Things to do in Mauritius

There are a wide range of things to do in Mauritius due to its unique combination of beach, lagoon, river and jungle areas. It offers a selection of romantic, relaxing, cultural and adventurous activities to suit any style of honeymoon. A guide to some listed below.

Mauritius catamaranBook a Catamaran Ride – Book a private catamaran ride for you and your loved one. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea in the sunset, with a glass of champagne, while a gentle music plays in the background…

Submarine Ride – There’s a way to get under the water and don’t get wet – a submarine ride. Choose between a larger submarine that fits ten people, or a small one, for families and special occasions. The captain will be your guide through the deep sea. The whole activity lasts two hours, but you spend only 40 minutes under the water.

Take a Cooking Class – Visit Pallagino Guest House and take one or more cooking classes. Not only you’ll cook delicious meals, but Chef sandy will teach you so many important things about Mauritian cuisine.

Watch Dolphins – Book this exciting tour, and head to the Tamarin Bay, where dolphins will wait for you. These fun and friendly animals play there every morning. Some tour guides even allow people to swim next to the dolphins.

Visit Ile aux Cerfs – This leisure island lies in the largest lagoon of Mauritius. It features several beach restaurants, as well as an adventure park and a few sports course and activities. Or you can just lay down in one of its untouched tranquil beaches, and wait for the sunset.

Mauritius Kite SurfingKite Surfing – Beginners should first book a few lessons, but it’ll be worth it. Choose between group lessons, semi-private or private coaching. There’s also an option of choosing exclusive coaching, where a boat will drive you to the place with the best wind conditions.

Visit a Rum Factory – La Rhumerie de Chamarel is a factory that distils rum. It has its own sugar cane plantation in the vicinity. On-site tasting of delicious rum and different rum liqueurs is available, and there’s also a restaurant where you can taste delicious meals. And once you find the perfect rum or rum liqueur, you can buy it directly from the distillery.

Relax at the Spa – Visit one of the spas, and choose your treatment – massage, facial, manicure or pedicure, waxing, hot stone therapy, and many more. Not only you’ll rejuvenate, but you’ll get your body and mind in a balance. Detox therapies are also available. And all this in a beautiful nature, where you can enjoy serenity and peace.

Mauritius lake riverQuad Biking – Get off the beaten track – Quad biking is a fun land-based activity for everyone looking for a little more adventure. Just remember to bring your camera, you’ll enjoy with breathtaking views. And once you try it, you’ll see that’s easier to ride a quad bike than you might have thought at the beginning.

Visit Domaine de Labourdonnais – Château de Labourdonnais is a heritage site, built by Christian Wiehe in the 19th century. It’s surrounded by lush gardens with some endemic plants and orchards. There’s also a giant tortoises’ park.

Visit Sugar Cane Plantations – Mauritius is famous for its sugar cane plantations. They even get the electricity from burning the by-products of sugar cane. Even though most plantations aren’t manually harvested, you might see someone doing it. You’ll learn everything how raw sugar cane becomes a Mauritian rum!

Visit Botanical Gardens – Botanical gardens are a perfect place to escape from the Mauritian heat. Lush vegetation in any tropical country is magnificent and it will definitely blow you away. You might even have a picnic there.

Mauritius MonkeyGo Hiking and Trekking – A beautiful island, with lush vegetation and surrounded with blue water is a perfect place for hiking. Hike through the beautiful nature, and enjoy the view. You might see some monkeys or other animals along the way.

Visit the Folk Museum of Indian Immigration – The Folk Museum of Indian Immigration is founded in March 1991. It features maps, photographs, documents, and other objects that showcase the culture of Indian immigrants on the island.

Go Shopping – It’s always a good idea to buy from the local manufacturers and help the local economy. There are several clothing and textile manufacturers in Mauritius, but you can also buy jewellery, liquors, accessories, paintings, electronics, books, arts and crafts… all for great prices.

STAYING FOR LONGER?

Mauritius beach7 Days All-Inclusive Mauritian Culinary Travel Experience – There’s no better way to learn about the Mauritian cuisine, lifestyle, and history, than to book this all-inclusive 8 days/7 nights Culinary Tour. You’ll get the opportunity to live with a Mauritian family. All visitors are welcomed at the guest house by Chef Sandy. He’s a certified chef and cooking instructor with years of experience. The tour also includes a visit to several touristic attractions – Grand Bay and its craft market, Pamplemousse Botanical Gardens, Diamond Factory, and many more.

Here is a guide with travel information, tips and advice for a getaway to Mauritius.

Have a great trip!!

Mauritius Honeymoon

Mauritius honeymoon landscapeOffering crystal clear water for snorkelling and swimming, tropical wildlife, a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful weather year round, the lesser known Mauritius honeymoon should not be overlooked.

It is known for its amazing beaches, lagoons and reefs and its unique combination of them on the island offering something for everyone.

