Mauritius Island Itinerary: Unforgettable Vacation Guide

I’ve been dreaming of Mauritius Island since my colleague got back from her holiday and I can see why! Imagine: powder soft beaches, water so blue it looks photoshopped and a culture as warm as the tropical breeze. Trust me this little gem in the Indian Ocean is everything you’ve imagined and more.

I am well aware of what you are thinking – planning a trip to paradise is better suited for an optimist than a realist, isn’t it? But here’s the thing: always having a plan resonates with the fact that you will get the most out of your adventure inside Mauritius. There is a universe of wonders out there to explore! There is so much to explore, from leisure activities such as snorkelling in crystal clear lagoons to sometime appreciating off-the-beaten-path parts of the island.

This is why, I have made this article for you. Be it to see places with the UNESCO World Heritage tag, to gorge on some real Mauritian food (beware, it will get you hooked!) or to find picturesque places to just relax on the beach, I have a solution for you. So get yourself a cup of tea, or get comfortable and let’s organize your Mauritius vacation. Wait until you see this!

Mauritius Island

Join me on a journey to the south west of Mauritius where your island experience is infused with some stunning views. Have you ever been in the shadow, literally, and figuratively, of a mountain that has a whole lot of history? Well, that is exactly what you are going to experience at Le Morne Brabant where its a world heritage site that has plenty of history about the island and features some awesome vistas to say the least.

Just around the corner is the lovely village of La Gaulette. This is my favorite spot – it’s the place to really feel the authentic Mauritius. In fact, picture this: you are at a small local diner, enjoying excellent cuisine of the Mauritian islands while the picturesque mountain and the sea are visible from your table. This is a joy, right?

When it’s time to go to the beach, my answer is a resounding yes! Your day at Flic-en-Flac will be one you will remember for a very long time! Speaking of chic, this is one of the best places on the island for me. The soft white sand and clear waters are simply stunning, and no wonder both the locals and the tourists never get tired of it. Snorkeling, paddleboarding or simply soaking up the sun, you will surely feel like if you were in heaven.

Must-See:

• Le Morne Brabant: Natural beauty and history
• La Gaulette: Real Mauritius and views
• Flic-en-Flac Beach: Relaxation and water fun

I promise you, these three will give you the perfect blend of what Mauritius has to offer - scenery, culture and relaxation. What better way to start your island adventure?

Flic-en-Flac Beach

Ever wondered what it’s like to stand before a natural rainbow made of sand? Well I’ve got just the place for you! Let me tell you about my favourite spots in one of Mauritius’ most fascinating regions.

Seven Coloured Earths

First up you’ve got to see the Seven Coloured Earths in Chamarel - it’s amazing! Imagine sand dunes stretching before you in the most incredible colours you can think of - reds, browns, violets, blues, greens and yellows. It’s not some artist’s creation; Mother Nature’s been working on this masterpiece for centuries through volcanic activity. I love how they’ve set up these lovely walking paths and viewing platforms - perfect for getting that Instagram shot!

Chamarel Waterfall

Just around the corner (and trust me, you won’t want to miss this), there’s the Chamarel Waterfall. It’s a big one this one - nearly 100 metres high! I remember standing at the viewing platform, watching the water thunder down into the green valley below. It’s quite something to see, and the photos you’ll get here are amazing.

Hiking in Black River Gorges National Park

Now if you’re like me and love a bit of adventure you’ll want to head over to Black River Gorges National Park. This place is massive - 67 square kilometres of pure nature! I’ve spent hours upon hours hiking here and there’s always something new to find. The forests are proper thick, the streams are crystal clear and the views? Breathtaking!

Here’s a top tip from me: make sure you do the Black River Peak trail. It’s the highest point on the island at 828 metres and blimey, the views are worth the hike! Keep an eye out for some of Mauritius’ unique wildlife while you’re up there - you might see something special!

I can’t stress enough how these places are must sees in Mauritius. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker or just want to see something different, Chamarel and Black River Gorges won’t let you down. Trust me on this one!

Chamarel Waterfall

Ile Aux Benitiers: A Mauritius Island must-see attraction

I was fortunate to board a boat to Ile Aux Benitiers and I have to say, it is a real pleasure! Picture this: you are headed towards an island that looks like some giant pea was thrown in the Indian ocean (and, yes, this is why this island is named that!). Let me tell you a little secret – the secret to savoring this small piece of heaven is to arrive there early. I remember stepping on those white sands for the first time and I thought I was dreaming. The water was so shallow that I was able to see my toes moving in the warm turquoise waters.

