Day 1
North & capital
Start at Port Louis Central Market and the Caudan Waterfront, wander the Pamplemousses botanical garden with its giant water lilies, and end the evening out in Grand Baie.
Mauritius is far more than a postcard beach: this volcanic island in the Indian Ocean layers sugar-white coves, jagged peaks and a cultural cocktail of Indian, Creole, Chinese and French influences. A turquoise coral reef rings almost the entire coast, keeping the sea warm and calm.
But the interior surprises just as much: rainforest, waterfalls, tea estates and sacred crater lakes sit only a short drive from the sand. Look beyond the sun lounger and you'll find a country with real history, spice-rich food and warm, easy hospitality.
Itinerary
Day 2
Wild southwest
Climb to the sacred lake at Grand Bassin, marvel at Chamarel's Seven Coloured Earth and waterfall, and pause at the Black River Gorges viewpoints beneath Le Morne.
Day 3
East coast & lagoon
Take a boat from Trou d'Eau Douce to Île aux Cerfs, snorkel the turquoise lagoon and unwind on the powder sand of Belle Mare.
Highlights
🏛️Landmark
Le Morne Brabant
This 556-metre basalt monolith in the southwest is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of resistance by escaped slaves. Start the steep hike early to reach the viewpoint before the midday heat and spot the famous 'underwater waterfall' illusion offshore.
🌿Nature
Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth
In this geopark, dunes of volcanic sand shimmer in reds, browns and purples that never blend together. Pair it with the 100-metre Chamarel Waterfall next door and the park's giant tortoises.
✨Experience
Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)
This crater lake in the highlands is the island's holiest Hindu site, guarded by a 33-metre statue of Shiva. It's most striking during the Maha Shivaratri festival, when thousands of barefoot pilgrims walk here.
🏖️Beach
Île aux Cerfs
This island off the east coast has some of Mauritius's whitest sand and most turquoise lagoons. Reach it by catamaran or speedboat from Trou d'Eau Douce; come early or linger into late afternoon to dodge the crowds.
🌿Nature
Black River Gorges National Park
The island's largest national park protects its last native rainforest, home to endemic birds like the pink pigeon. The Alexandra Falls viewpoint is reachable without a hike, while marked trails lead deep into the gorges.
🛍️Market
Port Louis Central Market
The capital's covered market is a rush of spices, tropical fruit and steaming street snacks. Eat a freshly filled dholl puri standing up, then wander over to the Caudan Waterfront on the harbour.
Neighbourhoods
Grand Baie
The liveliest spot in the north, packed with bars, boat trips and boutiques. Great if you want an evening scene, though for calm swimming you're better off at nearby beaches like Pereybère.
Flic en Flac
A long public beach on the west coast fronting a reef-sheltered, gentle lagoon. Family-friendly, superb for sunsets and a well-placed base for southwest excursions.
Belle Mare
Powder-soft sand and glassy lagoons on the east coast, lined with some of the island's best resorts. The calmest choice for couples and the launch point for Île aux Cerfs.
Tamarin
A laid-back surf village on the west with a bohemian feel and fewer big hotels. Known for dawn dolphin-watching and the neighbouring salt pans.
Where to eat
Dholl Puri
The national dish, hands down: thin flatbread of ground yellow split peas, wrapped around bean curry, chutney and pickle. A few rupees at any street stall and loved across every class.
Gâteau Piment
Crispy fritters of yellow split peas and chilli, the classic snack for breakfast or on the go. Best eaten hot, often tucked into bread with a smear of chutney.
Rougaille
A Creole tomato-based stew with garlic, onion and thyme, cooked with sausage, chicken or fish. Served with rice, lentils and a side of pickles.
Mine Frite & Boulettes
Sino-Mauritian heritage: fried noodles and steamed dumplings in clear broth, best in Port Louis's Chinatown. Hearty, cheap and full of flavour.
Good to know
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is May to December, when the island is dry, sunny and pleasantly mild. November to April turns hot and humid, and January to March carries cyclone risk. Many locals rate October as the sweet spot.
Getting around
A rental car gives the most freedom on a small island, but remember you drive on the left. Buses are cheap and cover the island well, though they thin out in the evenings. For the mountainous southwest, a driver or guided tour saves the hassle.
- Currency
- MUR ₨
- Languages
- English, French
How much does Mauritius cost?
A realistic daily budget per person, in three styles.
Backpacker₨1,500per person / day
Mid-range₨4,000per person / day
Comfort₨8,000per person / day
Mauritius offers a range of options to suit different travel budgets.
Local tips
- ✓Tipping isn't compulsory but is appreciated; just round up the bill.
- ✓Choose reef-safe sunscreen, the coral will thank you.
- ✓Fresh fruit and snacks at the market cost a fraction of resort prices.
