key Takeaways

Mauritius is a paradise offering a rich tapestry of experiences, from pristine beaches and lush forests to vibrant markets and historical sites. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this island nation promises an unforgettable journey. Plan your trip to discover the best places in Mauritius, ensuring a memorable and enriching travel experience.

• Trou aux Cerfs
• Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin)
• Chamarel Seven Colored Earth
• Le Morne Brabant
• Rochester Falls
• Port Louis Central Market
• Gris Gris Beach
• La Vallée des Couleurs
• Pereybere Beach
• Relax on the beaches of Belle Mare and Flic-en-Flac.
• Explore the vibrant capital, Port Louis.
• Hike in Black River Gorges National Park.
• Visit the botanical gardens in Pamplemousses.
• Dive or snorkel in Blue Bay Marine Park.
• Discover Chamarel’s Seven Colored Earths.
• Take a boat trip to Île aux Cerfs.
• Experience the Chamarel Waterfall.
• Visit the historical Aapravasi Ghat.
• Enjoy the local cuisine, especially street food in Port Louis.
• Île aux Cerfs
• Chamarel Seven Colored Earths
• Trou aux Biches Beach
• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
• Tamarin Bay
• Belle Mare Plage

Mauritius is an island country and close to South Africa. It enjoys a mild tropical maritime climate throughout the year. May to December is the ideal time to visit Mauritius as you can experience dry, cool, and sunny days.

Being the world’s most popular tourist destination, Mauritius is well connected to the rest of the world. Direct flights to Mauritius are available from different airports. To reach Mauritius, all you need to do is book your flight to Mauritius and land at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. 

ASAPHolidays is one of the best tour and travel agencies in Delhi. We are best known for budget travel packages. Visit our website or call us at +91-11-40014001.

• Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

ASAP Holidays

Writer & blogger.

As the writer behind ASAP Holidays, my passion for travel drives me to explore the world and share those adventures with others. With extensive experience in the travel industry, I craft personalized domestic and international packages that suit every traveler’s needs—from beach getaways to mountain treks and cultural tours.

Through my blogs, I aim to inspire fellow travelers by sharing real experiences, insider tips, and hidden gems. For me, travel is about more than just visiting new places; it’s about creating unforgettable memories and embracing new cultures. Join me on this journey, one destination at a time.

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• Hotels in Mauritius Island
• Activities in Mauritius
• Car rental in Mauritius
• FAQ about Mauritius
• Best Hotels in Mauritius

Best Places to Visit in Mauritius  –  Things to do in 2024

A guide to explore mauritius | what are the best places to visit | be inspired to explore.

• Albion Cliffs & Lighthouse #67
• Les Salines salt pans #83
• Martelo Towers #69
• Ile aux Cerfs #22
• Ile aux Phare #47
• Ile aux Aigrettes #48
• Blue Bay Marine park #45
• Mouchoir rouge #84
• Grand Bassin #96
• Le Morne #35
• Chamarel Waterfall #62
• Blue Bay Marine park  #45
• Black River Gorges #44
• Rochester fall #63
• 7 Cascades #64
• Pamplemouses Botanical garden #58
• Grand Baie #8
• Notre Dame Auxiliatrice #12
• Port-Louis #73

We included the best places to visit that nobody else visits.

• Bois Cheri , Curepipe, South, #75
• Beach cave , Gris Gris, South #59
• Frederik Hendrik museum , Grand Port, South #88
• Curepipe botanical garden , Curepipe, South #46
• Bois des Amourettes , Grand Port, South #76
• Eau Bleu waterfall , Cluney, East #60
• Albion Cliff & Lighhouse Albion, West #67
• Natural Bridge #57

FIND EXACT GPS LOCATION OF ALL OUR PLACES TO VISIT ON THE APP & GET THERE IN A CLICK

TIP:  Don’t be afraid to rent a car. The small island is easy to explore via a handful of roads and traffic is much like the local population – relaxed and sparse

7 Coloured Earth

Aapravasi Ghat

Albion lighthouse

Alexandra Falls

Best Snorkeling Location In Mauritius

Black River Gorges

Blue Bay Marine Park

Bois des Amourettes

Cap Malheureux Notre Dame Auxiliatrice

Cascade Leon

Caverne Patate

Chamarel Waterfall

Champ de Mars – Horse Races

Chateau de Bel Ombre

Chateau de Labourdonnais

Citadel fort

Curepipe Botanical Garden

Domaine des Aubineaux

Domaine Saint Aubin

Eau Bleu Waterfall

Eureka House

Francois Leguat Nature Reserve

Frederik Hendrik Museum

Grand Bassin

Grand River South East Waterfall

Grande Montagne Nature Reserve

Heritage Nature Reserve

Ile au Phare

Ile aux Aigrettes

Ile Aux Benitiers

Ile aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cocos

Ile des deux Cocos

Ilot Gabriel

Ilot Sancho

Jardin de Telfair

Kovil Montagne Sri Siva Subramanya Thirukovil

La Demeure Saint Antoine

La Roche Qui Pleure

La Vallée des Couleurs

Le Caudan Waterfront

Le Morne Mountain

Le Pouce mountain

Les Salines Salt pans

Montagne Jako

Mouchoir Rouge

Must See Islands You Should Visit in Mauritius

Must See Waterfalls of Mauritius

Natural Bridge

Pamplemousses Botanical garden

Place du Moulin

Port Mathurin

Port-Louis Market

Rhumerie de Chamarel

Rochester falls

Sagar Shiv Mandir Hindu Temple

Secret Cave at Gris Gris

Seven Waterfall

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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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Places to Visit in Mauritius

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Here is the list of 64 Places to Visit in Mauritius

1. black river gorges national park.

The Black River Gorges National Park is the only and largest national park in Mauritius. The park offers some dramatic views and terrains between mountain ranges and numerous waterfalls along the way. It is also popular for hiking and trekking.

2. Port Louis

Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the country. It is a melting pot of glitz and glamour harmonising beautifully with traditions and customs from its 300-year-old past. Port Louis is fascinating in terms of its mix in culture, tradition and history.

3. Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel

Located in Chamarel, the Seven-Coloured Earth is a unique geological formation. It is a fenced area with multicoloured dunes in seven different colours of violet, green, brown, red, yellow, purple and blue. The best time to visit is during the sunrise. Birdwatching is also a favourite activity here.

4. Pereybere Beach

Located on the northern side of Mauritius, Pereybere beach is one of the most famous beaches near Grand Baie. It is a family-friendly beach that's safe for swimming and is a hub for adventure sports like windsurfing and parasailing. You can also go kayaking or rent a catamaran, and go deep-sea fishing.

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6 Nights Majestic Mauritius Tour Package

Mauritius holiday package with ile aux cerfs island tour, magical mauritius tour package with catamaran dolphin cruise, love in mauritius honeymoon special package, memorable mauritius holiday package - helicopter ride to underwater waterfalls included, 6 nights luxurious mauritius package, 5. underwater waterfall.

A spectacular illusion, the underwater waterfall is located off the coast of Le Morne Brabant. The scene is an illusion, created by sand and silt on the ocean floor, that runs off in a way as if the water is pouring down. It also looks as if the entire island is being sucked down a massive drain. Though the waters look beautiful from the shore, seeing this view requires a helicopter ride.

6. Ile Aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cerfs Island, also known as “Deer Island”, is a private island located near the east coast of Mauritius. There aren’t any deer left here, but it remains a hugely popular tourist spot for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, and wide variety of activities and facilities. With homestays and hotels available on the island, Ile aux Cerfs is ideal for both day trips and multiple-day stays.

7. Casela World of Adventures

The Casela Nature Park, also known as Casela World of Adventures, is an amusement park and one of the most visited attractions in Mauritius. It is famous for activities like safari tours, ziplining, quad biking, tortoise feeding, pony ride, etc. It is situated in the Cascavelle, a Mauritian village on the island's west coast.

8. Grand Baie Beach

The Grand Baie Beach is one of the shortest beaches in the North Bay of Mauritius. There are numerous tour operators and tourist shops in the area along with the accommodation facilities of all standards. Try out some water sports like kitesurfing, scuba diving or big game fishing here.

9. Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant is a mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Le Morne Peninsula of Mauritius. It is located on the southwestern tip of the island. It is Mauritius's most preserved and wildest mountain and a popular hiking stop for tourists. The hike to the top takes three to four hours, and the view is breathtaking. Le Morne Brabant is also home to the famous underwater fall of Mauritus.

10. Chamarel Waterfall

Chamarel Waterfalls in the highest waterfall in Mauritius dropping more than 200 feet located near Seven Colored Earth. Surrounded by the vegetation of Black River Gorges, it is simply spectacular. Hiking to the top of the waterfall and jumping into the clear pool below is the most popular activity here. There are two viewpoints that boast a vivid view of the waterfall. It is also a popular photography spot.

11. La Vanille Nature Park

La Vanille Nature Park, also known as La Vanille Crocodile Park, is a conservation park in Mauritius, located close to the Riviere des Anguilles village in the south. It is home to the largest captive herd of Aldabra tortoises in the world and the main attraction here is the crocodile farm. The nature park is also home to giant tortoises, iguanas, wild pigs, deer and many more. A free guided tour is available every 30 minutes.

12. Tamarind Waterfalls

The Tamarind Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mauritius, famous for its breathtaking surroundings and its immaculate ambience. It is a collection of seven different waterfalls, with multiple spots from where you can jump down into the deep pool below, making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

13. Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac, which was once an idyllic little beach town, is one of the most popular tourist areas in Mauritius second to Grand Baie. An 8-kilometre wide beach with a range of watersports, it boasts long stretches of casuarina trees lining the entire west-facing waterfront. The northern side of flic en flac is a little rocky beach, while the southern side gives you an enchanting view of Tamarin Bay nestled at the foothills of a rocky mountain.

14. Belle Mare Plage Beach

The Belle Mare Plage beach is surrounded by a very shallow lagoon, with coral reefs completely enclosing the lagoon off from the bay, thus resulting in calm, clear water that is extremely safe for swimming. The shallow bay also provides for a fantastic snorkelling experience, an activity for which the beach is extremely well known not only on the eastern side of the island but across the whole of Mauritius as well.

15. Ganga Talao

Ganga Talao (meaning ‘Lake of Ganga’), also known as Grand Bassin, is a crater lake located in the Savanne district of Mauritius and is believed to be the most sacred Hindu site of the island nation. Dedicated to deities like Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesh and Ganga, there are temples on the banks of the lake. Furthermore, there are statues of several Hindu and non-Hindu Gods and Goddesses like Durga, Mangal Mahadev (Shiva) and Buddha.

16. Le Morne Beach

Located at the foot of the gigantic Le Morne Brabant mountain in west Mauritius, Le Morne Beach is a public beach in Mauritius. With swaying casuarina trees and powdery white sand, it is one of the most stunning beaches in Mauritius. Along with scuba diving, Le Morne Beach is also one of the best kitesurfing spots in the world. It remains crowded on the weekend. The beach is accessible easily from the coastal road.

17. Trou Aux Cerfs

Trou Aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano, one of the four in Mauritius. Also called Murr's Volcano, it is located in the Curepipe area and is one of Mauritius's most famous natural tourist attractions. The volcanic crater is 650 metres above sea level and has a depth of 100 metres. It is surrounded by dense green forest and offers a stunning panoramic view of the Rempart Mountain, Trois Mamelles, and the Port-Louis- Moka mountain range.

18. Le Caudan Waterfront

The Port Louis Waterfront, or as it is commonly known as the Le Caudan Waterfront, is a commercial development area. It has gained its reputation as the first of its kind major shopping expansion on the island nation, including various shops, casinos, banking facilities, restaurants, movie theatres, and a five-star hotel by the name of Le Labourdonnais.

19. Aapravasi Ghat

The Aapravasi Ghat, located in Port Louis, was the very centre of the establishment of indentured – or contracted – labour in Mauritius. Today, the Aapravasi Ghat stands as a testament to the history of indentured labour during the British colonial rule and has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

20. Bagatelle Mall

Bagatelle is one of the leading shopping malls in Mauritius with an enthralling lively ambience, detailed retailing and leisure options. It has gained a reputation as a must-visit place in Mauritius, especially among the international travellers, due to its fascinating architecture, broad walkways and unmatched display of both local and international brands in its 155 shops.

21. La Cuvette Beach

Situated on the north-west coast of Mauritius, the La Cuvette beach is close to the famous tourist town of Grand Baie. The absence of coral reefs coupled with its clear waters adds an aesthetic touch to its beauty. Although there aren't any underwater activities that take place here, swimming is allowed.

22. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Popularly famous by the name of Pamplemousses Botanical Garden and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Port Louis, the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden (SSR Botanical Garden) is the largest Botanical Garden in Mauritius. Featuring an extravagant variety exotic and rare species of plants along with some endemic animals on the verge of getting endangered, this massive garden covers the ground of over a whopping 37 hectares!

23. Curious Corner of Chamarel

Located in south-western Mauritius, the Curious Corner of Chamarel is the only one of its kind museum in Mauritius. It is a house full of mysteries, illusions, mind games and various other activities meant to excite the curious minds of the people. It is a world of optical illusions, and puzzles with 40 exhibits like a mirror maze, upside-down room, Ames room and more.

24. Pont Naturel

Pont Naturel is a two-metre-long volcanic rock formation which is also known by the name Natural Bridge. Formed entirely by natural processes, it is a part of the Gris-Gris cliffs and can be found in the southeastern corner of Mauritius. The sea at Pont Naturel is very rough, so swimming here is not advisable. Also, be cautious when standing on the bridge.

25. Rodrigues Island

Located around 650 kilometres off the east coast of Mauritius, Rodrigues is a tiny exotic island surrounded by the ocean on all sides. With lush green slopes everywhere, the island is inexplicably beautiful and secluded. The island is a volcanic outcrop located a sizeable distance away from the mainland and is surrounded by a shimmering turquoise lagoon that abounds in more marine life than you can find on the entire mainland.

26. Robert Edward Hart Museum

This museum, housed inside a bungalow built entirely out of coral called La Nef, was the house of Mauritian poet Robert Edward Hart. There are four rooms inside the museum - two bedrooms, one bathroom and an office cum drawing-room. On display are several of Hart's original letters, speeches, plays, poetry, his violin, spectacles, awards and books.

27. Trou Aux Biches

A small town with a public beach situated on the North-Western coast of Mauritius, Trou aux Biches is a much-loved tourist destination. Literally translating to 'Deer's Watching Hole', Trou aux Biches, with its beachside hotels and classy restaurants bars is the most frequented tourist towns in Mauritius. It is also home to one of Mauritius's best beaches with the same name.

28. Domaine Les Pailles

Situated in the little town of Pailles, the Domaine Les Pailles is one of the oldest domains in Mauritius that has existed for 17 years. Spreading over 1500 hectares on the western side of the island, this attraction is both an amusement park as well as a heritage centre which was a sugar estate previously.

29. Le Souffleur

Le Souffleur is one of the most beautiful natural attractions located in the south of Mauritius, in the village of L’Escalier. With unique rock formations, a secret beach and stunning viewpoints, Le Souffleur is most famous for its blowhole effect. The waves here crash against the rocks creating huge water sprays and making a whistling sound while entering the small holes. While swimming is not recommended here, Le Souffleur is ideal for hiking.

30. Blue Bay Marine Park

Located near Mahebourg and off the south-east coast of Mauritius, the Blue Bay Marine Park is renowned for its coral gardens, harbouring numerous varieties of flora and fauna and experience the marine life by going for sea diving. The main tourist attraction in the marine park is the 1000-year-old brain coral with a diameter of 5 meters.

31. Blue Penny Museum

Blue Penny Museum is a famous stamp museum located in Port Louis. It is named after the famous 1847 2-pence Blue Penny Stamp, engraved for Mauritian post offices by Joseph Osmond back in the 1800s. It houses an enviable collection of old marine maps used by sailors back in the past, paintings from colonial times, and old engravings, inscriptions and sculptures. A guided tour is available.

