About Mauritius Travel Guide
Destination Overview – Mauritius
Mauritius is a breathtaking island nation nestled in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. Known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and lush volcanic landscapes, it blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. A melting pot of Indian, African, French, and Chinese influences, Mauritius offers a tropical escape with world-class beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant local markets.
Easily accessible by international flights, Mauritius is an ideal destination for honeymooners, families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers.
Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Mauritius
Beaches & Islands
Grand Baie – Lively beach town with restaurants, nightlife and shopping
Trou aux Biches – Calm turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling
Belle Mare – Serene sunrise beach, ideal for couples
Flic en Flac – Family-friendly beach with water sports
Ile aux Cerfs – Private island with beach activities and golf courses
Natural Attractions
Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth – Rainbow-hued sand dunes and waterfalls
Black River Gorges National Park – Hiking trails and wildlife sightings
Tamarind Falls – Picturesque waterfalls for trekking and canyoning
Le Morne Brabant – UNESCO World Heritage mountain with historical significance
Cultural & Historical Sites
Aapravasi Ghat – UNESCO site marking Indian immigration heritage
Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin) – Sacred Hindu lake and temples
Eureka House – 19th-century Creole colonial mansion
Port Louis – Capital city with Caudan Waterfront, Central Market and Citadel
Hidden Gems
La Vallée des Couleurs – Adventure park with ziplining and quad biking
Rochester Falls – Unique waterfall in the south
Château de Labourdonnais – Colonial estate with rum tasting
Best Time to Visit Mauritius
Mauritius has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination.
Best months: May to December (cool and dry)
Avoid: January to March (cyclone season)
Peak season: December to February (summer holidays)
Festivals & Events
Maha Shivratri (Grand Bassin pilgrimage)
Holi and Diwali (celebrated with vibrant local flair)
Mauritius International Kreol Festival
Chinese New Year celebrations
How to Reach Mauritius
Air: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is the main gateway, with direct flights from India, Europe and Africa.
Sea: Cruise ships dock at Port Louis (limited service).
Local Transport: Taxis, buses, rental cars and private transfers are convenient ways to explore the island.
Accessibility for Differently-Abled Travelers in Mauritius
Many resorts and attractions are wheelchair-friendly. Mauritius is gradually improving infrastructure for accessible travel with ramps, accessible washrooms, and transport assistance at major tourist areas.
Things to Do & Experiences in Mauritius
- Take a catamaran cruise to watch dolphins in Tamarin Bay
- Snorkel and scuba dive around coral reefs in Blue Bay
- Hike Le Morne Brabant or Black River Gorges National Park
- Enjoy a rum tasting tour at local distilleries
- Swim in waterfalls like Eau Bleue and Tamarind Falls
- Visit the bustling markets of Port Louis and Mahebourg
- Go parasailing, kitesurfing, and undersea walking
Accommodation Options in Mauritius
Mauritius offers everything from ultra-luxury beachfront resorts to boutique hotels and budget guesthouses.
Popular areas to stay
Grand Baie – Nightlife and shopping
Flic en Flac – Family resorts
Belle Mare – Secluded and romantic
Le Morne – Adventure and nature-focused stays
Trou aux Biches – Snorkeling and relaxed vibe
Top resorts
Lux* Belle Mare
The Oberoi Beach Resort
Constance Belle Mare Plage
Sugar Beach Resort
Veranda Grand Baie Hotel
Local Cuisine & Dining in Mauritius
Mauritian food is a fusion of Creole, Indian, Chinese and French flavors. Must-try dishes include:
Dholl Puri (stuffed flatbread)
Fish Vindaye (spicy pickled fish)
Rougaille (Creole tomato stew)
Gateaux Piments (chilli fritters)
Fresh seafood grills
Recommended eateries
Domaine Anna Restaurant (Flic en Flac)
Le Fangourin (L’Aventure du Sucre)
Escale Creole (authentic Creole dishes)
Beach shacks at Pereybere or Belle Mare for fresh catch
Travel Tips & Safety in Mauritius
Carry reef-safe sunscreen and swimwear
Use mosquito repellent when visiting nature parks
Avoid venturing into isolated areas at night
Tap water is safe in resorts; bottled water is recommended elsewhere
Emergency numbers: Police - 112, Ambulance - 114, Tourist Police - 210 3894
Weather Details & Packing Suggestions in Mauritius
Summer (November to April): Light cotton clothing, beachwear, flip-flops, sunglasses, sunscreen
Winter (May to October): Light layers for cooler evenings, light jacket, comfortable walking shoes
Year-round: Swimwear, reusable water bottle, light rain jacket for occasional showers
Currency Exchange & Banking Facilities in Mauritius
The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). ATMs are widely available across towns, resorts and airports. Major credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Currency exchange counters are available at the airport, malls and tourist areas.
Connectivity & SIM Card Info in Mauritius
Local telecom providers like Emtel, My.T and Chili offer SIM cards with good coverage and affordable data packages. SIMs can be purchased at the airport or local shops with ID verification. Free WiFi is available at airports, hotels and several cafes across the island.
Itinerary Suggestions in Mauritius
1-Day: Explore Port Louis, Central Market, Le Caudan Waterfront, and Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
3-Days: Add Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth, Black River Gorges, and beach time in Flic en Flac or Belle Mare
5-Days: Include Ile aux Cerfs day trip, hiking at Le Morne, snorkeling in Blue Bay, and shopping in Grand Baie
Nearby Destinations to Explore from Mauritius
- Reunion Island – Volcanic hikes and adventure (45-min flight)
- Rodrigues Island – Remote beaches and coral reefs (1.5-hour flight)
- Madagascar – Wildlife and biodiversity (2–3 hours by air)
- Seychelles – Luxury island getaway (2.5-hour flight)
Shopping & Souvenirs in Mauritius
Popular buys include:
Handmade ship models
Dodo-themed souvenirs
Local rum and vanilla
Mauritian textiles and beachwear
Handicrafts at Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis Market and Grand Baie Bazaar
Cultural & Historical Background of Mauritius
Mauritius has a rich history shaped by Dutch, French and British colonial rule. Its vibrant multicultural society reflects a blend of Indian, African, European and Chinese traditions. From sugar plantations and Creole architecture to spiritual sites like Grand Bassin, Mauritius offers an immersive cultural experience.
Best Transport Options in Mauritius
Private taxis, chauffeur-driven cars, self-drive rentals and public buses are widely available. For comfort and flexibility, most tourists opt for pre-arranged private transfers or rental cars.
Nearest International Airport in Mauritius
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), located near Mahebourg, is the main international gateway.
