Things To Do in Mauritius For Your Next Vacation

TeamAckoOct 18, 2024

Mauritius — a gem amidst the Indian Ocean, has much more to offer than just its beautiful sandy shores. This guide is intended to serve as your guidebook for everything from hiking to snorkelling. And whether travelling on your own, as a couple, or with the whole family; there’s plenty for all!

Contents

• Exploring the Capital - Port Louis
  • Central Market or Bazaar
  • Port Louis Theatre
  • Caudan Waterfront
• Adventure and Sports
  • Deep Sea Fishing
  • Scuba Diving in Blue Bay Marine Park
  • Casela Wildlife Park and Yemen Reserve
• Cultural Experiences
  • China Town in Port Louis
  • Local Culture in Mahebourg
  • Triolet Shivala in Triolet Village
  • Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape
• Natural Wonders
  • Ile aux Aigrettes
  • Chamarel’s Stunning Landscape
  • Black River Gorges National Park
• Historical Sites
  • Champs de Mars
  • Balaclava Ruins and Dutch Ruins
  • Martello Towers
• Beaches and Coastal Areas
  • Grand Bay
  • Flic en Flac
  • Souillac, Savanne
• Food and Culinary Experiences
  • Street Food in Port Louis
  • Tea Tasting at Bois Cheri
  • Rum Distilleries
• Shopping and Souvenirs
  • Craft Markets in Port Louis and Grand Bay
  • Bagatelle Mall
  • Quatre Bornes Market
• Adventure and Outdoor Activities
  • Underwater Waterfall Helicopter Tour
  • Zip Lining at Vallée des Couleurs
  • Kite Surfing at Le Morne
• Family-Friendly Activities
  • Casela World of Adventures
  • Aquarium of Mauritius
  • Blue Penny Museum
• Conclusion
• Secure Your Trip with Acko Insurance
• Frequently Asked Questions

Exploring the Capital - Port Louis

Central Market or Bazaar

The Central Market of Port Louis is the heart and soul of Mauritius. With its bright colors, strange fruits, heady spices, artistic crafts and lively ambiance, this is truly an experience for everyone. Whichever way you’re travelling — alone, in couples, with family and friends, or your furry friends, we have the perfect place waiting for you! At the Central Market you find something to do.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds, it closes midday on Sundays.

Dress Code: Casual; comfortable shoes recommended

Port Louis Theatre

For those interested in the arts, the Port Louis Theatre is a must-visit. Built in 1822, it's one of the oldest theatres in the southern hemisphere. The theatre hosts a range of performances, from plays to concerts.

Entry Fee: Varies by performance (Approx. ₹ 500 – ₹ 2000)

Visiting Times: Depends on the show

Best Time to Visit: Evening

Dress Code: Smart casual

Caudan Waterfront

Caudan Waterfront offers a blend of shopping, dining, and culture. It's home to the Blue Penny Museum and the Stamp Museum. For nature lovers, there is the Mauritius Natural History Museum. Each museum has its own charm and is worth the time for those keen on understanding the rich tapestry of Mauritius. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Entry Fee: Free for the waterfront, Museum entry around ₹400

Visiting Times: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early evening

Dress Code: Casual

Adventure and Sports

Deep Sea Fishing

Deep sea fishing Mauritius presents you with chances of experiencing big game fishing. With the abundance of billfish. yellowfin tuna, wahoo, dorado, Barracuda among many others. It’s also one of my favorite travel destinations in the whole wide world!

Entry Fee: Around ₹20,000 for a full-day tour

Visiting Times: Early morning

Best Time to Visit: November to April

Dress Code: Sportswear, hats, and sunglasses

Scuba Diving in Blue Bay Marine Park

The marine park of Blue Bay provides a submarine show. Colourful coral and exotically painted fish — the ocean’s underworld was magical. It’s a great course for newbies but also more experienced riders.

Entry Fee: Approx. ₹5000 for a dive

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: November to April

Dress Code: Diving gear provided

Casela Wildlife Park and Yemen Reserve

For the land-lovers out there, Casela Wildlife Park is the answer. Walking with lions, quad biking — you name it, the reserve has it all! A family friendly, couple or solo travelers day of celebration.

Entry Fee: Around ₹1500 for adults, ₹800 for kids

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and closed shoes

Cultural Experiences

China Town in Port Louis

China Town offers a slice of the Orient in the heart of Port Louis. The area is a hub for Chinese food, medicine, and crafts. It's an ideal spot for solo travellers and families to explore.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: During the Chinese New Year celebrations

Dress Code: Casual

Local Culture in Mahebourg

Mahebourg is a charming town that captures the essence of Mauritian culture. The Market of Mahebourg is a must-visit. An authentic blend of local people and tourists, this is the ideal spot for romantic couples.

