Floating in the Indian Ocean with open-water access to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australia, the African island of Mauritius is a cultural melting pot cradled by bone-white beaches and azure water. Even if you're short on time, Mauritius' relatively small size means it's easy to see the island in its entirety. Sightseeing tours that stop at top attractions such as the Chamarel Waterfall, the Black River Gorges National Park, Grand Bassin lake in Ganga Talao, and the Trou aux Cerfs Crater are a popular choice among first-time visitors. Cultivated gardens of giant water lilies, ebonies, and palms paint the landscape at Pamplemousses Botanical Garden (also called Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden), while the Seven Colored Earth lures photographers and ecologists with its vibrant sand dunes. Off the coast of Mauritius, opportunities for diving and other water sports abound. Swim with dolphins off the coast of Port Louis, surf the waves at Le Morne, snorkel off Grand Baie, take a catamaran cruise to nearby Île aux Cerfs, or comb the beach at Trou d'Eau Douce. Kid-friendly options such as the Bois Cheri Plantation or the Vanille Réserve des Mascareigne nature park make Mauritius ideal for families too, while romantic beaches and luxurious resorts attract honeymooners in equal measure.
Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its white-sand beaches and luxury resorts. The country is often associated with the Dodo, an extinct flightless bird that once called the island home. Mauritius is also famous for its “underwater waterfall” (which is actually an optical illusion) and for sitting on top of a lost continent, Mauritia, that was discovered in 2017.
...MoreYou’ll want to spend at least 1–2 weeks in Mauritius—especially since the island is not exactly easy to reach. You can devote a couple of days to relaxing at your resort, then fill the rest of your itinerary with scuba diving excursions, boat trips to smaller islands, hikes through national parks, and wildlife encounters with lions and dolphins.
...MoreMauritius is very much a beach destination, so many visitors prioritize activities like swimming, scuba diving, and boating. Dolphin-watching boat tours are also quite popular. The island’s southwest region is perfect for when you need a break from the water, as it features plenty of rain forest-rich parks and places to grab authentic Mauritian cuisine.
...MoreNo, there is not a set dress code in Mauritius in terms of cultural propriety—you are fine wearing comfortable beachwear like bikinis, shorts, sleeveless shirts, and skirts. Your hotel or resort may have dress codes for certain dining establishments, so be sure to check the property’s website before your visit.
...MoreYes. While drinking in public places (including beaches) was banned in 2009, visitors are welcome to enjoy alcohol at bars, restaurants, and hotels. Locally made cane rum is a particularly popular choice among tourists. The legal drinking age in Mauritius is 18.
...MoreYes. There are mosquitoes almost everywhere in Mauritius, but they are a particular problem in the forests and national parks. The mosquitoes here don’t carry malaria, but visitors should still come armed with repellant or pick up some at a local shop once they arrive—the bites can sometimes transmit dengue fever, and you don’t want itchy skin to damper an otherwise relaxing vacation.
...MoreNumber of Attractions | 19 |
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Number of Tours | 486 |
Number of Reviews | 5,254 |
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