32. Mahebourg Waterfront

Mahébourg Waterfront is one of the iconic attractions in Mauritius. It is ideal for relaxation or enjoying a casual walk by the azure water. Explore the naval museum that sheds light on the epic battle fought in this region. A memorial stands tall at the waterfront. Another highlight is the boardwalk that starts at Mahébourg Social Welfare and continues to the bus station at the westernmost point.

33. Triolet

Triolet is a village located in northern Mauritius in the Pamplemousses district. It is situated around 11km from Port Louis. Located amidst green sugarcane fields, Triolet offers scenic attractions like Trou Aux Biches, Mont-Choisy, and Grand Baie. Some exotic temples like Maheswarnath Mandir and ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple are also located here.

34. Trou d'Eau Douce

Trou d’ Eau Douce is the tourist hub of eastern Mauritius. With several beaches lined up, it has a breathtaking scenic beauty. Veranda Palme Beach, Belle Mare Beach, Ile Aux Cerf and La Palmeraie Boutique Beach are located here. It is also a good starting point for trekking the Quatre Cocos district in the north.

35. Notre Dame Auxiliatrice

Situated in Cap Malheureux, the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice is one of the oldest churches that stood witness to one of the most written-about wars between the French and the British over the control of the island. It was built as a commemorative landmark to the shipwrecks that happened off the northern coast. It is also known by the name "the red roof chapel" and is renowned for its aesthetic value as well as historical significance.

36. Frederik Hendrik Museum

Frederik Hendrik museum is located in Vieux Grand Port. It is named after the stadtholder of the United Provinces of the Netherlands, who was in office from 1625 to 1647. The museum complex, surrounded by a lush tropical garden, contains artefacts found during archaeological excavations. Ruins of the Governor's primary residence, a bakery, a store, and a prison cell erected by the French colonial rulers can be found within the premises.

37. Champ de Mars Racecourse

Mauritius proudly boasts of being home to the second oldest racecourse in the world, the Champ de Mars Race Course. The racing season in Champ de Mars starts from April and continues till around the last week of November, with most races generally being scheduled on weekends. Visitors are allowed to enter the grounds on days when there are no races as well.

38. Mauritius Photography Museum

The brainchild of Mr Tristan Bréville, a passionate photographer, the Mauritius Photography Museum houses a wide range of artefacts documenting the early days of Mauritian photography and cinematography. The exhibits are as old as the 1800s and are a treasure trove of old camera and photograph prints, including daguerreotypes (the forerunner of photographs) produced in 1840.

39. Ilot Gabriel Beach

Ilot Gabriel is one of the most pristine beaches in Mauritius. With unbroken stretches of powder-soft fine white sand, and calm, crystal clear sapphire water, the Ilot Gabriel beach is often used as backdrops for Mauritian postcards. It is fringed with lush green vegetation, and the green spots on and around the beach make for great picnic spots. It is also popular for snorkelling and swimming.

40. Rochester Waterfalls

Rochester Falls is located in Savanne District, a few kilometres from the town of Souillac. Set amidst rugged and pristine landscape, it is a must-visit attraction in Mauritius. The ten metres long waterfalls rushing down the rocky bed look perfect for a refreshing dip or a small picnic with loved ones. It is ideal for relaxation and reconnecting with nature at its enchanting glory.

41. Martello Tower Museum

The Martello Tower Museum is a fortress built during British rule, which has been converted into a museum to educate visitors about life during the colonial reign. The main highlight is the two fixed guns on the roof, which could once take a cross-shot across the entirety of the bay. The main areas of the tower that are open to tourists include the basement, the ground floor, which was used as an armoury room for storing gunpowder, the first floor with a place built for use by the chief officer of the tower, and the roof with the cannons. Guided tours are available.

42. Domaine De L'Etoile

Previously a private hunting domain, the Domaine de L’Etoile in Mauritius is now a famous tourist attraction for adventure and leisure activities, as well as ecotourism. It is one of the most preserved regions of Mauritius with lush greenery, indigenous forests, sparkling rivers and endemic birds.

43. Poste Lafayette Beach

Also known by the name – Jalsa Beach, the Poste Lafayette Beach is situated on the outskirts of a small northeastern Mauritian village of Poste Lafayette. About 500 metres from the popular Constance Prince Maurice resort, the Poste Lafayette Beach boasts a unique peaceful environment. The beach is very windy making it perfect for activities like kite surfing.

44. Pointe d’Esny

Known for a calm yet less-known beach featuring clear blue waters, Pointe d’Esny is located outside of Mahebourg in Mauritius; the beach is accessible only via a small path from the coastal road unknown to most. Boasting of a long stretch of soft sand and a seabed that isn’t too deep, it is ideal for snorkelling and swimming. It is also perfect for relaxing by the water, watching boats sail by and catching the sunset.

45. Central Market, Port Louis

Commonly known as ‘Port Louis Bazar’ the central market offers everything, from fruits and vegetables, and exotic seafood to local textiles, artefacts and souvenirs. Divided into sections, the upstairs section is devoted to a shopping complex for clothing, artisanal sculptures and local handcrafted artefacts.

46. Chinatown, Mauritius

Chinatown of Mauritius is fascinating, as there's something for everyone here. Watches, clothes, shoes, home decor, second-hand goods, Chinese paintings, and much more are sold in small shops on the street. It is an ideal hangout place, offering excellent shopping and food options.

47. Mont Choisy Beach

Located on the north-western coast of Mauritius, the Mont Choisy beach is a haven for anyone who wants to experience a quiet beach time. Despite being right next to one of the most commercialized cities of Mauritius - Grand Baie - the Mont Choisy beach is almost a remote beach, lined by rows of trees along the coastline.

48. National History Museum of Mauritius

The Natural History Museum in Port Louis is a haven for naturalists as it houses a wide array of exhibits illustrating Mauritius' diverse fauna and aquatic life. The entire museum is segregated into four galleries. The first gallery houses exhibits of the countless bird species including several endangered ones. In the second gallery resides the abundant marine life, including an extensive collection of seashells and a giant seventy-kilogram clamshell. The third gallery is dedicated to the memory of the now extinct flightless bird - the Dodo. The fourth section is dedicated to the geology, meteorology, corals, shrimps and turtles of the island.

49. Gris Gris Beach

Set at the southernmost tip of Mauritius, Gris Gris Beach is known for its wild and pristine landscape. It is located close to the village of Souillac and boasts of a black rocky coastline. The region is surrounded by rough cliffs that abruptly slope down to the ocean. These cliffs are made from basaltic rocks and offer the best backdrop imaginable. Gris Gris Beach does not have a coral barrier. Hence the waves are wild and huge.

50. Crystal Rock

Crystal Rock is a natural rock formation which is large, situated off the south-west coast of Mauritius. It is located close to the Le Morne mountain. The large exposed fossilized coral reef is a must-see, as it is a great example of a biochemical reaction leading to the formation of sedimentary rock.

51. Vallee de Ferney

Vallee de Ferney located in the Grand Port District of Mauritius is nestled at the foothills of Bambou Mountains. It is one of the famous nature sanctuaries in Mauritius that's spread out over an area of around 200 hectares. The sanctuary acts as a reserve for some of the rarest of threatened plant species in the island. Most of these species are endemic of Mauritius and are the last few that are remaining on the island.

52. L'Aventure du Sucre

L'Aventure du Sucre is a sugar museum located in Pamplemousses, Mauritius. The museum is housed in the old Beau Plan Sugar Factory which used to operate from the 18th to the 20th century. The highlight is an interactive tour with giant screens and films. A kids tour is also available for 2 to 6 years olds. The visit also includes a free tasting of more than 30 products at le Village Boutik including 12 unrefined brown sugars, rums of the New Grove House, jams and honey.