Entry Fee: Free for the market

Visiting Times: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: Early morning on weekdays

Dress Code: Casual

Triolet Shivala in Triolet Village

Triolet Shivala is the largest Hindu temple in Mauritius. The temple is most vibrant during the Maha Shivaratri festival. Families will find it educational, and it's a serene experience for individuals.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: During Maha Shivaratri

Dress Code: Modest attire; remove shoes before entering

Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape

These UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer a glimpse into the island's past. Aapravasi Ghat was an immigration depot, while Le Morne is a symbol of freedom. Both sites are educational and can be enjoyed alone or with family.

Entry Fee: ₹300 for Aapravasi Ghat, Free for Le Morne

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Casual

Natural Wonders

Ile aux Aigrettes

This nature reserve is a sanctuary for rare birds and native plants. It's a haven for nature lovers and offers guided tours. The reserve is best enjoyed as a family or a couple.

Entry Fee: ₹2000 for a guided tour

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: May to November, closed on Sundays and public holidays

Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and walking shoes

Chamarel’s Stunning Landscape

Chamarel is famous for its coloured earths and waterfalls. The geological formations are a natural wonder. It's a great spot for couples looking for Instagram-worthy photos.

Entry Fee: ₹1000

Visiting Times: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, May to December

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for best light

Dress Code: Casual

Black River Gorges National Park

It covers 350 sq km, and is the biggest national park in the country. It’s inhabited by endemic species such as the Pink Pigeon. Walking trails give unrivaled panoramic vistas perfect for nature sweethearts and experience searchers.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: September to January

Dress Code: Hiking attire

Historical Sites

Champs de Mars

Champs de Mars in Port Louis is not just a horse racing track; it's a part of Mauritius' cultural fabric. The atmosphere is electric, especially during the racing season. It's a thrilling experience for adults and older kids.

Entry Fee: ₹300 - ₹1000 depending on the stand

Visiting Times: Race course is open on Saturdays and public holidays from12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: April to November (racing season)

Dress Code: Smart casual

Balaclava Ruins and Dutch Ruins

These ruins take you back in time. Balaclava is an old estate, while the Dutch Ruins are remnants of early settlements. Both sites are quiet and less crowded, ideal for couples or solo travellers interested in history.

Entry Fee: Approx. INR 500 

Visiting Times: Daylight hours

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Casual

Martello Towers

Martello Towers are a series of fortifications built by the British. They offer a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Families will find the climb to the top an exciting little adventure.

Entry Fee: ₹200 for adults, ₹100 for kids

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and shoes for climbing

Beaches and Coastal Areas

Grand Bay

Grand Bay is the go-to place for nightlife and water sports. La Cuvette beach offers a more relaxed vibe. It’s an ideal space for everyone from party animals to peace seekers.

Entry Fee: Free for the beach, water sports vary

Visiting Times: All day for the beach, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM for water sports

Best Time to Visit: November to April

Dress Code: Beachwear

Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac beach, located in the Rivière Noire district of Mauritius, is a stunning beach with white sand and crystal clear waters. Its stunning sunsets attracts both local & tourists to this famous beach. With a huge outdoor area it’s perfect for family games and play time or just relaxing on the sand.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: All day

Best Time to Visit: May to November

Dress Code: Beachwear

Souillac, Savanne

Souillac is a quiet coastal village in the district of Savanne. It's home to the Gris Gris beach, known for its dramatic cliffs. The area is perfect for couples looking for a romantic backdrop.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: All day

Best Time to Visit: May to September

Dress Code: Casual

Food and Culinary Experiences

Street Food in Port Louis

The streets of Port Louis offer a culinary journey. From Dholl Puri to fresh fruit with chilli and tamarind, the flavours are bold and exciting. It's a must-try for solo travellers and families alike.

Entry Fee: Varies by vendor (Approx. ₹50 - ₹300)

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: Lunchtime for the freshest options

Dress Code: Casual

Tea Tasting at Bois Cheri

It is situated within a picturesque setting and therefore makes for a very romantic date for the loving couples. Then, the tour guides walk you through the process, from picking up the leaves to blending your very own tea bag! Afterward, guests can choose from an assortment of teas from far and wide.

Entry Fee: ₹1500 per person for the tour and tasting

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: May to September

Dress Code: Casual

Rum Distilleries

The first stop is the Rhumerie de Chamarel, located near Port Louis. At this distillery you’ll be able to delve into all aspects of the rum-making process while sampling a selection of their exquisite products. A tour guide will explain the fermentation and distillation processes as well as the aging techniques used to ensure a high-quality product.

Entry Fee: ₹500, includes rum tasting session of 6 different rums/liquors

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, May to November

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Casual

Also, Read: Best time to visit Mauritius

Shopping and Souvenirs

Craft Markets in Port Louis and Grand Bay

Craft markets are the place to find handmade souvenirs. From woven baskets to wooden sculptures, the craftsmanship is exceptional. These markets are a family-friendly experience.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds

Dress Code: Casual

Bagatelle Mall

For traditionalists, Bagatelle Mall boasts an impressive range of international and national brands. It’s a family friendly one-stop shop for families as well as singles!

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays

Dress Code: Casual

Quatre Bornes Market

This market is famous for textiles, especially tablecloths and curtains. It’s a lively neighborhood with street food and fresh produce stalls too. Ideal for families and couples.

