Things to do in Mauritius

Mauritius, an island I fell deeply in love with, offered me the most remarkable 8-day experience. With its stunning palm-fringed landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic beaches, it truly feels like paradise. Whether you’re on a honeymoon or simply seeking an escape, Mauritius has something to captivate every traveller. I can hardly believe it took me this long to visit, especially considering my connection to the Indian Ocean—having been born in Mombasa, Kenya. It’s undoubtedly a place I’ll return to.

Despite its primary language being French, most locals speak excellent English. The influence of British rule is still evident in the way people drive on the left side of the road and in the colonial-style architecture scattered across the island. Mauritius is home to a predominantly Indian heritage population, many of whom have lived on the island for generations and consider it their true home.

During our trip, we made sure to balance relaxation with exploration. While we spent some days unwinding on the lush beaches, sipping cocktails, and reading a book, we also made time to explore the island’s diverse attractions. Here are some of the highlights from our unforgettable adventure.

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Le Morne

Le Morne Mountain, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands at 550 metres high and is a symbol of freedom. In the past, it was a refuge for runaway slaves. According to local legend, some slaves, unaware of the abolition of slavery, believed the soldiers approaching the mountain were hostile and leapt to their deaths rather than risk capture.

Le Morne is visible from various parts of the island, and while we didn’t hike to the summit, friends who did shared that the panoramic views were absolutely breathtaking.

Tea factory tour and tea tasting at Bois Cheri Tea Plantation

Bois Chéri is one of Mauritius’ most renowned tea brands, with a rich history dating back to 1892. The plantation spans 250 hectares, producing up to 700 tonnes of tea annually, with 25% reserved for export. A visit to Bois Chéri is a must for tea lovers. The plantation offers guided tours where you can witness the tea-making process, explore the museum, and indulge in a delightful tea tasting experience. The stunning views surrounding the plantation make this excursion even more memorable.

Grand Bassin – Ganga Talao

Grand Bassin, or Ganga Talao, is a tranquil, sacred lake nestled within the crater of an extinct volcano. According to Hindu mythology, the lake’s waters are believed to be connected to the holy Ganges River in India. Many Hindu devotees visit the site, especially during the Shivratri festival when taking a dip in the lake is considered auspicious. The site is also home to a stunning Hindu temple, where visitors can seek blessings and marvel at the beautiful statues and intricate architecture. Notably, the lake is also home to the second-largest statue of Lord Shiva in the world, standing 108 feet tall.

Chamarel Waterfall

The Chamarel Waterfall is a spectacular 83-metre cascade located within the lush Black River National Park. Surrounded by verdant foliage, it’s a sight not to be missed. There are two viewpoints from which to admire the waterfall, both offering different perspectives of this natural beauty. The second viewpoint can be reached by a set of steep, uneven steps, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.

Chamarel and the seven coloured sand

Also located in the village of Chamarel, the Seven-Coloured Earths is a unique geological phenomenon. The sand dunes here display vibrant hues of red, yellow, brown, violet, purple, green, and even blue, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Visitors can explore the area and enjoy panoramic views of the colourful sands from an observation deck. Be sure to also check out the giant tortoises that roam the area—they’re a real treat!

At Chamarel, they also have giant tortoises and they are just adorable!

A BBQ on a Catamaran

One of the highlights of our trip was a Catamaran cruise around the southwest coast of Mauritius. We sailed to watch dolphins leaping joyfully in the sea, snorkelled in the clear waters, and then indulged in a BBQ lunch on deck. Afterward, we visited Crystal Rock and the beautiful Benitiers Island, known for its pristine, white sandy beaches. The Catamaran cruise provided amazing views of Le Morne and was one of the best experiences of our trip.

A foodie tour in Port Louis and eating the famous Dholl Puri with Alouda

During our stay, I had the pleasure of touring Port Louis  We explored the bustling food market, where we sampled local delicacies, including the famous Dholl Puri—flatbread filled with ground yellow split peas. It was served with Alouda, a refreshing drink similar to falooda, which was simply delicious.

Port Louis’ market also offers a wide array of fresh produce, and it was a delight to discover new flavours. One of my favourite finds was the Guava, eaten with a mix of dried green chilli, salt, and sugar—an addictive snack that I couldn’t get enough of!

Mauritius is also known for its sugarcane fields, so be sure to try freshly pressed sugarcane juice, a sweet and refreshing treat. And if you come across fresh coconuts, don’t miss the chance to drink the water and enjoy the juicy flesh—it’s incredibly hydrating.

Beaches

Mauritius is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. The beaches along the southern coast are particularly stunning, but you’ll find paradise all over the island. Whether you’re looking to relax or enjoy water sports, the beaches here are perfect for unwinding.

Practical Tips for Visiting Mauritius

• Getting Around: Taxis are the most convenient way to get around, but they can be pricey. For the best value, consider hiring a taxi for a day to explore multiple attractions in one go. We managed to visit several locations, including a temple, Chamarel, and Bois Chéri in just one day.

• Sun Protection: The sun in Mauritius can be intense, so always carry a hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water to stay hydrated.

• Negotiating Taxi Fares: When arriving at your hotel by taxi, try to negotiate a lower fare for the return journey and take the driver’s business card for reference.

• Explore Beyond Your Hotel: Venture out to nearby hotels or restaurants to experience a variety of local dishes and flavours.

Mauritius is a destination that offers so much more than just its stunning beaches—it’s a place brimming with culture, history, and adventure. From scenic hikes to cultural sites, delicious food, and unforgettable excursions, it’s a destination I’ll always cherish

Check out Mauritius hotels here

BOOK MAURITIUS TOURS HERE

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