Why Mauritius
Mauritius packs lagoons, volcanic peaks, rainforest and Indo-French-Creole culture into one small island in the Indian Ocean. Here are the experiences worth planning your trip around.
Le Morne Brabant
This UNESCO-listed basalt mountain rises 556m off the south-west coast and is a symbol of resistance by escaped slaves. The hike to the summit takes around 3 to 4 hours return; book a licensed guide (about 1,500 to 2,500 rupees) as the upper section is steep and restricted.
The Seven Coloured Earths at Chamarel
In Chamarel you can see dunes of volcanic clay in red, brown, violet and green that never erode together. The same park holds the Chamarel Waterfall, the island's tallest at around 100m. Entry is roughly 300 rupees.
Black River Gorges National Park
Mauritius's largest protected forest has marked trails through native ebony and the chance to spot the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel, both brought back from near-extinction. Viewpoints over the gorges are free and signposted from Plaine Champagne.
Île aux Cerfs
This lagoon island off the east coast is the classic Mauritian beach day: powder-white sand, snorkelling and a famous championship golf course. Speedboats and catamarans leave from Trou d'Eau Douce.
The underwater waterfall illusion at Le Morne
From the air, sand and silt runoff near the Le Morne peninsula create the illusion of a waterfall plunging off an underwater cliff. Helicopter and seaplane tours offer the best view; it is one of the island's most photographed sights.
Port Louis and the Central Market
The capital's market is the place for street food (try a dholl puri), spices and souvenirs. Nearby, the Aapravasi Ghat is a UNESCO site marking the arrival of indentured labourers.
Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)
This sacred crater lake is Mauritius's most important Hindu pilgrimage site, watched over by a 33m statue of Shiva. It is free, peaceful and especially atmospheric during the Maha Shivaratri festival.
Dolphins at Tamarin Bay
Early-morning boat trips from Tamarin on the west coast regularly encounter wild spinner and bottlenose dolphins. Choose an operator that keeps a respectful distance rather than chasing the pods.
Chamarel Rum and local food
Round off with a tour and tasting at Rhumerie de Chamarel, then dinner of Creole curry, rougaille or octopus salad in a beachside village.
Stay connected in Mauritius
A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so maps, translation and last-minute bookings just work with no roaming bills.
Get your Mauritius eSIM in 30 seconds
Instant delivery, 4G/5G speeds, no roaming bills.
View Mauritius plans →