53. Curepipe Botanical Garden

Situated in Routes des Jardins in Curepipe, the Curepipe Botanical Garden is reputed to be the second largest in all of Mauritius. It is also known as the SSR Botanical Garden of Curepipe. The major attractionis the rarest and unique palm tree species of the world – the Hyophorbe amaricaulis. It is extraordinary as it is the only remaining specimen of this species.

54. Pointe Aux Piments Public Beach

Located in the Pamplemousses district, it is one of the many beaches in Mauritius. Also known as the Le Meridien beach, the Pointe aux Piments public beach is spread across an area of 3-4 kilometres. Generally it’s a very quiet beach and there are no significant water sports or marine activities visible from there. However, if you looking for a place to enjoy the sunlight and get indulged in the slow local life surrounding the beach, Pointe aux Piments is the perfect spot to be at.

55. Mauritius Postal Museum

The Mauritius Post opened the Mauritius Postal Museum in 1995 which exhibits various stamps and miscellaneous articles from all over the world. There are four rooms inside the museum with different displays including a temporary exhibition area and a philatelic gallery. The latest addition to the display in the museum includes the history of the Mauritius Post, and it is portrayed through photographs and other visual displays.

56. Mauritius Aquarium

Located in the heart of Pointe aux Piments towards the north-western part of the island, the Mauritius Aquarium takes you on a journey to discover the marine species. There are a total of 5 large rooms in the 700 square meter building in which you can find more than 200 different kinds of aquatic species.

57. Maheswarnath Mandir

The temple of Maheswarnath is the first and most revered Hindu temple in Mauritius with a legacy of more than 130 years old. Locally known as the Grand Shivala Triolet, is the abode of Lord Shiva, and it gets the name Maheswarnath, which means the Great Lord. Built-in the Bengal style of temple architecture, the grand edifice is a variation of the Pancha-Ratna or a five-flowered temple built on a platform.

58. Pieter Both Mountain

With a height of 820 meters, the Pieter Both is the second highest mountain range in the island of Mauritius. Pieter Both is a part of the Moka mountain range of Mauritius that is situated in the centre of the island. It is an iconic and unique mountain as it is easily noticeable due to its round-shaped boulder at the extreme top of the hill, almost making it similar to a human head. It is also famous for being the home to rarest palm species Hyophorbe amaricaulis, which covers most of the mountain.

59. World of Seashells

With more than 1800 species of 8000 seashells in 70 display cabinets, World of Seashells is located on the first floor of Chateau de Bel Ombre. Eric Le Court, the founder and collector of this enchanting museum, has gathered shells from Mauritius and different parts of the world and assembled an impressive collection that gives us a chance to explore the aquatic riches!

60. Tamarin Beach

Located in Tamarin, Tamarin Beach is one of the most impressive beaches in Mauritius. The interesting mix of verdant hues, turquoise water and powdery soft sand makes this beach perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. Tamarin Beach is usually thronged by upmarket locals and vacationers who do not prefer crowded beaches.

61. Chateau de Labourdonnais

The Château de Labourdonnais is a grand Creole mansion which was once owned by Christian Wiehe and his family, but has long since been renovated and is now in use as a heritage tourism spot. Built entirely out of teak and sporting a dual-collonaded gallery, it gives off a distinct neoclassical vibe, and the exterior, as well as the interiors of the mansion, give off a distinctly Victorian feel.

62. Eureka House

Eureka House is a 19th century Creole-style house built in 1830 by the banks of the Mauritian river Moka. It is one of the island’s most visited historical sites and is totally loved by the tourists. The interior decorations and furniture are well maintained along with the mahogany and ebony antiques, old ceramics and beautifully painted chinaware, photographs of daily life and books. It is considered to be the largest house in all of Mauritius with its 109 doors and windows.

63. Ile Aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve

Ile Aux Aigrettes is a 26 hectare nature reserve 800 meters towards the south east off the coast of Mahebourg bay and has gained popularity over the years as an ecotourism destination. Unlike Mauritius, the most of which was formed by volcanic rocks. Ile Aux Aigrettes was primarily formed from coral limestone and it is pretty low-lying.

64. Bois Cheri Tea Plantation

Bois Cheri is a 250-hectare tea factory and museum which is located in the inner parts of the town. It offers you a tour of the entire property. It begins with the visit to the small museum and ends with tea tasting. The tour is available every 30-minute.

This post was published by Roli Sharaf

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10 Best Things to See and Do in Mauritius

Azure blue lagoon and pristine beaches are merely the tip of the iceberg of what Mauritius has to offer. Bustling with life, boasting unique flora and fauna and home to beautiful architecture, this place ensures you’re in for a treat. We guarantee Mauritius will make it higher up on your bucket list as we take you on this mind-blowing tour!

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Mauritius is considered the dreamed destination by many with its heavenly beaches and turquoise waters. This small gem in the middle of the Indian Ocean hides far more treasures that deserve to be discovered during your family vacations. The population, its history, cuisine, culture and nature are just some of the facets that make the island unique and rich. Here is a Top 10 of the things to do and see, to bring back home unforgettable memories from your stay in Mauritius.

1. People, the heart of Mauritian hospitality

As soon as you set foot on Mauritian land, one thing will strike you: the people. With their spontaneous smile, you will instantly feel welcome. This warm attitude is rooted in the people of Mauritius who are the result of an extraordinary mix of cultures, religions and ethnicities. Here, it is these differences that unite people and make their strength. All the communities live in harmony by nurturing their own culture and heritage, and sharing them with visiting guests. The reputation of Mauritian hospitality is not overrated!

If you want to understand and discover Mauritius, it is essential to mingle with its inhabitants. A stroll through the heart of the towns and villages, a stopover in shopping centres, or a day at the beach to meet the picnickers, mainly on Sundays, are among the activities to be preferred. You can also contact local operators for guided tours. Party-goers will be able to meet locals in night clubs, especially during weekends when night life is more active. Spontaneity, hospitality and sharing are what you will bring back from your foray into authentic Mauritius.  

2. Port-Louis, the vibrant capital city

Port-Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a must when you stay in the island. Port-Louis is a colourful city steeped in history and culture, where every corner reveals something different, a scent, a style, a period, and above all, the diversity of the Mauritian population. It is the city where the ancient and the modern meet.

The first thing that will strike you when you arrive in the capital is the Caudan Waterfront , a modern complex which houses shops, restaurants, cinemas, a museum, and a multipurpose entertainment centre. You can also leave your car there before beginning your expedition on foot in the heart of the old town. Start with the market . Take in the scent of fruits, vegetables and spices, appreciate the burst of colours, especially in summer, and don’t hesitate to taste exotic flavours, it’s a real journey for the senses… The stallholders will seduce you with their unparalleled glibness. Then, head to the centre of the capital city.

As you walk along, you will come across some small paved streets, dating back to the 18th century during the French period. Port Louis is also a reflection of the local population, with its mosques, Chinese pagodas and churches, all equally interesting in terms of architecture and history; feel the serenity that emanates from these places. As you wander the streets, let yourself be tempted by the many restaurants and snacks along your way, and taste Mauritian street-food : dholl puris, faratas, chili cakes, “mines bouilli” boiled noodles, “boulettes” dumplings, Alouda… A burst of flavours!

Shop addicts will be surprised by all that can be found in the hundreds of shops located there: clothes, fabrics, jewellery, toys, souvenirs… Do not hesitate to go deep into the maze of shops, and take the time to discuss with the sellers, they will be happy to share with you their culture. The culture of Mauritius also includes horse races which are held every Saturday and which have become for some, the unmissable weekly rendezvous. The Champ de Mars where these races are held, the oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere, is also to be seen, and if you have the opportunity, try the experience of a day at the races.

To learn more about the history of the island, visit the Natural History Museum , followed by a stroll in the peaceful Jardin de la Compagnie , the garden next to the museum. A little further on, on Vieux Conseil Street, the Photography Museum is worth the visit with the history of photography in Mauritius. At Caudan Waterfront, you can also pop in the Blue Penny Museum , also rich in Mauritius' history.

