Living in Mauritius has been a dream come true for my family and me. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless activities, we never run out of things to do.
Plus, when our family from South Africa comes to visit, it’s always a joy to show them around. Here are some of the best things to do in Mauritius, many of which have become our go-to spots for entertaining guests.
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1. Explore the Beaches
One of the first things we do when family arrives is head straight to the beach. Trou aux Biches and Mont Choisy Beach are our favorites. The soft white sand and calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and letting the kids run free. It’s always a hit with visitors, and we love spending the day relaxing by the ocean.
2. Visit the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
Whenever we have visitors, a trip to the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, also known as the Pamplemousses Botanic Garden is a must. The giant water lilies and the wide variety of plant species never fail to impress, and it’s a peaceful place to spend a morning exploring nature.
3. Mauritius Hotel Day Packages
One of our favorite ways to treat our visiting family is by booking day packages at some of the island’s top hotels. These packages offer access to luxurious amenities like pools, beaches, and spas, along with delicious meals. It’s a great way to experience the island’s luxury without an overnight stay.
4. Visit the Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)
Taking our family to Grand Bassin, or Ganga Talao, is a spiritual and cultural experience. The lake is a sacred Hindu site, and it’s especially vibrant during festivals like Maha Shivaratri. It’s a peaceful place that offers a different perspective on the island’s diverse culture.
3. Hike in Black River Gorges National Park
For our more adventurous family members, we plan a hike in Black River Gorges National Park. The trails here are beautiful, winding through lush forests and leading to stunning viewpoints. It’s also a great way to introduce our visitors to the island’s unique flora and fauna.
4. Discover Port Louis
We love taking our family to Port Louis to experience the vibrant energy of Mauritius’s capital city. A stroll through the Central Market is always fun, and we make sure to visit the Aapravasi Ghat for a bit of history. The street food is fantastic too, offering a taste of the local culture.
5. Take a Catamaran Cruise
We love treating our family to a relaxing catamaran cruise along the coast. These trips often include stops at secluded beaches and snorkeling spots, and the on-board barbecue is always a highlight. It’s a wonderful way to see the island from the water.
6. Visit the Oceanarium Mauritius
The Odysseo Oceanarium Mauritius in Port Louis is a fantastic place to take our family, especially with kids in tow. It’s a fascinating journey through the underwater world of the Indian Ocean, featuring over 200 species of marine life. It’s both educational and fun, making it a perfect family outing.
7. Visit Maison Eureka and Eureka Falls in Moka
A visit to Eureka House in Moka is always a hit, especially when we visit the nearby Eureka Falls. After exploring the colonial mansion and its gardens, we hike down to the falls for a refreshing dip in the natural pools. It’s a beautiful spot that combines history, nature, and a bit of adventure.
8. Explore the Markets
Visiting the local markets, like the Quatre Bornes Market or the Grand Baie Bazaar, is a fun way to immerse our visitors in everyday Mauritian life. The vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, and unique crafts make it a great spot for picking up souvenirs.
9. Experience the Chamarel Seven Colored Earths
The Seven Colored Earths in Chamarel is another spot we love to show off to visitors. The unique geological formations are unlike anything else, and the nearby Chamarel Waterfall adds to the day’s adventure. It’s a beautiful area that showcases the island’s natural beauty.
10. Explore Île aux Cerfs
A day trip to Île aux Cerfs is a family favorite. The island offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with stunning beaches and plenty of water sports. We usually pack a picnic and spend the day exploring, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
11. Relax at a Spa
After days of exploring, we often treat our guests to a relaxing day at one of the island’s luxurious spas. A massage or wellness treatment is the perfect way to unwind, and it’s a great way to show our family the more indulgent side of island life.
12. Experience the Local Cuisine
Introducing our family to Mauritian cuisine is a joy. Whether we’re eating dholl puri at a local stall or enjoying the pani puri, the flavors of the island are always a hit. We love taking them to our favorite restaurants to sample the diverse and delicious food.
13. Discover Île des Deux Cocos
Île des Deux Cocos is one of our favorite places to take visitors for a day of pure relaxation and luxury. This private island, located off the southeast coast of Mauritius, is a little slice of paradise.
The day trip includes a boat ride to the island, where you’re greeted with stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and pristine beaches. We love spending the day lounging on the beach, and enjoying the delicious buffet lunch that features local delicacies. The island’s tranquility and beauty make it a perfect escape, and our guests always leave feeling refreshed and pampered.
14. Snorkel at Blue Bay Marine Park
When the weather is perfect, we head to Blue Bay Marine Park for some snorkeling. The marine life here is incredible, and it’s an activity that the whole family can enjoy. The kids are always fascinated by the colorful fish, and it’s a great way to spend a day in the water.
15. Go Dolphin Watching
One of the most magical experiences we’ve had with our visitors is dolphin watching. We usually set out early from Le Morne, and it’s always a thrill to see dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable experience that we love sharing with our guests.
16. Visit the Tea Plantations
Mauritius’s tea culture is something we always share with our visitors. A tour of the Bois Chéri tea plantation is both educational and relaxing. We enjoy learning about the tea-making process, and the tea tasting sessions are always a highlight.
17. Visit La Vanille Nature Park
A trip to La Vanille Nature Park is always a highlight, especially for families with kids. This unique park, located in the south of Mauritius, is famous for its giant tortoises, crocodiles, and a variety of other animals. The children love feeding the tortoises and watching the crocodiles during feeding time. The park also has an insectarium with a fascinating collection of butterflies and other insects.
18. Hike Le Morne Brabant
For our more active visitors, we often plan a hike up Le Morne Brabant. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the hike itself is a great way to bond while learning about the mountain’s historical significance as a refuge for runaway slaves.
19. Experience Adventure at Casela Nature Parks
When it comes to adventure and wildlife, Casela Nature Parks is our go-to spot. This expansive park offers everything from safari tours and ziplining to quad biking and animal encounters. Whether it’s feeding giraffes, walking with lions, or riding through the African-style savannah on a safari, there’s something for everyone.
The kids especially love the petting farm and the giant slides, while the more adventurous adults can try the canyon swing or the mountain luge. It’s a day filled with fun, excitement, and plenty of photo opportunities that we never miss with our visitors.
Final Thoughts
Living in Mauritius has given us the incredible opportunity to explore this beautiful island, and sharing these experiences with our visiting family has been a joy. Whether it’s relaxing on the beach, diving into the island’s rich history, or seeking out new adventures, these activities showcase the very best of Mauritius. Each visit gives us a new reason to fall in love with this island all over again.
