About Mauritius
Mauritius, an idyllic island nation in the Indian Ocean, is celebrated for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a blend of diverse cultures and traditions. With its lush landscapes, including volcanic mountains, waterfalls, and coral reefs, Mauritius is not only a paradise for beach lovers but also a destination for adventure seekers and those seeking a taste of Creole, Indian, Chinese, and French influences in its cuisine and way of life.
Best Time to Visit Mauritius
The best time to visit Mauritius is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to December) and autumn (April to June). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with warm temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach vacations, and water sports. These months offer a perfect blend of comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and excellent conditions for exploring the stunning beaches, coral reefs, and lush landscapes of this Indian Ocean paradise.
Travel Facts Mauritius
Here are some travel facts and information about Mauritius:
- Location: Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) off the southeast coast of the African continent.
- Capital: Port Louis is the capital city of Mauritius and the largest city on the island.
- Language: The official languages are English and French, with French often used in government and business.
- Currency: The currency used in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR).
- Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a tourist visa to enter Mauritius. The visa requirements can vary, so it’s important to check the specific requirements before traveling.
- Weather: Mauritius has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a warm, wet season from November to April and a cooler, dry season from May to October. The best time for tourism is during the dry season.
- Beaches: Mauritius is renowned for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and clear waters, making it a popular destination for water sports and relaxation.
- Cuisine: The Mauritian cuisine is a delightful blend of Indian, Chinese, French, and Creole influences, offering a wide variety of flavors and dishes.
- Culture: Mauritius is known for its diverse and multicultural society, with festivals and traditions rooted in Indian, Chinese, and African cultures.
- Adventure Activities: The island offers a range of adventure activities such as hiking, water skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing.
- Natural Beauty: In addition to its beaches, Mauritius boasts lush tropical forests, waterfalls, and the volcanic landscapes of the Black River Gorges National Park.
- Wildlife: Mauritius is known for its unique and diverse wildlife, including the pink pigeon and the giant Aldabra tortoise.
- Islands: Off the coast of Mauritius, you can explore other islands, such as Rodrigues and Île aux Cerfs, each offering its own unique charm.
Mauritius is a captivating destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a variety of activities and experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring nature, indulging in delicious cuisine, or enjoying water sports, Mauritius has much to offer.
Top 10 places to visit in Mauritius
Mauritius is a paradise with numerous stunning destinations to explore. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Mauritius:
- Port Louis: The capital city offers a vibrant blend of culture and history, with attractions like the Caudan Waterfront and the Central Market.
- Grand Baie: A popular coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and lively nightlife.
- Black River Gorges National Park: Explore this lush park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints.
- Chamarel: Visit the Seven Colored Earths, a natural phenomenon, and Chamarel Waterfall, one of the highest in Mauritius.
- Le Morne Brabant: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this mountain is famous for its historical and cultural significance.
- Île aux Cerfs: A postcard-perfect island known for its pristine beaches, water sports, and golf courses.
- Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: Discover a wide variety of plant species, including the giant water lilies.
- Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin): A sacred lake for Hindus and a peaceful place for meditation and reflection.
- Île aux Aigrettes: A nature reserve where you can spot endangered species and learn about conservation efforts.
- Rochester Falls: A picturesque waterfall in the Savanne district, known for its scenic beauty.
These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from cultural exploration and outdoor adventures to relaxation on stunning beaches. Mauritius is a destination that caters to a variety of interests and is perfect for both active and leisurely travelers.
Popular Mauritius Tour Itinerary
A popular 7-day Mauritius tour itinerary provides a well-rounded experience, showcasing the island’s stunning beaches, natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Mauritius
- Arrive at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
- Spend the day relaxing and acclimating to the island.
Day 2: North Island Tour
- Explore the northern part of the island, including visits to Port Louis, the capital city, and the Caudan Waterfront.
- Discover the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden and enjoy a panoramic view from Fort Adelaide.
Day 3: South Island Tour
- Head to the southern part of the island, where you can explore the Chamarel Seven Colored Earths, Chamarel Waterfall, and Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), a sacred lake.
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Day 4: Île aux Cerfs
- Take a speedboat to Île aux Cerfs, known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and golf courses.
- Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water activities.
Day 5: East Coast Beaches
- Relax on the picturesque beaches of the east coast, such as Belle Mare Beach or Trou d’Eau Douce.
- Opt for a catamaran cruise to explore nearby islands.
Day 6: Outdoor Adventures
- Choose from activities like hiking in Black River Gorges National Park, visiting Le Morne Brabant, or exploring the underwater world with scuba diving or snorkeling.
Day 7: Departure
- Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs or relaxing on the beach.
- Depart from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport.
