Mauritius, officially the Republic of Mauritius, is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean. While the country itself is an archipelago, meaning a group of islands, there are four main islands that make up Mauritius including Mauritius Island, Rodrigues Island, Agalega Islands and St. Brandon.
Apart from these main islands, there are several smaller islands for island hopping in Mauritius that are also worth visiting for their beauty, crystal-clear waters, and stunning beaches. Let’s take a look at some of these islands and discover all the popular adventure activities and beautiful landscapes they offer.
9 Best Places For Island Hopping In Mauritius
1. Île Aux Aigrettes
It’s special because it’s made of coral limestone, unlike the main island which is volcanic. It’s a perfect destination for day trips to islands from Mauritius, offering unique opportunities to explore its biodiversity and conservation efforts, making it the Best Island In Mauritius.
This small island near Mauritius used to be overwhelmed by non-native species. Now, thanks to conservation efforts, it’s a safe home for endangered animals like the giant Mauritian tortoise. Visitors can explore the lush island, learn about its amazing recovery, and see fascinating creatures in their natural habitat while island hopping in Mauritius. Île Aux Aigrettes is one of the best places to visit in Mauritius.
- Location: East coast of Mauritius
- Timing: 9 am to 4:30 pm
- Things to do: Boating, Wildlife Photography, Guided Tour Of The Forest and Wildlife Museum
- Entry fees: Free of cost for children up to 3 years, EUR 12 for children from4 to 12 years and EUR 22 for adults.
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2. Île aux Bénitiers
Additionally, this island is accessible by boat so local fishermen often organise boat trips to the island, where visitors can enjoy freshly caught seafood dishes while taking in the amazing views of the Mauritian coastline. It also has beautiful beaches with calm, clear waters, perfect for relaxing in the Mauritian sunshine on the best island in Mauritius.
- Location: South west coast of Mauritius
- Best time to visit: November to April for sunshine and light breezes and September to October for fewer crowds. Early morning visits provide an added bonus.
- Things to do: Boating, Snorkelling, Swimming and Dolphin Watching Tour
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3. Île Plate
But Île Plate isn’t all flat plains! This island is awesome for laying out on the beach because of all the sandy space.
The water around the island is super clear and full of colourful fish and coral reefs. It’s like a real-life aquarium for snorkelling! If you’re feeling brave, there’s even a special diving spot called “The Shark Pit” where you can see bigger ocean creatures. After all that adventure, there are a few restaurants on the island serving fresh seafood to fill you up on the best island in Mauritius.
- Location: North west coast of Mauritius
- Best time to visit: November to April for sunshine and light breezes and September-October for fewer crowds
- Things to do: Hiking, Visiting the Lighthouse, Scuba Diving and Sunbathing
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4. Coin de Mire
You can either stay on the mainland or opt for a boat ride to enjoy the amazing views or you can go for snorkelling as well. Additionally, you can stay at the Coin de Mire Attitude hotel, which is situated directly on the coast and enjoy stunning views from there on the best island in Mauritius.
Viewers adore the rust-orange cliffs from the lake, where wedge-tailed shearwaters and red-tailed tropicbirds move in the sky.It provides great opportunities to learn about its biodiversity and conservation initiatives, making it the ideal destination for day trips to islands from Mauritius.
- Location: Northern coast of Mauritius
- Best time to visit: May to December
- Things to do: Boat tours, Snorkelling and relaxing on the beach
5. Îlot Gabriel
It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing because of its white sand beaches, surrounding coral reef, and clear waters. The island is home to the paille-en-queue, a long-tailed seabird that is native to the area. It is also a natural reserve and one of the top islands in Mauritius for bird watchers.
Just remember to carry your water shoes because pebbles might be a problem if you are walking barefoot on the best island in Mauritius.
- Location: Northern coast of Mauritius
- Best time to visit: September to December and April to June
- Things to do: Birdwatching and Snorkeling
- Entry fees: No entry fees (Boat tour costs may vary depending on the operator and the package chosen)
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6. Îlot Mangenie
Enjoy precious white sand beaches in Mauritius and clear turquoise waters on the best island in Mauritius.. Relax on a beach or try snorkelling and kayaking. When you’re hungry, enjoy tasty seafood and cocktails right on the beach. The island also has lush trails to explore on electric bikes and spa treatments with local ingredients. Îlot Mangénie is a perfect spot for a memorable island getaway.
