When you think of a holiday in Mauritius, dreamy beaches and relaxing days in the sun might come to mind—imagine sipping cocktails and swimming in crystal-clear ocean waters.
But the island offers so much more, with fascinating cultural, social, and architectural highlights waiting to be explored.
Experiencing Mauritius only from the beach of your resort would be a missed opportunity, so here are a few ideas to enrich your travel experience.
Start with a visit to the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: a lush haven home to unique flora and fauna renowned worldwide. Look for giant water lilies reaching two meters in diameter, Victoria Regia lotuses, Talipot and Corypha palms, and even some rare birds.
Nature lovers should also head south to witness the spectacular Rochester Falls. In this region, can’t-miss stops include the Grand Bassin Temple, the dormant volcano Trou-aux-Cerfs, and Chamarel, famous for its multi-colored earth.
Be sure to take a tour of Port Louis, the lively capital—wander from the fortress to the bustling bazaar to soak up everyday island life.
A catamaran or schooner excursion is another must. For the wild bay of Anse aux Filaos, depart from Grand Baie pier.
If you prefer exploring Grand Bois, with its deer reserve, or snorkeling in Grand Port, head to the port of Trou d’Eau Douce.
Back on land, treat yourself to a shopping spree: Florane is famous for high-quality cashmere sweaters at great prices, while Curepipe is another popular shopping destination. Top souvenirs include model sailing ships, straw bags, and finely embroidered tablecloths and textiles.
No visit is complete without tasting local flavors on a food and wine-themed excursion. Eureka and Domaine les Pailles are a gourmet’s delight. At Eureka, a historic Creole house, traditional dishes are served in a charming setting and themed dinners are hosted regularly.
Domaine les Pailles offers the atmosphere of an old colonial estate, complete with a rum distillery, mill, still room, park, stables, and a restaurant.
Mauritius truly offers experiences for every traveler, especially for nature lovers.
