Are you looking for the best things to do in Mauritius? Well, look no further! This guide will give you all the info you need to scout out the most unique and breathtaking landscapes in Mauritius!
Since I’ve spent my whole life in Mauritius, I’ve been able to explore every corner of this small paradise island. So today I’m sharing my insider tips to help you plan your trip to Mauritius and show you all the off-beat places that you need to visit!
From white-sand beaches to lush mountains and forest, stunning waterfalls and colorful street arts, there is an abundance of places to visit in Mauritius!
Keep reading for a list of 32 awesome things to do in Mauritius and tips on how to get around, the best time to visit Mauritius and the best places to stay.
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What to do in Mauritius to get off the typical tourist trail?
Visit Eau Bleue Waterfall
Located in the village of Cluny, visiting Eau Bleue waterfall is one of the most underrated things to do in Mauritius. Eau Bleue is actually made up of six waterfalls and despite being incredibly beautiful, Eau Bleue is almost never crowded. So, if you want to swim in the clearest water without the hordes of tourists, Eau Bleue is the place for you!
Related post: How to visit Eau Bleue Waterfall + Map
Scenic hike to Pont Naturel
If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius and love exploring the outdoors, you certainly can’t miss hiking to Pont Naturel! Pont Naturel is a natural rock formation that has been shaped into a bridge by the force of nature over several thousand years.
The best and most scenic way to get there is to hike from Le Bouchon beach which will take you through sugarcane fields, mangroves and the rugged coastline.
Related post: Hiking guide to Pont Naturel in Mauritius
Hike to Tamarind Falls (7 Cascades)
The Tamarind Falls (also known as Tamarin Falls or 7 Cascades) are a series of 12 waterfalls, seven of which are much bigger. The waterfalls are located in the village of Henrietta and are among the most popular attractions in Mauritius.
From the Henrietta bus terminal, drive straight ahead until you see a Hindu temple and cemetery further away on your left. You can just leave your car here on the side of the road.
The start of the trail is found on the right. Follow the path between the sugarcane fields until you reach an intersection. Take the left here until you arrive at another intersection. Turn left and follow the trail downhill leading to the first waterfall.
Although I saw some people hiking on their own, I would recommend hiring a local guide as it’s easy to get lost and some parts are very steep and can be dangerous. A reasonable price for a guided hike should be around Rs 1,500 per group.
Related post: How to visit Tamarind Falls without a guide?
Shop and dine at the Caudan Waterfront
The Caudan Waterfront is found in Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius. It consists of luxury and affordable shopping malls, a craft market, casino, two hotels and food courts, all built on reclaimed land!
If you want to sample some local food, head to the “Pat et Rosy Galettes de Manioc” stall which is found a few meters from the casino. They sell all sorts of food made from cassava such as cakes, rotis and more. They usually open around 11 a.m and get pretty busy during lunchtime.
From the views over the harbor to the colorful umbrellas and street arts near the Mauritius Postal Museum, Caudan Waterfront offers lots of photo opportunities.
Free parking is available on Saturdays from 12.30 p.m and during the whole day on Sundays and public holidays. During the week, parking costs Rs 50 (US$ 1.40) for the first 4 hours and Rs 50 (US$ 1.40) for each additional hour.
If you’re on a budget, the bus station is found on the opposite side of the road. You can then take the underground pathway to get to the Caudan Waterfront which is about a 10 to 15 minutes’ walk.
Hunt for Street Arts in Port Louis
Did you know that the city of Port Louis has over 40 street arts thanks to the “Porlwi by Light” festival which brought together local and international artists? Street art hunting has quickly become a popular attraction in Mauritius!
From Chinese-inspired murals to abstract arts, most of them can be found in Chinatown and Bourbon street. So, get your camera ready and go on a street art hunt!
Related post: Mauritius Street Art Guide + Map
Experience the Port Louis Central Market
If you’re wondering what to do in Port Louis, why not visit the Central Market? This is where you’ll find a wide selection of local fruits and vegetables, souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes and spices all under one roof.
Near the entrance, you’ll find a small section on your left selling local food such as “Dholl Puri”, “Ti Puri” and “Roti” as well as some souvenirs and handicraft stalls. On your right is the food court section which goes all the way to the fruit and vegetable stalls.
You’ll also find a craft market on the first floor. Keep in mind that since it’s mostly aimed at tourists, prices will be much higher so make sure you haggle!
The market is open every day from 5.30 a.m to 5.30 p.m except on Sundays when it closes at around 12 p.m.
Tip: Book a street food tour to taste some of the best street food at the market and all over Port Louis!
Visit Ile aux Aigrettes
Located in the bay of Mahebourg, Ile aux Aigrettes is a small nature reserve home to several endangered species of plants and animals. You can book a guided tour to explore the island or a sunset cruise tour to swim and snorkel at the island.
