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.
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
- Timings: 8:30 am to 5 pm
- 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
- Timings: Open 24 hours
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 )
- Entry Fees: Free
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.
Suggested Read: Floreal Square: Guide to Best Shopping Place in Mauritius
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.
Suggested Read: Annabellas Restaurant in Mauritius: Taste the Magic
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.
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I explore the local cuisine and markets in Mauritius?
Visit busy markets like Port Louis Market to try fresh produce and local street food. Enjoy authentic Mauritian dishes at nearby restaurants and food stalls. Consider taking a food tour to find hidden culinary treasures.
Are there any adventure activities available in Mauritius?
Mauritius has a variety of adventure activities, including snorkelling and diving in colourful coral reefs. Enjoy exciting water sports like kite surfing and parasailing. Discover scenic trails for hiking and canyoning in the island’s national parks, a highlight of adventure tourism in Mauritius.
What are some popular viewpoints in Mauritius?
Head to the Black River Gorges National Park for stunning panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain. Visit the Chamarel Seven Colored Earths for unique landscape vistas. Enjoy the view from the top of Pieter Both Mountain for breathtaking island scenery.
Are there any cultural experiences to explore in Mauritius?
Explore the island’s diverse culture by visiting historical sites like Aapravasi Ghat. Participate in local festivals to experience traditional music and dance. Discover local art and crafts at galleries and markets throughout Mauritius.