Mauritius is a beautiful island nation in the Indian Ocean, famous for its beaches, clear lagoons, and coral reefs. In the middle of the island, you’ll find Black River Gorges National Park, filled with rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife like flying foxes. The capital, Port Louis, features places like the Champs de Mars racecourse, the historic Eureka house, and the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens. In the north, Grand Baie is a lively beach town known for resorts, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing. Tamarin Bay is popular for surfing, while Flic-en-Flac offers luxury stays and diving spots. On the southeast coast, Vieux Grand Port holds Dutch fort ruins, and Mahébourg has a colorful market full of local Creole, Indian, Chinese, and European-inspired foods. The Île aux Aigrettes Reserve protects rare animals like the pink pigeon, and Île aux Cerfs is a private island with stunning beaches and a top golf course.
places to visit in Mauritius
Île aux Cerfs
Île aux Cerfs is a private island located near the east coast of Mauritius, in the Flacq District. It sits in the country’s biggest lagoon, just off the village of Trou d’Eau Douce. The island is known for its white sandy beaches and lush greenery covering around 87 hectares. Visitors can play golf at the famous Île aux Cerfs Golf Club, dine at beachside restaurants, and enjoy water sports like parasailing and snorkeling.
Black River Gorges National Park
Black River Gorges National Park lies in the southwest of Mauritius and protects the island’s native rainforest. While some areas have been affected by non-native plants and animals, the park still hosts rare species like the flying fox and various native birds. It’s a great place for hiking and spotting wildlife in a beautiful natural setting.
Flic-en-Flac
Flic-en-Flac is a coastal village on the western shore of Mauritius. Its name comes from Dutch words meaning “flat free land.” The beach here is one of the island’s longest, with soft white sand and calm waters protected by coral reefs. The area is popular for its peaceful vibe and views of the Indian Ocean and Le Morne Brabant Peninsula.
Seven Coloured Earths
The Seven Coloured Earths are unique sand dunes found in Chamarel, in southwest Mauritius. The dunes are made of colorful sand layers that naturally separate, forming waves of red, brown, purple, and yellow. Rainfall has shaped the land into flowing, meringue-like patterns, making it a fascinating spot to see.
Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin)
Ganga Talao is a sacred lake located in the mountains of the Savanne District. It sits 550 meters above sea level and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus in Mauritius. Next to the lake is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, along with shrines for other Hindu deities like Hanuman, Ganesh, and Ganga.
Trou-aux-Biches
Trou-aux-Biches is a small beach town on the northern coast of Mauritius. The beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It’s one of the most popular spots to watch the sunset and is surrounded by local restaurants and resorts.
Casela World of Adventures
Casela is a large nature park in the west of Mauritius that offers many fun and thrilling activities. Visitors can walk with lions, ride quad bikes on safari trails, try ziplining, and interact with rhinos. It’s perfect for a day out with family or friends and offers a close-up experience with animals and nature.
Tamarind Falls (7 Cascades)
Tamarind Falls, also called the Seven Cascades, is a group of waterfalls near Mare aux Vacoas. The area features 11 waterfalls, natural pools, and lush forests. It’s a great spot for hiking, canyoning, and nature photography, suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
Curious Corner of Chamarel
Curious Corner is an interactive and fun museum in Chamarel filled with optical illusions, puzzles, and strange exhibits. With around 40 different experiences, it’s a place that sparks curiosity and amazes visitors of all ages.
Château de Labourdonnais
Built in 1856, Château de Labourdonnais is a beautifully restored colonial mansion located in the north of Mauritius. Once home to a local family for over 150 years, it is now a museum showcasing the island’s history and culture. The surrounding estate includes gardens, orchards, and a rum distillery.
Best Time to Visit Mauritius
The ideal time to visit Mauritius is from May to December. During these months, the weather is cooler, dry, and perfect for beach activities. It’s a great season for exploring nature parks and enjoying water sports. Humidity is lower, making it comfortable for sightseeing. This period offers the most pleasant climate for travelers.