Visit Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel
Notre Dame Auxiliatrice is a small red-colored roof chapel set against the white-sand beach of Cap Malheureux. It’s one of the best places to visit in Mauritius especially during sunset and a popular photo spot among newly-weds.
Explore hidden spots at Gris Gris Beach
Gris Gris beach is a gorgeous beach perfect for watching the strong waves crash against the cliffs. The currents here are extremely strong so swimming is not advisable. You can instead walk along the coastline to explore the hiking trails leading to “La Roche qui Pleure” and two hidden waterfalls!
Stare in awe at Chamarel Waterfall
Chamarel waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Mauritius, dropping at a height of 100 meters! To get there you will have to pay an entrance fee of Rs 250 (US$ 6.90) including a visit to the Seven Colored Earth which is made up of colorful sand dunes (you can book your tickets to the Seven Colored Earth here).
There are two viewpoints, one on the left side of the parking lot and the other one is found higher up by taking the stairs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can follow the trail which leads down to the waterfall (book your guided hike here).
Tip: If you bought tickets to the Ebony Forest (mentioned below) you can visit the waterfall for free!
Climb up Le Morne Brabant Mountain
Le Morne Brabant is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was previously used as a refuge for runaway slaves. Today it’s one of the top hikes to do in Mauritius. The hiking trail is fairly easy until you get close to the top but you will be rewarded with gorgeous views of the underwater waterfall, a unique phenomenon in Mauritius!
Tip: You can book this guided hike to Le Morne Brabant if you prefer not to hike on your own.
After the hike, head to Le Morne beach to cool off. The main beach is very busy during the weekend but you can go a bit further at the beach next to Hotel Riu Le Morne if you want to escape the crowds.
Day trip to Grand Bay
No trip to Mauritius is complete without visiting Grand Bay. Located in the North of Mauritius, Grand Bay is a major tourist hotspot thanks to its wide selection of beaches, resorts, shopping malls, restaurants and nightclubs for those looking to party till dawn.
For some beach time, you have the choice between the popular Grand Bay public beach, La Cuvette, Pereybere or the more remote Bain Boeuf beach which is found a little outside of the center but still worth a visit. Think white-sand beaches and stunning turquoise water, the postcard-perfect picture of Mauritius!
You can also take a catamaran cruise to visit the neighboring islands or try out the different watersport activities such as parasailing, scuba diving and snorkeling.
Tip: Book your catamaran cruise including breakfast, lunch and drinks here!
If you ever get sick of the beaches, head to La Croisette which is a large shopping mall featuring budget and luxury shops, a movie theatre, food court and supermarket or visit the local market/bazar to bring home some souvenirs.
Visit the Albion Lighthouse
The Albion Lighthouse is located along the west coast of Mauritius and is a great spot for sunset watching. The red and white lighthouse stands at a height of 30 meters on top of the cliffs and is among the most popular photography locations in Mauritius.
Below the cliffs, you’ll find caves and rock pools which are great for soaking in or you can just walk around the cliffs to enjoy the view.
Admire the epic coastline at Macondé Point
If you’re planning a road trip along the south coast on Mauritius make sure you add Macondé Point to your itinerary. Macondé Point, also know as Captain Matthew Flinders Monument, is located across a sharp turn and offers incredible views over the Indian Ocean.
The viewpoint is easily accessible through a narrow set of stairs but you have to be careful as it’s usually very windy.
Explore the Pyramids of Mauritius
Although the pyramids in Mauritius are completely different from those in Egypt, they make for a nice photo backdrop! The pyramids are found in the south of Mauritius, only a few minutes from the airport. So, if you are staying in the area, there is no excuse to skip this attraction!
Ebony Forest
Ebony Forest is a nature reserve, located in the village of Chamarel. There are different hiking trails leading to panoramic views over Le Morne Brabant and Ile aux Bénitiers.
The entrance fee is Rs 450 (US$ 12.40) for adults and Rs 270 (US$ 7.40) for children. The fee includes a 30-minute guided tour along the Flycatcher walkway which is a suspended bridge that takes you around the forest and if you’re lucky you may even spot some rare endemic birds.
Opening hours: 9 a.m to 5.30 p.m.
Explore the Eureka Waterfalls
Right behind the Eureka House in Moka are four waterfalls all within a few minutes from each other. The trail is easy to follow and the entrance fee to visit the waterfalls is Rs 300 (US$ 8.60).
Related post: Guide to Eureka Waterfalls
Hike the Black River Gorges National Park
The Black River Gorges National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Mauritius. The national park covers over 6,700 hectares of mountains and forests where you can spend the day hiking to several viewpoints and waterfalls.
The Black River Gorges is completely free to visit and there are different hiking trails available including the Mare aux Joncs and Savanne trail or the more challenging Parakeet trail.
