Located east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean is the tiny island nation of Mauritius. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. A dream destination for nature enthusiasts, the paradise offers a variety of stunning natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Come along as we check out some of the best spots on Mauritius for getting away from it all in a pristine natural environment. And when you’re ready to truly experience Shangri-la, let Exoticca take care of your travel plans for convenience and fun in one.
Top Places To Visit In Mauritius:
Volcanic Landscapes
Mauritius is a volcanic island with some unique geological formations worth visiting. One of the most frequented destinations is the Trou aux Cerfs crater, a basin 300 meters wide in diameter located in Curepipe. Tourists can hike to the top of the crater and enjoy the scenic views of the entire town and the central plateau of Mauritius.
The Seven Coloured Earths in Chamarel is another extraordinary volcanic formation. This group of sand dunes displays seven distinct colors, ranging from red to purple, believed to be the result of the different minerals present in the soil. A platform allows sightseers to get up close and personal with the peculiar natural phenomenon, snapping images as they go. The village is one of the highlights in Exoticca’s 5-night Mauritius tour package “All-Inc. Getaway to the Island of Eden” and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Waterfalls and Rivers
There are numerous stunning waterfalls and rivers in Mauritius. One of its most popular waterfalls is the Chamarel Waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation and majestic mountains, it offers breathtaking scenery and views holidaymakers can enjoy as they cool off in the refreshing pool below.
Another must-visit waterfall on the island is the Tamarin Falls. The journey to the waterfall is an adventure in itself, as tourists can hike through beautiful greenery while taking in scenic vistas. For the daring, the area also offers a variety of adventure sports like ziplining and canyoning.
Both waterfalls are named after the villages where they are located and are at their most impressive during the wet season.
Beaches and Coastal Landscapes
Mauritius’s beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters are some of the best in the world. Blue Bay Marine Park is one of its most popular marine parks. Located on the southeast coast, its beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life are ideal for snorkeling or scuba diving.
Le Morne Brabant, on the other hand, is for nature lovers who are also pursuing a cultural experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site on the southwest coast has significant historical and cultural value as it served as a refuge for runaway slaves during the 18th and 19th centuries. In addition, it is a popular hiking destination with a trail that starts off easy but becomes gradually more strenuous toward the summit. Despite the physical challenge, the panoramic views of the surrounding area make the effort well worth it.
National Parks and Reserves
Mauritius has several national parks and reserves that are home to various wildlife and plant species. Tourists can go hiking or trekking in the Black River Gorges National Park and admire the beautiful scenery along the way. One of the largest national parks on the island, it is home to over 300 species of plants and nine varieties of endemic bird species.
The pink pigeon, one of the most iconic and endangered species in Mauritius, dwells here. Intensive conservation efforts have brought its population back from the brink of extinction, when there were only ten left in the wild in the 1990s, to where it is today, with over 400 individuals. The Mauritius parakeet, an endemic bird species known for its vibrant green plumage, can also be found in Black River Gorges National Park’s forests.
Ile aux Aigrettes is a small island nature reserve located off the southeast coast of Mauritius. The pink pigeon, the Mauritius kestrel, the Mauritian flying fox, and the Mauritian giant tortoise are just a few of the endemic plant and animal species found on the island. The best way to learn about the rescue and restoration efforts for these rare animals is on a guided tour. It also shows off the island’s many ecosystems, including the dry forest, mangrove forest, and coastal vegetation.
The Bras d’Eau National Park is another fantastic national park. The Mauritian flying fox and the Mauritian cuckoo-shrike are just two of the many endemic bird and animal species that call this area of northern Mauritius home. Holidaymakers can explore it on foot or by mountain bike and take in the breathtaking vistas.
Tips for Travelers Visiting Mauritius
Mauritius is a beautiful country with diverse natural and cultural attractions. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mauritius and make the most of your time on this breathtaking island.
- Plan Your Trip Ahead: Research and plan your trip well in advance to ensure you can cover all the places you want to visit. Also book your accommodation and transportation ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray: The sun can be intense in Mauritius, and mosquitoes can be a nuisance in some areas, so bring sunscreen with high SPF and insect repellent for protection from the sun and mosquitoes.
- Dress Appropriately: Mauritius is a tropical country with a warm and humid climate. However, avoid wearing revealing or skimpy clothing and keep your shoulders and knees covered in religious and cultural sites.
- Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Mauritius is a multicultural country with a rich heritage and diverse customs and traditions. Respect the local way of life and behave appropriately when visiting religious and cultural sites.
- Try Local Food and Drink: The island nation has a unique cuisine that is a blend of Indian, Chinese, Creole, and French influences. Trying the local food and drink, such as the famous Mauritian curry, gateaux piments, dholl puri, and Alouda, is a must for an authentic Mauritius experience.
- Learn Basic French and Creole: French and Creole are the two main languages spoken in Mauritius. Learning some basic French and Creole phrases can go a long way in helping you communicate with the locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
- Use Public Transport: Mauritius has a reliable public transport system that includes buses and taxis. Public transport is a cost-effective way to get around the island and a great way to interact with locals and experience the local way of life.
- Stay Safe: This is a safe destination for travelers, but taking basic safety precautions is still crucial. Don’t carry large amounts of money and valuables, stay in well-lit areas, and be cautious when traveling alone at night.
- Be Responsible and Sustainable: Mauritius has a fragile ecosystem, so be responsible and sustainable when visiting. Avoid littering, conserve water and energy, and support local businesses and conservation efforts.
- Get Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is essential when traveling to Mauritius or any other country. It can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related emergencies.
The Most Stunning Places To Visit In Mauritius
Mauritius is a true haven for those who appreciate the beauty and diversity of nature. The island’s volcanic landscapes, forests, waterfalls, and rivers are some of the most stunning you’ll ever see, while the beaches and coastal areas offer some of the clearest seawater on the planet. If you’re seeking adventure, Mauritius has plenty of options, and Exoticca’s vacation packages have been put together with avid adventurers and nature enthusiasts in mind. So, whether you’re looking to unwind or go on a one-of-a-kind adventure, Mauritius is a destination you must add to your travel list.