This itinerary allows you to experience the best of Mauritius, from its natural beauty to its cultural attractions, with a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Optional Add Ons
If you have 2 to 5 more days to extend your Mauritius tour, you can explore additional destinations and experiences on the island. Here are some options to consider:
Option 1: Rodrigues Island (3-5 Days)
- Take a short flight to Rodrigues, a smaller and less-visited island near Mauritius. Enjoy its pristine beaches, water sports, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Option 2: Scenic Helicopter Tour (1-2 Days)
- Experience Mauritius from the air with a scenic helicopter tour. This option can be added to your existing itinerary for a unique perspective on the island’s beauty.
Option 3: Cultural and Historical Sites (2-4 Days)
- Explore more of Mauritius’ cultural and historical attractions, such as the Domaine de l’Aventure for nature walks, Eureka House for colonial history, and the Mahébourg Waterfront.
Option 4: Beach and Spa Retreat (3-5 Days)
- Extend your stay at one of Mauritius’ luxury beach resorts and indulge in spa treatments, beachfront dining, and leisurely days by the sea.
Option 5: Wildlife and Nature Reserves (2-4 Days)
- Visit nature reserves like Casela World of Adventures for wildlife encounters, the Crocodile & Giant Tortoises Park, or the Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes for its botanical garden and giant tortoises.
Each of these options offers a different aspect of Mauritius, from relaxation and indulgence to nature exploration and cultural immersion. Customize your extended itinerary based on your interests and preferences to make the most of your time on the island.
Want to add sparkle to your holiday experience? Time it with one of the major festivals of Mauritius
Festivals of Mauritius
- Chinese New Year (Spring Festival): Celebrated by the Chinese community, this festival typically falls in January or February, depending on the lunar calendar. Festivities include dragon and lion dances, traditional Chinese meals, and the exchange of red envelopes for good luck.
- Cavadee: Celebrated by the Tamil community in January or February, this festival involves devotees carrying a cavadee, a wooden arch adorned with flowers and offerings, while they perform acts of penance and devotion to Lord Murugan.
- Maha Shivaratri: Observed by the Hindu community in February or March, Maha Shivaratri is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims visit the sacred lake of Grand Bassin, and devotees fast, meditate, and perform rituals.
- Holi: The Hindu festival of colors, Holi usually takes place in March. People celebrate by smearing colored powders and water on each other, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring.
- Eid-ul-Fitr: Marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated with special prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. The date varies each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar.
- Ganesh Chaturthi: Celebrated by the Hindu community in August or September, this festival honors Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity. Devotees create clay idols, offer prayers, and immerse the idols in water at the end of the festival.
- Diwali: Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated in October or November by the Hindu community. It involves the lighting of oil lamps, bursting of fireworks, exchanging of gifts, and prayers to seek blessings from the goddess Lakshmi.
- Christmas: Celebrated by the Christian community on December 25th, Christmas in Mauritius is marked with church services, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. The island is beautifully decorated during this festive season.
- New Year’s Eve: Mauritius welcomes the new year with grand celebrations, parties, and fireworks, especially in cities like Port Louis and Grand Baie. It’s a time for merrymaking and reflection.
Benefits of Hiring a Tour Operator
Hiring a tour operator offers numerous advantages, including expert knowledge of destinations, seamless planning, and access to exclusive experiences. Tour operators can tailor itineraries to your preferences, handle logistics, provide local insights, and ensure a stress-free and enriching travel experience, ultimately saving you time and enhancing the quality of your journey.
Top 10 Best Mauritius Tour Operators in Delhi India
Mauritius Tours by Indus Trips
Indus Trips is a leading Mauritius Tour Operator offering quality and value for money tours of Mauritius. From pick up till drop, flights, hotels and transportation they manage everything in-house. They also customize tours as per client requirements with choice of accommodation, transportation and activities. Services are reliable and prices are good.
Phone: +91 9810954649 – Parveen Kumar
Website: https://allindiatourpackages.in/
Cox & Kings India Ltd.
A well-established travel company, Cox & Kings offers a variety of Mauritius tour packages, including honeymoon, family, and luxury vacations. You can explore their offerings at www.coxandkings.com.
Thomas Cook India
Thomas Cook India is known for its diverse travel services and provides Mauritius tours covering beach getaways, adventure activities, and cultural experiences. Visit their website at www.thomascook.in for more details.
SOTC Travel Services
SOTC offers a range of Mauritius tour options, including beach holidays, water sports, and romantic escapes. Their website, www.sotc.in, provides comprehensive information on their packages.
Makemytrip
This popular online travel agency allows travelers to customize their Mauritius vacations, catering to different interests, from relaxation to adventure. Explore their Mauritius offerings at www.makemytrip.com.
Yatra.com
Yatra.com offers Mauritius tours that encompass pristine beaches, water sports, and cultural exploration. You can find detailed itineraries on their website, www.yatra.com.
Kesari Tours
Kesari Tours provides Mauritius holiday packages, including beach vacations, honeymoon specials, and family getaways. Check out their offerings at www.kesari.in.
Leisure Hotels
Leisure Hotels offers unique and luxurious experiences in Mauritius, catering to travelers looking for upscale vacations. Visit www.leisurehotels.in for more information on their Mauritius packages.
