travel guide for mauritius

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Top 18 Things to Do in Mauritius: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

Mauritius is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and diverse culture. From relaxing on the beach to exploring vibrant reefs and lush mountains, it offers something for everyone. With its rich cultural mix and luxury resorts, it’s a perfect getaway destination.

In Mauritius, enjoy pristine beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling or diving, visit the stunning Chamarel Waterfall, and hike in Black River Gorges National Park. Discover the lively markets of Port Louis, relax on a catamaran cruise, and experience the island’s rich culture through local food and festivals.

And remember, the toughest decision you’ll face here isn’t which beach to hit first, but how you’ll ever go back to regular life after this! So don’t wait any longer to explore the top places to visit in Mauritius and make the most of your trip with our Mauritius travel guide. We’ve got you covered with the best things to do in Mauritius!

Best Time to Enjoy Top Things to do in Mauritius

• Beaches and Water Sports : December to April offers warm, sunny weather ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. May to November also provides pleasant conditions for these thrilling activities in Mauritius, with fewer crowds but a chance of rain.
• Hiking and Nature: May to November is perfect for hiking and exploring nature due to cooler, drier weather. December to April is warmer and more humid but still suitable for nature activities.
• Cultural Experiences: February to April features numerous cultural festivals. However, you can enjoy Mauritian culture year-round through historical sites, markets, and cultural centres.

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18 Best Things to Do in Mauritius

Top things to do in mauritius for nature and wildlife:, 1. hike through the scenic trails of black river gorges national park.

Easy to Moderate Trails:

• Seven Cascades Short Loop: A short trail leading to seven scenic waterfalls.
• Macchabee Forest and Mare aux Joncs Waterfall Circular: A moderate trail with views of the park and Mare aux Joncs Gorge, home to many bats.
• Alexandra Falls Trail: A moderate trail that ends at the picturesque Alexandra Falls, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Moderate to Challenging Trails:

• Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire: A challenging hike to the highest peak in Mauritius, offering stunning views.
• Cascade Loop: A tough trail through dense rainforest and along the Black River.
• Macchabee Trail and Plateau Remouss Circular: A long, demanding trail with spectacular views of the park and coastline.

2. Admire the Vibrant Chamarel Seven Colored Earth

These vibrant colours come from volcanic activity and weathering over millions of years. It’s the perfect spot for capturing incredible photos.

• Location: 7 Colored Earth Road, Chamarel, Mauritius
• Timings: 8:30 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: 225 INR for adults and 75 INR for children

3. Wander Through the Beautiful Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

The garden is famous for its huge water lilies, like the Victoria amazonica, which can grow up to three metres wide and for a wide range of tropical plants, including palms, orchids, bamboos, and medicinal herbs.

• Location: Pamplemousses, Mauritius
• Entry Fees:   25 INR

4. Experience a Lion Walk at Casela Park

Walk alongside majestic lions in a safe and controlled environment. Accompanied by experienced Mauritius travel guides, you’ll learn about lion behaviour and conservation efforts. In addition to lion walk, Casela Park offers other top things to do in Mauritius like hiking, zip-lining, quad biking , and tubing.

• Location: Royal Road, Cascavelle, Mauritius
• Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: For non-residents, rates are 775 INR for adults and 258 500 INR for children. Residents pay 395 INR for adults, 210 INR for children, and 295 INR for seniors. Additional costs may apply for selected activities.

Top Things to Do in Mauritius for Beaches and Water Sports:

5. relax on the stunning flic en flac beach.

You can swim in the warm, turquoise sea, explore beautiful coral reefs, or try out water sports like snorkelling and parasailing. The beach is also lined with restaurants and bars where you can savour delicious seafood and refreshing drinks.

• Location: West Coast of Mauritius
• Timings: Open 24 hours
• Entry Fees: Free

6. Soar Above the Seas with Parasailing at Ile Aux Cerfs

The thrill of flying high offers an exciting rush, and the panoramic scenery of the lagoon and distant mountains is truly breathtaking. Parasailing here is a safe and enjoyable adventure suitable for people of all ages.

• Location: East Coast of Mauritius
• Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

7. Discover the Wonders of Snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park

Explore a colourful underwater world teeming with various coral species, from hard corals to soft corals and encounter a wide range of marine creatures, including tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and even the occasional octopus or shark.

• Location: Blue Bay, Mauritius
• Timings: 8:30 am to 4 pm
• Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for the park, but there might be charges for boat tours and snorkelling gear.

8. Dive into Adventure at Belle Mare

The site also features interesting wrecks and caves. Whether you’re new to diving or experienced, Belle Mare has great options, and Mauritius travel guided tours with knowledgeable instructors can help you make the most of your dive.

• Location: Quatre Cocos, Mauritius

Best Things to Do in Mauritius for Cultural Experiences:

9. explore the historic charm of chinatown.

You can visit beautiful Chinese temples like the Mahabodhi Society Temple and the Kwan Teow Temple to admire traditional designs and learn about the Chinese community. The bustling markets and shops offer a variety of Chinese groceries, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Enjoy delicious Chinese dishes at local restaurants, from dim sum to spicy Sichuan specialties. 

• Location: Port Louis, Mauritius

10. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aapravasi Ghat

At the site, you can visit a museum and interpretation centre to learn about the history of these labourers and their experiences. There’s also a memorial garden where you can pay respects to those who passed through Aapravasi Ghat, making it one of the significant Mauritius points of interest.

• Location: Ex-DWC Building, 1 Quay St, Port Louis, Mauritius
• Timings: 9 am to 4 pm ( Closed on Sundays )

11. Immerse Yourself in Art at the Blue Penny Museum

One of the main attractions is the museum’s display of the One Penny Blue and the Two Penny Blue stamps, which are among the rarest and most valuable stamps in the world. You can also explore a variety of historical artefacts, such as coins, medals, and documents that reveal Mauritius’s past. 

• Location: Dans Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis, Mauritius
• Timings: 10 am to 4:30 pm ( Closed on Sundays )
• Entry Fees: Adult: 325 INR and Children/Students: 200 INR

12. Discover the Rich Heritage of Mahebourg

You can visit the Mahebourg Museum to learn about the island’s history, from Dutch rule to British times and independence. The Naval Museum gives insights into the island’s maritime past and its role in World War II. 

• Location: Southeast Coast of Mauritius

13. Celebrate Local Culture and Traditions at Festivals

Some of the popular festivals include:

• Maha Shivaratri: A Hindu festival honouring Lord Shiva, featuring fasting, prayers, and a procession with a symbolic lingam.
• Cavadee: Celebrated by the Tamil community, where devotees carry decorated kavadees with flowers and peacock feathers.
• Chinese New Year: Marked by colourful parades, lion dances, and fireworks, celebrated by the Chinese community.

14. Savour Authentic Flavours with Local Cuisine

Must-try dishes:.

• Rougaille: A spicy tomato-based curry, typically enjoyed with rice or bread.
• Mine Frit: Crispy, deep-fried savoury pastries, popular as street food.
• Biryani: A fragrant rice dish with meat or vegetables, reflecting Indian flavours.
• Bol Renverse: A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
• Chatini: A tangy chutney made from fruits, vegetables, or spices.
• Alouda: A refreshing drink made with milk, rose syrup, basil seeds, and ice.

Where to Eat:

• Le Fangourin: Located in Pamplemousses, this restaurant offers delicious French Creole cuisine with lovely views of the botanical garden, making it one of the great places to visit in Mauritius for lunch and dinner.
• La Table du Château: Situated in Mapou, this restaurant is set in a charming colonial-style building and serves refined Mauritian dishes made with local ingredients.
• Chez Tino: A family-run restaurant in Grand Baie known for its fantastic seafood and warm hospitality. Enjoy a relaxed meal with beautiful ocean views.

15. Shop Till You Drop at Central Market

What to Expect:

• Fresh Produce: You’ll find a wide selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices, all bursting with local flavours.
• Local Handicrafts: Explore unique Mauritian souvenirs, including colourful textiles, handcrafted jewellery, and vibrant artwork.
• Street Food: Enjoy tasty local snacks like dholl puri, samosas, and gateau patate, perfect for a quick bite.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the lively market atmosphere, filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of local life.
• Bargaining Opportunity: Feel free to haggle with vendors for the best prices; negotiating is part of the fun!

Other Top Things to Do in Mauritius:

16. experience the vibrant nightlife in grand baie.

Popular Nightlife Spots in Grand Baie:

• Banana Beach Club: A beachfront club with a relaxed atmosphere, live music, and delicious food.
• Insomnia Nightclub: A modern nightclub with international DJs and a trendy vibe.
• OMG Nightclub: Known for its energetic atmosphere and dance floor.
• Takamaka: A beachfront bar and restaurant with stunning ocean views and live music.

17. Set Sail on a Memorable Catamaran Cruise

Take in stunning views of the coastline, including beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes. Look out for dolphins, whales, and other marine animals that might make an appearance during your cruise.

18. Play a Round at Premier Golf Courses

• Heritage Golf Club: Set in a picturesque location, this championship course offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the Indian Ocean.
• Mauritius Golf Club: Known for its challenging layout and beautiful surroundings, this par-72 course is a favourite among golfers.
• Bel Ombre Golf Club: With 18 holes designed for players of all levels, this course provides a range of challenges and scenic views.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: how can i explore the local cuisine and markets in mauritius, q: are there any adventure activities available in mauritius, q: what are some popular viewpoints in mauritius, q: are there any cultural experiences to explore in mauritius.

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Lying 800km east of Madagascar, Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, a volcanic chain extending as far as the Seychelles. Fringed by 160km of sandy beaches and an azure sea, with a backdrop of rugged peaks and shimmering sugar cane, this pear-shaped tropical island is a dream holiday destination. An islander once told Mark Twain that “Mauritius was made first and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius”.

Where to go in Mauritius

Travel ideas for mauritius, created by local experts.

Delightful Mauritius

Stay in four different areas on this trip - first the South Coast, then the West Coast, then Chamarel in the center of the island, before spending the last few days relaxing on the beach of the popular North Coast. Mauritius has so much more to offer than just gorgeous beaches!

Thanks to year-round sunshine, the island’s beaches are its key selling point, many lined with world-class hotels, top-notch spas, championship golf courses and gourmet restaurants. But the “pearl of the ocean” is no longer the preserve of the jet set, with an ever-expanding range of accommodation and activities for all tastes and budgets. Watersports are a particular highlight: it’s possible to swim with dolphins in the morning and then go diving, kitesurfing or paddleboarding in the afternoon.

At 45km by 65km, nowhere in the island’s interior is more than 45 minutes’ drive from the sea, and gone are the days when no one ventured more than a mile from their sunlounger. Among the three main mountain ranges surrounding the central plateau – Moka, Black River Chain and Grand Port, the remains of volcanic activity which started thirteen million years ago – there are now numerous outdoor adventures and eco-trails. Then there’s tiny Rodrigues, an eco-paradise scattered with forested ravines, secluded beaches and sandy islands.

