It is no secret, Mauritian beaches retain all the attention when it comes to praises. But, as you would expect for a volcanic island, there is much more to do and interesting attractions to see here and there. No need to be an explorer, the island’s total area is 1865 km² and it is best to rent a car and visit Mauritius at your own pace. Ready? Here is the best things to do and see in Mauritius:
Diving
Scuba diving is one of the main reasons to come to Mauritius. With its tropical weather, warm lagoons and calm seas, the perfect conditions unite to discover the underwater treasures of the Indian Ocean.
While the south and the east are reserved for wind-friendly activities, the north and west coast of Mauritius are havens for scuba divers. Several world-renowned diving spots settle just few minutes’ boat from Flic en Flac and Grand Baie, the two main resorts of Mauritius. You will come across the most colourful reefs and aquatic biodiversity of this part of the ocean. More than 200 fish species live in the Mauritian seas, including the world’s friendliest shark species. Check out Villas Caroline Hotel’s diving centre in Flic en Flac, a great place to start your submarine trip
Chamarel village
If you are a nature lover, simply don’t miss the iridescent village of the island. Some hotels in Mauritius offer weekly organised trips to the green village, but it is better to go on a southern road trip and hover there.
Chamarel shelters the highest waterfall in Mauritius: the Chamarel Falls. Its waters travel several kilometres to end up in a sort of giant abyss, it is truly spectacular. Another unique feature of the village is the curious, seven coloured earth of Chamarel.
You can easily spend a whole day just in the village, there is so much to see and do. You can have a fun time at the Chamarel Curious Corner or spend some time to discover a little piece of the Mauritian history through Rhumerie de Chamarel, one of the rare places to taste traditional local rum
Port Louis
If you don’t like crowding places, this one is not for you. But if you want to have the best representation of Mauritian way of life, you should not miss the largest city and capital of Mauritius; Port Louis.
Located in the north, Port Louis is the main administrative and business centre of the island. It is also home to the oldest streets, monuments and architectures of Mauritius, like the old-style creole houses or Fort Adelaide.
If you are visiting the capital, you can start with its Waterfront (a good place to get parking) and its famous Blue Penny Museum. Opposite to it, you will find the local market (bazar) and its noisy atmosphere. It is the place to find fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and handmade crafts as the market has a whole section for souvenirs and mementoes. When visiting the market, don’t miss the food section where you will find savouring like Dholl Puri and Gato Piment. After visiting the market, you’ll probably say to yourself; it was really worth the extra decibels
Flic en Flac
If you are looking for the best place to stay in Mauritius, it is Flic en Flac. This very touristic village is situated mid-way along the western coast of the island and is not only very well located geographically, it also has the best climate for long sunny days.
You want to swim, snorkel, parasail, go diving, big game fishing, or swim with dolphins? Flic en Flac is one of the rare beaches in Mauritius where you can enjoy a wide range of water-based activities without ever going too far from your hotel.
Island hopping
If catamaran, sun, sea, beers, guitars, deserted islands, forgotten beaches sound good to you, you will relish island hopping in Mauritius. The mainland is encircled by dozens of smaller pristine islands which are uninhabited by man.
Some islands like Ile aux Aigrettes are nature reserves and other are private, but many of them can be visited by speedboats or catamarans. In fact, many tourists choose to rent a private charter for complete privacy and others do not mind sharing a boat or catamaran for less than £20 per person. This fee usually include meals on the island, snorkelling, drinks and live entertainment.
Ile aux Cerfs is great for island hopping. Located within the eastern lagoon, Ile aux Cerfs which stands for Deer Island is easily accessible, just 5 minutes by speedboat. There you can enjoy pristine beaches, island restaurant and various sea activities like parasailing, snorkelling, and water-ski.
So you’ve come to Mauritius, you will not want to leave without trying the best restaurant in Mauritius. It is located in the north, in the middle of an estate of more than fifty hectares of gardens.
Chateau de Labourdonnais is quite a famous tourist attraction in the north of Mauritius and its colonial castle and tropical orchards are more than 150 years old. It has lately been renovated but the old spirit and the traditional décor has been preserved.
The estate also offers a complete day visit where visitors can discover each and every aspect of the chateau and its surroundings. You’ll start with the Chateau itself, the gardens & orchards, the old-styled distillery and its succulent cocktails, the restaurant La Table du Chateau and The Boutique (shop).
Le Morne
Hard to find and drive to, Le Morne village is really worth visiting when travelling to the south of Mauritius. In fact, it is better to take a day especially for Le Morne village. It is located on the south-western tip of Mauritius, 35 minutes away from Flic en Flac.
The village is home to one of the two cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mauritius; Le Morne Brabant. This peninsula of 556 metres is full of history and hides one of the most breath-taking views of Mauritius Island.
Le Morne is also surrounded by kilometres of white sand beaches, including its beautiful public beach. If you are looking for uncrowded white powdered place to lay your towel and sunbathe, this Le Morne beaches are for you.