 

WHY HONEYMOON IN MAURITIUS

Once you step your foot on this marvellous island, you will realize why Mauritius is one of the best destinations for couples and honeymooners. You will find special wedding and honeymoon packages in most hotels. Honeymooning couples are likely to get a 25% discount on their rooms or suites. Special wedding coordinators will be there to fulfil even your slightest desire, so that your wedding goes perfectly, and exquisite wedding photographers will capture every moment you will want to cherish for the rest of your life. And once the wedding ceremony is over, you and your loved can take a romantic walk on powder-white sand beaches, enjoy a private candle-lit dinner in the evening, or spend the whole day in a spa.

Many people have tried to describe the beauty of this island, but Mark Twain summed everything in one sentence – ‘Mauritius was made first, and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius’.

HOW TO GET TO THERE

Mauritius landscapeMauritius is situated about 2000km East of the African main land – approximately 800km East of Madagascar so flying direct to the international airport – Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport – is the way to go. The airport is about 50km South East of the Capital city of Port Louis and links to many destinations in Asia, Africa, and Europe.

 

 

Flight times from:

New York: 21 hours New Delhi: 8 hours
L.A.: 26 hours Beijing: 20 hours
London: 12 hours Dubai: 7 hours
Sydney: 15 hours

Things to do in Mauritius

Follow the link for a list of romantic, relaxing, adventurous and cultural things to do on your stay in Mauritius.Mauritius waterfall

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT 1

Mauritius sunset

Overnight Catamaran Sunset-Dinner Cruise – These handpicked packages are a perfect for anyone who is looking for a romantic, adventurous expedition. You just need to relax and enjoy the night at sea, as well as tasty dishes combined with finest beverages. Private cruises are also available. Couples and honeymooners should book the Bubble Lodge at Domaine De Bois Chéri, and enjoy the view of a natural lake. The longer overnight cruises usually include a diving and fishing trips to some excellent fishing destinations, such as Rodrigues, St. Brandon, and Soudan Bank.

 

MAURITIAN FESTIVALS

National Day Celebrations – Every year in the 12th March, Mauritians celebrate the Independence Day. Organizer of this event is a Ministry of Arts and Culture. Everywhere you look, you will see a colourful national flag. The whole community gathers for smaller festivities all across the country.

China Town Food & Cultural Festival – Every May Chinese Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with MTPA organizes a festival dedicated to a Chinese tradition. Local Chinese artists hold performances out in the streets decorated with Chinese lanterns. During this festival, restaurants from China Town in Port Louis offer special menus and discounts.

Mauritius kite surfingKite Surf Festival – Every year, Rodrigues Kite Surf Association organizes this unique festival. For several days at the end of June and beginning of July, local and international surfers can take part in various activities, such as long and mini raid competitions.

Divali Celebration – Another celebration organized in November, by the Ministry of Arts and Culture. It is a cheerful Hindu festival, that celebrates a mythological victory of justice over evil. Traditional clay oil lamps are replaced with decorative electric lights. You will find them in front of most homes.

 

HOW TO GET AROUND

Bus – By far the most economical way to get around is by bus with fares of about 2 dollars for trips up to an hour. They run from early morning to early evening and have decent coverage of the island however can take additional time to get around. Also if your hotel is not near a bus stop, it may not be a good option for you.

Walk – If you don’t have too far to go, I walk around the island can be a great way to immerse yourself in the Mauritian culture.

Hire a car – Another cheap alternative for getting around. There isn’t much traffic other than around Port Louis but if you are going to the more remote areas, some of the roads are narrow and winding in the mountainous areas of the island.

Taxi – Can be good for day trips but will add up if you are using them daily. If you want to hire one for a day to get around, make sure you haggle – you should be able to pick one up for about 100 USD for the day!!

ACCOMMODATION IN MAURITIUS

Even thought it’s popular among celebrities, Mauritius offer accommodation for everyone.Mauritius Accommodation

Budget – Couples who are on a budget should choose one of the romantic boutique hotels or private villas in hidden coves. Couples who are on a budget should choose one of the romantic boutique hotels in hidden coves, for only $200-300.

Mid-Range –  Whether you’re a honeymooning couple, or a family with kids, for several hundred dollars you will surely find accommodation with the best price-quality ratio. Look for the hotels in quiet areas, without the nightlife. You can also look for the hotels that don’t have their own beach – there’s usually a public beach nearby.

Luxury – Rooms and suites in large resorts with world-class facilities, a wide variety of activities, and high standards of services cost up to $1.000.

Keep in mind that prices will sky rocket in December, and during Christmas and New Year.

 

All-Inclusive Resorts

Bougainville Hotel – A 3* hotel, located along the East coast of Mauritius. It has 50 rooms with a wooden furniture and warm colours.

Golf resortHeritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort – A 4* resort, located between a marvellous lagoon and green hills. It has more than 150 rooms, 5 suites, and one villa. Rooms are inspired by African heritage.

La Plantation d’Albion Club Med – A luxury resort with more than 250 rooms and suites. Some rooms overlook the ocean, while others offer a beautiful view of the garden.

La Pointe aux Canonniers Club Med – It has nearly 300 rooms with elegant bungalows. Suitable for families, as well as for couples.

