Known for its pristine beaches, dreamy lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs, Mauritius is a stunning island located in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa. With dazzling blue water, smooth white sands, and plenty of warm sunshine, this country is truly a tropical paradise. This island also boasts several hiking trails, tropical rainforests, and incredible wildlife, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Set up base in one of the world-class luxury resorts on the island and be ready to explore. Whether you want a relaxing week on the beach or exciting tropical adventures, Mauritius abounds in unforgettable experiences.
Keep reading to discover 11 incredible things to see and do in Mauritius.
1. Play water sports in Mauritius
While Mauritius is home to several beautiful beaches, Ile aux Cerfs offers a particularly stunning coastal area. Ile aux Cerfs is a privately-owned island just off the east coast of Mauritius, so you will need to take a boat to get here. You can enjoy several water activities in these sparkling waters, like boating, paddle boarding, and swimming.
The island also showcases the Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, a beautiful 18-hole championship golf course. With crystal-clear turquoise water, pristine white sands, and fantastic golfing opportunities, you’ll want to stay here forever.
2. Swim in Tamarind Falls
Comprised of seven cascades on the Riviere Tamarin, Tamarind Falls is nestled in a canyon in southwest Mauritius. This area has over ten waterfalls and a few swimming holes, including an emerald pool, so don’t forget your bathing suit. You will need at least four or five hours, if not a full day, to experience most of the waterfalls in Tamarind Falls.
Although you could hike on your own to some of these cascades, the paths are rugged and confusing, so it is best to hire a guide for safety and enjoyment. Don’t forget to bring good hiking shoes and a bottle of bug spray to stay as comfortable as possible on the trek!
3. Visit the 7 Coloured Earth Geopark
The 7 Coloured Earth Geopark is located in the village of Chamarel, which is in the southwest area of Mauritius. This geopark is one of Mauritius’s most popular tourist attractions. Its landscape is truly unforgettable, with sand dunes in hues of red, violet, brown, green, blue, purple, and yellow. When the sun shines, all of these colours are even more vibrant. Nearby, you will find a tortoise park, which is currently home to six 150-year-old tortoises.
4. Stroll in Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is a must-visit while in Mauritius. Located on the north side of the island, this garden boasts several species of tropical plants and trees. Comprised of 37 hectares of land, this garden dates back to 1770. The pond with giant water lilies is one of the main attractions in the park, as are the giant tortoises that roam freely throughout the grounds. In addition, you can check out the ebonies, sugar canes, and several different spices growing on this land.
5. Kayak in Tamarin Bay
Tamarin Bay showcases postcard-worthy scenery, making this worth a visit during your time in Mauritius. Overlooking the towering Rempart Mountain, you will notice sparkling green water, lush plant life, and the occasional dolphin or two. The landscape and wildlife create an unparalleled backdrop for kayaking, and there is plenty to discover. With three rivers flowing into this bay and plenty of mangroves, you could spend an entire afternoon exploring the area.
6. Shop at Port Louis Central Market
The French built the Central Market in Port Luis during the 18th century. Today, it is still a favourite among the locals, and with bustling street life and plenty of stalls, it’s a perfect destination to get a taste of Mauritian culture.
Here, you can browse through various booths selling local produce, from tomatoes to tropical fruits. Inside the market, several vendors sell homemade local goods. You will also see other vendors selling local art, crafts, and souvenirs. Haggling is encouraged in this market and will definitely help you make the most of your money.
7. Dive in Blue Bay Marine Park
Best known for its rare and diverse coral reefs, Blue Bay Marine Park is the perfect spot to enjoy some snorkelling or deep-sea diving. You will see plenty of tropical fish and unique coral reef scenery as you swim and splash in these waters. In short, Blue Bay Marine Park provides a marine experience, which attracts thousands of divers every year.
8. Hike in Black Rivers National Park
Black Rivers National Park is an ideal destination for discovering Mauritius’s diverse flora and fauna. Situated in southwestern Mauritius, this park is home to enchanting forests, hundreds of flower varieties, giant fruit bats, and several endemic bird species. Perfect for animal lovers, you are sure to see abundant wildlife while you’re here.
9. Jeep Safari in Heritage Nature Reserve
Formed by volcanic activity, the Heritage Nature Reserve houses some of Mauritius’s most beautiful landscapes and incredible history. From tropical forests to rushing waterfalls, this nature reserve offers incredible ecosystems and biodiversity. Moreover, touring the Mauritian wilderness in a jeep safari is bound to be an unparalleled experience.
10. Tour the Bois Cheri Tea Gardens
Tea production has been an integral piece of Mauritius’s history and economy. You can learn more about this process at the Bois Cheri Tea Gardens and Factory, the oldest tea plantation on the island. Located in the town of Bois Cheri, these tea gardens will take you through the tea picking and drying process.
Tour the guided factory, learn more in the museum, and finish with tea tasting, where you will be given a pot of hot water with several teas to sample, from basic black tea to more exotic flavours.
11. Learn at Aapravasi Ghat
The Aapravasi Ghat UNESCO World Heritage Site is a 19th-century immigration depot located in Port Luis. This site is an excellent spot to learn about the indentured servitude that the British implemented in the 1800s.
During your visit to Aapravasi Ghat, you can discover more about the brave Indian labourers who came here as indentured servants, suffering through less than ideal working conditions. This free exhibit is guaranteed to be an educational and enlightening experience.
Final thoughts
Above all, Mauritius’ sandy beaches and coral reefs offer an escape from the noise of urban life. With its stunning parks and historical sites, this destination will expand your horizons and help you learn more about its exotic culture. Mauritius is the perfect holiday destination for those wanting to combine a tropical holiday with fascinating culture. Book your Mauritius holidays now.
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