Mauritius

It's been described by some as heaven on earth. It's easy to conceive why said reputation exists by stepping foot on the volcanic island: nature is abundant and most activities pivot around sun, sand and sea.

I spent my three weeks moving between beaches, traversing the forest-filled interior and mixing with locals who have settled here, originally from multiple corners of the globe. Mauritius is a unique melting pot of ethnicity, culture and cuisine. It's also an expensive destination and, in some areas, it is overrun by tourism.

However, it's easy to look past the hordes when the emerald-cum-turquoise lustre of lapping tidal waters await. See what I got up to (aside from visiting beaches) during my stay. And let this overview of Mauritius convince you to visit.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Mauritius

Facts

Capital: Port Louis

Population: 1,277,444 (2023)

Language: Mauritius is a multilingual country, and the official language of Parliament is English. But French and Creole are widely spoken and are considered the lingua franca. Hindi, Urdu, and Chinese are also spoken by some communities.

Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)

Visas

Most visitors to Mauritius need a visa, except for citizens of some countries who are exempt for short stays.

For example, citizens of some countries such as the United States, Canada, the European Union, and Australia can enter Mauritius for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. However, citizens of many African and Asian countries, need to apply for a visa in advance.

It's recommended to check with the Mauritian embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date visa requirements and application process.

Best time to visit

Mauritius has a tropical climate, with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, making it a year-round destination.

However, the weather can vary depending on the season, so choosing the right time to visit Mauritius can depend on what you plan to do during your stay.

Summer (November to April):

High temperatures ranging from 28-33°C (82-91°F)

Humidity and occasional rain showers

The sea is warm and calm, making it perfect for water activities like swimming, snorkelling, and diving

Peak tourist season, with higher prices and crowds

November and December can experience some occasional tropical storms

Winter (May to October):

Cooler temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F)

Less humidity and mostly dry weather

Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and golfing

The sea can be rough, making some water activities less desirable

Lower prices and fewer tourists, except for the school holiday period in July and August

Top Things to Do in Mauritius

Explore the Beaches

Mauritius is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters, white sand, and swaying palm trees. Some popular beaches to visit include Trou aux Biches, Flic en Flac, and Le Morne.

Visit the National Parks

These offer a glimpse into the island's diverse flora and fauna. Black River Gorges National Park and Casela Nature Park are two popular ones to explore.

Take a Boat Trip to an Island

Mauritius is surrounded by several small islands that can be visited by boat. Île aux Cerfs and Île aux Aigrettes are two popular islands to explore.

Go Snorkelling or Scuba Diving

With clear waters and abundant marine life, Mauritius is a great place for snorkelling and scuba diving. Try Blue Bay Marine Park, Coin de Mire, and Trou aux Biches.

Try the Local Cuisine

Mauritian cuisine is a fusion of Indian, Chinese, Creole, and European influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful cuisine. Try dholl puri, fish vindaye, and gateau piment.

Experience Geological Marvels

Visit the enchanting Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark to witness a natural wonder. This geological phenomenon features sand dunes with seven distinct and vibrant colours, creating a mesmerising landscape.