Port-Louis seen from above is also fascinating. To gain height, the two sites that come to mind are the Citadelle and the monument of the Marie Reine de la Paix . The Citadelle, also known as Fort Adelaide, built during the British era in the early 19th century on top of a hill near the Champ de Mars, offers a beautiful panorama of the capital. The monument of the Marie Reine de la Paix, a place dedicated to the Holy Virgin by the Catholic community, is located further south at the foot of Signal Mountain; it gives a different but equally enjoyable view.  

3. The idyllic beaches

The beaches of Mauritius are evocative of dream, escape and heat. They are the typical dreamed getaway for many continental inhabitants. The island is surrounded by beautiful white sandy beaches and cliffs that offer, together with the blue lagoon, an extraordinary scene that varies according to the seasons and the time of the day. The coastal landscapes also change according to the region, they are nothing alike.  Holidaymakers often choose their accommodation according to the beaches nearby.

In the North , more touristic, the calm and sheltered lagoons call for relaxation and lay back, with a pleasant temperature all the time. The beaches of Péreybère and Mont Choisy are the most popular. In the Wild South , the south-west wind blowing more or less strongly all year round, makes the waves dance endlessly. The southern landscapes are unique, with impressive basaltic cliffs flowing into the ocean. This part of the island is not recommended for swimming, with the exception of some beaches such as Blue Bay, which is also a protected marine park.

The east coast features a long stretch of beautiful sandy beaches, but it is also the windiest part of the island, especially in winter. One of the most popular beaches, Belle Mare, is also one of the longest beaches on the island. Ile aux Cerfs, an isle set in the lagoon a few minutes by boat from the coast, is one of the most visited sites by tourists. You can organise a day on the island at your hotel or directly on site, with local operators. And finally, the west and south-west region , with its warm and dry climate, is more popular for water activities such as kitesurfing, surfing or deep-sea fishing. Le Morne beach at the foot of the mountain of the same name, is ideal for a picnic and a swim. And why not take the opportunity to climb this stunning mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site and climb to the top to enjoy the unique panorama?

4. Water Activities

Mauritius is an island, and practising water sports is a must. Whatever your age or fitness level, you will surely find an activity that will suit you. Most hotels in Mauritius offer very accessible activities such as pedalo, kayak, stand-up paddle, and glass-bottom boat. A lot of operators will also cater for more specific outings such as a catamaran outing during which you can see dolphins or big-game fishing. For the more daring, there is the submarine ride, the undersea walk, the underwater scooter and the parasailing that will make you get up in the air, just before falling back into the lagoon.

Mauritius is also renowned worldwide for its diving and kitesurfing spots by both professionals and amateurs. There are various types of diving activities for sea lovers of all levels. The marine parks of Blue Bay and Balaclava are to be seen by snorkelling enthusiasts, and those who practise free or bottle diving, will be delighted to discover all the intriguing spots around the island. You will easily find recognized and certified diving centres in some hotels and in the coastal regions. Kite surfers will choose the lagoons of the southwest and southeast.

5. Sega 

In Mauritius, the Sega reflects a whole culture that vibrates to the sound of music. One cannot resist its frenetic rhythm produced by the locally made traditional instruments. Sega dancers move in cadence, dressed in beautiful colourful skirts, accompanied by their partners also wearing typical costumes. It is a must, you have to learn to dance Sega during your stay!

More than only a local traditional music, Sega has today the status of cultural heritage of the UNESCO. Originally sung and danced by slaves, it is now part of Mauritian life and heritage, and continues to echo in the hearts of people thanks to the triangle, the maravanne, the ravanne and the djembe, the typical instruments, sometimes modernised by some artists. Ti Frère, Serge Lebrasse and Luc Legris are among the pioneers of Sega in Mauritius. The lyrics, written in Creole, are always very colourful and touch the soul as they express life, heartaches, uprooting, and love. A CD could be a very good idea for a souvenir gift for friends or just to enjoy back home

6.  Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, or Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, is one of the most visited sites in Mauritius, and the oldest in the southern hemisphere. Created under the management of Mahé de Labourdonnais by the king’s intendant, Pierre Poivre, more than 300 years ago, the garden houses an extraordinary flora with a myriad of native and endemic plants. Animals have also taken up residence there: turtles, deer, and birds of all species. For nature lovers, Pamplemousses garden is the ideal place to stroll with the family or your partner along the paths bordered with greenery. You might get a chance to see a Talipot tree blooming – it only happens every 30 to 80 years, before the tree dies. The famous ponds with giant water lilies are also worth a visit, perfect place to take some souvenir photos…

Take the time to make a small expedition in the village of Pamplemousses after your visit to the garden, and see the oldest church of the island still standing, St Francis of Assisi, with its unique architecture in Mauritius, and other vestiges of the French period in Mauritius.

7. The 7-Coloured Earth in Chamarel

Another key attraction of Mauritius is the Seven-coloured Earth located in the heights of Chamarel. An unexpected site formed by a geological phenomenon that gave to the earth a palette of seven colours. This unique place deserves to be seen. Nearby, you will be amazed by the view of the Chamarel waterfall from the view point. If you’re lucky, you will see monkeys or the elegant Mauritian Tropicbird. Parks and nature reserves are also within easy reach, such as Ebony Forest or Lavilleon Park, where you can recharge your batteries and learn more about Mauritian nature, while the more adventurous will try some supervised open air activities.

Chamarel is one of the places that reflect the authenticity of Mauritius. It is a quiet small village located on high ground. Take a walk, visit the small church of Saint Anne, meet small coffee producers from the village and try one of the local restaurants that offer typical Mauritian cuisine. Then, head south towards Le Morne beach, or the central plateau, towards Plaine Champagne or the towns.

8. Sugar, rum and tea, Mauritian specialities

Sugar and tea have been two of the most flourishing industries in Mauritius for a long time, and still have a privileged place in the country today, even if these sectors are no more considered as pillars of the Mauritian economy. The plantation of sugar cane, introduced by the Dutch, has greatly decreased during the recent decades, same for tea. Yet, these two products are still very popular among locals as well as tourists. Rum, produced from sugar cane juice or molasses, now also forms part of the island’s flagship products.

In Pamplemousses, L’Aventure du Sucre, a former sugar factory converted into a museum, features a beautiful pedagogical tour on the history of cane sugar in Mauritius. The shop will enchant you with all its sweet treats and other souvenirs to bring back in your luggage. Stop for a rum tasting, followed by a gourmet break at the museum’s restaurant before continuing your tour.

The Tea Route, in the southern part of the island, will immerse you in the history of this delicious beverage through several sites. You will visit the tea plantations, the factory and museums. Tastings are also on the menu, and you can bring home various flavours of teas and unexpected by-products such as tea chutney!  

9. Historical Heritage

With its rich history, Mauritius abounds with vestiges of its different colonial eras. In Port Louis, several buildings will appeal to you like the Government House, built in 1738, facing the harbour, the splendid Port Louis Theatre, one of the first to be built in the southern hemisphere, the Central Post Office, all in stone, next to the harbour, the building of the Supreme Court and next to it, the ancient prison. Also in the capital city, there is the Aapravasi Ghat which saw the landing of the first Indian indentured labourers in the 19th century, and which forms parts of the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The south-east of the island is also home to a concentration of historical remains, especially from the time of the Dutch who landed at Vieux Grand Port in the 17th century; there, you will discover the Frederik Hendrick museum and the ancillary ruins. In Mahebourg, the Naval Museum should as well be added to your list. Le Morne Mountain and its region, in the southwest, are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for their historical value from the time of slavery. A memorial site displaying art pieces has been set up at the foot of the mountain and is open to the public.

10. A culinary melting pot

An island with so many different cultures can only offer an extraordinary culinary richness. Mauritian cuisine is indeed rich from its origins and its blending. On every table in Mauritius, whether in a hotel or at home, you will taste flavours that may remind you of other countries, but that are unique to Mauritian culture. The dishes are rather spicy, but very tasty and suitable for foreign guests, most of the time.

If you want to have a more authentic experience of Mauritian cuisine, you must try its street-food. It is found everywhere, from street corners to markets or shopping malls: dholl puris, chili cakes (“gateaux piment”), samoussas, dumplings (“boulettes”), bryani, or fried noodles… Food forms part of our lifestyle in Mauritius!

