Mauritius, a magnificent pearl amidst the beautiful waves of the Indian Ocean, lies about 900 kilometers to the south-east of the African continent and to the east of the Madagascar Peninsula. this country is decorated with pristine beaches and turquoise waters to lush rainforests and stunning coral reefs. These all features make it heaven for those who want something different in their journey. Due to It’s Cultural, Religious, Languages, Origin or People & Economical similarity with the Asian nation India, often called “Mini India”. It is one of the most prosperous countries on the African continent. This country, which was once dependent only on sugarcane products exports, has made tremendous progress through its excellent tourism industry, financial services and outsourcing.
Mauritius At A Glance
Location: This island nation is located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar and south of the Tropic of Capricorn.
Capital: Port Louis is the capital and largest city of Mauritius.
Area: The island is about 2,040 square kilometer’s.
Population: Mauritius has a population of about 1.3 million people.
GDP: $ 12.95 billion (2022)
GDP per Capita: US $ 10,256.2 (2022)
GDP Growth: 8.9% (annual) (Data as per World Bank Report 2022)
Life Expectancy: 71 years (men) & 78 years (women)
Language: English, French Mauritian & Creole
Religions: Hindu (48.5%), Christian (32.7%), Islam (17.3%) & others
Currency: Mauritian rupee (MUR)
Climate: tropical climate with warm temperature
Places To Visit In Mauritius
Mauritius is a very beautiful island nation in the mid of the Indian Ocean known for its awesome beaches, amazing coral reefs and diverse cultural speciality. Here are some places you must visit during your journey in Mauritius:
- Port Louis
Port Louis, A capital city whose beauty is almost impossible to describe in words. It’s just an amazing place to visit & experience the pleasure around you. If you are here then You neither wait for Cuisines like Fresh seafood, Creole curries, French pastries and Chinese dumplings nor can you stop yourself from watching french colonial architecture, amazing beaches and tropical greenery. Vibrant Central Market & Blue Penny Museum are other amazing places to enjoy. Altogether you are just going to love this place.
How to Reach:
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is the main international airport in Mauritius, located around 48 kilometers southeast of Port Louis. You can come here with a Taxi, Bus, Rental Car, Water Taxi, or Rental Scooter from the Airport.
- Ile aux Cerfs
The Ile aux Cerfs island is a wonderful destination for beach lovers. Infinite waves of ocean, turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and luxurious resorts make it a perfect destination for your celebration of joy. You can do here lot of amazing activities like scuba diving, water surfing, Sunbathing, Swimming etc. It’s a popular spot in Mauritius for day trips and relaxation.
Main Attraction:
- Swimming in the turquoise waters of the lagoon.
- Relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches.
- Visiting the island’s golf course.
- Taking a boat ride around the island.
How To Reach:
The first step is to travel from the MRU airport to Trou d’Eau Douce, a coastal village that serves as a departure point for boat trips to Ile aux Cerfs. Ile aux Cerfs is situated on the east coast of Mauritius, and can be reached by boat from Trou d’Eau Douce. The boat trip takes about 15-30 minutes. You can come here via Taxi, Car or other public transport too.
- Black River Gorges National Park
Full of greenery national park in the southwest of the island is an amazing destination for nature lovers. Walking in the rainforest, swimming in waterfalls, watch exclusive wildlife like the pink pigeon and the Mauritius kestrel. These all things only possible in Black River Gorges National Park. This Park was established in 1994. This famous destination is located in the southwestern part of Mauritius and covers an area of 67.54 square kilometers.
Main Attraction:
- Walk through 60 kilometres of dense rainforests, past cascading waterfalls and over rolling hills.
- Watch the unique wildlife like pink pigeon, Mauritius kestrel, and the Mauritian foxy fruit bat.
- Witness the panoramic vistas like Macchabée Viewpoint and Alexandra Falls Viewpoint etc.
How to Reach
To reach Black River Gorges National Park from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) in Mauritius Via Taxi, Rental Car & other public transport. The drive takes around 40-60 minutes to reach the park.
- Le Morne Brabant
Le Morne Brabant in Mauritius is a sight of elegant views & powerful symbol of bravery. Located at 556 meters (1,824 ft.) above sea level, Le Morne Brabant is an incredible basaltic monolith that juts out into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Its high cliffs and lush slopes create a picture-perfect views and making it a photographer’s & nature lover’s favourite destination.
