Mauritius offer so much more than stunning views of the Indian Ocean that can be enjoyed from graceful arcs of white-sand beaches – although it offers plenty of these, admittedly. For a start there are the watersports such as kitesurfing, diving, snorkelling and kayaking. There are boat trips to watch the sunset, yacht trips to remote islands and chances to try your hand at deep sea fishing or try to see the whales, sharks or dolphins. Things can get pretty wild in the bars and clubs of the northern parts of the island but they get even wilder spotting rare falcons on a hike through the mountains of the interior. Taste local specialities such as salade d’ourite (octopus salad) or test your skills on one of the island’s golf courses. And, then you can settle back down on that glorious beach!
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Mauritius
Port Louis – The cosmopolitan capital offers some great shopping opportunities in its trendy boutiques and it’s fantastic to sample the restaurants who cuisine reflects the city’s mix of colonial buildings, mosques, Hindu temples, Chinese pagodas and Christian churches.
North Mauritius – The luxury beach resorts can mainly be found around here, and its scenic rocky headlands and long white-sand beaches fringe a sheltered lagoon that ensures perfect conditions for snorkelers, divers, kite surfers and yachts.
Central Mauritius – If wildlife spotting and hiking are on your agenda, simply turn your back on the beach for a day or two and head inland. The Black Forest Gorges National Park encompasses an area of deep gorges and forested mountains that will reward you with wonderfully scenic views.
East Mauritius – On the whole it’s a lot quieter down on the east of the island, yet some of the best beaches can be found here. So you can get away from it all without trading in those delightful ocean views.
South and West Mauritius – The drama starts here. The island’s spectacular coastal scenery reaches a crescendo at places like Le Morne Brabant, where jagged rocks are battered by the ocean and blowholes erupt like watery volcanoes. Wildlife lovers should take a trip to the Íle aux Aigrettes, just a short distance off shore but harbouring animals and plants that are unique to Mauritius.
Things to See in Mauritius
The palm-fringed white-sand beaches define The appeal of Mauritius but it offers a surprisingly varied number of sights to take in. Rare falcons swoop and dive over forested mountains, dramatic waves batter rocky outcrops and boat trips will take you to atmospheric, remote islands or deliver you to where the dolphins frolic and the whales spout.
Things to Do in Mauritius
Whether you want to swing your irons on the golf course or cast your fishing line into the ocean, Mauritius will happily oblige. Pop on a wetsuit and dive to explore the world-renowned sites lurking under the waters or strap on your walking boots to hike up the island’s mountains or through its forests. Sample local dishes, strut your stuff on the dancefloor or simply sip a cocktail as you watch the sun set on another wonderful day.