Hotels offer more and more themed evenings where you can taste these delights during your holidays in Mauritius. Food festivals are also held throughout the year, such as the China Town culinary festival, which focuses on Chinese-Mauritian cuisine, and the Port-Louis bread festival, among others.

Fun Things To See And Do In Port Louis, Mauritius

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Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius, and it’s where old meets new and different cultures come together. Whether you like history, shopping, or just walking around and seeing new things, you’ll find something to enjoy here.

Today, I’ll take you through all the best spots in Port Louis. We’ll check out famous places, try local food, and even do some shopping. I’ll give you tips on how to get around, where to go, and what to watch out for. By the end, you’ll feel like you know Port Louis as well as I do!

Where is Port Louis? Learn About Mauritius’ Main City

Port Louis is on the northwest coast of Mauritius . It’s the capital city of Mauritius since 1735. A French man named Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais started the city. Now, many people work and visit here.

Port Louis has mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, which makes for nice views. The weather is usually warm, but it can get hot and humid from November to April.

It’s easy to get around Port Louis. You can walk to many places. Or you can take buses to go further. There’s also a new tram called the Metro Express. It started in 2022 and goes from Port Louis to Rose Hill. They plan to make it go even further soon.

Here’s a quick look at some cool places to visit in Port Louis. This table shows you what you can do and where to find these spots:

Now you know about the main places to see in Port Louis. Let’s talk more about all the fun things you can do in each of these places. I’ll tell you about my experiences and give you tips to help you enjoy your trip to Port Louis.

Visit the Caudan Waterfront: New Things to Do in Port Louis

The Caudan Waterfront is a must-visit when you’re in Port Louis . It’s right on the harbor, and it’s got a bit of everything – shops, restaurants, a museum, and even a casino. I spent a whole afternoon here and still didn’t see it all!

Where to Buy Things at Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis

If you like shopping, you’re in for a treat at the Caudan Waterfront . There are over 170 shops here! You can find everything from big international brands to small local craft stores. I particularly liked the craft market, where I bought some cool Mauritian souvenirs.

The shops are open from 10 AM to 7:30 PM Monday to Saturday and from 11 AM to 5 PM on Sundays and public holidays. Remember, prices here can be a bit higher than in other parts of Port Louis, but the quality is usually good.

See Mauritius History at the Blue Penny Museum

Right in the Caudan Waterfront, you’ll find the Blue Penny Museum. It’s named after a famous old stamp, but it’s got a lot more than just stamps. There are exhibits about Mauritius’ history, art, and culture.

The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM. It costs 245 Mauritian Rupees (about $5.30 USD) for adults and 120 Rupees ($2.60 USD) for kids. I spent about an hour and a half here, learning all sorts of interesting things about Mauritius.

Good Places to See the Water in Port Louis

One of my favorite things to do at the Caudan Waterfront was just to walk along the water and enjoy the view. You can see boats in the harbor and mountains in the background. It’s especially nice in the evening when the sun is setting.

There are benches where you can sit and relax, and lots of restaurants with outdoor seating if you want to have a meal with a view. Which brings me to my next point…

Places to Eat at Caudan Waterfront

There are tons of places to eat at the Caudan Waterfront. You can find everything from fast food to fancy restaurants. I tried a place called Le Café du Quai, which had great seafood and a nice view of the water.

Here’s a quick table of some restaurants I tried at the Caudan Waterfront:

While you’re enjoying the Caudan Waterfront views, you might see some surfers in the distance. If you’re interested in catching some waves yourself, check out our Mauritius surfing guide for the best spots around the island.

Check Out Markets in Port Louis: See, Smell, and Taste

If you really want to get a feel for Port Louis, you’ve got to check out its markets. They’re busy, colorful, and full of interesting things to see, smell, and taste. I visited a few different markets during my stay, and each one was a unique experience.

Walk Around Central Market: Port Louis’ Big Market

The Central Market, also known as the Port Louis Market , is the biggest and most famous market in the city. It’s been around since the 1820s, and it’s a great place to see local life in action.

The market is open every day from 5:30 AM to 5:30 PM, except on Sundays when it closes at noon. It’s on Queen Street, right in the middle of Port Louis. You can’t miss it – just follow the crowds and the noise!

Inside, you’ll find all sorts of things for sale. There’s a big section for fruits and vegetables, where I saw some fruits I’d never even heard of before. There’s also a section for meat and fish, but be warned – it can be a bit smelly!

One of my favorite parts was the spice and tea section. The smells here were amazing, and I bought some vanilla pods to take home. They were much cheaper than in the tourist shops – I paid about 100 Rupees (about $2.20 USD) for five pods.

There’s also a craft market upstairs where you can buy souvenirs. The prices here are usually lower than at the Caudan Waterfront, but you might need to bargain a bit.

Planning tip: the Central Market can get really busy and hot, especially in the middle of the day. Try to go early in the morning if you can. And watch your belongings – like in any crowded place, pickpockets can be a problem.

Try Street Food at Port Louis Central Market

One of the best things about the Central Market is the food! There’s a whole section dedicated to street food, and it’s a great place to try some local dishes.

I tried a dish called dholl puri, which is a kind of flatbread filled with yellow split peas and served with curry. It cost me about 50 Rupees (about $1.10 USD) and it was delicious.

I also had some gateaux piments, which are little fried chili cakes. They were spicy but really good!

Here’s a table of some of the street foods I tried at the Central Market:

Buy Gifts at Le Caudan Craft Market

If you’re looking for souvenirs, the Craft Market at Le Caudan Waterfront is a good place to check out. It’s smaller and more organized than the market at the Central Market, and the prices are a bit higher, but the quality is usually good.

The Craft Market is open from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday to Saturday. You can find all sorts of handmade items here, from colorful traditional clothing to wooden sculptures and jewelry. I bought a nice model of a traditional Mauritian pirogue (fishing boat) for about 500 Rupees (about $10.80 USD).

One thing I liked about this market was that the prices were usually fixed, so I didn’t have to bargain. It made shopping a bit less stressful!

Old Places to Visit in Port Louis Mauritius

Port Louis has a long and interesting history, and there are lots of old buildings and sites to see. I spent a couple of days just walking around and checking out these historical places. Here are some of the best ones I found.

Visit Aapravasi Ghat: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Aapravasi Ghat is one of the most important historical sites in Port Louis. It’s where indentured laborers from India first arrived in Mauritius in the 19th century. These workers came to replace slaves after slavery was abolished.

The site is now a museum and it’s free to visit. It’s open from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM, and on Saturdays from 9 AM to 12 PM. I spent about an hour and a half here, learning about the history of Indian immigration to Mauritius.

One of the most interesting things I saw was the steps where the immigrants first set foot on Mauritian soil. It was a powerful moment, imagining all the people who had walked those same steps over 150 years ago.

There’s also a small exhibition with old photos and documents. The staff here are really knowledgeable and can answer any questions you have about the site’s history.

Go Up Fort Adelaide to See All of Port Louis

For a great view of Port Louis, head up to Fort Adelaide , also known as La Citadelle. This old British fort sits on a hill overlooking the city.

The fort is open from 8 AM to 4 PM Monday to Friday, and it’s free to visit. It takes about 20 minutes to walk up the hill from the city center, or you can take a taxi if you don’t want to walk.

From the top, you get a fantastic view of Port Louis and the harbor. You can see the whole layout of the city, from the modern buildings near the waterfront to the older parts of town. It’s especially nice at sunset.

The fort itself is interesting too. It was built in the 1830s to protect the harbor, but it was never actually used in battle. Today, it’s mostly empty, but you can walk around the walls and imagine what it was like when it was a working fort.

Look at the Pretty Jummah Mosque in Port Louis

The Jummah Mosque is one of the most beautiful buildings in Port Louis. It’s right in the middle of the city, at the entrance to Chinatown.