Le Morne Brabant played a crucial role in the battle against slavery in Mauritius. During the 18th and early 19th centuries, runaway slaves saved their lives by hiding in these caves & cliffs and established maroon communities. Their struggles for freedom and the tragic legend of their mass leap to escape capture have made Le Morne a powerful symbol of resistance and resilience.
In 2008, Le Morne Brabant was announced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its outstanding universal value.
Main Attraction:
- Breathtaking panoramic views
- Rock climbing on the challenging cliffs
- Kayaking through the mangroves of the lagoon
- Hiking, kitesurfing, or visiting Chamarel Coloured Earth
- Cultural Landscape Interpretation Centre & pay homage to the legacy of the maroons etc.
How to Reach
The drive from Sir Shiv Sagar Ramgoolam International Airport takes approximately 56 minutes via A10 and B103. You can take bus Route 25 to Rivière des Créoles, then transfer to bus Route 18 which goes directly to Le Morne Brabant. The journey takes about 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, Mauritius. This garden officially known as the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden and was established in 1770. This amazing garden is home of a wide variety of plants from around the world, including giant tortoises and a spice garden. This tropical heaven spread over 37 hectares (91 acres) are home to an incredible diversity of tropical plants with over 80 varieties of palm trees. In this historical garden you can easily find indigenous and exotic flora, including the famous giant water lilies, rare palm trees, and vibrant orchids.
When you will reach through well-decorated pathways with amazing greenery to historical landmarks the Château de Mon Plaisir. Believe me you will forget everything for a moment and get lost in this incredible landscape. This rich botanical heritage and amazing landscapes make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a incredible blend of history and natural beauty.
You Must Explore these places during your journey in Pamplemousses Botanical Garden:
- Tropical biodiversity garden.
- Giant Water Lilies.
- Spice Route Legacy.
- Historic Colonial Estate etc.
How to Reach:
If you’re starting your journey by Car from the capital city, Port Louis, head northeast on the M2 towards Pamplemousses. Follow the signs for the A10 highway, which will lead you directly to the botanical garden. Buses like 22, 227 and 85 run from the Hospice Pere Laval bus station to the village of Eau Pavonine, a short walk from the garden entrance. The garden is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily for local & international visitors. And entrance fees are 200 MUR for non-residents and 60 MUR for residents.
- Grand Baie
Basically, Grand Baie is a stunning seaside village that stands as a popular destination among local & International tourist. Grand Baie, located on the northern coast of Mauritius & known for stunning beaches, azure waters and vibrant atmosphere along with exiting water sports adventures. A lot of luxury hotels, restaurants, shopping centres and a stunning marine life, making it a exiting hub for entertainment and relaxation.
Visitors can explore water sports such as snorkelling, sailing, parasailing, dive into the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life or enjoy the charming streets filled with boutiques and craft markets. The nightlife in Grand Baie is amazing with a plethora of bars and nightclubs creating a vibrant atmosphere around you.
You Must Visit While Traveling In Grand Baie
- Grand Baie beach
- Grand Baie La Croisette
- Grand Baie nightlife
- Grand Baie underwater world, boutiques, craft stalls, and duty-free stores etc.
How to Reach
Grand Baie is approximately 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) north of the capital city of Mauritius, Port Louis. You can take the M2 highway towards the north.
7. Chamarel Coloured Earth
Chamarel Coloured Earths is a magical world & located in southwestern coast of Mauritius. It’s a geological wonder and vibrant landscape will leave you spellbound. Just Imagine rolling sand dunes, not in shades of white or brown, but in rainbow colors like fiery reds, verdant greens, rusty browns and dreamy blues. The seven different colours, said to be the result of volcanic activity and the weathering of rocks rich in iron and aluminium oxides, creating a scene that seems straight out of a fantasy novel. Means, you are going to just reach in another universe that is beyond your thought.
Apart from this, nearby attractions like the Chamarel Waterfall and the Seven Coloured Earths geological park, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking the amazing beauty of Mauritius’ natural wonders.
You Must Explore These Things Additionally
- See Giant Tortoises.
- Tour the rum distillery and enjoy the tastings facility.
- Explore Ebony Forest Reserve.