The trails are well-marked but you can also use maps.me to help you navigate even if you don’t have an internet connection.
There are four entrances to the Black River Gorges and the two information centers are located at Petrin and the Black River entrance respectively.
Tip: You can hike on your own or book a 3-hour guided hike here.
Relax and snorkel on Pointe D’Esny Beach
Pointe D’Esny is a small stretch of white-sand beach located in the southeast of Mauritius. Due to its remote location, the beach is usually not very crowded, making it one of my favorite beaches in Mauritius! Unfortunately, the beach doesn’t have too many shady spots but the crystal-clear water should be enough reason to visit!
If you’re coming from the Mahebourg Waterfront, drive along the Coastal Road for about five minutes until you see a sign saying “Pedestrian access to the beach”.
Since there isn’t any parking lot, you’ll have to leave your car on the side of the road and follow the narrow path which leads to the beach.
Related post: 17 Incredible beaches in Mauritius
Bras D’Eau National Park
A less popular alternative to the Black River Gorges, Bras D’Eau National Park covers an area of over 490 hectares and is one of the most tranquil spots for hiking in Mauritius.
You can start your hike from the visitor’s center or if you’re coming from Bras D’Eau Beach, walk along the road and take the little dirt road on your right just before the road bends towards the left (click here for the exact location).
Keep walking until you see a huge stone building which was probably an old sugar mill. Walk for a few meters and then turn right until you reach a sign pointing to the “Coq de Bois” trail and “Mare Chevrette”.
Unfortunately, the trail can be confusing so I recommend using google maps or maps.me to get a rough idea of where you’re going.
Bras D’Eau National Park 
Bras D’Eau Beach
Vallée de Ferney
The Vallée de Ferney is a forest and wildlife reserve located in the southeast of Mauritius, near Mahebourg. You can hike around the valley on your own or hire a guide for a small fee. The path is well-marked so you can easily follow the trail and admire the indigenous plant species and rare birds.
Vallée de Ferney is open every day from 9 a.m to 5 p.m and the entrance fee is Rs 200 (US$ 5.50).
Island hopping to Ile de la Passe
This is where the British and French fought for Mauritius Island back in the 1800s. There are only a few ruins left on Ile de la Passe and it’s a popular stop on the island hopping tours in the southeast of Mauritius.
Visit Ile Au Phare (Ile aux Fouquets National Park)
Ile au Phare is a small island located not too far from Ile de la Passe. This island features a lighthouse that was built in 1864. Unfortunately, the stairs leading up the lighthouse are not well maintained but you can still enjoy the view and relax in the shallow water.
Hike up Le Pouce Mountain
Shaped like a thumb, the peak of Le Pouce Mountain provides a 360-degree view all over Mauritius Island. Located in the village of Petit Verger, Saint Pierre, the hiking trail is quite easy, making it perfect for all fitness levels.
Find the starting point of the trail here.
Visit the SSR Botanic Garden Pamplemousses
Another top thing to do in Mauritius is visiting the SSR Botanic Garden (Pamplemousses Garden). Famous for its giant Water Lilies, the garden is great for a quick nature stroll under the shade. There are also several walkways lined with rows of palm trees that make for a great photo backdrop.
The SSR Botanic garden is open daily from 8.30 a.m to 5.30 p.m, including public holidays. The entrance fee is Rs 200 (US$ 5.50) and free for kids under 5 years old.
Giant Water Lilies at the SSR Botanic Garden 
SSR Botanic Garden Pamplemousses
Hike up Corps de Garde Mountain
A great spot for nature lovers, Corps de Garde mountain stands at a height of 720 meters and is located in Stanley, Rose Hill. The hike isn’t too challenging but since the path isn’t covered by trees, an early start is advisable before it starts to heat up.
Find the starting point of the trail here.
Visit the Chateau de Labourdonnais
Built in 1856, the Chateau de Labourdonnais is a beautiful colonial mansion that has now been converted into a museum. Located in Mapou, less than 25 minutes from Port Louis, the building looks quite impressive from the outside surrounded by its numerous gardens.
You can visit the mansion by taking a self-guided tour for Rs 400 (US$ 11.20) for adults and Rs 250 (US$ 7) and for children which includes a complimentary tasting session of several types of locally-made rums, fruit juices and jellies.
Azuri Village
Located in the north of Mauritius, the Azuri village is home to luxury boutiques and apartments and the Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa. If you’re not staying at the resort, you can explore the area for free during the annual Christmas market which usually happens during the first week of December.
Telfair Garden (Souillac Beach)
Telfair garden is located by the beach of Souillac and is among the most picturesque locations in Mauritius. Take a stroll along the beach to watch the waves and witness the fishermen at work or have a little picnic on the beach.
