6 Best Things to Do in Mauritius: Travel Guide
Hey there, fellow travel enthusiast! Ready to explore a coastal haven? Buckle up, because we are jetting off to Mauritius—the dreamy island nation that is, to be honest, Mother Nature showing off. Beach bum, an adventure junkie, or a culture vulture, there is no shortage of things to do in Mauritius. So grab your sunhat and unpack all the incredible things to do in Mauritius.
Beach Bliss and Beyond: Best Things to Do in Mauritius
From heart-pumping water sports to zen-inducing nature trails, and luxe resorts to quirky local haunts, the list of things to do in Mauritius is endless.
1. Beach Hopping (Because One Beach is Never Enough)
Among things to do in Mauritius, beach hopping tops the list. Start with Belle Mare Beach on the east coast for a tranquil retreat. For a lively vibe, hit up Flic en Flac on the West Coast. P.S. the sunsets here are Instagram gold! Do not miss out on Le Morne Beach with Le Morne Brabant Mountain as a backdrop.
2. Dive into Marine Adventures
Among the many things to do in Mauritius, exploring the underwater scene is a must! For diving, Blue Bay Marine Park is like the Times Square of the ocean—colorful, and bustling, and you will want to take a million pictures.
For the newbies, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours are your jam. Do not forget to check out Catamaran Cruises for a day out on the water. Swim with dolphins, explore hidden coves, and pretend you are in a Bond movie (minus the villains).
3. Culture Vulture Alert!
Mauritius isn’t just a pretty face—it’s got brains too! Start your culture crawl at the Central Market in Port Louis for local produce and handicrafts. Then, get your history fixed at the Aapravasi Ghat. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site so you can tick that off your bucket list.
Wrap up your cultural exploration with a visit to the Château de Labourdonnais, a beautifully restored colonial mansion. These cultural experiences are some of the most enriching things to do in Mauritius.
4. Hike Your Heart Out
For all you nature lovers, hiking is one of the top things to do in Mauritius. Black River Gorges National Park is a star. Think dense forests, waterfalls, and views that will make your heart skip a beat.
For the adventurous, challenge yourself with a hike up Le Morne Brabant. It is a bit of a workout, but the panoramic views at the top? It’s worth every drop of sweat! For a chill nature fix, the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden is your go-to—giant water lilies, exotic plants, and plenty of shade for your midday nap.
5. Luxury and Wellness Retreats
After all that exploring, treat yourself! Talking about luxury experiences, Mauritius is in a league of its own. The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita and Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa are like the Beyoncé of resorts—flawless.
We’re talking top-notch spas, yoga with ocean views, and enough pampering to make you forget what stress even is. Indulging in a spa day is one of the most relaxing things to do in Mauritius.
6. Foodie Paradise: Where to Eat in Mauritius
Vegan Delights: Vegetarians, rejoice! Mauritius has got your back. Escale Créole serves up authentic Mauritian dishes with veg options like Dholl Puri. For a fancy pants dinner with a view, Green Island Beach Restaurant is your spot. Vegan options with a side of ocean vista? Yes, please!
Street Food Bonanza: For the real deal local flavors, hit up Port Louis’ Central Market. It’s like a carnival for your palate. Don’t leave without trying Farata—the Mauritian cousin of naan bread, and it is delicious! Exploring local cuisine is one of the most delectable things to do in Mauritius.
Global Flavors: Craving something different? Amigo in Grand Baie does Italian that’ll transport you straight to Rome. And for a curry fix, Happy Rajah in Grand Baie is your go-to.
Travel Smart: Insider Travel Tips and Hacks
1. Best Time to Visit
The sweet spot for visiting Mauritius? May to December. It is the Goldilocks weather—not too hot, not too cold, just right. Want to dodge the crowds? April and October are your best bet.
2. Getting Around
Rent a car if you want to channel your inner explorer. But if you don’t like driving, buses are reliable and taxis are everywhere. Just remember to haggle a bit with the taxi fares—it’s all part of the experience!
3. Money Matters
The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). While your plastic fantastic (credit card) will work in most places, keep some cash handy for those cute little street vendors and tipping.
4. Speak the Lingo
English is the official language, but throw in some French or Creole phrases and watch the locals light up.
5. Stay Safe
Mauritius is generally super safe, but you know the drill—do not wander into sketchy areas at night, and keep an eye on your stuff. Better safe than sorry, right?
Hidden Gems: Off-Beat Things to Do in Mauritius
While Mauritius is famous for its beaches and resorts, some lesser-known treasures deserve a spot on your itinerary. Here are a few unmissable things to do in Mauritius:
1. Chamarel Seven-Colored Earth
Mother Nature showing off her artistic side! These surreal dunes showcase seven distinct colors of earth. It is as if someone spilled a giant artist’s palette on the ground. Pro Hack: Visit early morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
2. Casela Nature Park
For an adventure-packed day, Casela Nature Park is a must-visit. This sprawling wildlife park offers a unique blend of nature and adrenaline-pumping activities. Walk with lions (yes, you read that right!), zip-line over lush canyons, or take a quad bike safari. You can feel like entering a real-life Jurassic Park, minus the man-eating dinosaurs.
3. Bois Cheri Tea Factory
Tea lovers, this one’s for you! Take a tour of this historic tea plantation, learn about the tea-making process, and end with a tasting session overlooking stunning views of the south of Mauritius.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do Indians need a visa to visit Mauritius?
Good news for Indian travelers! Mauritius offers visa-free entry for Indians for stays up to 90 days. You’ll get a visa on arrival, but make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.
2. What documents should I prepare for entry into Mauritius?
Apart from a valid passport, you’ll need a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for your stay. Having travel insurance is also highly recommended.
3. How do I reach Mauritius from India?
The primary entry zone is the international airport, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam. Direct flights operate from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Airlines like Air Mauritius, Air India, and IndiGo offer regular services. Flight time is approximately 6-7 hours from most Indian cities.
Bottom Line
Mauritius isn’t just a destination; it’s a mood. From its drop-dead gorgeous beaches to its colorful culture, there is no shortage of things to do in Mauritius. Zen out on the beach, channel your inner Jacques Cousteau underwater, or eat through local markets—Mauritius is your destination! So what are you waiting for? Paradise is calling, and trust me, you want to pick up.