- Cross the Zipline Adventure, Nepalese Bridge.
- Browse local shops for handcrafted items and rum etc.
How to Reach
It’s the most convenient destination, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive the 48-kilometer distance from the capital city Port Luis. Follow the M2 highway southwest towards Black River Gorges National Park.
- Trou Aux Biches
The northwest coast of Mauritius based Trou Aux Biches is one of the longest and most beautiful coastal village in Mauritius. It is lined with palm trees and other tropical greenery, creating a stunning location for swimming, sunbathing and water sports adventure. It’s renowned for adorable marine life with pristine white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
It is a prime destination for snorkeling and diving lovers. The clear lagoon, vibrant coral reef and gentle waves create an incredible place for water activities. You can get here numerous Bars, Restaurants & luxuries resort. So must come here & enjoy your every moment with utmost pleasure.
You Can Also Explore Here
- Go hiking or biking in this adventures trip.
- Visit one of the many nearby villages or towns.
- Take a trip of the Seven Cascades Waterfall.
How to Reach
It takes around 20-30 minutes to drive the 20 kilometres from the capital city Port Luis. By Car you need to follow the M2 highway northwest towards Grand Baie. Buses 22, 85 and 227 run from the Hospice Pere Laval bus station in Port Louis to Trou aux Biches and the journey takes around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic and stops.
9. Flic En Flac Beach
If you are seeking relaxation, water sports or a romantic evening with watching the sunset in Mauritius, around 1.5 kilometers long Flic en Flac Beach is one of the most beautiful answers for these all your queries. This beach is one of the most amazing place places on the long coast line of Mauritius. The beach is framed by pleasant greenery and casuarina trees, providing shade and an awesome atmosphere. The Indian Ocean gently laps against the coastline, creating a soothing soundtrack for beach lovers. The coral reef located just beside acts as a natural barrier, making the water calm and ideal for swimming.
Things That Attract The Tourist In Flic En Flac Beach,
- Dive into amazing marine life world.
- Paddleboarding or kayaking
- Kitesurfing
- Dolphine watching3
- Visiting the Casela Nature Park
- Experience the amazing nightlife
- And Shopping at the Cascavelle Shopping Mall etc.
How to Reach
From the capital city Port Louis, the journey takes around 40-50 minutes depending on traffic. It cost approximately 1,500-2,000 Mauritian rupees (MUR). If we talk about buses, departing from Victoria Station in Port Louis every 15-30 minutes. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and costs around MUR 30-50. Take bus number 23 or 81 towards Flic en Flac.
- Rodrigues Island
Rodrigues is a volcanic island, located in the Indian Ocean around 550 kilometers east of Mauritius and covers an area of around 108 square kilometers. It is the smallest part of the Mascarene Islands, a group that includes Mauritius and Réunion. The island is an amazing place for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet unique landscape. Rolling hills, dense green valleys and majestic coastlines offering breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.
Warm hospitality, traditional customs and way of life of locals will really impress you. Nightlife beside the awesome beach, vibrant music, delicious Creole cuisine and charming island traditions, these all things are enough to fil you with utmost pleasure & joy.
Things You Must Explore Here
- Swimming, Sunbathing along with kitesurfing or windsurfing.
- Unique flora and fauna of Francois Leguat Nature Reserve.
- Dive into the underwater world.
- Experience local culture etc.
How To Reach
If you travel by airways, It takes 1 hour and 35 minutes. Air Mauritius offers regular flights between Sir Seewsagar Ramgoolam International Airport (SSR International Airport) in Plaine Magnien, near Port Louis and Sir Charles Gaetan Duval Airport on Rodrigues Island. The Mauritius Trochetia ferry sails from Port Louis Harbour to Port Mathurin on Rodrigues Island once a week, typically on Saturdays. The journey takes around 36-48 hours, depending on the sea conditions.
In conclusion, Mauritius stands as a vibrant jewel in the Indian Ocean which is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. This perfect island nation offers visitors an exceptional tropical paradise, characterized by pristine beaches, turquoise waters and rich green landscapes. Overall, Mauritius attracts visitors with its natural beauty, cultural richness that make it a destination that wait in the hearts and memories of all who have the benefit to visit.
Further Read: Spent Your Holiday In South Africa
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