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Mauritius

Discover Mauritius Top 5 Must-See Destinations

To choose your ideal destination in Mauritius, consider dividing the island into four regions and aligning your interests with the coastline that best suits them.

The northern and western beaches offer bustling activity and numerous attractions for sightseeing enthusiasts, while the eastern and southern beaches provide a tranquil setting, perfect for a laid-back vacation.

1. Grand Baie, North Coast

Located on the north coast of Mauritius, Grand Baie is just an hour and a half drive from the airport and is undeniably one of the most popular destinations for holidaymakers. The terrain here is predominantly flat, often referred to as the “northern plains.” Renowned for its stunning sandy beaches, picturesque lagoons, and crystal-clear blue waters, Grand Baie offers a perfect tropical getaway. The area is bustling with designer boutiques, a diverse array of bars, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and nightclubs, catering to all tastes. Families traveling with children can enjoy attractions such as the Aquarium or L’Aventure du Sucre, an interactive sugar museum. For a unique experience, consider a submarine tour of the ocean floor, where you can marvel at spectacular coral reefs, a shipwreck, and even a 17th-century ship anchor.

2. Flic En Flac, West Coast

Stretching approximately eight kilometres, Flic en Flac beach stands as one of the longest in Mauritius. When you’re not frolicking in the Indian Ocean, take refuge under the casuarina trees lining the beach or sample delicious street food from nearby stalls while lounging on the sand. Situated on the west coast of Mauritius, Flic en Flac beach is an ideal starting point for diving excursions, with popular sites like Snake Reef and Cathedral easily reachable. If diving isn’t your thing but you still want to experience marine life, grab a snorkel and explore the vibrant coral reef and warm blue lagoon safely.

3 Belle Mare, East Coast

Situated on the eastern coast of the island, there’s no better way to kick off the day than with a sunrise stroll along one of Mauritius’s extensive beaches. Close to the town of Mahébourg, known for its vibrant local markets, Belle Mare beach remains a favourite spot for both tourists and locals to unwind. With approximately six miles of pristine white sand and clear aquamarine waters, it’s an ideal location for relaxation and marine exploration, whether you’re snorkelling, swimming, or diving. After a refreshing dip, seek refuge from the sun under the shade of casuarina trees in this tranquil haven on the east coast. Belle Mare beach is an unspoiled sanctuary that beckons you to linger and soak in its beauty.

4. Chamarel, The Seven Coloured Earth

The Seven Colored Earth is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon and a must-see attraction for tourists. These vibrant hues originated from the gradual transformation of basaltic lava into clay minerals. This unique site boasts sand dunes with seven distinct colors, ranging from red, brown, and violet to green, blue, purple, and yellow. The tropical climate has removed water-soluble elements like silicon dioxide, leaving behind reddish-black iron and aluminum oxides that create shades of blue, cyan, and purple. Each color is a result of varying mineral compositions. Mixing these sands results in separate layers, and the colors’ interplay can deceive the eye, creating shadow-like illusions and enhancing the mystery of this natural wonder.

5. South Coast

This area exudes a rugged and untamed atmosphere. Here, you’ll encounter genuine fishing villages, expansive beaches, and waves crashing against volcanic cliffs. It’s a serene and tranquil region, perfect for immersing yourself in natural wonders like Rochester Falls or Le Souffleur, a spring that shoots water into the air like a geyser. Dive into the island’s tea-making heritage by traversing The Tea Trail, passing through three plantations and sampling flavors like vanilla tea, a local favourite. Follow trails to hidden gems such as Pomponette and Riambel beaches, and don’t overlook a visit to the sacred Ganga Talao lake, an important Hindu site featuring the impressive 33-meter-high Shiva statue. For an adventure, embark on a guided hike through the nature reserve on Ile aux Aigrettes, home to remarkable wildlife like the pink pigeon and Mauritius fody. Ready for a refreshing dip? Head to Blue Bay Marine Park, renowned as one of the island’s premier snorkelling destinations.