Mauritius Airport

Getting Around with Style

Driving is on the left, roads are well-maintained, and signage is in English and French. Traffic is manageable outside peak hours, and parking is easy in most tourist areas.

Tip: A small SUV is ideal for handling both scenic coastal roads and inland adventures with comfort and ease. Caution : Off-road driving is prohibited. 

Must-See Landmarks: A Blend of Culture, Nature & Wonder

• Le Morne Brabant: A UNESCO World Heritage site and iconic mountain offering breathtaking views and deep historical significance tied to the island's slave heritage.

• Chamarel Seven Colored Earths: A surreal landscape of multicolored sand dunes formed by volcanic activity — a must-see natural wonder.

• Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin): A sacred crater lake for the Hindu community, surrounded by temples and statues. Peaceful, powerful, and photogenic.

• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: One of the oldest in the Southern Hemisphere, home to giant water lilies, spice trees, and vibrant flora.

• Aapravasi Ghat: Another UNESCO site, this was the landing point for indentured laborers — a powerful piece of Mauritian history.

• Port Louis Market: Bustling with spices, souvenirs, fruit, and street food. Dive into local life and flavor.

Tip: Visit Chamarel early in the morning when the colors are most vibrant and the crowds are light.

Beyond the Resorts: Day Trips You Can’t Miss

• Black River Gorges National Park: Hike through dense forests, spot monkeys, and discover hidden waterfalls. A dream for nature lovers.

• Île aux Cerfs (East Coast): This paradise island has crystal-clear lagoons, water sports, and postcard-perfect beaches — reached by catamaran or speedboat.

• Mahébourg (South Coast): A charming coastal town with a rich colonial past, sea views, and an authentic local vibe.

• La Vallée des Couleurs: Zip lines, quad biking, and natural beauty all in one place — ideal for adventurous souls.

• Casela Nature Parks: From safari drives to zip lines and animal encounters, this park is packed with family fun.

Tip: Combine Île aux Cerfs with a sailing trip that includes snorkeling and a barbecue lunch onboard.

The Mauritian Coastline: Diverse, Warm, Dreamy

• Flic en Flac (West): Calm waters, soft sand, and spectacular sunsets — perfect for families and relaxed swimming.

• Belle Mare (East): Wide stretches of white sand and turquoise waters ideal for early risers and peaceful beach walks.

• Le Morne Beach (Southwest): A dramatic setting beneath the mountain, popular with kite surfers and photographers.

• Grand Baie (North): Trendy, lively, and full of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Great base for coastal exploration.

• Blue Bay (Southeast): Known for its marine park and coral-rich snorkeling.

Tip: Pack a snorkel set — many beaches have excellent reefs just offshore.

A Taste of Mauritius: Where Cultures Meet on a Plate

Must-Try Flavors

• Dholl Puri & Roti Chaud: Street food royalty. Flatbreads filled with spicy lentils, chutneys, and pickled vegetables.

• Rougaille: A Creole tomato-based dish with fish, sausage, or chicken — full of flavor and best served with rice.

• Gateaux Piments: Spicy split pea fritters. Crispy, addictive, and found at almost every local vendor.

• Octopus Curry: Tender and spicy, it’s a coastal favorite. Often served with fragrant basmati and chutney.

Fine Dining & Local Gems
From beach shacks to five-star resorts, the food scene here reflects the island’s diversity. You’ll find French-Mauritian fusion, Chinese-influenced noodle dishes, and rich Indian thalis all on the same street.

Tip: Try a beachfront restaurant in the north and pair your seafood platter with a local Phoenix beer or fresh coconut water.

Parks & Outdoor Escapes

• Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden: Ideal for a quiet afternoon among exotic flora.

• La Vanille Nature Park: Home to giant tortoises and crocodiles — especially fun for families.

• Ebony Forest: Eco-conscious and stunning. Walk through native forest with views over Le Morne and the south.

• Tamarind Falls: One of the island’s most beautiful waterfall hikes — adventurous, scenic, and rewarding.

Tip: Book a guided hike to Tamarind Falls if you're not familiar with the area — the trails can be steep but unforgettable.

Useful Contacts

• Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 999 / 112

• Tourist Police: +230 213 2818

• Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport (SSR): +230 603 6000

• Tourism Authority: +230 203 1900

Mauritius isn’t just paradise — it’s a mosaic of cultures, colors, and contrasts. With the right wheels and an adventurous heart, you’ll uncover stories behind every reef, forest, and sunset.

So buckle up, follow the scent of spices or the sound of sega music, and let Mauritius take you somewhere unforgettable.

Enjoy your stay, drive safe, and don’t forget!

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Engine starts!

Image © Image by photosforyou from Pixabay