Some links are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
I spent a week in Mauritius thanks to the Mauritius tourism board. They invited bloggers from all over the world to discover and explore Mauritius. Needless to say, all opinions are my own.
Mauritius is an island located in the Indian ocean, not far from Madagascar. Most people hear about Mauritius because it’s known for being a honeymoon destination. Indeed, numerous couples from all over the world decide to go on a honeymoon in Mauritius. After all it’s logical. You basically feel like you’re in a postcard : crystal clear water, beautiful beaches, 5-star resorts, delicious food and cocktails, palm trees… It’s a good place to relax far away from your daily routine, and let’s be honest, you’ll see many couples if you go there. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go if you’re traveling solo, or on the road with your friends. In fact, it’s possible to have a lot of fun in Mauritius, even if you’re not a honeymooner.
Table of Contents
Things to do in Mauritius
Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
Its actual name is the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam botanical garden, named after a former Prime minister. The botanical garden was created by Pierre Poivre, a French botanist, in the 18th century. It’s one of the most popular and most visited sights in the country. In the garden, you’ll find numerous varieties of palm trees, plants, tropical trees, baobab trees, flowers, etc… from all over the world! But the garden is mostly known for its pond with the giant water lilies! Apart from the plants, trees and flowers, there are also various animals like giant turtles, bats, chameleons, mongooses… It’s 300 rupees (7.50€) to get in. You can explore the garden freely or ask to have a guided visit.
Seven colored earth
In the south of the island, you’ll find the seven colored earth. What’s that!? It’s a special natural phenomenon. It’s a small area of sand dunes comprising of seven distinct colors, settled in different layers. It happened because volcanic rocks cooled at different temperatures and became crush into sand. Very interesting to see! It’s better to go there in the late afternoon to really see the different colors (red, green, purple…). It’s 225 rupees (5.60€). to see it.
Chamarel waterfall
Not far from seven colored earth, you’ll see the beautiful Chamarel waterfall. That’s the highest waterfall in Mauritius, at 90 meters. That’s what people call an instagrammable spot, it’s impressive. Very close to the waterfall, there’s the Chamarel rum distillery! Get a bottle there!
Black river gorges national park
That’s the largest natural park in Mauritius. It was created in 1994 to protect Mauritius’ remaining native forests. If you’re into nature, or if you want to stay active, this is the place to be! This park stretches over 6574 hectares and offers several hiking trails where you’ll see green forests, waterfalls, wild monkeys… Plus you’ll enjoy breathtaking views! There are numerous species of plants and rare birds species there! Spend at least half a day there!
Trou aux Cerfs
Trou aux Cerfs is located in the center of the island. It’s a volcano offering a wonderful view of the area. The volcano has been dormant for a long time and there’s a small lake in the crater. You basically go there to enjoy the view. Few people make it to Trou aux Cerfs, but I think you should go.
Ile aux Cerfs
Ile aux Cerfs is a small island located off the east coast of Mauritius. It would be a shame to go to Mauritius and not go there. You’re gonna feel like you’re in a postcard : clear water, palm trees, white sand beaches… Just sit back and relax! There are many restaurants serving delicious food there. Wanna go there? Go to Trou d’Eau Douce, several boats go to Ile aux Cerfs. The two-way trip costs about 400 rupees (10 euros). Otherwise, you can book a tour online. Since it’s a popular island, depending on the time of the year, it can be crowded!
Grand Bassin
Grand Bassin, also called Ganga Talao, is a lake in the mountains. It’s the most sacred Hindu place in Mauritius. Indeed, the locals say the lake is filled with holy waters from the river Ganges in India. Every year, late February/early March, the Maha Shivaratree Festival takes place at Grand Bassin and half a million pilgrims come here. It’s possible to visit Seven Colored Earth, the Chamarel Waterfall, Trou aux Cerfs and Grand Bassin in a full-day tour. Book your tour online here.
Morne Brabant
Morne Brabant is a 555-meter high mountain, located in the southwest of the island. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where the slaves used to flee from the French. The Slave Route Monument recalls those sad events. Since it’s now privately owned, if you wanna climb the mountain, you need to hire a guide. Hire your local guide here.
Fun activities to do in Mauritius
Let’s be honest, if you wanna spend your holidays in Mauritius doing nothing, it’s possible. But if you like being active -like me!- there are so many things to do! For instance, I went flyboarding one day! I didn’t know what to expect. Actually I was hesitating doing it, since I’m not a good swimmer. But honestly, I had a great time. It takes a few minutes to master balance on the fly board but once you understand how it works, you have an amazing time! You go up in the air, and you feel like you’re flying!
There are other fun activities! For instance, I also went snorkeling! You don’t even have to go very far from the beach to start spotting beautiful fishes. The water is so clear, it helps! It’s also possible to go kayaking, spend a full day on a catamaran, go on an underwater scooter adventure… We’re on an island, there are numerous water activities!
That doesn’t mean that’s all there is to do. I visited the château de Labourdonnais, which is a former colonial house. Typical architecture from this era, and the visit was interesting. Moreover, when visiting the château, you have a rum tasting. If you’re into rum, you already know Mauritius rum is delicious! In Port Louis, the capital, there are many things to do : wandering in the central market, walking along the waterfront, visiting museums…
If you’re not a water person, but you still wanna be active, Mauritius has many options! Most people go hiking in the black river gorges national park. Perfect activity to view the native forest and wildlife, see exotic plants and birds. Otherwise you can go quad biking, ride an electric bike, etc… There are so many options, in Mauritius, you can’t be bored! Don’t miss the Heritage Nature Reserve, it’s very interesting. And if you just wanna relax, enjoy the numerous beaches : Flic en Flac, Belle Mare, Trou aux Biches… Here’s a short video of the week I spent in Mauritius!
Where to stay in Mauritius
I stayed in two different hotels. Evaco Clos du Littoral actually offers private luxury villas in the north of Mauritius. Each villa has its own private pool, the staff serves breakfast every morning, and you have everything you need there! I also stayed at The Ravenala Attitude, which is a nice hotel, still in the north of Mauritius. They offer spacious rooms, and you have numerous options regarding food! Otherwise, check the numerous options you have here. You can also read more hotel recommendations.
How to get around in Mauritius
It’s better to rent a car. There is an extensive network of buses, and they go all over the island, but you’re a lot less flexible. It’s more convenient to rent a car, you’re completely free to plan your day, and stop at unscheduled tourist attractions then.. Otherwise, if you don’t feel like driving, it’s possible to hire a private driver. Click here for more info.
I had a great time in Mauritius! Don’t think it’s just a honeymoon destination, there’s a lot more than that in Mauritius! You won’t be disappointed! You should definitely add this destination to your black travelers bucket list!
Mauritius travel tips
- Traveling soon? Check my travel resources page to help you out! This list of travel accessories can also be useful!
- Wanna go to Mauritius? Most Western countries can stay up to 90 days there visa free. Check the visa policy here.
- Don’t travel without a travel insurance! Here’s why you should buy travel insurance!
- Likewise, if you go to Mauritius, you’ll have to provide proof of onward travel!
- Want a tailor-made trip to Mauritius? Get a free quote here!
- Planning a trip there? Click here to check the latest flight prices.
- Always use a VPN when you’re traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it! Here’s why use a VPN when traveling!
Fantastic. Depiction of Maritius. It looks better than you see on tv
Thank you!
Another good recap
Thank you!