- Location: East coast of Mauritius
- Best time to visit: May to December
- Things to do: Kayaking, Sunbathing, Scuba Diving
7. Belle Mare Beach
You can see the perfect sunset here, which is the most beautiful thing.The beach is also lined with local food stalls selling mouth-watering Creole and Indian cuisine, making it a perfect spot to enjoy both natural beauty and delicious local flavours on this top island in Mauritius.
- Location: Flacq District, Belle Mare, Mauritius
- Best time to visit: October and December
- Things to do: Speed Boat Rides, Parasailing, Hiking
8. Baie du Cap
Whether you’re relaxing on the shore or taking a boat trip to nearby islands, Baie du Cap offers a memorable escape into Mauritius’ wild and wonderful scenery, making it a top island in Mauritius.
- Location: South coast of Mauritius
- Best time to visit: December and January
- Things to do: Skydiving, Scuba diving and Shopping
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9. Île aux Cerfs
Additionally, it is the location of one of the world’s finest golf courses, the 18-hole championship Île aux Cerfs Golf Club, created by two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer.
No need to stress! The island has lots of secret spots with quiet beaches where you can have your own little paradise away from the crowds while island hopping in Mauritius.
- Location: East coast of Mauritius in the Flacq District
- Best time to visit: November to March
- Things to do: Zipline, Golfing, Speed Boat Rides, Cave Sea Kayaking, Water Skiing
Mauritius Island Hopping Tips
Transportation
- Boat Transfers: Confirm the details of your boat transfers, including departure times and locations with your Mauritius island hopping guide.
- Sea Conditions: Check weather and sea conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip during your island hopping in Mauritius.
Health and Safety
- Seasickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication or natural remedies.
- First Aid Kit: Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications during island hopping in Mauritius.
Activities and Etiquette
- Local Customs: Please follow the most important Mauritius island hopping guide by being respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting inhabited islands.
- Leave No Trace: Take all your trash with you and avoid disturbing wildlife while you are island hopping in Mauritius.
Money and Communication
- Cash: One of the most important Mauritius island hopping tips is to carry some local currency (Mauritian Rupees) for small purchases, tips, and local markets.
- Connectivity: Ensure your phone is charged and consider a portable charger. Some remote islands may have limited connectivity.
Flexibility
- Be Flexible: Weather can be unpredictable, so have a flexibleMauritius island hopping guide itinerary and be open to changes or alternative activities.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a memorable adventure of island hopping in Mauritius!
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Conclusion
To summarise, Mauritius is a hub for enjoying beauty, sightseeing, exploring beaches, engaging in all kinds of water activities, savouring delicious food, and much more! Besides the main island of Mauritius, the surrounding islands like Île aux Cerfs, Îlot Mangénie, Gabriel Island, Flat Island, Coin de Mire, Île aux Aigrettes, and Île aux Benitiers each have their own unique beauty that you wouldn’t want to miss and island hopping in Mauritius will become your favourite thing to do. Some are famous for their white sandy beaches, while others are known for rare marine species. It’s worth including them all in your Mauritius island hopping itinerary! So, go pack your bags and plan your most fun upcoming trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which islands are typically included in Mauritius island hopping tours?
Mauritius island hopping tours take you to beautiful spots like Île aux Cerfs for beaches and water sports, Îlot Mangénie for its exclusive vibe, and Gabriel Island for stunning scenery and snorkelling.
What activities can I expect to do during an island hopping excursion in Mauritius?
While island hopping in Mauritius, you can expect to enjoy activities such as snorkelling, sunbathing, scuba diving, skydiving, indulging in water sports like kayaking or parasailing, and exploring unique marine ecosystems.
Can I customise my island hopping itinerary in Mauritius?
Yes, many tour operators offer customizable Mauritius island hopping itinerary to suit your preferences in island hopping in Mauritius. You can often modify the duration, destinations, activities, and even the mode of transportation to create a personalised experience.
How long do Mauritius island hopping cruises usually last?
Mauritius island hopping cruises typically range from half-day to full-day excursions, lasting anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the itinerary and activities included island hopping in Mauritius.