Entry Fee: Free

Visiting Times: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM on Mondays to Saturdays; 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays

Best Time to Visit: Early morning on weekends; Thursdays and Sundays are the best days to visit the market for textiles and garments.

Dress Code: Casual

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Underwater Waterfall Helicopter Tour

The underwater waterfall is an optical illusion, best seen from above. A helicopter tour gives visitors an unforgettable bird’s eye-view of this natural marvel.

Entry Fee: Around ₹25,000 per person for the tour

Visiting Times: Morning and afternoon slots

Best Time to Visit: May to November

Dress Code: Comfortable clothing 

Zip Lining at Vallée des Couleurs

Vallée des Couleurs offers zip lining over waterfalls and lush forests. It's an adrenaline-pumping experience suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers.

Entry Fee: Varies, depending upon the package chosen

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: May to November

Dress Code: Athletic wear

Kite Surfing at Le Morne

Le Morne is a hotspot for kite surfing. The winds are strong and the waves are perfect. This is an activity best enjoyed alone or with friends who are equally adventurous.

Entry Fee: Approx. ₹5000 for a beginner's lesson

Visiting Times: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: May to November

Dress Code: Swimwear

Family-Friendly Activities

Casela World of Adventures

At Casela, you can take a safari tour and spot some of the big game animals like lions, zebras, wildebeest, and more. You'll also get to see some birds and other wildlife. You can even opt for a night safari experience if you wish.

Entry Fee: ₹3,000 for adults, ₹1,000 for kids

Visiting Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Comfortable outdoor clothing

Aquarium of Mauritius

The Aquarium of Mauritius, situated at Blue Bay near Mahébourg on the island’s south coast, allows visitors to immerse themselves in its myriad fish-filled tanks, discover the creatures that inhabit them, with the opportunity to get up close and personal with The aquarium hosts activities where visitors can participate in and interact with feeding the fish. Talks and documentaries showcasing marine species/wild-life and conservation works as well! 

Entry Fee: ₹200 for adults, ₹100 for children; children aged 0-3 years get free entry

Visiting Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Casual

Blue Penny Museum

The museum offers a journey through the history of Mauritius. It's educational and interactive, making it suitable for families with older children.

Entry Fee: ₹ 100 per person

Visiting Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Monday to Saturday; closed on Sundays and public holidays

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Dress Code: Casual

Conclusion

With its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, delicious food, and a plethora of activities such as zip lining over waterfalls at Vallée des Couleurs, kite surfing at Le Morne, safari tours at Casela World of Adventures, exploring the fish-filled tanks at the Aquarium of Mauritius and learning about local history at the Blue Penny Museum; a trip to this island is bound to be unforgettable.

Secure Your Trip with Acko Insurance

Traveling is an adventure, but even the best-planned trips can encounter unexpected hiccups. That's why securing your travel with Acko Insurance is a smart move to ensure a worry-free vacation in Mauritius. Here's why you should consider Acko for your travel insurance needs:

Comprehensive Coverage: From lost baggage and flight cancellations to medical emergencies, Acko offers a wide range of coverage options, so you can fully immerse yourself in your adventures without a worry in the world.

Quick and Hassle-Free: No one wants to spend hours navigating insurance jargon and filling out lengthy forms. With Acko, buying your trip insurance is as quick and straightforward as booking your flight.

24/7 Customer Support: Whether it's the middle of the night or you're lost in a local market, Acko's around-the-clock support ensures you're never alone in times of need.

Competitive Rates: Offering some of the best prices in the market, Acko ensures you don't break the bank while trying to protect your trip.

Localized Services: Need to find the nearest hospital or understand local safety norms? Acko’s got a database for that. They not only protect you but guide you through local nuances as well.

So, before you zip-line through Mauritius' lush forests or sip on some fresh sugarcane juice, make sure you're protected with ACKO trave insurance Mauritius. Trust us, it's the travel buddy you didn't know you needed. Now go ahead, explore Mauritius with peace of mind!

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the frequently asked questions on Places to Visit and Things To Do in Mauritius

What is the best time to visit Mauritius for water sports?

The best time for water sports like scuba diving, snorkelling, and kite surfing is from October to April when the waters are calm and clear.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Mauritius?

While tap water is generally safe to drink, it's advisable to stick to bottled water, especially for those not accustomed to the local water.

Are there any public transport options to get around the island?

Yes, Mauritius has a bus network that covers most of the island. However, for a more convenient and flexible option, consider renting a car.

Is Mauritius a good destination for budget travellers?

Mauritius offers a range of options to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Street food is both delicious and affordable.

Do I need a visa to visit Mauritius?

Citizens of most countries do not require a visa for short visits. However, it's always best to check the latest visa requirements before planning your trip.

Is English widely spoken in Mauritius?

Yes, English is one of the official languages of Mauritius and is widely spoken and understood.

Are there any specific vaccinations required before travelling to Mauritius?

No vaccines are required or recommended, but you should always make sure your routine shots—for MMR, DTaP, and polio, for example—are current.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to change. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

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