Isolated and uninhabited for thousands of years, Mauritius has developed a unique flora and fauna – the most famous of which is the dodo, which helped put this speck in the Indian Ocean on the world map – and it remains one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. The island is surrounded by the world’s third largest coral reef, which shelters a rich marine life, some of the rarest birds fly over ebony trees in the forested interior, and endemic species survive on offshore islands. Mauritius’s national flower, Trochetia boutoniana (Boucle d’Oreille) grows just on a single mountaintop, Le Morne Brabant. Tortoises, which once roamed in their thousands before being loaded onto ships by sailors, have also recently been successfully reintroduced onto Rodrigues.

Diversity is found in Mauritius’s cultural landscape too. Almost four centuries of colonization have left the island with a rich multicultural mosaic of Indian, African, Chinese and French heritage. You’ll find this exotic mix expressed in riotous Indian temples, historic colonial mansions and the hip-wiggling séga .

Mauritius may be small but it takes time to travel across the island – worth bearing in mind when choosing where to stay. Each region has its own vibe, landscape and local weather, and a particular set of activities and attractions. Yet even in the most touristed areas of the country, an off-the-beaten-track gem usually lies nearby.

If you’re looking for buzz, nightlife and plenty of excursions, the tourism hub Grand Baie, or little “St Trop”, in the north is likely to be just the ticket. It has the greatest concentration of hotels, beaches, restaurants and entertainment, and activities ranging from diving to parasailing. For a change of pace, look to nearby, quieter Cap Malheureux, the uninhabited northern islands, or head inland for a stroll through the lovely Pamplemousses Gardens.

The island’s bustling capital, Port Louis, is arguably the “real” Mauritius, with historic buildings and the island’s oldest market squeezed in alongside modern shopping complexes and offices. There are just two hotels here, so few visitors stay overnight, but the slew of restaurants and street-food vendors at lunchtime make it an attractive day-trip.

The east coast is traditionally the island’s most glamorous, with arguably the best white-sand beaches near the villages of Belle Mare and Trou d’Eau Douce. To the south, Lion Mountain overlooks historic Vieux Grand Port, where the French and British once battled for control of the island. Today this coast is a mecca for watersports enthusiasts, while outdoor and eco-adventures can be found inland in the Bambous Mountains or along Grande Rivière Sud Est (GRSE).

By contrast, the rustic south gives a taste of times gone by. From the ancient Dutch capital of Mahébourg to the sleepy fishing village of Baie du Cap, this stretch of coastline is Mauritius’s least developed, with a scattering of hip hotels, unusual rock formations and island-hopping trips that compensate for the lack of good swimming beaches. This is also one of the best places to see Mauritian wildlife, either on a snorkeling trip in the pristine Blue Bay Marine Park or on Île aux Aigrettes, where you can encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and the pink pigeon.

Young families tend to enjoy the calm, shallow beaches of the west coast, particularly around Flic en Flac and Wolmar, where there are plenty of activities and sights nearby. This part of the country has a large Creole community, and as you head south you’ll feel a noted Creole presence around Rivière Noire and Le Morne village. On the island’s southwestern tip, the exclusive Le Morne Peninsula is known for its luxurious hotels and perfect kitesurfing conditions – a contrast to the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain, one of the island’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a poignant reminder of its slave history.

Central Mauritius has a different flavour again. The towns sprawling across the central plateau have little appeal beyond their shops, but explore further and you’ll find hiking opportunities in the lofty Moka Mountains and canyoning at Tamarin Falls. To the southwest is the island’s unmissable nature reserve, Black River Gorges National Park, where hiking trails introduce you to a range of endemic flora and fauna.

Those looking to get away from it all need to head to beautiful Rodrigues, Mauritius’s tiny sister island. Under 20km long and with just one real town, its laidback atmosphere and Creole-style hospitality make for a relaxing break. The island is an off-the-beaten-track paradise for trekkers and the diving is superb, too, with three dive centres offering packages for everyone from beginners to pros.

Top image © leoks/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Mauritius

• Rodrigues Travel Guide
• The west coast Travel Guide
• The south Travel Guide

• Mauritius is around the world’s seventeenth most densely populated country, with just over 1.3 million inhabitants and a density of 644 people per square kilometre.

• The island is remarkable for its interracial harmony . The mixed population is roughly 68 percent Indo-Mauritian, 27 percent Creole, 3 percent Chinese/Sino-Mauritian and 2 percent Franco-Mauritian.

• Hinduism is practised by 48.5 percent of the population; the remainder are mostly Roman Catholic (26.3 percent), Muslim (17.3 percent) and other Christian denominations (6.4 percent).

• One of the world’s newer political success stories, Mauritius has maintained a stable parliamentary democracy since independence, with free elections by the National Assembly.

• Mauritius has one of the highest average annual incomes in Africa, at US$16,100 per capita. Some 87 percent of Mauritians own their homes and all have access to free education and healthcare. Average life expectancy is 75 years.

• As there is little industry on the island, Mauritius has the second cleanest air on earth according to the global air quality ranking issued by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• Mauritius has the third highest number of extinct species of any country in the world. Less than 20 percent of the island’s forest remains, with only 3.3 percent (6574 hectares) under conservation.

• The Mauritian national emblem is the dodo , which can be seen on the coat of arms, banknotes and postage stamps. It’s one of the few countries in the world whose national animal is extinct, eradicated by hunting in the seventeenth century.

Travel advice for Mauritius

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Mauritius

• Eating and drinking in Mauritius
• Shopping tips for Mauritius
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Mauritius
• Travel Tips Mauritius for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Mauritius
• How to get to Mauritius
• Getting around Mauritius: Transportation Tips
• Travelling with children in Mauritius
• Best time to visit Mauritius

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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Mark Twain once wrote that ‘Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius’. For the most part, it’s true: Mauritius is rightly famed for its sapphire waters, powder-white beaches and luxury resorts. But there’s so much more attraction to Mauritius than the beach, and it's the kind of place that rewards even the smallest attempts at exploration. There’s hiking in the forested and mountainous interior and world-class diving and snorkelling offshore. There are boat trips to near-perfect islets and excursions to botanical gardens and colonial plantation houses. Mauritius is a fabulous culinary destination with great wildlife watching thrown in. And the real Mauritius away from the beach resorts – a hot curry of different cultures and quiet fishing villages – is never far away.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Île aux Aigrettes

This popular ecotourism destination is a 26-hectare nature reserve on an island roughly 800m off the coast. It preserves very rare remnants of the coastal…

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens

After London's Kew Gardens, the SSR Gardens is one of the world's best botanical gardens. It's among the most popular tourist attractions in Mauritius and…

Vallée de Ferney

Protecting a 400-year-old forest, this reserve is an important habitat for the Mauritius kestrel, one of the world's most endangered raptors, and a visit…

Blue Penny Museum

Although dedicated to the world-famous Mauritian one-penny and two-pence stamps of 1847, the Blue Penny Museum is far more wide-ranging than its name…

If you're only going to visit one attraction related to Mauritius' rich colonial history, choose Eureka. This perfectly preserved Creole mansion was built…

Père Laval's Shrine

The shrine of French Catholic priest and missionary Père Jacques-Désiré Laval is something of a Lourdes of the Indian Ocean, with many miracles attributed…

Tamarin Beach

Locals like to wax nostalgic about Tamarin Beach and its surfing heyday, and in many ways this sandy cove still feels like a throwback to earlier times,…

Monday Market

Don't miss the central foire de Mahébourg, near the waterfront. The initial focus was silks and other textiles, but these days you'll find a busy produce…

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Mauritius and beyond.

The Travel Guides explore Mauritius and Teng narrowly dodges near-death experience

This week, the Travel Guides headed to a (pre-COVID) Mauritius to enjoy the sights and experiences of the beautiful tropical paradise.

The groups had plenty to see and try, but there was no guarantee that every one of them was going to love the schedule they had planned.

Stream every episode ever of Travel Guides for free on 9Now.

Here are a few of the best moments of the Travel Guides' time in Mauritius.

Rhumerie de Chamarel rum distillery

Here at one of the fanciest rum distilleries that Mauritius has to offer, the Travel Guides learned how sugar cane is turned into rum. Matt and Brett could not believe how slow the process could be.

"My God, how long do we have to wait for a whole glass of rum?" Brett asked incredulously, and soon discovered that a single standard drink could take between three to five days to distil.

"That's a long wait for a drink!" Matt joked.

The Fren family, to nobody's surprise, was considerably less cynical about the process, as Victoria jumped straight behind the bar to serve up a Mauritius island iced tea, explaining that it involved "a free pour of every rum that was on the shelf".

The real bartender was... less than impressed.

Going from booze tasting to ziplining may not be the best idea, but the Fren family was up for any challenge, and as they made their way through the Mauritian jungle to the instructor, Mark was perplexed by their ensembles.

"I have no idea what water sport involves both a wetsuit and a helmet," the Fren patriarch asked before he discovered what the family would be doing.

Kev, Dorian and Teng were excited to get into the extreme sport, and Teng in particular was keen to go as far as possible across the lake.

"You almost came in contact with that rock," Kev told his friend, warning him that they may need to replace him if he kept doing dangerous stunts.

Getting amongst the wildlife

Located just offshore is an island, on which a host of endangered animals... including the incredibly rare pink pigeon.

Kevin and Janetta tracked through the wilds in search of the elusive bird, and when they did finally spot it amongst the trees, they decided that there may be other situations in which they would have found it more interesting.

"We've eaten just about every bird imaginable... it would probably be of more interest to us if it was filleted and with a nice sauce," Janetta remarked.

• Matt And Brett
• Kevin And Janetta
• Kev Dorian And Teng

Property News: First luxury apartment resold for $1.6m in landmark public housing block.

What to Do in Mauritius? Our Highlights & Must-See Sights on a Map!

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Mauritius! The name of the island is synonymous with a dream vacation. Great beaches, luxury hotels, honeymoon – those were the first three associations that came to mind before our trip to Mauritius.

Table of Contents

• All sights on a map
• Sights in the north
• Sights in Port Louis
• Sights in the south and southwest
• Sights in the east
• Small dream islands
• How to explore the sights?

And all three points are definitely true, but those aren’t the only things to do!

Mauritius also has a lot of fascinating sights to offer.

We really weren’t aware of that before our trip. Spectacular waterfalls, breathtaking landscapes, temples, churches, and lively markets – Mauritius has it all.

We spent a whole week on the island with a rental car and in this post, we’ll show you our highlights and the must-see sights in Mauritius.

All Mauritius sights on a map

We’ve sorted the sights in Mauritius by region so you can can a good idea which places you can see in a day.

The sights in the north of the island are grey on the map, the sights in the south and southwest of the island are turquoise, and the ones in the east are red.

Must-see sights in the north of Mauritius

Let’s start in the north of the island, which has some very exciting sights to offer.

Cap Malheureux

Cap Malheureux is a small town in the extreme north of Mauritius. Here you’ll find one of the most popular photo subjects on the island: the church Notre Dame Auxiliatrice with its characteristic red roof.

Fun fact: Cap Malheureux means Cape of Misfortune. It’s not completely clear where the name comes from. The most likely theory is that the French gave the cape its name because they were defeated there in a battle with the British.