The mosque was built in the 1850s and it’s still used for daily prayers. If you’re not Muslim, you can’t go inside during prayer times, but you can admire the beautiful architecture from outside.

The mosque is a mix of Indian, Creole, and Islamic styles, which makes it unique. The white walls and green domes are really striking against the blue sky.

If you want to go inside, it’s best to visit between 10 AM and 12 PM, or 2 PM and 4 PM. Remember to dress respectfully – cover your shoulders and knees, and women should cover their heads.

Walk Through Port Louis’ Chinatown

Chinatown in Port Louis is a fun place to explore. It’s not as big or flashy as Chinatowns in some other cities, but it’s got a lot of character.

The main street of Chinatown is Royal Road. It’s lined with Chinese shops and restaurants. I saw lots of interesting things for sale, from traditional Chinese medicines to colorful decorations.

One of the coolest things I saw in Chinatown was the street art. There are lots of murals on the walls, many of them with Chinese themes. It’s like an outdoor art gallery!

I had lunch at a small Chinese restaurant called Chez Manuel. The food was delicious and pretty cheap – I paid about 200 Rupees (about $4.30 USD) for a big plate of noodles and some dumplings.

Here’s a quick table of some places I liked in Chinatown:

Planning tip: most shops in Chinatown close early, around 5 or 6 PM. It’s best to visit in the morning or early afternoon.

What to Eat and Drink in Port Louis Mauritius

One of the best things about Port Louis is the food! The city’s mix of cultures means you can find all sorts of different cuisines. I tried to eat at a different place every day, and I was never disappointed.

Nice Restaurants to Eat at in Port Louis

While street food is great, sometimes you want to sit down for a proper meal. Port Louis has lots of good restaurants, ranging from cheap local places to fancy international cuisine.

One place I really enjoyed was Lambic Restaurant and Bar at Le Caudan Waterfront. They serve a mix of Mauritian and international dishes. I had a delicious fish curry that cost about 450 Rupees (about $9.80 USD). The view of the harbor from the restaurant was great too.

For something more local, I tried a place called Chez Tino in the Chinatown area. They serve Mauritian-Chinese food, and the portions are huge. I had a chicken chop suey that cost 250 Rupees (about $5.40 USD) and it was enough for two meals!

Here’s a table of some restaurants I tried in Port Louis:

Planning tip: it’s a good idea to make reservations at the fancier restaurants, especially on weekends.

Local Drinks to Try in Port Louis

Don’t forget to try some local drinks while you’re in Port Louis! Mauritius has some unique beverages that you won’t find anywhere else.

One drink I really liked was alouda. It’s a sweet milk drink with basil seeds and tapioca pearls. You can find it at many street vendors and in the Central Market. I paid about 40 Rupees (about $0.87 USD) for a big glass, and it was really refreshing on a hot day.

Another local favorite is vanilla tea. Mauritius grows its own vanilla, and they use it to make a delicious, fragrant tea. I tried some at a small café near the Caudan Waterfront. It cost 60 Rupees (about $1.30 USD) for a cup, and it was a nice change from regular black tea.

If you’re looking for something stronger, Mauritius is known for its rum. There are several local brands, but I tried a rum called Pink Pigeon at a bar in Le Caudan Waterfront. A glass cost me 200 Rupees (about $4.35 USD), and it was smooth and flavorful.

Here’s a quick table of some local drinks I tried in Port Louis:

How to Get Around Port Louis: Easy Ways to See the City

Getting around Port Louis is pretty easy, but it helps to know your options. I tried out different ways of moving around the city during my stay, and here’s what I learned.

Here’s a quick comparison of the different transport options in Port Louis:

Port Louis is a fairly compact city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. I found that walking was often the best way to explore, especially in areas like Chinatown or around the Central Market.

Just be aware that it can get very hot in Port Louis, especially in the middle of the day. Try to do your walking in the morning or late afternoon if you can, and always carry water with you.

Buses are a cheap and easy way to get around Port Louis and to other parts of Mauritius. The main bus station is at Immigration Square, near the Central Market.

Bus fares are very cheap – I never paid more than 50 Rupees (about $1.09 USD) for a trip within Port Louis. The buses can get crowded, especially during rush hour, but they’re a great way to travel like a local.

Planning tip: bus drivers don’t always announce the stops, so it’s a good idea to ask someone to let you know when you reach your destination if you’re not sure.

Metro Express

The Metro Express is a new light rail system that opened in 2022. It currently runs from Port Louis to Rose Hill, with plans to extend it further.

I found the Metro to be clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned – a nice break from the heat! Tickets cost between 20 and 30 Rupees (about $0.43 to $0.65 USD) depending on how far you’re going.

The main station in Port Louis is at Victoria Urban Terminal, which is right next to the Caudan Waterfront.

Taxis in Port Louis are easy to find and relatively cheap. You can flag them down on the street or find them at designated taxi stands.

Always make sure the driver uses the meter or agrees on a price before starting your journey. As a rough guide, a 15-minute taxi ride within Port Louis cost me about 200 Rupees (about $4.35 USD).

Best Time to Visit Port Louis

Timing can make a big difference to your experience in Port Louis. Here’s what I learned about the best times to visit.

Weather Considerations

Port Louis has a tropical climate, which means it’s warm year-round. However, there are some seasonal differences to keep in mind.

The summer months (November to April) are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. This is also the rainy season, with a risk of cyclones, especially from January to March.

The winter months (May to October) are cooler and drier, with temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F). I visited in September and found the weather really pleasant – warm during the day but not too hot and cool enough for a light jacket in the evenings.

Tourist Seasons

The busiest tourist seasons in Port Louis (and Mauritius in general) are during the European summer holidays (July and August) and around Christmas and New Year.

I visited in September, which is considered the shoulder season. I found it to be a great time to visit – the weather was good, and there were fewer tourists, which meant shorter queues and easier bookings at restaurants and attractions.

Events and Festivals

Port Louis hosts several interesting events throughout the year. Here are a few to look out for:

• Chinese New Year (January/February): Chinatown comes alive with decorations, parades, and special foods.
• Cavadee Festival (January/February): A Tamil festival with colorful processions.
• National Day (March 12): Celebrations throughout the city, including parades and fireworks.
• Divali (October/November): The Hindu festival of lights, with beautiful decorations throughout the city.

Remember that these are general guidelines. I found Port Louis to be a fascinating city to visit year-round, each season offering its own unique experiences.

Practical Tips for Visiting Port Louis

After spending a week exploring Port Louis, I picked up some useful tips that I wish I’d known before my trip. Here they are:

Money Matters

The currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). As of September 2024, 1 USD is equal to about 46 Mauritian Rupees.

I found that many places in Port Louis, especially in touristy areas like Le Caudan Waterfront, accept credit cards. But for markets and small shops, it’s good to have cash on hand.

There are ATMs all over Port Louis, but be aware that some may charge a fee for international cards. I used the ATM at the MCB (Mauritius Commercial Bank) in Le Caudan Waterfront, which didn’t charge me any extra fees.

The official language of Mauritius is English, but I found that many people in Port Louis speak Creole (a French-based Creole language) in everyday life. French is also widely understood.

I don’t speak French or Creole, but I had no problem getting by with English. But of course, learning a few basic Creole phrases like “bonzour” (hello) and “mersi” (thank you) seemed to be appreciated by the locals.

I felt generally safe in Port Louis, but like in any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Here are a few safety tips:

• Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas like the Central Market.
• Be cautious when walking alone at night, particularly in less touristy areas.
• Watch out for pickpockets in busy areas.
• Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.

Visiting Port Louis: My Final Thoughts

As I packed my bags to leave Port Louis, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness. This vibrant city had shown me so much in just a week – from its bustling markets and historic sites to its delicious food and friendly people.

Port Louis might not be as famous as some other capital cities, but it’s a place that really grows on you. It’s a city where you can experience the real Mauritius, away from the beach resorts and tourist traps.

If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius, don’t just rush through Port Louis on your way to the beaches. Take some time to explore this fascinating city. Wander its streets, try its food, and talk to its people. I promise you won’t regret it.

