This guide to the best places to visit in North Mauritius is perfect for first-time visitors and includes all the top attractions and things to do in the North of Mauritius.
As one of the most tourist-friendly regions in Mauritius, it’s no wonder that the north is one of the most popular places to visit!
From white sand beaches surrounded by calm turquoise lagoons to beautiful botanical gardens, a vibrant and colorful capital city, you’ll definitely find plenty to see and do in North Mauritius!
So if you’re keen to know more, here are 10 best places to visit in North Mauritius, including a few suggestions on where to stay.
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Table of Contents
Top Places to Visit in North Mauritius
Roche Noires Lava Tubes
One of the most unique places to visit in North Mauritius has to be the Roche Noires Lava Tubes! Although they are commonly known as Roche Noires caves, they are in fact underground tunnels that were formed during a volcanic eruption.
The lava tubes are found in the village of Roches Noires and are a great place to visit if you’re looking for an alternative thing to do in Mauritius. They look pretty cool and you can easily visit the smaller ones on your own as the entrances are well-marked.
Make sure to bring a powerful flashlight and watch out where you step. If you want to visit the bigger lava tubes, I highly recommend hiring a guide.
Note that there isn’t a lot of parking space – I left my car at this spot (exact location) which could fit two cars.
Mont Choisy Beach
One place you have to visit in North Mauritius is Mont Choisy, one of the longest beaches on the island! Since it’s also one of the most popular beaches in Mauritius, you should avoid visiting during the weekend or go early in the morning. Mont Choisy is also a great spot to visit during sunset.
Related post: 25 Most beautiful beaches on Mauritius Island
Port Louis
The capital city of Port Louis is a must-see when visiting North Mauritius. The charm of the city lies within the mixture of the old and new. One minute you’ll be wandering around small alleyways flanked by old buildings and crumbling walls and the next, you’ll find yourself in the middle of skyscrapers!
Head out to the vibrant and colorful Chinatown to get a glimpse into the Sino-Mauritian cultural heritage, hunt for street arts, visit the Central market, shop at the Caudan Waterfront, learn about Mauritius’ history at the Aapravasi Ghat or take in the view at Citadel Fort.
For foodies looking for the best street food in Mauritius, you’ll definitely find an abundance of food stalls and markets in Port Louis. You can also go on a street food tour of the city to uncover the best local food spots!
Related post: Port Louis travel guide: Top things to see and do
Notre Dame D’Auxiliatrice Church
One of the most popular places to visit in Mauritius North is without a doubt the Notre Dame D’Auxiliatrice Church in the village of Cap Malheureux. The small red-roof church is situated just a few meters from the beach and is the perfect setting for a beach wedding!
Grand Bay
The coastal village of Grand Bay is one of the main tourist hubs in Mauritius thanks to its white-sand beaches, wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, shopping malls, and nightlife.
One of the most popular things to do in Grand Bay is to go on a catamaran cruise to visit the neighboring islets – Coin de Mire (Gunner’s Quoin), Flat Island, and Gabriel Island. Snorkeling equipment and lunch are usually included and it’s a great way to soak up the sun and enjoy some beach time!
You can also try out scuba diving or go on a beach-hopping tour to either La Cuvette (my personal favorite), Pereybere, or Bain Boeuf.
Another thing to do is to take a food tour of Grand Bay which is an excellent way to taste some of the best local cuisines.
La Cuvette Beach
If you don’t want to go too far to see some colorful fish, make sure to visit La Cuvette Beach. While the beach is quite small and there’s isn’t a lot of shade to escape from the sun, it’s still worth visiting for its crystal clear water and abundance of fish!
SSR Botanical Garden
Located in the village of Pamplemousses, the SSR Botanical Garden (also known as Pamplemousses Garden) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the north of Mauritius. The garden houses a variety of plants and flowers, including Baobabs and giant water lilies.
Visiting the Pamplemousses garden is a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. I recommend spending at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the garden. You can take a stroll around the palm-fringed alleyways or have a little picnic by the giant water lily pond.
The garden is open every day from 8.30 a.m to 5.30 p.m and the entrance fee is Rs 200 (US$ 5) for tourists, Rs 25 for Mauritians, and free for children under 5 years old. A large parking space is also available near the entrance.
Note that the entrance is free on Sundays and public holidays for Mauritians only.
Read more: Top places to see in South Mauritius
Chateau de Labourdonnais
Located about a 10 minutes’ drive from the SSR Botanical Garden is another great place to visit in North Mauritius, Chateau de Labourdonnais. This colonial mansion was built in the 1800s and has now been converted into a museum that you can visit for a fee of Rs 400 (US$ 10) for adults and Rs 250 (US$ 6.30) for children.
The entrance fee includes a visit of the mansion and its surrounding gardens and a free tasting of locally-made rums and juices.
Ile D’Ambre
For those looking for a great hike in Mauritius, I highly recommend visiting Ile D’Ambre. The island was declared a National park in 2004 and can be accessed by taking a 5-minute boat ride from the mainland.
You can spend the day walking along the different hiking trails where you’ll come across endemic plants, wetlands, old ruins dating back to the 1700s and even a cave filled with water and fish!
The Amber trail which is the main trail is well-marked and stretches out for nearly 2 km before ending at Amber Bay. Unfortunately, due to the shallow water, the beach isn’t ideal for swimming.
You’ll also find a few secondary trails but those aren’t well-marked and at times, the path will be completely blocked off by the dense vegetation.
You can get to Ile D’ambre by charting a private boat from Bain du Rosnay or book a kayaking tour which normally includes a guided tour of the island.
Ilot Bernache
Ilot Bernache is a small uninhabited island located on the northeast coast of Mauritius, right next to Ile D’Ambre.
The island boasts small quiet bays surrounded by calm waters which are great for swimming and snorkeling. Due to its small size, you can easily explore the whole island in less than 30 minutes!
Another reason why you should visit is the lack of crowds compared to the more popular islands in the north of Mauritius. So, if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, make sure to add Ilot Bernache to your Mauritius itinerary!
Where to Stay in North Mauritius?
- Mystik Life Style: This hotel has a great location since it’s found on Mont Choisy Beach. Rooms are comfortable and clean and you get access to an infinity pool that overlooks the ocean. Click here to book your stay at Mystik Life Style
- Allamanda Studios & Appartments: This one is perfect for budget travelers who want to stay close to the quiet beach of Bain Boeuf. The rooms are basic but clean and have a private bathroom and kitchenette. Click here to book your stay at Allamanda Studios & Appartments
- Azure Beach Boutique Hotel: Located in Grand Bay, this hotel features modern and spacious rooms with an incredible view of the ocean! Breakfast is also included in the price. Click here to book your stay at Azure Beach Boutique Hotel
Did you find this guide to the best places to visit in North Mauritius helpful? Don’t forget to share your own recommendations in the comment section below!
Read more about Mauritius:
- Top places to visit in the south of Mauritius
- 40 Best and unique things to do in Mauritius
- Guide to the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius
- Top hikes to do in Mauritius
- Top waterfalls to visit in Mauritius
- The ultimate Mauritius street food guide
- Rodrigues Island travel guide: Top places to visit and things to do
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