Mauritius: Top Attractions to See

Mauritius is a small island located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. It's a favorite vacation spot for many tourists from around the world. The island offers a variety of activities for both active travelers seeking new experiences and those who want to relax and soak up the sun. Here's a guide to some of the must-see attractions in Mauritius:

Bustling Capital Port Louis – The Flavors of Mauritius

Start your tour of Mauritius in the vibrant capital city of Port Louis, located on the northwest coast. This dynamic city is a melting pot of cultures and offers a unique glimpse into the island's diversity. Make sure to visit local restaurants to taste Mauritian cuisine, which combines influences from various cultures that have shaped the island's history. Popular dishes include Dholl Puri, a pancake-like dish filled with bean curry, pickles, and mildly spicy condiments. Other must-tries are Vindaye Poisson, a dish with fish or octopus marinated in mustard, and Farata, a fried pancake served with curry.

Amazing Chinatown in Port Louis

Chinatown in Port Louis, established by Chinese and Indian workers in the 18th century, is a bustling area with a blend of cultures, unique architecture, shops, and cuisine. Don't miss the historic white and green Jummah Mosque with its beautiful minarets. Chinatown is a great place for a lively evening out.

Mystical Forests of Black River Gorges National Park

Located in the southern part of the island, Black River Gorges National Park spans about 68 km². It's a must-visit for its unique climate and rich biodiversity, including giant fruit bats and the rare Mauritius kestrel. The park features over 50 kilometers of hiking trails, some of which include rope bridges suspended among the treetops, offering breathtaking views of the island and waterfalls.

Chamarel – The Seven Colored Earth

This natural phenomenon in Black River Gorges National Park showcases soil in various colors such as red, purple, blue, green, yellow, and orange, creating a magical landscape. The colors are due to the mineral-rich soil and volcanic ash erosion. Thousands of tourists visit annually to marvel at this unique sight.

Paradise Beach Le Morne – For Active People and Those Seeking Relaxation

Le Morne Beach, located on the southwest tip of the island, is perfect for sun lovers, surfers, and divers. The white sand and turquoise waters make it ideal for relaxation and water sports. The nearby exclusive hotels add to its appeal as a prime spot to stay in Mauritius.

Tea Plantations and the Bois Chéri Tea Museum

Tea enthusiasts should visit the Bois Chéri Tea Museum to learn about the history and production process of tea, introduced to the island in the 18th century. The museum tour includes a tasting session in the tea house, where you can sample and buy different tea varieties.

Casela Nature Parks

Casela Nature Parks offer various activities for families, including safaris, bird watching, and adrenaline-pumping adventures in the rope park. The park also features a thrilling roller coaster amidst the forested hills.

Enchanting Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Named after the grapefruit, Pamplemousses Botanical Garden was founded by French consul Pierre Poivre in the 18th century. The garden boasts over 80 palm species, massive baobabs, cinnamon trees, and the giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Amma Tookay Temple and Al-Noor Mosque in Camp Diable

In the southern part of the island, the Amma Tookay Temple and Al-Noor Mosque in Camp Diable showcase the island's multiculturalism. The temple is adorned with colorful decorations, while the mosque, built in the 1980s, highlights the religious diversity of Mauritius.

Stunning Waterfalls: Chamarel and Alexandra

Chamarel Waterfall, the highest on the island at about 100 meters, and Alexandra Falls are two must-see natural wonders in Black River Gorges National Park. Both can be accessed by car or on foot from the village of Chamarel.

Sugarcane Plantation and Rum Factory

The symbol of Mauritius, sugarcane plantations are vital to the island's economy. In the town of Chamarel, the rum factory offers guided tours explaining the production process of the amber liquor, culminating in a tasting session.

Île aux Cerfs – The Deer Island

Located off the east coast of Mauritius, Île aux Cerfs offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. It's a paradise for divers and boat trips to the Grand River South East Waterfalls. The island also features an 18-hole golf course designed by Bernhard Langer.

Golf in Mauritius

For golf enthusiasts, Mauritius offers several scenic golf courses, including the renowned Ile aux Cerfs course. Other top courses include Anahita and Heritage Golf Club, making Mauritius a leading golf destination.