Maheswarnath Mandir Temple

About half of the Mauritian population are Hindus, which is why there are several colorful Hindu temples on the island.

The oldest and largest of these temples is located in the north-west of Mauritius in Triolet. Although the temple was one of our highlights, we were completely alone there.

Tourists rarely seem to venture out there. But it’s definitely worthwhile because the temple is really very pretty and you can take some excellent pictures.

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

The town of Pamplemousses is home to one of the most important and most-visited sights in Mauritius: the botanical garden. Its full name is quite a mouthful – Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden – but it’s generally known as Pamplemousses Botanical Garden.

The pond with the giant water lilies is particularly impressive, as is the nearby pond full of lotus flowers. There’s also a population of giant turtles in the botanical garden.

200 MUR (4.40 euros)

To the Website

The island’s capital Port Louis is also located in the northeast of the island, so we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention it here.

But there’s so much to see in Port Louis that we’ve dedicated an entire section to it.

South of Port Louis is the colonial mansion Eureka. British nobles used to reside here, and today, the well-preserved mansion houses a museum that gives you a great insight into the life of the privileged people of the time.

Behind the house, a rocky trail leads downhill leading to a small waterfall. The waterfall isn’t particularly spectacular, so you can save yourself the trip.

300 MUR (6.60 euros)

Day tour through the north of Mauritius

You can easily see all these sights in one day with a rental car. You’ll even have some extra time to spend at the beautiful beach of Trou-aux-Biches, which is very close to the Hindu temple.

As an alternative to the rental, you can explore the north in a private day tour with a driver. During this tour, you’ll not only discover the highlights in the north, but will also visit the capital Port Louis. Since this is a private tour, you can customize the itinerary to suit your needs.

North of Mauritius: Private day tour

Sights and attractions in the capital Port Louis

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius. At first sight, the city isn’t particularly attractive, as only a few old buildings are preserved. Nevertheless, the city still has some interesting sights to offer.

Aapravasi Ghat

Aapravasi Ghat, next to Le Morne Brabant Mountain, is the only Unesco World Heritage site in Mauritius and is as connected to the history of the country as hardly any other place on the island.

More than half a million workers arrived at Aapravasi Ghat between 1849 and 1923 to work for the British on the sugar plantations.

A large percentage of the Mauritian population are descendants of the workers, many of whom came from India and often worked and lived under miserable conditions.

Only a few foundation walls of the building complex by the port are still standing today. In addition, there’s a very interesting exhibition with information about the history of the workers.

Closed on sunday

Central Market of Port Louis

The Central Market in Port Louis is the central trading point for the entire country. Various market halls offer everything the local population needs: fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, textiles.

A visit is absolutely worthwhile even though the market halls that sell meat may take some getting used to.

Fort Adelaide

The Fort Adelaide was once built by the English and still towers over Port Louis on a hill. The building itself is relatively unspectacular, only a few cannons are left to remind you of its former purpose.

But the great view that extends over the entire city is definitely worth the climb. The walk to the top takes about 15 to 20 minutes on foot. That can be pretty exhausting in the noontime heat during peak season.

Closed on saturday and sunday

Champ de Mars Racecourse

Champ de Mars is the world’s second-oldest horse race track. Horse races have been held here since 1812. The track has a length of 1300 meters and looks impressive even when there’s no race going on.

But things really heat up every Saturday from May to November when thousands of locals make their way to the race track and try their luck betting. There are 8 races on every race day. It starts at 12:30 pm and the last race is at 5 pm.

Caudan Waterfront and the Blue Penny Museum

The Caudan Waterfront is the modern shopping district of Port Louis. Sounds boring at first, but it’s actually pretty nice. Having opened in 1996, the area is – as the name suggests – right on the water and you can enjoy a nice a little stroll there and have something to eat and drink.

The grounds of the Caudan Waterfront are also home to the Blue Penny Museum. The exhibition is mainly about the history of the island, but most visitors come here because of what is probably the most famous stamp in the world: the Blue Mauritius!

The Blue Mauritius (Blue Penny) can be seen here, as is the almost equally valuable Red Mauritius (Red Penny).

245 MUR (5.40 euros)

Temples, churches, and mosques in Port Louis

As the capital, Port Louis is also the cultural and religious center of the country. You’ll find several places of worship for the different religions in Port Louis.

The Chinese Nam Sun Tin How Temple right next to the racetrack, the Jummah Mosque near the Central Market, and the Cathedral of Port Louis, halfway between the temple and the mosque, are all very worthwhile.

Day tour through Port Louis

We visited all the sights in Port Louis one day. We definitely don’t recommend driving to Port Louis in a rental. Parking is scarce and driving in the city isn’t much fun.

You can easily get to Port Louis from anywhere on the island by bus. There are two large bus stations in Port Louis. At Immigration Square, right next to the Central Market, the buses depart for the north; at Victoria Square about 800 meters to the west, the buses depart for the south.

You can easily get to all the famous sights on foot once you’re in town.

The guided tour through the north we recommended above also includes all the main attractions of Port Louis if you don’t want to explore the city on your own.

Must-see sights in the south and southwest of Mauritius

The southwest of Mauritius probably has the largest collection of must-see sights on the island.

Seven Colored Earths and Chamarel Waterfall

The Seven Colored Earths are a very special natural phenomenon. The wavy ground of the Seven Colored Earths shimmers in different colors and is a popular photo subject. The colors really come out in the late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky.

On the way to the Seven Colored Earths, you’ll also pass the Chamarel Waterfall. The waterfall is quite narrow, but drops down more than 90 meters.

You have to pay an admission fee at the entrance for the entire Chamarel plain.

from 500 MUR (11 euros)

Black River Gorges National Park

Just behind Chamarel is the green lung of Mauritius: the Black River Gorges National Park.

The national park offers several signposted hiking trails where you can experience a true contrast to the beach: green forests, wild monkeys, numerous waterfalls, and breathtaking views.

We’re not really that big on hiking and unfortunately didn’t have that much time, so we only drove through the national park with the car. But that’s also worthwhile, as you can stop at some of the most beautiful viewpoints.

Ganga Talao / Grand Bassin

Ganga Talao or Grand Bassin is located at the eastern end of the Black River Gorges National Park. Around the lake are several Hindu statues and in fact Ganga Talao is the most important Hindu pilgrimage site outside of India.

A four-lane road leads to Ganga Talao, which was completely oversized for the time we were there, because there were only a handful of pilgrims by the lake besides us.

But the wide streets are there for a reason: Every year at the end of February/beginning of March, the Maha Shivaratree Festival takes place at Ganga Talao and more than 500,000 white-clad Hindus flock to the lake.

Bois Cheri tea plantation and tea route

A few kilometers further east from Ganga Talao is the tea plantation Bois Cheri. We’d only ever previously seen tea plantations on Sri Lanka , so we were surprised to find them in Mauritius.

In Bois Cheri, not only can you take a look at the green plantations, but you can also visit the tea factory and have the entire manufacturing process explained to you.

The restaurant has the best views. Access to the restaurant costs 200 MUR, but it’ll be credited towards your food and drink order.

However, Bois Cheri is just one stop on the so-called ‘Tea Route’. It leads from the Domaine des Aubineaux via Bois Cheri to Saint Aubin.

from 200 MUR (4.40 euros)

Trou aux Cerfs

The Trou aux Cerfs is a 650-meter high volcano in the interior of the island of Mauritius. The volcano has been dormant for a long time and there’s a small lake in the crater.

There’s a wide path leading around the crater that gives you a great view of the island in all directions. The volcano itself isn’t that spectacular, but for the view is worth the drive to the Trou aux Cerfs.

Le Morne and Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant is a 556-meter high mountain in the extreme southwest of the island. The mountain is one of two World Heritage Sites in Mauritius.

It used to be a refuge for slaves who fled the French on Mauritius. At the foot of Le Morne Brabant, the Slave Route Monument recalls the suffering of the slaves.

The mountain is now privately owned, so ascending it isn’t that simple. But it looks very impressive from the bottom too.

The beach of Le Morne, which is perhaps even the most beautiful beach in Mauritius, is also worth seeing.

Day tours through the southwest of Mauritius

The southwest of Mauritius is packed with highlights. It’s hardly possible to visit all the sights presented in one day. So you’d be better off splitting the southwest into two day trips.

All must-see sights can be easily explored with a rental car or alternatively as part of guided tours.

Tour tip : A really recommended scenic day tour through the wild southwest that you can book online. You’ll be able to explore most of the highlights in the area with a guide in one day.

Must-see sights in the east of Mauritius

The east coast of Mauritius features some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, e.g. the long Belle Mare Beach. And where there are beautiful beaches, great hotels aren’t far behind. That’s why some of the most luxurious hotels in Mauritius are located in the east.

In addition, the east also has some interesting sights to offer.

Market in Center de Flacq

Center de Flacq is one of the larger towns in the east of Mauritius. The town has strong Indian influences. Twice a week, a large market is held in Centre de Flacq, which mainly attracts the local population.

Market days are on Wednesdays and Sundays, with Sunday being the most important day. Unfortunately, it was raining in torrents during our visit on a Wednesday, so it was pretty deserted.

Vallée de Ferney

The Vallée de Ferney is a large nature reserve in the east of the island. Guided hikes and boat trips are offered there.

In addition, the area around the Vallée de Ferney features extensive sugar plantations and you can watch the tractors being loaded with sugar cane.

Mahebourg and the Cavendish Bridge

Mahebourg in the south east of Mauritius is one of the prettiest towns on the island and is great for taking a little walk. The 100-year-old Cavendish Bridge offers a nice view of the town.

Day tour through the east

Since there aren’t that many must-see sights in the east, there are hardly any guided tours in this region. We explored the area with our own rental. The coastal road is just a dream!

You can also rent a car with your own local chauffeur. This way you can plan your trip according to your preferences. And you still get great insider tips from your driver.

More information on the day tour with chauffeur/guide

Small dream islands off the coast of Mauritius

Around Mauritius there are some small islands which are often even more beautiful than the main island itself. But there aren’t really any sights there except for endless sandy beaches and turquoise water.

Just stopping on one of the islands for a quick look would be a wasted opportunity. The best thing to do is to spend a whole day there just doing nothing, relaxing, and daydreaming.

Ile aux Cerfs

The Ile aux Cerfs is located off the east coast of Mauritius and is a true island paradise. Around the island you’ll find some of the most beautiful sandy beaches that Mauritius has to offer.

In the off-season, the Ile aux Cerfs is mostly empty. During peak season, however, it can get pretty crowded around the boat dock, which also has two restaurants. But even then, the island is large enough to find a lonely spot. Just carry on walking for a few hundred meters and leave the hustle and bustle behind you.

Boats to the Ile aux Cerfs leave from Trou d’Eau Douce. Unfortunately there’s no regular ferry, only private charter boats. It takes a lot of bargaining skills and strong nerves to negotiate a reasonable price for the crossing.

A good price is 400 to 500 MUR, but you’ll often be quoted prices of up to 1,000 MUR.