Shandrani Resort & Spa – A luxury 5* resort, with more than 300 rooms and suites. It’s located on a private peninsula, with three beaches to explore.

 

Adult-Only Resorts

Ambre Resort & Spa – With nearly 300 rooms, it’s one of the largest resort in Mauritius. It features several different amenities, including an 18-hole Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club.

Hotel PoolParadise Cove Boutique Hotel – A luxury resort, with 67 rooms and suites. It’s located in a private cove with sandy beaches. 24-hour room service is available.

TUI Sensimar Lagoon Mauritius – Modern all-inclusive resort located on a peninsula in the far north of the island. It has nearly 200 rooms with serene ocean views.

20 Degres Sud Hotel – An intimate boutique hotel with only 36 unique rooms. It features a fancy restaurant with multiple dining areas, as well as two garden pools, and a small spa.

Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa – An upscale place located in a quiet village in the northeast of the island. It features three restaurants, but only one bar.

 

LOCAL FOOD

Mauritius cuisine is a mixture of European, Chinese, and Indian influences. Most popular dishes are from French cuisine.

  • ‘bouillon’ – a soup based on beef broth
  • ‘daube’ – a slow-baked stew braised in wine, garlic, vegetables, and herbs
  • ‘coq au vin’ – a chicken braised in wine, with mushrooms, lardons, and optionally some garlic

During the years, more exotic ingredients were added to create some unique flavours. Numerous Chinese and other Asian restaurants are spread all around the island. Mauritian families come there to treat themselves with a chicken, squid, beef or fish dish, prepared in a black bean or oyster sauce and served with a rice or noodles. And if you like Chinese spring rolls, you have to try a popular Chinese appetizer ‘hakien’ – a local version of the spring roll where traditionally rolled wrapping is replaced with a flour batter.

LANGUAGE 

Mauritian localBoth English and French are widely spoken throughout Mauritus. However the Mauritian Creole which is the native language is the mostly widely spoken (about 90% of the population). It is a French based native language.

Useful Kreol Morisien (Mauritian Creole) phrases

  • Hello = Bonzur
  • Good morning = Bonzour
  • Good evening = Bonswar
  • Goodbye = Orewar
  • Sorry = Sori
  • Please = Si ouplé
  • Thank you = Mersi
  • Yes = Wi
  • No = Non

MONTHLY WEATHER IN MAURITIUS

High season: December to January

Dry Season: June to November

Rainy Season: January to April

Months min. Temp. max. Temp. Rain days Rainfall Season
  January 24°C 75°F 28°C 82°F 8 200 mm Wet
  February 23°C 73°F 28°C 82°F 9 210 mm Wet
  March 23°C 73°F 27°C 81°F 10 220 mm Wet
  April 22°C 72°F 27°C 81°F 9 205 mm Wet
  May 22°C 72°F 26°C 79°F 8 150 mm Changing
  June 21°C 70°F 25°C 77°F 8 100 mm Dry
  July 19°C 66°F 23°C 73°F 7 80 mm Dry
  August 18°C 64°F 24°C 75°F 7 90 mm Dry
  September 18°C 64°F 25°C 77°F 6 75 mm Dry
  October 19°C 66°F 25°C 77°F 5 65 mm Dry
  November 20°C 68°F 26°C 79°F 4 60 mm Dry
  December 22°C 72°F 27°C 81°F 6 110 mm Changing

COST OF THINGS 

Mauritius beach

McDonalds Combo Meal $5.50 USD
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught) $2.64 USD
Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle) $2.93 USD
Cappuccino (regular) $1.98 USD
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle) $0.90 USD
Water (0.33 litre bottle) $0.57 USD

MAURITIUS TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS

If you are planning to visit Mauritius for your honeymoon, take these tips into consideration to ensure a beautiful trip:

Saving money – Don’t book your trips and activities in advance, they are two or even three times higher when booking with a travel agent. Keep in mind that at some places prices might seem fixed, but you can negotiate. And try not to exchange your money in the hotel, you’ll get more at the airport or at the other exchange desks. The market at Flaq on the east of the island is a good place for buying souvenirs and other local things.

Mauritius monkeysFeeding the monkeys – If you’re visiting the Hindy Temple, you should bring some fruits for the monkeys. You may check if the hotel offers a lunch pack.

Escape the heat – The best time for visiting Mauritius is during March and April, when it’s not that hot, and there aren’t mosquitoes. Time to avoid is between November and February when it’s really hot. You should also plan a trip to the island’s Botanical Gardens in Pamplemousse, near Port Louis. Its trees will provide a much-needed refresh from the heat.

 

 

IS MAURITIUS SAFE?

Overall crime levels are fairly low around Mauritius however there are instances of robberies, theft and petty crime particularly around tourist areas. Downtown Port Louis is an area to avoid after dark. The indigenous inhabitants can protest against the government at times. Protests are generally peaceful however best to keep away from any demonstrations as they may turn violent. For the latest travel assessments and warnings, take a look at the Mauritius page for the US passport and International travel website for the latest travel warnings and information for Mauritius.

A Maritius Honeymoon will be sure not to disappoint, safe travels!!