Club7 Holidays
Club7 Holidays provides a mix of leisure and adventure tours to Mauritius, suitable for various traveler preferences. Explore their Mauritius offerings at www.club7holidays.com.
Swan Tours
Swan Tours is known for its personalized Mauritius tour packages, covering beach holidays and romantic getaways. Visit www.swantour.com for more details.
Riya Travels
Riya Travels offers Mauritius vacation options, including beach relaxation, water sports, and family holidays. You can find more about their offerings at www.riyatravels.com.
Mauritius Tour FAQs
Q: Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Mauritius?
A: Indian citizens don’t require a visa for Mauritius for stays up to 90 days. However, a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation are typically required.
Q: What is the best time to visit Mauritius from India?
A: The best time to visit Mauritius from India is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to December) and autumn (April to June) for pleasant weather with less rainfall.
Q: How can I book flights from India to Mauritius?
A: You can book flights from India to Mauritius through online travel agencies, airline websites, or consult with local travel agencies for assistance.
Q: Are there direct flights from major Indian cities to Mauritius?
A: Yes, there are direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in Mauritius.
Q: Is it necessary to get travel insurance for a Mauritius tour from India?
A: While not mandatory, it’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers unexpected events, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Q: What is the currency used in Mauritius, and can I use Indian Rupees?
A: The currency used in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Indian Rupees are not accepted, so it’s advisable to exchange currency or use international credit/debit cards.
Q: Can I use my Indian mobile phone in Mauritius?
A: You can use your Indian mobile phone in Mauritius, but it’s important to check international roaming rates with your mobile carrier to avoid high charges.
Q: Are there specific vaccinations required for Indians traveling to Mauritius?
A: No specific vaccinations are required for Indian travelers to Mauritius, but routine vaccinations and consultation with a healthcare provider are recommended.
Q: Can I find Indian restaurants in Mauritius?
A: Yes, Mauritius has Indian restaurants that serve a variety of Indian dishes, making it easy to find familiar cuisine while traveling.
Q: How can I stay connected with family and friends in India during my Mauritius tour?
A: You can stay connected using your mobile phone, local SIM cards, and Wi-Fi at hotels and public places. Check with your mobile carrier for international calling and data plans to avoid high roaming charges.
Q: What are some must do things while in Mauritius?
A: Here are some “must-do” things while you’re in Mauritius:
- Relax on the Beaches: Enjoy the pristine beaches of Mauritius, including Belle Mare, Flic-en-Flac, Le Morne, and Blue Bay. Go swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathe.
- Le Morne Brabant: Hike to the summit of Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a significant history related to slavery and resistance.
- Ile aux Cerfs: Take a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs, an idyllic island with white sandy beaches, water sports, and a beautiful golf course.
- Port Louis: Explore the capital city, Port Louis, to visit the Caudan Waterfront, the Central Market, and historic sites like Fort Adelaide (La Citadelle).
- Chamarel Colored Earth: Witness the unique phenomenon of Chamarel’s Colored Earth, a natural area with sand dunes of different colors.
- Seven Colored Earth in Chamarel:Experience the geological wonder of Seven Colored Earth, where sand dunes exhibit a spectrum of colors due to mineral content.
- Grand Bassin: Visit Grand Bassin, a sacred crater lake, and the surrounding temples, which are important religious sites for the Hindu community.
- Black River Gorges National Park: Explore the lush landscapes of Black River Gorges National Park, featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
- Trou aux Cerfs: Climb Trou aux Cerfs, an extinct volcano, for panoramic views of the island and its central plateau.
- La Vanille Nature Park: Discover La Vanille Nature Park, a wildlife reserve home to giant tortoises, various reptiles, and lush vegetation.
- Mahebourg: Explore Mahebourg, a historic town with a vibrant market, museums, and the Blue Bay Marine Park nearby.
- Casela World of Adventures: Enjoy a day at Casela World of Adventures, where you can experience zip-lining, interact with big cats, and observe other animals.
- Ile aux Aigrettes: Take a boat trip to Ile aux Aigrettes, a nature reserve where you can learn about native flora and fauna conservation.
- Rodrigues Island: Consider visiting Rodrigues Island for a more laid-back and authentic island experience, with snorkeling, kite surfing, and nature excursions.
- Ganga Talao: Visit Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin), a sacred crater lake, and attend the Maha Shivaratri festival celebrated by the Hindu community.
- Local Cuisine: Savor Mauritian cuisine, including seafood dishes, curries, dhal puri (flatbreads), and tropical fruits like mangoes and lychees.
- Sega Dance and Music: Enjoy traditional Sega dance and music performances, which reflect the vibrant cultural heritage of Mauritius.
- Water Activities: Try water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and windsurfing in the warm and clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
- Tamarin Bay: Go dolphin watching in Tamarin Bay and, if conditions allow, swim with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Kite Surfing: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Mauritius offers excellent kite surfing opportunities, particularly in Le Morne.