It’s more convenient and stress-free to book the crossing beforehand. You’ll be picked up from the hotel, taken to the island, and then driven home again at the end of the day.

It’s just a better start to the day if you don’t have to spend ages haggling.

To the 6-hour Ile aux Cerfs tour with lunch

A catamaran ride is an even cooler experience. This tour is a bit more exclusive and includes a barbecue on board and all drinks.

To the day tour catamaran trip to the Île aux Cerfs

Ile aux Benitiers and the Crystal Rock

The Ile aux Benitiers is in the southwest. The island is a whole lot smaller than the Ile aux Cerfs, but at least just as heavenly.

The water by the long sandy beach is the most turquoise you could possible imagine. The so-called Crystal Rock jutting out of the water just off the island’s coast is a great subject for some amazing photos.

Tours to the Ile aux Benitiers are usually offered in conjunction with a dolphin watching trip. We went on one and actually saw a lot of dolphins.

But many boatmen really chase the poor things to exhaustion, which leaves a sour taste. Dolswim is a company with a reputation of having a less aggressive approach to dolphin-watching.

To the dolphins and Ile aux Benitiers day tour

Ile des Deux Cocos

The Ile aux Cerfs and the Ile aux Benitiers are no longer hidden gems anymore. Of course the two islands are still a dream, but it can get pretty full there during peak season.

But Mauritius wouldn’t be Mauritius if it didn’t have some more small, hardly-visited islands up its sleeve. One of these is the Ile de Deux Cocos. The small private island is located in the southeast of Mauritius and guarantees fantastic hours without masses of tourists.

Of course you can also book trips to the Ile des Deux Cocos online, which include food and drink, a snorkeling tour, and a ride in a glass-bottom boat.

To the tour to the Ile des Deux Cocos

How to explore the sights in Mauritius

Despite its many must-see sights, Mauritius isn’t very large. Even for the longest route from the far north to the deep south you don’t need more than 2 hours by car.

There are three options to explore the sights: by rental car, with public buses, and with a private driver.

Exploring Mauritius by car

We explored Mauritius with a rental car. That’s certainly the most flexible option, since you are so completely free to plan your day and can also add unscheduled stops as you wish.

Traffic is on the left-hand side in Mauritius, which may be a bit unfamiliar to many European drivers. We recommend taking a car with an automatic transmission, so you can fully concentrate on the road.

After a while you start getting used to driving on the left, and from the second day onwards we didn’t turn on the windscreen wiper every time we wanted to use our turn signal. Because all the controls are flipped too.

Traffic on Mauritius is generally pretty leisurely and outside of the cities it’s never really hectic or crowded.

You can get a rental car starting at 30-40 euros per day.

Exploring Mauritius with public buses

Mauritius has an extensive network of buses, which you can use to reach almost all the sights. Buses are also cheap, there are hardly any rides that cost more than 30 MUR (0.65 euros).

However, you have to allow much more time for exploring the sights by bus and of course you’re less flexible than by car.

Exploring Mauritius with a private driver

If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can hire a private driver on Mauritius. That usually isn’t much more expensive than renting a car to drive yourself, and that way you’ll have someone to keep you company and tell you something about Mauritius.

There are taxi drivers waiting for customers in front of each hotel and you can negotiate the price for a day and route right there on the spot. If you want to spare yourself the trouble of haggling for the price, you can book your tour online in advance:  a driver for a day .

What are your favorite Mauritius sights?

As you can see, Mauritius has a lot more to offer than just beach and sea. We were surprised how varied the island is. Have you ever been to Mauritius? Which sight impressed you the most? Is there anything we’ve forgotten? Please let us know in the comments below!

Big thanks to Tourism Mauritus for all their support on our trip to Mauritius!

Endless variety is the key to Mauritius’ charm. A favorite haunt of European tourists, this African island in the midst of the Indian Ocean is most accessible through flights transferring in from Paris, Johannesburg or Dubai. Its predominantly Indian inhabitants and time under Dutch, French and English rule lend Mauritius a distinct Creole flavor. While most Mauritians speak English, the tongue of choice is a Creole patois.

Venturing off the grounds of your resort quickly will yield rare treasures. Heading inland, striking mountain formations dominate the vista. Pieter Both, for instance, resembles a head perched on Mauritius’ second-highest peak, while Le Pouce near the packed capital of Port Louis looks strikingly like a thumb. Hiking and high adventure abounds, whether it be scaling Le Morne Brabant, trekking through the rainforest in the Black River Gorges, or zip lining across the multicolored landscape at Chamarel.

Speaking to a Mauritian on his travels, Mark Twain was once told, “Mauritius was made first and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius." Whether it’s rappelling down a waterfall or staying glued to a hammock, you’re sure to find your own slice of it here.

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The Perfect Itinerary For Mauritius & Travel Guide

May 12, 2019 by Bino 4 Comments

Compared to many of the other small island nations scattered around the Indian Ocean, Mauritius offers so much more than your typical sunbathing and beaches. Within its 2,040 square kilometers; you’ll find plenty of mountain peaks, jungles and awesome natural land formations to keep you busy for days. This is on top of the cultural and historic sights that dot its small towns and cities. Most people make the mistake of coming to Mauritius for a short trip – like during a weekend – only to realize that they’ve barely scratched the surface of the country by the time they leave. This itinerary covers Mauritius within 5 days which I think is the minimum number of days needed in order to really see what the island has to offer.

Table of Contents

Getting Around Mauritius

For a relatively small island, it is surprisingly difficult to get around by public transport in Mauritius. Most of the developed areas are in the northwest around Port Louis and its suburbs where a metro system is in the works. Elsewhere, you really need a private car to get around the mountains, extinct volcanoes, plantations and other natural attractions. You can rent a private car with driver here to take you anywhere around the island for 4 or 8 hours.

Day 1 – Black River Gorges & Chamarel

grand bassin

Rent a car and drive towards the southern part of Mauritius along Bois Cheri Road and Grand Bassin Road heading to the direction of Black River Gorges. Along the way, you will pass by some stunning tea plantations. Stop by the Bois Cheri Tea Factory and Museum  (admission: MUR 400 / MUR 700 with food) to sip on some fine teas before you continue on your journey. You will also pass by the Grand Bassin , one of the most sacred sites in the island. A background on how the lake turned sacred – in 1972 a Hindu priest brought water from the Ganges River and poured it into the lake. Come at any time in the day and you will see plenty of devotees praying in the lakeside temple. There is a hill with the Hanuman Temple on top that you can climb for some fine views of the lake.

Continue westward and you’ll reach the Black Rives Gorges National Park . Temperatures are slightly lower here which makes for a nice contrast to the sweltering heat in the lowlands. Those who love the outdoors can easily spend an entire day (or two) hiking around the several peaks in the area. Casual visitors tend to frequent the Alexandra Falls as well as the majestic viewpoint of the Black River Gorges.

the food in restaurant le chamarel

It will be noon by the time you finish and you’ll find plenty of restaurants further west promising views of the sea. One that I would recommend is the Restaurant Le Chamarel . Food is fresh and they even have a set menu of Mauritian dishes but the main reason for coming here is for the unmatched views. The restaurant itself sits on a cliff and you will even see the Le Morne Brabant (UNESCO World Heritage Site) in the distance.

seven coloured earths

In the afternoon, continue your sightseeing by visiting the Seven-Colored Earths (admission: MUR 200 adult/ MUR 100 child, credit cards accepted). The quirky land formation sits within a private property so you will need to pay admission to enter. The entrance fee also includes access to a view point of Chamarel Waterfall as well as some tortoise pens. The area is best visited during the dry season when the various shades of red, purple and brown and more prominent. If you come just after the rain, the Seven-Colored Earths will look more muddy than anything else. Nearby, the Rhumerie de Chamarel (admission: MUR 350 including tasting) shows how rum is made while making use of recyclable products.

If time permits, spend a few hours at the La Vallee des Couleurs before heading back to your resort/hotel. This is a fun stop especially if you are visiting with family. Recreational activities such as quad-biking, fishing, ziplines and more await.

Visiting Seychelles as well? Check out this comparison between Mauritius and Seychelles

Day 2 – ile aux  cerfs or ile aux aigrettes.

Spend at least a day checking one of the outlying islands of Mauritius. The most popular for excursions are Ile aux Cerfs with its amazing beaches and turquoise lagoons or Ile aux Aigrettes for those wishing to glimpse some rare wildlife such as the Pink Pigeon and the Mauritius Fody. The latter is the last place in Mauritius where you can see wildlife just as the first explorers did centuries ago. Visits are possible through tours pre-booked with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation . Alternatively, you can also book a catamaran tour to the island inclusive of lunch here .

Do note that Ile aux Aigrettes is a nature reserve so you won’t find restaurants or beach huts here. If some rest and relaxation is what you are after, Ile aux Cerfs is more suitable. You can even find a couple of restaurants and bars here. It is also possible to play golf if you wish.

Day 3 – Port Louis & The North

maison eureka

This day is devoted to discovering Mauritius’ cultural side. Drive up north on the main highway towards the direction of Port Louis. Make a stop at Trou aux Cerfs in Curepipe to check out the extint volcanic crater. Afterwards, head out to Maison Eureka  (admission: MUR 300) to soak in the genteel life and creole culture in the old plantation mansion. The museum also has an inhouse restaurant which serves up some interesting creole dishes and do make the short hike down the hill to see the nearby waterfall.

chinatown in port louis

From here, it’s a short drive to Port Louis , the capital. The town is compact but relatively busy. There are enough sights to keep you occupied for a couple of hours including the Aapravasi Ghat (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) – a transit point for slaves back in the day before they were transported to various points of the British Empire, Jummah Mosque with its striking blend of Indian, Creole and Islamic architecture, the bustling  Central Market, Blue Penny Museum  with its display of one of the world’s rarest stamps and the Chinatown which has a host of shophouses built in the French style. For a bird’s eye view of the city, head up to Fort Adelaide to admire the skyline of Port Louis.

Head further north to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden in Pamplemousses to check out some exotic plant species, a colonial-era maison and the famous giant water lillies which ironically, were brought to Mauritius from overseas.

Day 4 – Mountain Climbing in Mauritius

Despite being a relatively small island, Mauritius is a popular spot for mountain climbing due to the ease of climbing several of its peaks and the relatively unusual mountain formations. Popular peaks to climb include Le Morne Brabant (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) where you can see the underwater waterfall from the peak or Le Pouce where you can see the jagged multi-peaks of the Moka Range from above. Dedicate at least a day for this endeavor in order to rest and recover after your climb.

Day 5 – Relaxing

A trip to Mauritius won’t be complete without spending a day just chilling in one of the seaside resorts. You will find plenty of the familiar brands such as Banyan Tree, St. Regis, Shangri-la and InterContinental but you don’t need to spend a huge sum to find the perfect beach spot here. Blue Bay which is located near the airport has some of the clearest waters in Mauritius. Staying in the relatively inexpensive Holiday Inn Mauritius Mon Tresor near the airport will give you free shuttle service and access to the hotel’s beach house which directly faces Blue Bay.

