The Indian Ocean island nation of Mauritius is known for its beaches, lagoons and reefs. But the mountainous interior has rainforests, waterfalls and hiking trails, as well as wildlife like the flying fox.
The capital Port Louis has sites such as the Champs de Mars horse track, Eureka plantation house and 18th-century Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens. And you can hunt down street art all over the city.
1. Tamarin Beach
Tamarin Beach, situated in the West of Mauritius, is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It is famous for its waves and the beautiful sunsets it offers.
It is also a top choice for surfing and bodyboarding. Its two main surfing spots are known as Dal (to the south) and Black Stone (to the north).
A popular destination for tourists, fishermen, tour operators and surfers from all over the world, Tamarin Beach is a paradise for those who love nature. Its calm waters and clear views of the Black River mountain range make it a great place to relax.
2. Chamarel Waterfalls
Chamarel waterfall is the highest in Mauritius and thunders down over a hundred meters into a rocky bowl. The waterfall is located within the Seven Colored Earth geopark and has two viewpoints where you can see the spectacular view of the falls.
It’s a must-see for visitors to Mauritius! Here, you’ll find unique geological formations that shine as soon as the sun rays hit them.
3. Vallee Des Couleurs
La Vallee Des Couleurs is one of the best places to visit in Mauritius for nature lovers. This 450-acre park is a green amphitheater of beauty that abounds with lush vegetation, birds and animals, ponds, rivers, waterfalls, multi-coloured earth and a geological museum unique to the island.
Located in the South of the island, this nature park is a must-visit for all nature lovers. It offers a unique experience with the indegenous fauna and flora of the area alongside various fun activities and excursions, suitable for all ages.
4. Grand Baie Village
Grand Baie Village is a picturesque and magnetic village in Mauritius which lures tourists with its peace-inducing beaches, a happening marketplace, and lively nightlife. Located in Riviere du Rempart district, this coastal village also lets you indulge in various adventurous activities like swimming and snorkelling.
The public beach of the Grand Bay is situated at the center of the village and it should not be missed as it’s very active with boats and catamarans. It offers a range of facilities including fresh juice stands, fast food stalls and beach restaurants.
5. Fort Adelaide
Fort Adelaide, also known as Citadelle, is a historical landmark in Port Louis that offers impressive 360-degree views of the city. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the Chinatown, Champ de Mars, and mountains fringing the capital city.
Originally built to fortify the city’s defense, this structure now serves as a landmark and national heritage site in Mauritius. It’s one of four forts that were constructed in the country, and is still standing today.
6. Sugar Museum
The sugar industry has always been an important part of Mauritius’ history and a visit to this museum will give you the chance to understand it more. It will also tell you about the colonial past and how sugar played a great role in boosting the economy of the country.
The museum is a former sugar factory, so visitors can witness the age-old machinery and learn about the process of producing sugar canes. They can also have a look at some travelling exhibitions.
7. Blue Penny Museum
Mauritius is a rich country with a long history and the Blue Penny Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of the island. Here you can find the famous Blue Penny Stamps, a collection of antique maps and engravings and some very rare photographs of Port Louis.
The Blue Penny Museum is a must-visit for those who are interested in history and heritage. The museum displays an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, old marine maps and stamps that tell the story of Mauritius from its origins.
8. Ganga Talao
A crater lake in the mountainous district of Savanne, deep in Mauritius's heartland, Ganga Talao (commonly known as Grand Bassin) is one of the island’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites. Nestled atop a mountain, the serene waterway is home to a collection of shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other gods.
Thousands of Hindus make an annual pilgrimage to Ganga Talao during the Maha Shivratri festival, walking bare feet from their homes to the lake’s edge, to offer offerings and prayers. It’s an awe-inspiring sight.