Watch the sunset on Signal Mountain
If you’re not up for a hike but rather prefer an easy walk to witness the sunset over Port Louis, Signal Mountain is right up your alley! The path is easy to follow and it takes less than one hour to climb all the way up.
Swim in the Rochester Falls
Being one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Mauritius, Rochester Falls is unique in the sense that the water cascades over several rock columns before falling into a large pool!
The waterfall is accessible through a dirt road from Souillac and does not involve any strenuous hike.
Have an adventure-filled day at Casela World of Adventures
The Casela World of Adventure is an adventure park/zoo located in the west of Mauritius.
Those who seek a dose of adrenaline can choose any activity on the Thrill Mountain package (for an additional fee), from zip-lining to bungee jumping to walking on the Nepalese bridge while taking in the view of the mountains and forest!
You can also do a safari to spot various animals such as zebras, giraffes, ostriches and more roaming freely or just take a stroll around the park.
The best time to visit is during the week when it’s not too crowded. The park is open every day from 9 a.m to 5 p.m and entrance costs Rs 850 (US$ 23.40) for adults and Rs 595 (US$ 16.40) for children.
Tip: You can book your entrance ticket to Casela World of Adventure here which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Best time to visit Mauritius
Mauritius Island has two distinct seasons: summer (November to April) and winter (May to October). Although you can travel to Mauritius at any time of the year, try to plan your trip between May and October to benefit from lower hotel prices. The rain will also be less likely to affect your plans during these months.
December to March is the cyclone season, so the weather can sometimes be unpredictable and it will be raining a lot more.
On average, you can expect temperatures of about 18 to 25 degrees Celsius in winter and 27 to 31 degrees Celsius in summer. Temperatures can sometimes go up to 35 degrees Celsius in the north and along the coastal regions.
How to get around Mauritius?
The best way to get around Mauritius is by renting a car since you’ll get the freedom to go anywhere you want and explore off the beaten path. Car rentals in Mauritius start from Rs 1,000 (US$ 27.50) per day and gas costs Rs 44 (US$ 1.20) per liter.
Taxis are also available but unfortunately can quickly eat up your budget.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can get to most popular attractions by bus. A regular bus ticket in Mauritius costs from Rs 12 to Rs 34 (less than US$ 1) per trip, depending on the distance covered.
You can check out the links below to book your airport pick-up in Mauritius:
- One-way private airport transfer
- Arrival and departure shared transfer (for those on a budget)
Where to Stay in Mauritius?
Solana Beach Hotel
Solana Beach Hotel is an adult-only hotel, located in the east of Mauritius, in Belle Mare. The hotel is affordable and the great thing about it is that each room faces the ocean! The rooms are nicely decorated, each with a private bathroom and a huge bed! Solana Beach hotel is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation right on the beach!
Check prices and availability for Solana Beach Hotel here
Radisson Blu Poste La Fayette
Radisson Blu Poste La Fayette is an adult-only hotel also located along the east coast of Mauritius. Each room features a double bed, air-conditioning, TV and a coffee station and you have the choice between rooms with an ocean or garden view.
Breakfast and dinner are also included in the price and I can’t forget to mention that their dessert selection is A-MA-ZING!
Check prices and availability for Radisson Blu Poste La Fayette here
Club Med La Pointe
One of my favorite all-inclusive hotels in Mauritius, Club Med La Pointe is located in the north of Mauritius, in Pointe aux Canonnier. The rooms are spacious, the food is great and you can take advantage of the free non-motorized watersport activities. There is also another Club Med hotel in Albion but the price is slightly higher.
As you can see Mauritius isn’t just your typical honeymoon destination. There is something for all types of travelers, whether you want to relax on the beach or explore deeper into the mountains and forest. I hope this list of 32 things to do in Mauritius gave you some inspiration for your next trip!
10 comments
Wow, I never knew there were so many cool things to do here!
There’s definitely a lot to do here 🙂
This is such a helpful post for a country that I didn’t know too much about. I love wild swimming so would especially love to visit Eau Bleue Waterfall.
Thank you Jessica! 🙂 Eau Bleue is my favorite spot in Mauritius! I didn’t even know about it until about 2 years ago, it’s such a magical place and worth visiting for sure!
I never knew there was so much to see and do in Mauritius. Your post is inspirational and I will be including a trip to Mauritius in my travel plans.
Thank you so much! 🙂 I hope you visit soon! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need more help to plan your trip 🙂
Wow what an awesome post ..never knew there are so many things to enjoy in Mauritius.
Thank you, I’m glad you like it! I’ve just included the main highlights in this post but there’s even more to do in Mauritius!
Mauritius is absolutely gorgeous and I definitely want to go there one day. All of the nature and adventures look epic!
Yes, Mauritius is amazing! If you love the outdoors, you’ll definitely love it here 🙂