Where to change money in Mauritius: The airport offers competitive rates. Do note that the money changer that allows for USD to MUR conversion is located within the restricted arrivals area so do change some money before heading out to meet your driver at the airport. The money changer in the departures section can only change back to EUR or USD and not the other way around. Alternatively, you can also change money in the local banks though the branches are usually located in the cities and towns – tough if you are staying in a resort.

That being said, you can generally use credit cards in most establishments in Mauritius. The only exception is when paying for ground transport, admission to certain attractions or food from cheaper eateries which usually only take cash.

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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May 29, 2018 at 8:32 pm

The place looks amazing! I love the pictures!

June 17, 2019 at 8:59 pm

Hi, thanks for the very informative piece! I will be travelling to Mauritius as well and would like to know if it is possible to change SGD currency in Mauritius at all?

June 17, 2019 at 10:05 pm

Yes but the exchange rate is bad. Better bring EUR or USD.

March 4, 2020 at 3:26 pm

i want the cost of this PACKAGE

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Mauritius Travel Guide: Essential Facts and Information

Sylvain Grandadam/ Getty Images

An Indian Ocean island blessed with paradise beaches and lush rainforests, Mauritius is as relaxing or as adventurous as you want it to be. Luxury resorts promise days filled with sumptuous seafood, spa treatments and cocktails by the pool; while adrenaline junkies can sign up for an astonishing roster of activities ranging from scuba diving to 4x4 adventures and waterfall hikes. Mauritius is also a nature lover's paradise with its own cast of endemic mammal and bird species, while the influence of its French, Creole, Indian and Chinese residents is evident in its fragrant cuisine and colorful festivals. 

Mauritius is located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 500 miles/ 800 kilometers east of  Madagascar  and 125 miles/ 200 kilometers east of Réunion Island.

With a total land mass of 784 square miles/ 2,030 square kilometers, Mauritius is approximately 11 times the size of Washington, D.C. In addition to the main island, the country includes the Agalega Islands, the Cargados Carajos Shoals and Rodrigues Island. 

Capital City

The capital of Mauritius is Port Louis, located on the northwest coast. 

A CIA World Factbook estimate published in July 2017 put the population of Mauritius at just over 1.3 million. 

The official language of Mauritius is English, although it is spoken by less than 1% of the population. Instead the most widely spoken language is Creole, which accounts for 86.5% of the population. Other notable languages include Bhojpuri and French. 

Hindu is the most popular religion in Mauritius (it is practiced by 48.5% of Mauritians). Roman Catholicism and Islam also have a significant following, accounting for 26.3% and 17.3% of the population respectively. 

The country's official currency is the Mauritian rupee. For up-to-date exchange rates, use this online converter . 

Mauritius has a mild tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The rainy season runs from November to April and is the hottest, most humid time of year. The dry season runs from June to September and is relatively cool. October and May are shoulder months and see variable weather. The rainy season often brings cyclones to the Indian Ocean and Mauritius may be affected by high winds and heavy rain. Resorts and homes are built to withstand cyclone season, however. 

Mauritius is a rewarding destination all year round, but the dry winter months (June to September) traditionally offer the best weather with warm, clear days and pleasantly cool evenings. Because flooding and water run-off is also at a minimum, this time of year also offers the best visibility for scuba diving and snorkeling. 

Key Attractions

Located in the north of the island, the seaside resort town of Grand Baie is Mauritius' most popular tourist destination. It's famous for its upmarket shopping opportunities, its excellent seafood restaurants and its chic nightclubs. During the day, you can experience a wide range of watersports from scuba diving to deep sea fishing, while the breathtaking public beach at Trou-aux-Biches is a short drive away.

Île aux Aigrettes

A 26-hectare nature preserve located just off the main island's southeast coast, Île aux Aigrettes has remained largely unchanged over the centuries. It is one of the last sanctuaries for rare Mauritian wildlife including the giant Aldabra tortoise and the ornate day gecko. The island is also home to the pink pigeon and the Mauritian kestrel, both of which were brought back from the brink of extinction. 

Le Morne Brabant  

This astonishing basalt mountain in the southeast of the country stands 1,824 feet/ 556 meters tall and is recognized by UNESCO not only for its beauty but also for its cultural significance. During the 18th and early 19th centuries, escaped slaves sought shelter in the mountain's caves and it has become synonymous with their fight for freedom. Hike to the top for impressive views across the island. 

Those looking to explore the island's mountain interior should head to idyllic Chamarel, a picturesque village known for its rum, its authentic Mauritian restaurants and nearby natural wonders including the Seven Coloured Earths and Chamarel Waterfall. The village is also one of the gateways to Black River Gorges National Park which offers extensive walking trails through pristine highland forest.

Getting There

The main entry point for visitors to Mauritius is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), located southeast of Port Louis. Major airlines offering flights to Port Louis include Air Mauritius, Air France, British Airways and Emirates. Port Louis is usually the first port of call for cruise ships, too. Whether or not you require a visa depends on your nationality - see this  government website for a full list of visa-exempt countries. Visitors from the US, the UK, Australia and Canada may all visit without a visa. 

Medical Requirements

The CDC recommends that all visitors to Mauritius make sure their routine vaccines are up-to-date. Additional vaccines include hepatitis A and typhoid, while hepatitis B and rabies may be required depending on what you plan on doing while you're there. There is no risk of malaria in Mauritius. 

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19 Amazing Things to Do in Mauritius

Ready to discover the best things to do in Mauritius? Add these attractions to your bucket list and thank me later.

It’s no secret how much I love Mauritius. 

Tucked away in the stunning Indian Ocean, there’s pretty much everything to love about this lush island. 

Dramatic waterfalls thundering into verdant basins? Tick. Jaw-dropping beaches fringed by crystal waters glittering in the sun? Tick. De-frigging-licious cuisine? Tick, tick, tick. 

I’ve just returned from my second trip to Mauritius – what an adventure! From snorkelling with sea turtles to forays into deserted islands, it was nothing short of bliss. 

That’s all very well and good, but this isn’t about me, it’s about you – namely how to help you plan a bangin’ Mauritius trip. The first in a series of in-depth Mauritius travel guides, we’re going to take a jaunt through the island’s must-see spots and must-try activities to help you explore. 

Prepare yourself for vast natural wonders,  balmy sea waters, colourful marine life, and more.  Read on to discover the best things to do in Mauritius. 

Need a place to stay? Check out my full review of Outrigger Mauritius here. 

Top 5 Things to Do in Mauritius

Explore the seven coloured earth geopark.

If you were looking for the ultimate inspiration on what to do in Mauritius, this is it. The Seven-Coloured Earth Geopark is as gorgeous as it sounds. 

Picture wind-carved dunes in shades of vivid magenta, red, purple, yellow, blue, and orange surrounded by a ring of lush green vegetation: it’s a rainbow captured in the sand. 

But don’t even try to count the seven colours, because as the shades mix along their borders, you will find dozens of multi-hued variations. There are viewing decks on either side, so you can walk around to get all the best perspectives. 

Afterward, stroll to Tortoise Park alongside the kaleidoscopic dunes and check out some 150-year-old giant tortoises for some pretty epic selfies.  

Marvel at the Chamarel Waterfall

Not far from Seven Coloured Earth, you’ll find another of the best places to see in Mauritius: Chamarel Waterfall . It’s the highest single-drop waterfall on the island, about 100 metres from the ground. 

Listen, I’ll be honest: it’s no Niagra Falls. It’s rather on the skimpy side by comparison, but seeing it split and drop into the greenery-covered gorge is a sight to behold.  

It’s easy enough to reach the viewpoint by car, but for an extra special experience, why not hike to the base of the waterfall’s pool and opt for a swim in this tropical paradise? 

It’ll take you three hours to hike the round trip, and you’ll need to scramble over rocks and wade through rivers to reach it. But that honestly just makes it even more enticing. It’s one of the more adventurous things to do in Mauritius, but one of the most rewarding.

Top Tip : This eco-tour will take you to the waterfall pool for an experience like no other.

Swim With Sea Turtles

Not going to lie – I hate to play favourites when it comes to trip activities, but swimming with the sea turtles was a stone cold favourite from my most recent trip! 

Skimming over cerulean waters, we stopped near a small cluster of boats to plunge beneath the surface in search of the turtles. 

I was a bit unsure of whether we’d actually see anything because y’know… nature being a capricious beast and all that. 

Anyway, I won’t draw out the suspense – no sooner had I dropped beneath the surface and adjusted my goggles, did I see two of these graceful creatures gliding around in the waters just past my feet. 

There are two types of turtle that call Mauritius their home – the Hawksbill Turtle and the slightly larger Green Turtle. Top spots for seeing them include Pointe aux Piments in the north of the island and Bain Boeuf Public Beach. 

Top Tip: Don’t be misled by the disappointingly-named Turtle Bay – the turtles after which it was named in the 17th century have long left the bay. 

Spot the Underwater Waterfall

Mauritius might boast its fair share of waterfalls but, if you ask me, this is the most unusual offering. The Underwater waterfall is a wonder of nature, but it isn’t as dangerous as it appears, so don’t worry.

In fact, it isn’t a real waterfall at all, but a masterful illusion of sand and silt being constantly washed over an ocean shelf. The gentle underwater slope that suddenly drops an impressive 2.5 miles creates multiple shades of blue. 

The changes in colour plus the shape of the sands encourage the illusion that there’s a powerful waterfall beneath the crystal clear waters pouring endlessly into an abyss. Located by the Le Morne Peninsula, it’s one of the truly unique things to see in Mauritius.

Top Tip : You can only see the waterfall illusion from up high, so grab a ride on a helicopter or climb Le Morne for the best views. 

Spend a Day in Port Louis

How could you not visit the Capital of Mauritius while you’re there? Port Louis has something to offer everyone, whether it’s a quest for street food from African, Indian, Chinese, and European cuisine or high-end shopping at Caudan Waterfront. 

But there are other notable attractions, too. Visit the 19th-century Fort Adelaide for 360º views of Port Louis, or the Madurai Mariamman Temple embellished with intricate carvings, vibrant colours, and statues of Hindu Deities. 

Museums are also plentiful in the area – The Natural History Museum and Blue Penny Museum will have the knees of history buffs quaking with excitement.  

After you’ve seen it all (impossible, but you can try), relax beneath the banyan trees at Les Jardins de la Compagnie or enjoy a cocktail or three at one of the restaurants that line the waterfront.

Top Tip : This street food tour of Port Louis will blow your mind (and your tastebuds). 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Mauritius 

Indulge in a drink or two at chamarel rum distillery.

Set in a charming chalet, the Chamarel Rum Distillery (or Rhumerie de Chamarel) should be high on your Mauritius itinerary. And if it isn’t, it soon will be – I promise.

Take a guided tour of the distillery to learn about the rum-making process, and then get down to some rum-tasting business and enjoy all the flavours. 

After these boozy delights, stick around for lunch at the restaurant and enjoy the mellow feeling in your limbs from that alcoholic sugar-cane goodness. It’s one of the fun things to do in Mauritius, whether you’re a rum aficionado or a novice. And, by the end, everyone will be a pro.

