Things To Do
in Mauritius
Mauritius is a breathtaking island nation located in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning white sandy beaches, lush green mountains, and vibrant coral reefs. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, blending influences from its African, European, Indian, and Chinese ancestors, reflected in its diverse cuisine, music, and festivals.
The economy of Mauritius is multifaceted, encompassing tourism, textiles, sugar, and financial services, making it one of Africa's most prosperous countries.
- "Salut" - Hello
- "Mersi" - Thank you
- "Bondie beni" - God bless you
- "Pa probleme" - No problem
- "Ki manyer?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Then, head to the stunning beaches of Flic en Flac for some sunbathing.
Enjoy a beachside lunch at a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
Watch the sunset from the beach, sipping on a refreshing cocktail. Dine at a beachfront restaurant with delicious fresh seafood.
Travel to Chamarel and visit the Seven Colored Earths, a unique geological formation. Explore the nearby Chamarel Waterfall for some breathtaking views.
Enjoy lunch at a local café in Chamarel, sampling traditional Mauritian dishes. Visit the Rhumerie de Chamarel to learn about rum production and enjoy a tasting.
Return to your accommodation and relax for a bit. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant, enjoying local flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning natural landscapes
- Diverse culture with a rich history
- Favorable climate all year round
- Political stability and a safe environment for tourists
- Strong tourism and hospitality sector
- Tax benefits for businesses and investors
- High cost of living compared to other countries in the region
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Dependence on tourism, making the economy vulnerable to global events
- Transport infrastructure can be underdeveloped in some areas
- Invasive species affecting local ecosystems
- Limited access to healthcare facilities in rural areas
Best Activities in Mauritius
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Mauritius offers beautiful coral reefs and clear waters, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling enthusiasts.
The Black River Gorges National Park provides excellent hiking opportunities with its diverse flora and fauna and breathtaking landscapes.
Visitors can engage in various water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and kite surfing along the stunning coastlines of Mauritius.
Mauritius is known for its world-class golf courses set amidst beautiful scenery, offering a perfect outdoor activity for golf enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mauritius with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mauritius
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, as well as the historic significance of the area.
Home to lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails with picturesque viewpoints.
Famous for its unique geological formations and panoramic vistas of the multi-colored earth.
Offers beautiful views of the coastline and luxurious settings for photography.
Food in Mauritius
Mauritius Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food, this is a type of flatbread stuffed with spiced ground split peas, often served with bean curry, pickles, and chutneys. Look for vendors in local markets or near beaches for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
These are deep-fried chili cakes made from yellow split peas and chopped spring onions, packed with flavor and often enjoyed as a snack. You can find them at street food stalls and local eateries.
A savory dish featuring a bowl of meat and vegetables, served with a dome of rice which is overturned onto a plate. Head to family-run Creole restaurants for a taste of this satisfying meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mauritius better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a foodie's paradise, offering an abundance of fresh produce, local snacks, and authentic street food. Don't miss the opportunity to try gajaks, a popular sweet snack made of peanuts and sugar syrup.
Visit the vibrant food stalls near Flic en Flac Beach for a variety of seafood, local snacks, and refreshing drinks. It's an excellent spot to savor grilled fish, samosas, and tropical fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mauritius, it is customary to greet each other with a handshake, and it is polite to use the person's title (Mr., Mrs., Miss) followed by their last name, as a sign of respect.
Mauritius is a diverse society with various religions. It's important to show respect for different religious practices and customs, such as removing shoes before entering a mosque or temple, and being mindful of dress codes when visiting religious sites.
English, French, and Mauritian Creole are commonly spoken in Mauritius. It's respectful to learn a few basic phrases in Creole or French as a sign of cultural appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mauritius with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mauritius
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mauritius, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. A 10% service charge is often included in restaurant bills, so additional tipping is at the discretion of the customer.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Mauritius, especially in tourist areas and larger establishments. However, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and when visiting more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mauritius.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Mauritius is during the austral summer season, from November to April. This period offers hot and humid weather, perfect for enjoying the island's beautiful beaches and water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and water sports. However, it is important to note that this season also coincides with the island's cyclone season, which typically peaks between January and March.
Winter in Mauritius, from May to October, brings cooler and drier weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and exploring the island's natural attractions. The sea conditions during this time are excellent for surfing and kite-surfing. Additionally, this season is known for clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it a popular time for tourists to visit.
Mauritius at Night
Hiking in Mauritius
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Morne Brabant offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The hike can be challenging but is rewarding with panoramic vistas.
This national park features a series of trails that vary in difficulty, running through lush forests and offering glimpses of waterfalls. The diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes make it a popular hiking destination.
Known for its distinctive shape, Pieter Both is a popular climb that provides an exhilarating experience. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit.
This hike takes you through lush greenery and leads to seven cascading waterfalls. The trails are relatively easy, making it suitable for families and casual hikers.
With its distinctive thumb shape, Le Pouce offers a moderate hike with breathtaking views of the northern islands and the surrounding landscape from the top.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mauritius through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Mauritius by plane.
The main international airport in Mauritius, located approximately 48 km southeast of the capital city, Port Louis.
Located on the nearby island of Réunion, approximately 200 km southwest of Mauritius, it serves as a major international gateway to the region.
Located in Fort de France, Martinique, it is further afield but still serves international flights that connect through the Caribbean.
Located in Madagascar's capital, approximately 850 km west of Mauritius, it is a key international airport in the Indian Ocean region.
South Africa's primary airport, situated about 3,200 km southwest of Mauritius; a significant hub for international flights to and from Africa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People of Indian descent, making up the largest demographic group in Mauritius.
A group of mixed African and French descent, comprising a significant portion of the population.
People of Chinese descent, contributing to the multicultural identity of the nation.
Individuals of French descent, representing one of the historical groups in Mauritius.
A smaller group of individuals from the Seychelles, adding to the diversity of the population.
Includes various ethnicities and communities, such as people of African, Malagasy, and other backgrounds.
The Soul of Mauritius
Discover the essence of Mauritius through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Mauritius, with a passionate following and a vibrant club and national team scene.
Cricket holds a significant place in Mauritius, particularly among the Indian community, and is widely played at various levels.
Rugby is growing in popularity and has a dedicated league, with Mauritius having participated in international competitions.
Basketball is popular, especially among the youth, with various local clubs and competitions.
Athletics attracts a lot of participants and spectators, with events often organized at schools and community levels.
Given its island geography, water sports like sailing, snorkeling, and diving are popular among both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Mauritian cuisine features a lot of seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as daal, roti, farata, and fresh salads. Look for Creole and Indian eateries for more options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can explore traditional rice-based dishes like biryani, pulao, and rice noodles. Additionally, many upscale restaurants are familiar with gluten-free requirements and can accommodate them upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mauritius with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mauritius.