Mauritius

A Mosaic of Paradise

At African Wildlife Plains, we believe a Mauritius holiday is an escape to a place that truly feels like heaven on Earth. Mark Twain famously wrote that Mauritius was made first, and it’s a sentiment we see reflected in the eyes of our travellers. This volcanic jewel, set in the turquoise Indian Ocean, is a symphony of sparkling lagoons, sugar-white shores, and jagged, emerald peaks. But beyond its postcard beauty lies a deeper story of culture, history, and resilience.

The island’s identity is a compelling fusion of dramatic volcanic origins, a vibrant “melting pot” of cultures from Africa, Asia, and Europe, and the poignant ecological legacy of the dodo. On a trip to Mauritius with us, we invite you to experience not just a sun-drenched paradise, but a dynamic and resilient nation whose tranquility has been forged from a rich and complex past.

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Top Regions and Attractions

The character of Mauritius shifts with its coastline, and a key part of the Mauritius tours we design is matching you to the region that perfectly fits your style. Each coast – shaped by its unique climate, geography, and history – offers a distinct atmosphere and a different kind of paradise. From the vibrant energy of the north to the untamed beauty of the south, we invite you to explore the diverse places to visit in Mauritius.

The Vibrant North

The Hub of Activity

Home to the bustling hub of Grand Baie, the north is the island’s social heart. It offers the greatest concentration of restaurants, shops, and nightlife, with a beautiful natural harbour that serves as the main departure point for catamaran cruises. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a lively, social atmosphere with endless activity.

The Wild East

The Lap of Luxury

The east coast is defined by an air of exclusivity and untamed beauty. It is home to some of the island’s most glamorous luxury resorts, championship golf courses, and the pristine, expansive white sands of Belle Mare Plage. This coast is the ideal escape for honeymooners and luxury travellers seeking serenity.

The South

The Rugged Frontier

The wild south is Mauritius at its most dramatic, a land of rugged cliffs, lush forests, and deep history. This region is dominated by the majestic peak of Le Morne Mauritius, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history and a world-renowned mecca for kitesurfing. It’s a playground for hikers, historians, and adventure seekers.

The Golden West

The Sunset Coast

Known for its spectacular sunsets, calm seas, and relaxed, family-friendly vibe, the west coast is a haven of golden light. The long, sheltered beach of Flic en Flac is perfect for families, while Tamarin Bay is the island’s epicentre for dolphin and whale watching excursions, offering unforgettable marine encounters.

Mauritius Nature & Wildlife

Beyond the Dodo's Shadow

The story of Mauritius wildlife is forever entwined with the tragedy of the dodo. This poignant loss, however, has inspired a powerful modern conservation ethos, transforming the island into a living laboratory for saving species from the brink. When you explore with us, you are witnessing the incredible results of this dedication firsthand.

Pink Pigeon & Mauritius Kestrel

See two of the world’s greatest conservation success stories – birds that were brought back from fewer than 15 individuals to thriving populations.

Giant Aldabra Tortoises

Encounter these gentle, ancient giants, which now roam freely in parks and on conservation islands like Île aux Aigrettes.

Dolphins & Whales

The west coast offers the chance to see pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins, and to spot migrating humpback whales during the winter months.

Vibrant Marine Life

The island’s vast coral reef is a kaleidoscope of colour, teeming with hundreds of species of tropical fish, turtles, and other marine creatures.

Endemic Forests

Hike through the protected native forests of Black River Gorges National Park to discover rare plants and trees found nowhere else on Earth.

At a Glance

Capital City

Port Louis

Official Language

English (French & Creole widely spoken)

Currency

Rupee (MUR)

Population

1.3 million

Key Safari Airports

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Intl (MRU)

Fascinating Facts

A Cultural Mosaic

The island has no indigenous population; its vibrant culture is a celebrated “melting pot” of African, Indian, Chinese, and European heritage.

Reef Protected

Mauritius is almost entirely encircled by the world’s third-largest coral reef, creating the calm, turquoise lagoons it’s famous for.

The Dodo's Home

The island was the one and only home of the dodo, a flightless bird that became a global symbol of extinction.

Travel Essentials

Visas

For most nationalities, a tourist visa is granted on arrival. However, you must have a valid passport, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation.

Health

No vaccinations are mandatory unless arriving from a yellow fever zone. It’s always best to consult a travel doctor for personalized advice before your trip.

Safety

Mauritius is a very safe and welcoming country. The main concerns are petty crime in busy areas and sunburn, so standard precautions are advised.

Mauritius Holidays

Experiences Woven For You

We have woven together a selection of Mauritius holiday packages that blend relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery. Browse our recommended Mauritius tour packages below or contact us to tailor an island escape that is uniquely yours.

Island Indulgence, Refined Luxury in Mauritius

Isle of Forever: The Ultimate Mauritius Honeymoon Experience

Island Adventures: A Luxury Family Beach Holiday in Mauritius

Activities & Experiences

Our Mauritius tours are designed to show you that there are endless things to do in Mauritius beyond the beautiful beaches. We create itineraries that balance serene relaxation with thrilling adventure and deep cultural immersion.

Hiking & Adventure

Challenge yourself with a guided hike up the historic Le Morne Brabant, explore the lush trails and waterfalls of Black River Gorges, or get your adrenaline pumping with world-class kitesurfing.

Culinary & Cultural Tours

Embark on a journey for the senses along the island’s Tea Route, sample award-winning agricultural rum at a historic distillery, and dive into the vibrant chaos of the Port Louis Central Market to taste local street food.

Marine Exploration

Take a catamaran cruise to idyllic islets like Île aux Cerfs, snorkel in the pristine Blue Bay Marine Park, or join a boat trip to respectfully swim with dolphins in their natural habitat.

Best Time to Visit

Our experts can help you decide on the best time to visit Mauritius, as the island’s subtropical climate offers wonderful experiences year-round. However, the seasons do offer different advantages.

The Dry Season

May - October

This is the Mauritian winter and our recommended time to travel. The weather is cooler, drier, and sunnier – perfect for both beach relaxation and active exploration. October is often considered the ideal month, with warm temperatures and minimal rain.

The Wet Season

November - April

This is the island’s summer, bringing hotter and more humid conditions. The highest rainfall occurs from January to March, which is also the peak cyclone season. While travel is still possible, you should be prepared for tropical downpours.

Activity & Regional Considerations

The winds for kitesurfing are best during the winter months (June-August) on the south and east coasts. For the warmest sea temperatures for diving and snorkeling, the summer months are ideal.

FAQ

Is Mauritius just a beach destination?

Not at all. While the beaches are world-class, the heart of the island offers a wealth of experiences, from hiking in lush national parks and exploring volcanic craters to discovering historic colonial estates and tasting your way through a unique fusion cuisine.

Which coast is best for my holiday?

It depends on your style. The North is social and lively, the East is exclusive and luxurious, the South is rugged and adventurous, and the West is relaxed and family-friendly. Our experts will help match you to the perfect location.

Is Mauritius a good destination for a family holiday?

It is exceptional. The calm, shallow lagoons are perfect for children, and the complete absence of venomous snakes or dangerous land animals makes exploring worry-free. With countless activities and family-focused resorts, a Mauritius family holiday is an easy choice.

What can I expect from the food?

Prepare for a culinary explosion! Mauritian Creole cuisine is a delicious fusion of French, Indian, African, and Chinese influences. Expect fragrant curries, sophisticated sauces, fresh seafood, and an incredible variety of street food.