Top Tip: This full-day tour of the Southwest includes a trip to Rhumerie de Chamarel.

Go Swimming with Dolphins 

Ever dreamt of swimming with a pod of dolphins? I mean, who hasn’t? Mauritius is the place to make it happen. 

Home to both Spinner Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins, opportunities for dolphin spotting and swimming abound across the island. 

You’ll need to do a bit of planning for this one (read: either book onto a group or private dolphin swimming tour). 

We hired a private guide, which meant that he was able to take us to just the right spots to find the playful creatures and we were able to move from location to location at our leisure. 

Top Tip : Book a private swim with dolphins on this tour

Head to Black River Gorges National Park

Black River Gorges is the biggest and (dare I say it?) most beautiful national park in Mauritius. It’s certainly one of the best places to go in Mauritius for a revitalising bask in nature. And, you should all know by now that I’m a little bit of a fiend for the outdoors.

Lush rainforests and sparkling-green hills are home to more than 300 species of plants, not to mention boars, birds, monkeys, deer, and giant fruit bats. Bring those hiking shoes and enjoy over 37 miles of hiking trails, with plenty of picnic areas to stop at and have a snack.

Make sure to see Alexandra Falls, Gorges Viewpoint, Macchabée Viewpoint, and — last but not least — Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, the highest mount in Mauritius. 

Top Tip : Take a trek through the park on this hiking tour to get up close and personal with flora and fauna. 

Flop and Drop on One of Mauritius’ Stunning Beaches 

I’ll bet that if I ask you to name the top five things that Mauritius is known for, its beaches will be in the number one spot. 

With good reason too – Mauritius boasts a surfeit of stunning beaches – the kind that make you want to flop, drop and worship mother nature in all her glory the moment you clap eyes on them. 

Top spots you shouldn’t miss include Flic en Flac Beach, Grand Baie, Le Morne, Tamarin and Trou Aux Biches. 

Wander Along the Caudan Waterfront

Located in Port Louis, this strip of tourist paradise deserves its own mention. It’s the oldest shopping centre in Mauritius and sits along the edge of the harbour in the city. 

It’s a lively place for locals and travellers, with boutique stores, hotels, a cinema, restaurants, and more. There’s also an arts and crafts market perfect for picking up unique souvenir trinkets, majestic fountains, and huge monuments. 

Take a stroll, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, and check out the popular umbrella-covered promenade that Instagrammers drool over (myself included). It’s practical and pretty — definitely something for the eyes to ogle if you’re wondering what to see in Mauritius. 

Top Tip : This dodo tour with lunch takes you on a walk through Port Louis and along the Caudan Waterfront.

Hike Le Morne Brabant

Rising 550 metres above the sea, Le Morne is an intimidating mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically, it’s famous for being a shelter for runaway slaves.

Nowadays, it’s a gorgeous scene that offers a somewhat challenging hike that’s worth the calf-numbing climb. It takes about two hours to reach the top, passing through lush trees, sand, and rocky terrain. 

Of all the Mauritius hikes, this one may be the most rewarding, if only for the view from the top. You can even see the underwater waterfall from here – reason alone to tackle the hill. I promise it’s worth it.

Top Tip : This guided sunrise hike up Le Morne is bound to amaze. Bring your camera.  

Embark On a Ile aux Cerfs Boat Trip

Mauritius is a large island with smaller islands surrounding it, including the haven that is Ile aux Cerfs. If you’re looking for things to do in Mauritius, island hopping isn’t a bad idea. 

In fact, it’s a pretty epic one.

Ile aux Cerfs is one of my favourite islands nearby – it boasts white sandy beaches with shallow turquoise waters and even a golf course designed by Bernhard Langer.

But don’t worry if you’re not a golfer. Instead, hit the waters of the lagoon and parasail, water ski, wakeboard, and race in speed boats for some adrenaline-pumping rushes. 

Top Tip : This full-day tour cruise to Ile aux Cerfs, including a BBQ lunch, is incredibly convenient. 

Take a Tour of Aapravasi Ghat

Built in 1849, Aapravasi Ghat was an immigration depot to receive indentured labourers after the abolition of slavery during the British-initiated “Great Experiment.” The immigrants mainly came from India but also from Madagascar, East Africa, China, and Southeast Asia to work the sugar cane fields. 

Today the gate still stands. And what stems from a horrible history has resulted in something wonderful in Mauritius – you can now enjoy an incredible mix of food culture on the islands. 

Thanks to its historical significance, the Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis has been a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006 and is one of the top places to visit in Mauritius.

Top Tip : Entrance is free, and you can book a free guided tour in advance. 

Stroll Around Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is just a short ride from Port Louis. Dating back to the 18th century, it’s the oldest botanical garden in the Indian Ocean, which is pretty impressive on its own, if you ask me.

If you’re looking for a bit of a respite from your Mauritian adventures, then this is one of the finest places to visit in Mauritius. Enjoy tropical trees and plants, giant palms, and even some giant inhabitants: giant tortoises roam freely, and huge bats sleep amongst the trees. 

The most popular giants in the park, though, are the giant water-lilies. There’s a pond full of them that every Instagrammer hunts down for an iconic pic. Whether you’re a social media maven or not, you won’t want to miss this sight. 

Top Tip : This full-day Instagram tour will take you to some of Mauritius’s most beautiful photographic hotspots, including the Botanical Gardens.

Go Snorkelling in the Tranquil Waters

The island is home to plenty of glorious marine life, making snorkelling an obvious choice for cool things to do in Mauritius. Tropical fish like white-spotted boxfish, blue-barred parrotfish, and striped moorish idol are all on display. 

The beaches of Flic en Flac and Trou Aux Biches have some sublime snorkelling sites with vibrant coral reefs. And if you go to Pointe Aux Piments, you might just spot sea turtles too. 

Blue Bay Marine Park is one of the most popular places to snorkel (and my favourite, in case you were wondering), as the water depth is only 5–6 metres, and the waters teem with angelfish, damselfish, clownfish, and parrotfish. 

Top Tip : This half-day snorkel tour in Blue Bay with a Creole lunch is sublime.

Unique Things to See & Do in Mauritius: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Admire the ganga talao.

Also known as the Grand Bassin, Ganga Talao is a sacred lake — the significance of which is comparable to the Ganges River in India. 

How? Well, in the 70s, a priest brought some water from the Ganges and mixed it with the waters of Ganga Talao, creating an irrevocable connection between them. 

It’s a crater lake with temples and large statues lining its shores. The most impressive is the Ganga Talao Hall, though you’ll find equally impressive statues of Lord Shiva and Mother Durga keeping watch over its entrance. 

The Statue of Shiva alone is a whopping 33 metres high, dwarfing you below.

Top Tip : This full-day tour stops by Grand Bassin. Be respectful, as this is a religious place sacred to people of many faiths.  

Head to Bois Cheri Tea Gardens and Factory

In need of an activity that’s a little bit more highbrow? Situated on La Route du Thé (Mauritius Tea Route), the Bois Cheri Tea Gardens are the largest and oldest tea plantation on the island. 

A trip here is one of the more unique things to do in Mauritius, but it’s worth the venture as you embark on a tea-making journey. 

Take the guided factory tour to learn about the process of making tea, from picking leaves to drying, flavouring, and packing them. To finish your visit, stop by the museum and then indulge in a tantalising tea tasting with the south of Mauritius laid out before you. 

Want to make the most of your trip? Take this delicious and informative tour of the tea and sugar plantations of Mauritius.

Browse Port Louis Central Market

Ready to discover authentic Indian culture? Head for the old Central Market at Port Louis. Enjoying its lively atmosphere with vibrant colours and hunger-inducing smells is one of the best free things to do in Mauritius – as long as you’re not tempted to buy anything, that is. 

Good luck with that! The stalls in this 18th-century market offer everything from spices and vegetables to home-style street food like Dholl Puri. Several stalls near the front even sell souvenirs like carved coconut shells and knick-knacks. 

The street-life scene here is a haven for photographers who live for this kind of authenticity. So whip out your camera and capture Mauritian life at its most vivid.

Top Tip : Haggling is a must in Mauritius. Start as low as 40% of the offered price and see what bargains you can get. Don’t be shy — it’s a local tradition, and sellers overprice accordingly as they expect to negotiate. 

Visit Saint Aubin 

Also called La Maison de la Vanille , Saint Aubin is a delightful destination and one of the top things to do in south Mauritius for those in the know. A beautiful colonial house from 1819, Saint Aubin is the most picturesque of the estates along the Tea Route. 

It’s now a restaurant and museum where you can find the Vanilla and Rum House. Expect rum tastings, a tropical spice garden, and a mini farm complete with a petting zoo — that’s all before I even mention the quad biking that’s available. 

You’ll adore this slice of rum-tinted heaven. 

Things to Do in Mauritius: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long to visit in mauritius .

Mauritius isn’t your standard 3–5 day trip. Instead, plan for 7–10 days so you can get in enough of the attractions and activities and find time to relax on the beach, too. This isn’t a holiday you want to rush, after all. 

Best Time to Visit Mauritius?

Mauritius only has two seasons: summer and winter. But the climate is typically mild, with pleasant swimming temperatures year-round. April to June is the best time to go in winter, and September to December is best to avoid peak crowds. 

Note that you’ll probably still experience that famous tropical humidity, especially in December when it begins to peak. 

Where Should I Stay in Mauritius? 

Outrigger mauritius beach resort (mid-range) .

I’ve personally stayed at Outrigger Mauritius and can guarantee that it’s a little piece of paradise with four pools and four restaurants for the choosing — not to mention ocean views from every room. 

A tennis court and fitness centre will cater to athletic travellers, while the Navasana Spa offers relaxation on a luxurious level. And don’t even get me started on the gorgeous decor!

Check Rates and Availability on Booking.com

The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa  (Luxury) 

For some indulgent luxury, the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa is just off the beach, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Rooms are air-conditioned and have patios or balconies to best enjoy the views, and the on-site restaurant is at your service. 

There are plenty of complimentary beach activities and water sports to keep you occupied, as well as two swimming pools, a fitness centre, and a spa. 

Recommended Tours in Mauritius 

• Mauritius: Full-Day Catamaran Cruise to the Northern Isles
• Mauritius: Private Tour of the South West with Lunch
• Mauritius: Wild South West Full-Day Tour
• Port Louis: Street Food Tour
• Mauritius: Le Morne Brabant Guided Sunrise Hike and Climb

Things to Do in Mauritius: Map

What to do in Mauritius: Read Next

• Outrigger Mauritius: The Full Review
• Visiting Chamarel Waterfall, Mauritius
• Brilliant Winter Sun Locations

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Plan Your Trip

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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1 week in Mauritius: Epic 7-8 Day Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 weeks in Mauritius: 14-15 Day Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Visit Mauritius: Top 21 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

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Mauritius Itinerary: 7 days, 10 days or 2 weeks + Local Tips

This ultimate Mauritius itinerary guide packed with insider tips from a local is exactly what you need to help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

Although Mauritius Island is just a tiny dot on the map, there are actually a lot of places to visit, from the popular attractions like Ile aux Cerfs Island, Chamarel, and Le Morne Brabant to lesser-known spots like Bras D’Eau National Park, Roches Noires Caves, and Corps de Garde mountain.

