Prepare to uncover Mauritius’ hidden gems, where stunning landscapes and thrilling activities await. From the vibrant allure of Port Louis to the serene beaches of the north, every corner of the island beckons exploration. Whether it’s a boat excursion to Île aux Cerfs, a trek through the Seven Cascades, or wildlife encounters at Casela World of Adventures, Mauritius guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

Must-visit attractions in Mauritius

Begin your journey on the East Coast, renowned for its pristine beaches like Belle Mare. Relax on white sands and in turquoise waters. Nature enthusiasts will delight in Rivière Noire and its nature reserve, offering a complete immersion in local flora and fauna.

Next, venture to the South-East to marvel at the Chamarel Waterfall and its Seven Colored Earths, a breathtaking natural wonder. Experience authenticity with visits to sugar cane fields, featuring local rum tastings.

Discover Port Louis, the capital steeped in history with its citadel and the vibrant Caudan Waterfront, perfect for evening strolls. For the adventurous, a hike up Le Morne Brabant is a must.

Tour of iconic sites

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden offers a verdant oasis with exotic flora and local fauna. Witness the unique geological phenomenon of the Seven Colored Earths in Chamarel.

• Île aux Cerfs in the East is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.
• In the West, Flic en Flac beach beckons with its fine sand and crystal-clear waters.
• Delve into history at Château de Labourdonnais, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.

Conclude your journey with a visit to Grand Bassin, a sacred lake for Mauritius’ Hindu community. These iconic destinations promise enriching discoveries and enduring memories.

Most famous attractions of Mauritius

Château de Labourdonnais stands as an iconic destination with its lush gardens and tastings of local delights like the renowned Victoria pineapple.

Explore the vibrant underwater world and lagoons with professional guides, ideal for diving enthusiasts eager to witness diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs. Safe dive centers ensure a secure and captivating experience.

Experience the thrill of parasailing for panoramic views over Mauritius and the Indian Ocean.

Discover Mauritius’ rich world heritage at landmarks such as Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Church in Cap Malheureux and Fort Adelaide in Port Louis, offering insights into Mauritian history and culture.

Mauritius’ finest sides

Flic en Flac charms sea lovers with its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for diving amidst vibrant marine life and coral reefs.

Île aux Cerfs captivates with stunning beaches and water activities, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

Grand Baie in the north is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, luxury boutiques, and delectable local cuisine.

Cap Malheureux features the famous red-roofed chapel and scenic views of the northern islands.

• Hike up Pouce Mountain for panoramic island views.
• Bras d’Eau National Park offers a serene retreat with thriving endemic birdlife.
• The Tea Route invites sensory exploration through tea plantations with tasting sessions.
• Port Louis, the cultural hub, boasts bustling markets, colorful streets, and historic landmarks.
• Explore the stunning lagoon on a boat trip to Mahébourg.

The paradise beaches of Mauritius

Beaches to visit in the North of the Island

Explore a variety of stunning beaches in northern Mauritius. Trou aux Biches is renowned for its fine sand and turquoise waters, perfect for a relaxing day. Grand Baie offers a lively atmosphere with its vibrant bars and restaurants.

• Pereybere : Known for calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Mont Choisy : Features a long stretch of golden sand under casuarina trees, ideal for relaxation.
• La Cuvette: Small and secluded, offering a tranquil atmosphere for peace seekers.

Each beach provides a unique experience during your visit.

Beaches to see in the South of the Island

Discover the captivating beaches of southern Mauritius. Blue Bay boasts a natural reserve and turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling. Gris Gris Beach offers dramatic cliffs and powerful waves, ideal for those who enjoy wild landscapes. Le Morne Beach is serene with white sand and calm waters.

Activities to enjoy on the beaches of Mauritius

Mauritius’ beaches offer a range of activities :

• Surfing lessons are available at Tamarin and Le Morne for thrill-seekers.
• Yoga sessions facing the ocean for relaxation and mindfulness.
• Motorboat trips to explore the coastline from a different perspective.
• Glass-bottom boat excursions for marine wildlife enthusiasts to observe colorful fish and coral reefs.
• Enjoy an authentic beach picnic with local specialties and magnificent views.

Nature and landscapes of Mauritius

Discovering national parks

Mauritius’ national parks are biodiverse havens offering extraordinary experiences.

• Black River Gorges National Park : The island’s largest park, it preserves endemic flora and fauna amidst tropical forests, steep gorges, and impressive peaks.
• Bras d’Eau National Park : Located in the northeast, this park captivates with its wild beauty and diverse wildlife.
• Îlot Gabriel National Park : Ideal for wildlife observation, this park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

These parks offer activities like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and river fishing, suitable for adventurers of all levels.