What is the Religion in Port Louis Mauritius?

Port Louis is home to a mix of religions, with Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity being the most common. The famous Jummah Mosque is a key Islamic landmark, while Catholicism is represented by St. Louis Cathedral.

How Far is Port Louis from the Airport?

Port Louis is about 46-47 kilometers from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU). The drive usually takes around 45 to 60 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

Is It Worth Going to Port Louis?

Yes, Port Louis is definitely worth visiting! The city combines history, culture, and lively street life. Key highlights include the Central Market, Aapravasi Ghat, Chinatown, and Citadel Fort, along with its vibrant street art and diverse food scene.

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A travel guide to Indiana full of family fun, historic landmarks and unique experiences

Indianapolis motor speedway and marengo cave are just 2 popular tourist stops in the hoosier state.

Galapagos tortoise siblings face off in slo-mo at Indiana zoo

The Potawatomi Zoo captured footage of two Galapagos tortoise sisters squaring up by stretching their necks long as a way to intimidate one another. The one with the biggest stretch usually comes out on top as the winner.

While in Indiana, there are plenty of tourist attractions that can be enjoyed by the whole family. 

The town of Santa Claus is an adored spot for a touch of holiday cheer any time of year. 

If the timing is right, you can catch the infamous Indianapolis 500 while in the state. If not, there are plenty of other races that take place at Indianapolis Motor Speedway throughout the year and tons of history to be learned at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. 

VISITING ARKANSAS: SEE LITTLE ROCK AND EXPERIENCE HOT SPRINGS DURING YOUR VACATION

If you need inspiration about what to do while you're in the Hoosier State, below are a few ideas to add to your itinerary.

• Visit the town of Santa Claus
• Stop at the boyhood home of Abraham Lincoln
• Catch a race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Museum
• Explore Marengo Cave
• Go to Indiana Dunes National Park

Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Dunes National Park are two of many favored tourist attractions in Indiana. (Sean Gardner/Getty Images I DIANE DESOBEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

1. Visit the town of Santa Claus

There are so many attractions that fill the town of Santa Claus, Indiana. 

There is plenty to see and do in Santa Claus, including Holiday World & Splashin' Safari. 

This theme park is full of exciting roller coasters and tons of attractions for the little ones in your family. Water rides are available to enjoy during the warmer months.

A TRAVEL GUIDE TO UTAH: BEAUTIFUL NATURE FILLED STOPS TO VISIT ACROSS THE STATE

While at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari, there are lots of shows, including ones full of magic and comedy, to see while you're visiting. 

If you are in need of holiday spirit before the season officially comes around, you can shop at the Santa Claus Christmas Store in the town and also visit the Santa Claus Museum & Village. 

Santa Claus, Indiana, is home to a family-friendly theme park and plenty of festive stops throughout the town. (Kevin Pang/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

2. Stop at the boyhood home of Abraham Lincoln

A short five miles away from Santa Claus is Lincoln City, where you can find the home where former President Abraham Lincoln spent much of his childhood. 

Lincoln was born in Kentucky, but his family later moved to Indiana, where he lived from 1816 until 1830, according to the National Park Service's website. 

While there, you can visit the park museum to learn more about the life of Lincoln, visit the Lincoln Living Historical Farm and walk the Boyhood Trail, just as Lincoln did while he was growing up. 

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3. Catch a race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Museum

Indianapolis Motor Speedway is home to the famous Indy 500, which has taken place since 1911, according to Indianapolis Motor Speedway's website. 

The Indy 500 is usually held in May, but the attraction is still worth a visit whatever time of year you find yourself in Indiana. 

Check the website to see what events are happening during your visit. 

While in Indiana, catch a thrilling race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

If you're visiting at a time when no events are taking place, you can always take a tour of the track for a behind-the-scenes look at the space. 

There's also a museum on site, but it is closed for renovation until April 2025. 

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4. Explore Marengo Cave

Many visitors head to Marengo Cave on their trip to Indiana. 

The cave's formation dates back around a million years, according to Marengo Cave's website, but it was not discovered until 1883.

In 1984, Marengo Cave was named a National Natural Landmark. 

If you love to camp, you can pitch a tent in the campground at Marengo Cave and bring your furry friends with you.  (iStock)

Tours of the cave take place year around, with two different walking tours offered to visitors. 

One is the "Crystal Palace" tour, which takes about 40 minutes, and the "Dripstone Trail," which is a 60-minute tour. 

There are many other activities that are available at the cave beyond the walking tours, like a waterfall crawl and an underground adventure. 

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If you want to stay close to Marengo Cave, there is a campground where you can pitch a tent or rent a cabin for a more luxurious camping experience. 

5. Go to Indiana Dunes National Park

If you like to camp, fish and hike, Indiana Dunes National Park is for you. 

Dunewood Campground is open for overnight stays from April 1 through Oct. 31, according to the National Park Service's website, though the park itself is open year round.

Make sure to take your camera with you, as you will be surrounded by stunning views worth snapping a photo of. 

Ashlyn Messier is a writer for Fox News Digital. 

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The 10 worst states to retire in the U.S. No. 1 isn't California or New York

While the  best state to retire  in the U.S. is also one of the smallest in the country, the worst state to retire is the largest.

Alaska ranks as the worst state in the U.S. to retire for the  third year in a row , according to Bankrate’s  study of the best states to retire  in 2024.

To compile its list of the best and worst places to retire in the U.S., Bankrate ranked all 50 states across five weighted categories:

• Affordability (40%):  Analyzes factors such as local and state sales taxes, cost of living and average annual property taxes
• Overall wellbeing (25%):  Includes factors such as the number of adults over 62 per 100,000 residents and access to food and health care
• Quality and cost of health care (20%):  Looks at factors such as the cost of health care at the state level and the performance of each state’s health system
• Weather (10%):  Evaluates data on factors such as a state’s average annual temperature and average number of tornado strikes, earthquakes and hurricane landfalls
• Crime (5%):  Examines factors such as the amount of property crimes and violent crimes per 100,000 residents

Bankrate analyzed datasets from a number of sources, including the Council for Community and Economic Research, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Tax Foundation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Here are the 10 worst states to retire, according to Bankrate.

Notably, Alaska ranks last in the weather category. Although temperatures in Alaska can range from 45 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, they can sink  as low as negative 10 degrees Fahrenheit  in the winter.

Alaska can be an expensive place to live, especially for retirees with a fixed income. On average, the cost of living in Alaska is about 30% higher than the rest of the country,   according to RentCafe . Housing costs are about 17% higher than the national average, and utilities and health-care expenses are both nearly 50% higher.

On the upside, Alaska can be a very tax-friendly location for retirees. The state doesn’t have income tax, estate taxes or inheritance taxes and doesn’t tax pension payments or retirement benefits from Social Security.

Lack of affordability appears to be a common thread among the other low-ranking states on the list, which include New York, Washington and California — all known for being relatively pricey.

However, just because a state has a higher cost of living doesn’t necessarily mean you should write it off as a potential retirement destination. You may just need to plan to set aside more money for retirement than you would if you were planning to retire somewhere less expensive.

CNBC Make It’s  retirement calculator  can help you estimate how much you’ll need to save for retirement based on factors like your current age, savings, income and when you’d like to stop working.

And while living costs can be a key determinant in deciding where you may want to retire in the future, it’s also good to keep other non-financial aspects in mind. For example, access to social and community-building activities is an important, but often overlooked, consideration for retirees, according to Bankrate.

“Having that sense of community and human connection is huge to healthy aging,” Kerry Hannon, a retirement expert and Author of “In Control at 50+: How to Succeed in the New World of Work,” says in Bankrate’s study.

“Isolation and loneliness are not something you want to move toward, so look for your community,” she says.

More from CNBC:

• Southwest to get rid of open seating, offer extra legroom in biggest shift in its history
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Cheyenne DeVon is a Money reporter at CNBC Make It. She covers a variety of personal finance topics including managing credit card debt, retirement planning and personal saving. She also reports on tech innovation topics including A.I., cryptocurrency and NFTs.