MAURITIUS

Tropical palms fluttering gently on the fringes of soft white beaches, exquisite aquamarine blue waters, colourful fish darting in and out of coral reefs – it is truly the iconic island holiday paradise. Relaxation is guaranteed whether it’s dozing on the beach, floating in the balmy waters or succumbing to a soothing spa treatment.

And yet Mauritius may surprise you with the extent and richness of its many other experiences. Adventure seekers have an endless array of options – fishing, snorkelling, diving, windsurfing and kiteboarding in the warm Indian Ocean waters, or hiking, horse riding, quad biking or rock climbing through verdant jungle-clad mountains and nature reserves. Even the ardent golfer will delight in the many world-class golf courses on offer. 

Then there is the glorious cultural dimension to the island and its people. A diverse and colourful history has shaped its mix of cultures, races and religions, providing a fascinating history and uniquely exotic cuisine, making for a deeply rewarding travel experience.

  • The North Coast is a popular tourist area offering both beach relaxation as well as city buzz in the resort town of Grand Baie with great restaurants, shopping by day and nightclubs by night
  • The West Coast is more sheltered and has spectacular beaches such as Trou-aux-Biches and Flic-en-Flac. It is best for family holidays, swimming, snorkelling and diving
  • The East Coast and Belle Mare region is less built up and more exclusive with many luxurious hotels, beautiful beaches and sporting activities. Ile aux Cerfs is a small island off this area that is a popular paradise destination
  • Black River Gorges National Park further inland offers walks and activities within the lush green forests where you can feast on spectacular waterfalls, rare plants and amazing bird life
  • Chamarel region is close to Black River Gorges and known for its undulating multicoloured sand dunes and dramatic waterfall where abseiling is available for the adrenalin junkie

Time: GMT + 4hrs

Language: Mauritian Creole is the most spoken language, but English and French widely used

Health: It is malaria free and no specific shots are required

Visa: European and US travellers do not need visas. Visa requirements change regularly so please consult with your local embassy when planning your trip

When to go: Generally a year-round destination, but we recommend April and May as the best months to travel in. January and February is cyclone season and best avoided

HIGHLIGHTS
  • The North Coast is a popular tourist area offering both beach relaxation as well as city buzz in the resort town of Grand Baie with great restaurants, shopping by day and nightclubs by night
  • The West Coast is more sheltered and has spectacular beaches such as Trou-aux-Biches and Flic-en-Flac. It is best for family holidays, swimming, snorkelling and diving
  • The East Coast and Belle Mare region is less built up and more exclusive with many luxurious hotels, beautiful beaches and sporting activities. Ile aux Cerfs is a small island off this area that is a popular paradise destination
  • Black River Gorges National Park further inland offers walks and activities within the lush green forests where you can feast on spectacular waterfalls, rare plants and amazing bird life
  • Chamarel region is close to Black River Gorges and known for its undulating multicoloured sand dunes and dramatic waterfall where abseiling is available for the adrenalin junkie
USEFUL INFORMATION

Time: GMT + 4hrs

Language: Mauritian Creole is the most spoken language, but English and French widely used

Health: It is malaria free and no specific shots are required

Visa: European and US travellers do not need visas. Visa requirements change regularly so please consult with your local embassy when planning your trip

When to go: Generally a year-round destination, but we recommend April and May as the best months to travel in. January and February is cyclone season and best avoided

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