Exploring waterfalls and grand bassin crater lake

Grand Bassin, nestled in an ancient volcano’s crater, offers serene landscapes and spiritual significance. Hike to nearby waterfalls, where you can encounter local flora and fauna, including giant tortoises. Guided tours provide insights into the site’s history and spirituality.

Hiking le Morne Brabant and seven Cascades

Le Morne Brabant : Iconic and challenging, this mountain rewards hikers with panoramic views of Île aux Bénitiers and an illusion of an underwater waterfall.

Seven Cascades : Explore picturesque landscapes with basaltic rocks, lush canyons, and a 40-meter waterfall. These hikes require sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and good physical fitness, ideally with a professional guide for safety.

Tourist activities in Grand Baie

Grand Baie offers a diverse array of tourist activities catering to various interests. For water sports enthusiasts, there are boat trips to the northern islands, thrilling scuba diving, and snorkeling adventures. You can also enjoy a serene paddleboarding session on Tamarin River, renowned for dolphin watching.

On land, exploring the region’s beautiful beaches is a must. Grand Baie’s public beach, bustling with activity, contrasts with the quieter, tranquil Pereybère Beach nearby.

Grand Baie’s vibrant atmosphere extends to its numerous restaurants serving diverse cuisines, lively nightlife venues, and ample shopping opportunities.

Guide to water activities in Mauritius

Mauritius offers exhilarating water activities for all levels of enthusiasts. For diving aficionados, the island’s coral reefs teem with vibrant marine life, offering unforgettable experiences beneath the waves.

Cruises are popular for exploring Mauritius from a unique perspective. Options include trips to northern islets, visits to Île aux Bénitiers, or excursions to the renowned Île aux Cerfs.

Water sports like kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and sea kayaking thrive here, often available at beach resorts and hotels, sometimes included in stay packages.

Scuba diving and snorkeling in Mauritius

Mauritius’ clear waters provide exceptional sights for scuba diving and snorkeling. Numerous accessible spots boast beautiful reefs, while calm lagoons offer perfect conditions for snorkeling, even suitable for younger participants.

Visit to Île aux Cerfs

Located off Mauritius’ east coast, Île aux Cerfs is a true paradise accessible by boat. Its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters invite visitors to sunbathe, swim, or explore at their leisure.

Excursion to Île des Deux Cocos

Île des Deux Cocos, located southeast of Mauritius, is a premier destination for a day trip. This paradisiacal island promises a day of relaxation and discovery.

Managed by the LUX Resorts group, the island offers an enchanting setting for nature and sea lovers alike. You can enjoy white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a variety of activities. Among these are :

• Swimming and snorkeling in the Blue Bay Marine Park is an exceptional place where you can admire rich and colorful marine biodiversity.
• Visiting the villa built by the British governor Sir Hesketh Bell over a century ago is a journey through time that reveals the fascinating history of the island.

Discovering Mauritian wildlife and flora

La Vanille Nature Park : Escape into Nature

Nestled in the south of the island, La Vanille Nature Park is a preserved oasis of greenery, offering an authentic escape into nature. This peaceful haven, spanning over 3.5 hectares, is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and houses diverse wildlife.

You’ll encounter crocodiles, giant Aldabra tortoises, and a unique insectarium. The park also offers opportunities to interact with some animals, notably the giant tortoises and Nile crocodiles.

Casela world of adventures : Adventure park for everyone

Located in the tropical region of Mauritius, Casela World of Adventures is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. The park spans 250 hectares, offering an exceptional safari-like experience with over 1500 birds and a wide variety of other animals such as lions, giant tortoises, and cheetahs.

Beyond wildlife observation, the park provides a multitude of outdoor adventure activities suitable for all ages and adventure levels. Whether you’re tempted by a camel ride, a zipline descent, or a quad bike ride, you’ll find something to suit your tastes.

Best time to visit Mauritius for tourists

Choosing the ideal time to visit Mauritius depends largely on its climate. With a tropical climate, each season offers unique advantages. From May to October, during the Southern Hemisphere winter, temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C, providing ideal conditions for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Conversely, from November to April, during the Southern Hemisphere summer, temperatures can exceed 30°C, making it perfect for enjoying the beaches.

Considering tourist crowds, February, March, and November are generally less busy, offering a quieter experience at popular attractions. However, from May to October, the island experiences its peak tourist season.