To help you plan your trip to Mauritius, I’m going to share my insider tips on how to create the best Mauritius itinerary.

So, whether you’re spending 7 days, 10 days, or 2 weeks in Mauritius, you’ll find all the information you need in this ultimate Mauritius itinerary guide.

Mauritius Travel Essentials

Best Tours & Excursions in Mauritius :

• Catamaran Cruise to the Northern Islands + Lunch
• Full-Day Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs + BBQ Lunch
• Guided tour of the Southwest (affordable private tour for up to 4 people)
• Mauritius Guided Street Food Tour
• Le Morne Brabant guided hiking tour

Best places to stay on Mauritius Island :

• Luxury: Paradise Cove and Trou aux Biches Beachcomber  
• Mid-Range: Preskil Island Resort and Tropical Attitude
• Budget: Talamba Blue

Planning a family trip? Find the best hotels in Mauritius for families here.

Planning a romantic getaway? Find the best adults-only hotels in Mauritius here.

The best way to explore Mauritius is by car!   Book your rental car here to get the best rates .

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Read more about Mauritius:

• 44 best things to do in Mauritius
• The best areas to stay on Mauritius Island
• Best kid-friendly resorts in Mauritius
• When to visit Mauritius: weather by month
• 12 tours and excursions to take in Mauritius

Table of Contents

How many days in Mauritius?

For those wanting to visit only the main tourist attractions like Grand Baie, Le Morne, Port Louis, Chamarel, and Ile aux Cerfs, I recommend staying at least one week in Mauritius.

If you’d like to do a lot of hiking and visit Rodrigues Island as well, then you’ll need a minimum of 10 days in Mauritius or up to 2 weeks in Mauritius.

Below is a suggested Mauritius itinerary for up to 2 weeks:

• South Mauritius : 2-4 days
• East Mauritius : 1-2 days
• North Mauritius : 2-4 days
• West Mauritius : 1-2 days
• Central Mauritius : 1-2 days
• Rodrigues Island : 3 days

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a personalized Mauritius itinerary or need someone to take care of the planning process for you, be sure to check out my Mauritius Travel Planning Service here .

How to get around Mauritius?

Renting a car.

One of the best ways to get around Mauritius is by car. Driving a car in Mauritius is fairly easy, plus you’ll have the freedom to visit Mauritius at your own pace and explore more off the beaten path.

Another reason why I recommend renting a car in Mauritius is that some attractions in the south aren’t easily accessible by bus, so having your own car is a must.

CHECK CAR RENTALS RATES IN MAURITIUS HERE

Related post: Driving in Mauritius: Importation information and tips

Hiring a Private Driver

The next best option is to hire a private driver and customize your own Mauritius itinerary. Hotel transfers are included in the price, plus your driver will act as a guide and show you around the attractions. You can choose to have an English, German, or French-speaking driver.

CHECK PRICE FOR A PRIVATE DRIVER IN MAURITIUS HERE

Public Transportation

If you’re visiting Mauritius on a budget or traveling mostly within the main tourist areas like Grand Baie, Port Louis, Flic en Flac, Trou D’Eau Douce, or Mahebourg, then you can easily get around by bus, metro, or shared taxis.

Depending on the distance covered, a bus ticket costs between Rs 17 and Rs 47 (about US$ 1) per trip while a metro ticket costs between Rs 35 and Rs 55 (about US$ 1) per trip. Shared taxis cost on average Rs 30-60 per person.

Tip : You can check out  this website  for all the bus routes in Mauritius. 

Related post: How to travel around Mauritius?

Suggested Mauritius Itinerary

South mauritius: 2-4 days.

I recommend starting your Mauritius itinerary in the south, more specifically in the region of Pointe D’Esny or Blue Bay since the airport is located only about a 15-minute drive away.

The south of Mauritius features some of the most unique natural attractions and many beautiful beaches. It’s also home to Blue Bay marine park which is great for snorkeling.

Tip : If you don’t have a rental car, this day tour of Mauritius south will take you to all the main highlights of this region, including Chamarel, Grand Bassin, Black River Gorges National Park, and more.

CHECK PRICE FOR A SOUTH MAURITIUS TOUR + LUNCH

Below are some of the top attractions to visit in South Mauritius:

Mahebourg Village and Blue Bay

The small fishing village of Mahebourg is a great place to visit during your Mauritius itinerary. From strolling along the waterfront to visiting the Historical Naval Museum,  hiking Lion mountain or going on a  food tour , you’ll find a lot do to in Mahebourg.

There are a few beaches nearby that are worth visiting. Some of them include Pointe D’Esny and Blue Bay. You can also go on a snorkeling trip at Blue Bay marine park or an island hopping tour to Ile aux Aigrettes, Lighthouse Island, Ile de la Passe and Ile aux Cerfs.

CHECK PRICE FOR SNORKELING TOUR OF BLUE BAY MARINE PARK

CHECK PRICE FOR A SOUTHEAST ISLAND HOPPING TOUR

Read more: 12 best excursions in Mauritius

Ile aux Benitiers and Crystal Rock

Ile aux Benitiers is a small uninhabited island located on the southwest coast. Not too far away is the iconic Crystal Rock, one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Mauritius.

The best way to visit is to take a boat tour which will allow you to swim with dolphins. The tour also includes snorkeling at Crystal Rock and a BBQ lunch.

CHECK PRICE FOR A TOUR OF ILE AUX BENITIERS AND DOLPHIN

Thanks to its great selection of hotels, beaches, hiking trails, and the world-famous underwater waterfall, the village of Le Morne is a must-visit on any Mauritius itinerary.

Spend some time on the white-sand beach or hike to the summit of Le Morne Brabant for one of the most incredible panoramic views. The hike requires a moderate level of fitness, so make sure to hire a local guide if you don’t feel comfortable hiking on your own.

CHECK PRICE FOR A GUIDED HIKE OF LE MORNE BRABANT

Related post: Le Morne Brabant hiking guide

Gris Gris Beach

Admire the giant waves crashing against the cliffs at Gris Gris, one of the most popular beaches in the south. While you can’t swim here, you can instead take a stroll along the beach, explore the beach caves, or swim in the natural pools and waterfalls found nearby.

You can either visit on your own or go on a guided hike to explore the beach and waterfalls.

CHECK PRICE FOR A GUIDED HIKE OF GRIS GRIS BEACH

Related post: Guide to visiting Gris Gris Mauritius

Eau Bleue Waterfall

Want to swim in the clearest water in Mauritius? Then make sure to visit Eau Bleue waterfalls! The hike to the waterfalls is easy, and thus ideal for all fitness levels.

Related post: Guide to visiting Eau Bleue Waterfalls

Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Colored Earth

Plunging from nearly 100 meters, Chamarel waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Mauritius. There are two viewpoints from which you can admire the waterfall or you can book a guided hike for a closer look. While you’re there, you can also visit the colorful sand dunes at the Seven Colored Earth geopark.

Note that to visit both the waterfall and Seven Colored Earth, you need to  buy an entrance ticket.

CLICK HERE TO BUY ENTRANCE TICKETS

Related post: Guide to visiting Chamarel Village

La Vallée de Ferney

Another attraction worth adding to your Mauritius itinerary is La Vallée de Ferney, home to rare endemic plants. The hike is very easy but you also have the option to hire a guide if you want to learn more about the nature reserve.

Black River Gorges National Park

With some of the best hiking trails in Mauritius , the  Black River Gorges NP  is a must-visit for hikers or those who love being in nature. The most popular spots are Gorges viewpoint and Alexandra Falls viewpoint, both of which don’t require any hiking at all.

If you want to do some hiking, I recommend Cascades 500 Pieds , Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, Macchabée viewpoint and Piton Savanne .

CHECK PRICE FOR A GUIDED HIKE OF BLACK RIVER GORGES

Related post: Guide to visiting Black River Gorges

Grand Bassin

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Grand Bassin (or Ganga Talao) is an important pilgrimage site for the Hindus of Mauritius. This volcanic crater is filled with water and is surrounded by Hindu temples and statues of Hindu deities.

For more details about each attraction mentioned above and more, be sure to read my ultimate guide to visiting South Mauritius .

Where to stay in South Mauritius:

Luxury : Dinarobin Beachcomber  is a luxury hotel located right on Le Morne beach with a magnificent view of Le Morne mountain in the backdrop. If you want some peace and quiet, you can stay in their adults-only section. Family suites are also available if you’re traveling with children. Check latest price here

Mid-range : Preskil Island Resort  is a beachfront property located on the southeast coast. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to be close to the airport. Blue Bay beach and the marine park are also located not too far away. Check latest price here

Budget : Talamba Blue  is a cheap but really nice apartment with a kitchen. Located within walking distance of Blue Bay beach, it’s ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends. Free breakfast is included in the room rate. Check latest price here

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN SOUTH MAURITIUS

Related post: Best resorts in Mauritius for families

East Mauritius: 1-2 days

The east coast is more chill and quiet compared to other regions in Mauritius. It’s particularly popular among couples and honeymooners but you can also find some family-friendly hotels here as well.

If you’re spending 7 days in Mauritius, I would recommend only one day in the east to visit Ile aux Cerfs.

Alternatively, if you have 10 days in Mauritius or 2 weeks in Mauritius, you can add an extra day to explore the village of Trou D’Eau Douce or Flacq, swim at Belle Mare beach, or go on a hike at Bras D’Eau National Park.

Below are some of the top attractions to visit in East Mauritius :

Ile aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cerfs is a small private island located off the east coast of Mauritius. With beautiful white-sand beaches and loads of water activities like snorkeling and parasailing, it’s a must-visit for beach lovers.

Boat tours to Ile aux Cerfs leave from either Trou D’Eau Douce (east) or Pointe Jerome (southeast). You can choose to go on a catamaran cruise or speedboat tour , the latter being slightly more expensive.

I recommend visiting as part of a tour since you’ll be able to visit GRSE waterfall as well. A delicious BBQ lunch and drinks are also included in the tour price.

CHECK PRICE FOR A TOUR OF ILE AUX CERFS

Related post: How to plan a day trip to Ile aux Cerfs

Flacq Market

This is one of the biggest markets in Mauritius. It’s packed with vendors selling vegetables, fruits, clothes, and souvenirs. This is the place to go if you want to sample some tasty Mauritian street food . Make sure to visit on a Wednesday or Sunday when the market is more lively.

Related post: 30 foods to try in Mauritius

Belle Mare Beach

Belle Mare Beach is one of the longest  beaches in Mauritius so it never feels too crowded. There’s plenty of shade to relax or you can swim and snorkel in the lagoon to find some colorful fish. Make sure to bring a picnic lunch as there aren’t many restaurants nearby.

Related post: The best beaches in Mauritius

Bras D’Eau National Park

Bras D’Eau National Park is a great place to visit for hikers and nature lovers. It’s smaller and less popular than Black River Gorges NP but still features some beautiful hiking trails, most of which are fairly easy and flat.

