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Mauritius

Destination Guide Mauritius

Mauritius, a sparkling crystal in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, enchants visitors with its stunning white beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and rich cultural diversity. This island paradise is not only about idyllic beaches but also offers a blend of cultures, delicious cuisine, and vibrant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

Highlights & Must-See Attractions

  • Le Morne Brabant: This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only breathtaking but also rich in history, symbolizing freedom as it was a refuge for runaway slaves. The mountain provides fantastic hiking opportunities with panoramic ocean views.
  • Black River Gorges National Park: Explore the heart of Mauritius’ native forests, ideal for hiking and witnessing the island’s diverse flora and fauna, including the famous pink pigeon and Mauritian flying fox.
  • Chamarel: Known for its scenic landscapes, Chamarel offers two unique attractions: the Seven Coloured Earths, a geological formation of sand dunes comprising seven distinct colors, and the Chamarel Waterfalls, the highest in Mauritius.
  • Grand Baie: A bustling coastal village in the north that offers beautiful beaches, water sports, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: Also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, this historic garden features giant water lilies and a vast collection of indigenous and exotic plants.

Our lesser-known favourites

  1. Île aux Aigrettes: A small island nature reserve off the southeast coast, managed by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation. It’s home to some of the rarest birds and plants in the world, including the Mauritian kestrel and the pink pigeon.
  2. Flic en Flac: Offering one of the longest beaches on the island, this spot is perfect for sunset walks and snorkeling in its crystal clear waters.
  3. Mahebourg: One of the main fishing villages on the island, it’s steeped in history with a charming waterfront and a vibrant market.
  4. Rodrigues Island: A part of Mauritius, this small, remote island offers a slower pace of life with stunning landscapes, caves, and coral reefs that are less frequented by tourists.

Did you know?

Mauritius was the only known habitat of the dodo bird before it became extinct in the late 17th century due to human activities.

Food and Cuisine

  • Dholl puri: A popular street food, it’s a flatbread filled with ground yellow split peas, served with bean curry and chutney.
  • Rougaille: A Creole dish that is a tomato-based stew, typically made with fish or meat and infused with spices and herbs, reflecting the blend of cultures in Mauritian cuisine.
  • Mauritian Biryani: Different from its Indian counterpart, this biryani includes potatoes along with spiced meat and is cooked over a slow fire, often served at celebrations.

Literature

“Paul et Virginie” by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre: This 1788 novel is set in Mauritius and remains an important part of the island’s literary heritage, depicting the tragic love story between its titular characters.

Practical Information

  • Best Season to Visit: Mauritius enjoys a mild tropical maritime climate year-round. The best time to visit is from May to December when the weather is cooler, drier, and sunny.
  • Temperature: Coastal temperatures range from 20°C in the winter to 28°C in the summer. Inland temperatures are slightly lower.
  • Visa Requirements: Most visitors can enter Mauritius for up to 90 days without a visa. It’s important to check the latest entry requirements on the official government website….or drop us a line!

Getting ready for departure

  • Local Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash for smaller purchases.
  • Culture & Dress Code: The dress code is generally casual, but it’s respectful to wear cover-ups over swimwear when not on the beach and to dress conservatively when visiting religious sites.
  • Language: English and French are widely spoken, making communication easy for most travellers.
  • Electronics: Mauritius uses UK-type three-pin electrical plugs (type G), and the standard voltage is 230 V.
  • Local emergency numbers: Police: 999; Ambulance: 114.

Before you travel to Mauritius, check our Ultimate Packing List to make sure you’re fully prepared for your tropical getaway. Don’t forget to bring back local vanilla tea, rum, or artisanal crafts as a memory of your trip to this island paradise.