For more details about each attraction mentioned above and more, be sure to read my ultimate guide to visiting East Mauritius .

Where to stay in East Mauritius:

Luxury : Constance Belle Mare is located on a private section of Belle Mare beach. It features 7 restaurants, 6 bars, and 4 swimming pools. If you’re traveling as a family or group of friends, you can book the private pool villa which can accommodate up to 4 adults and 2 children. Check latest price here

Mid-range : Solana Beach Hotel is also located on Belle Mare beach with every single room facing the ocean. I had some of the most delicious food there so I highly recommend their all-inclusive option. Alternatively, if you prefer to eat somewhere else, there’s a restaurant next to the hotel. Check latest price here

Budget : La Koquillishe is a budget hotel located in the village of Trou D’Eau Douce, within walking distance of the beach and restaurants. If you’re planning to take a day trip to Ile aux Cerfs, this would be the ideal place to stay since it’s located close to the embarkation point. Check latest price here

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN EAST MAURITIUS

North Mauritius: 2-4 days

The next stop on your Mauritius itinerary is the north. This is one of the most popular tourist spots and for a good reason. The beaches are dreamy, the islands are gorgeous and there are lots of facilities, from budget to luxury hotels, restaurants, shops, supermarkets, bars, and nightclubs.

Below are some of the top attractions to visit in North Mauritius :

Day trip to the Northern Islands

One of the most popular things to do in the north is to go on an island hopping tour to Coin de Mire (Gunner’s Quoin), Flat Island, and Gabriel Island.

You can book a catamaran cruise and spend the whole day swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach. Snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks are included in the tour price.

CHECK PRICE FOR A NORTHERN ISLANDS CATAMARAN CRUISE

With beautiful white-sand beaches, hotels ranging from budget to luxury, restaurants, shopping malls, local markets, and vibrant nightlife, Grand Baie is one of the most popular tourist spots in Mauritius.

Related post: Where to eat in Grand Baie Mauritius

Port Louis is the capital city of Mauritius and a must-visit whether you’re a food lover, history lover, or shopping addict.

The city is filled with colorful street arts (find out how to find the street arts in Port Louis here ), shopping malls, local markets as well as historical sites like Fort Adelaide (Citadel) and Aapravasi Ghat.

Some of the top things to see in Port Louis include the Central Market, Chinatown, and Caudan Waterfront. You can also go on a  street food tour  with a local guide to learn about the best local food spots in the city!

CHECK PRICE FOR A PORT LOUIS FOOD TOUR

Related post: Guide to visiting Port Louis

Pamplemousses Garden

Another popular place to visit during a Mauritius itinerary is Pamplemousses Botanical Garden (also known as SSR Botanical Garden). The garden houses a variety of plants and flowers, including Baobabs and giant water lilies. It’s a great place to spend a couple of hours for a picnic or a relaxing stroll.

Trou aux Biches

Fine white sand, crystal-clear water, and rows of coconut trees are what make Trou aux Biches one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The water is calm and shallow making it ideal for swimming, especially for kids.

La Cuvette Beach

La Cuvette is a beautiful white-sand beach located about a 5-minute drive from Grand Baie. The water is crystal-clear and filled with fish! The beach is quite small, so make sure to get there early to get a spot in the shade.

There are a couple of food stalls near the beach or you can bring your own lunch and have a little picnic right on the beach.

Roches Noires Caves

If you’re looking for a less touristy attraction to add to your Mauritius itinerary, then you should definitely visit the Roches Noires Caves. Most people refer to them as caves, they are in fact lava tubes that were formed during a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. 

You can visit on your own or hire a guide to explore the bigger caves. Just make sure to bring a flashlight and to wear closed-toe shoes.

For more details about each attraction mentioned above and more, be sure to read my ultimate guide to visiting North Mauritius .

Where to stay in North Mauritius:

Luxury : Trou aux Biches Beachcomber is a luxury hotel located on Mauritius’ most beautiful beach. Swim in one of its many swimming pools, eat delicious local or international dishes at the restaurant, and have fun with all the free water activities like snorkeling, water-skiing, and glass-bottom boat cruise. There are also lots of restaurants and a supermarket near the resort. Check latest price here

Mid-range : Coin de Mire Attitude is located near a small quiet beach in Bain Boeuf. The rooms are spacious and the balcony offers a nice view of the ocean. A complimentary breakfast is included in the price. Check latest price here

Budget : Azure Beach Boutique Hotel is a great place to stay if you’re on a budget. The location is great, within walking distance of all the main attractions in the north, restaurants, and supermarkets. Free breakfast is served every day. Check latest price here

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN NORTH MAURITIUS

West Mauritius: 1-2 days

The west coast has many beautiful beaches and just like the north is very tourist friendly with a huge selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars. 1 or 2 days should be enough to visit the beaches. You can also get to the Black River Gorges National Park from the west entrance which is found about a 20-minute drive from Tamarin beach.

Below are some of the top attractions to visit in West Mauritius :

Albion Lighthouse

The Albion Lighthouse is the most famous lighthouse in Mauritius and one of the most photographed locations on the island . The best time to visit is during the golden hour. While you’re there, make sure to also visit the beach caves and rock pools found below the lighthouse.

Related post: 13 Best photo locations in Mauritius

Flic en Flac Beach

Flic en Flac is one of the longest beaches in Mauritius. The beach is great for swimming and sunset watching. It’s a great place to stay due to its huge selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

The beach can get very busy during the weekend, so it’s best to visit on weekdays or you can head to Wolmar beach located nearby if you want to skip the crowds.

La Preneuse beach

This is a less popular beach with powdery white sand and a stunning view of Le Morne Brabant. Not many people visit La Preneuse, so it’s very peaceful and quiet. Don’t forget to visit the small watchtower that has been converted into a museum if you want to learn a bit about the history of Mauritius.

Tamarin Beach

Tamarin Beach is the only decent surfing spot on the island. The swell isn’t too big, so it’s ideal for beginner surfers. There are a few street food vendors near the beach that sell delicious local food.

Where to stay in West Mauritius:

Luxury: Sand Suites Resort & Spa  is a 4-star luxury hotel situated on Wolmar beach near Flic en Flac. The rooms are spacious and clean and have a balcony overlooking the ocean. The hotel also features a swimming pool, 3 restaurants, a spa, and a gym. Check latest price here

Mid-range: La Mariposa  is a beachfront property located on La Preneuse beach. It’s perfect for those looking for an affordable place to stay in the west. If you plan to cook your own food, you can book a room with a kitchen. Family rooms are also available and can accommodate up to 5 adults and 1 child. You can read my review of La Mariposa or check the latest price here

Budget: Lariad BnB  is located within walking distance of Flic en Flac beach. You’ll find many restaurants nearby as well as a supermarket. It also features a swimming pool and breakfast is included in the room rate. Check latest price here

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN WEST MAURITIUS

Central Mauritius: 1-2 days

The central region has quite a few attractions and is worth visiting, especially for those who love hiking. Plan for 1 or 2 days in this region to hike a mountain or visit a waterfall.

Below are some of the top attractions to visit in the center of Mauritius :

This is by far the most popular waterfall in Mauritius and for a good reason! 7 Cascades, also known as Tamarind Falls, is actually made up of 12 waterfalls scattered in between a lush valley.

If you want to visit, I highly recommend hiring a local guide since the hike is quite technical and the path isn’t always clear.

If you want to visit every single waterfall, you can book this full-day guided hike . Alternatively, you can book a half-day guided hike  to see the main waterfalls only.

CHECK PRICE FOR A GUIDED HIKE OF 7 CASCADES

Related post: Guide to visiting 7 Cascades

Le Pouce Mountain

Le Pouce Mountain is the third tallest mountain on the island and surprisingly one of the easiest hikes in Mauritius. The summit provides one of the best 360 views of the whole island.

Related post: Guide to hiking Le Pouce mountain

Minissy Waterfall

Located in the village of Moka, Minissy waterfall is still off the tourist radar but quite popular among locals. Only a 15-20 minutes hike is required to reach the waterfall. I highly recommend visiting early or on weekdays to avoid the crowds.

Related post: Guide to visiting Minissy Waterfall

Corps de Garde Mountain

This is another easy/moderate hike to do during your Mauritius itinerary. From the top of Corps de Garde mountain, you’ll be able to enjoy some breathtaking city and mountain views.

Trou aux Cerfs

Located at about 605 m above sea level, Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano and one of the most popular natural attractions in Mauritius. There’s a 1-km trail that goes around the crater where you can enjoy a panoramic view over Curepipe town and the neighboring mountains.

Rodrigues Island: 3 days

If you have 10 days in Mauritius or up to 2 weeks in Mauritius, I highly recommend taking a weekend trip to the small island of Rodrigues, located about 1.5–hour flight away.

Rodrigues definitely feels less touristy than Mauritius and is a must-visit for those looking for a relaxing getaway far from the crowds.

The beaches are beautiful and mostly deserted, especially those found in the southeast. Trou D’Argent, Anse Philibert, and Pointe Cotton are some of the locals’ favorite beaches.

There are so many places to visit in Rodrigues like Francois Leguat Reserve, Cavern Patate, Ile aux Cocos, and Grand Montagne Nature Reserve.

You can also do some hiking on the island or more adventurous activities like zip lining, bungee jumping, or via Ferrata.

Make sure to visit during the weekend so as not to miss the Saturday market at Port Mathurin.

For more details about each attraction mentioned above and more, be sure to read my ultimate guide to visiting Rodrigues Island .

Where to stay in Rodrigues Island:

Luxury : Tekoma Boutik Hotel is set on top of a cliff overlooking a beautiful white-sand beach on the east coast of Rodrigues Island. Each bungalow is equipped with a mix of modern and rustic furniture, a spacious bathroom with 2 sinks, and an outdoor bathtub. The location is very peaceful and quiet and the large bay windows and private balcony offer a breathtaking view of the turquoise lagoon. Check latest price here

Mid-range : Gite Patriko is located within walking distance of the beach. The sea view villa can accommodate up to 13 people while the studio can accommodate up to 3 people. Both are very spacious and have a full kitchen and balcony overlooking the sea. Check latest price here

Budget : Auberge St Francois  is a budget guesthouse located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Rodrigues. Some of the rooms can accommodate up to 6 people and have an ocean view. The location is perfect if you want to stay close to the beach and visit Trou D’Argent. There are also a couple of restaurants nearby. Check latest price here

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN RODRIGUES ISLAND

Did you find this Mauritius itinerary helpful? If you’re looking for a personalized Mauritius itinerary or need someone to take care of the planning process for you, be sure to check out my Mauritius Travel Planning Service here .

Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Great blog post and pics! Is Mauritius safe for solo female travel? Would it also be safe to rent a car and drive solo? Many thanks in advance!

Hi Victoria. Thank you and yes, Mauritius is safe for solo female travelers. I’ve done several road trips on my own (especially around the south coast) and always had a great time. You can read my blog post about driving in Mauritius for my top tips and road trip ideas ( https://www.letsventureout.com/driving-in-mauritius/ ).

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