Want to do some exploring? Here’s what you can do:

• Have a dip in the most beautiful waters you’ve ever seen
• Grab your snorkel and say hi to the fish below
• Work on that tan on beaches that look like a postcard

But wait until you hear the best part out of them all - the dolphins! There is nothing better than having your morning coffee on the boat and suddenly these little buggers start performing next to you. I will always remember seeing the dolphins jump the waves as the sun came up - that is pure magic.

My top tip? Set your alarm early for dolphin watching. I promise, it’s worth the early rise. Have you ever seen a dolphin’s morning gymnastics? It’s better than any show at Sea World!

Tamarin Bay: Surfing and Sunsets

Next stop Tamarin Bay, a haven for surfers and nature lovers. Famous for its waves, Tamarin Bay attracts surfers from all over the world. Even if you’re not a surfer, watching the surfers ride the waves is quite thrilling.

• Surfing Spots: Good for beginners and experienced surfers.
• Beautiful Sunsets: The bay has some of the most beautiful sunsets on the island, what a great ending to your day.

Time spent at Tamarin Bay will give you another side of Mauritius’ coastal beauty, so make sure to add it to your list.

Tamarin Bay

A Day Out in Port Louis - My Personal Guide

I have to tell you about Port Louis - it’s a real gem of a capital city! Every time I walk through the streets I’m amazed at how the old colonial buildings sit alongside the shiny new skyscrapers. Trust me you’ll want to start your day at the Central Market (or bazaar as the locals call it). The first time I went in I was blown away by the explosion of colours and smells! You’ll find everything from bright spices to quirky crafts - perfect for those “look what I found” moments.

Port Louis

What to See?

Caudan Waterfront is my favourite place to just mooch around. Imagine this: you’re walking along the harbour, shopping bag in one hand, best cup of coffee you’ve had in ages in the other. I always end up spending hours here, popping into the boutiques and watching the boats bobbing in the harbour. It’s lovely!

Let’s Talk Food (My Favourite Bit!)

Oh my goodness, the food here is amazing! If you’re like me you’ll want to try everything. Have you ever had dholl puri? It’s this flatbread stuffed with curry - absolute heaven! You can get one from the street vendors (where I think they taste best) or sit down in one of the fancy restaurants for some proper Creole cooking. Can’t go wrong either way!

A Quiet Moment

When the city gets too much I head to the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden (phew, what a mouthful!). It’s just a short drive from Port Louis and honestly it’s like a different world. The giant water lilies are amazing - they look like you could sit on them (though I wouldn’t recommend it!). The palm trees seem to touch the sky and there’s always some new plant I’ve never seen before.

You’ve got the city and the garden - it’s a winning combination. Trust me I’ve done this many times and it never gets boring!

Come along with me on the east coast of Mauritius - it’s honestly the most beautiful drive I’ve ever done! I remember the first time I drove down this coast, my mouth open in awe at the endless blue water. Believe me, you’ll want to rent a car for this one (I learned the hard way that public transport is a bit of a pain!).

Belle Mare and Trou d’Eau Douce Beaches

• Looking for a beach? I’ve got you covered! Belle Mare Beach is a real stunner - imagine white sand that goes on forever. I spent a lovely morning here watching windsurfers ride the waves (and probably not very well, I tried it myself!). If you fancy some snorkelling, the water is crystal clear and full of fish.
• Then there’s Trou d’Eau Douce, a little village gem. The beach is lovely and the calm water is great if you have little ones. Top tip: take a boat to Ile aux Cerfs from here - it’s a bit touristy but blimey, it’s beautiful!

Now, where to stay? Well, that depends on how deep you are willing to reach into your pocket! If you happen to be in a good mood, then the Lux* Belle Mare is proper posh - while sea views are assured. If you want something a bit more budget friendly, the Tropical Attitude Hotel does what it does best - reliable and comfortable rooms with that unique Mauritian touch. And if you are really tight on budget, rush to Chez Tino – it is a cozy little lodgings at a very reasonable price.

Make sure you make your accommodation reservations well in advance wherever possible, particularly during the peak season. You would not want to miss the chance of waking up to those views, would you?

I was fortunate enough to explore the underwater world of Mauritius and I must say it is nothing short of enchanting. This is the Island surrounded by the Indian Ocean, with Pearl white sands and lush greenery all around. It is truly something special!

Last July, I went diving with Crystal Divers when suddenly I spotted dolphins chasing each other around one of the prominent shipwrecks. It was absolutely exhilarating! There are so many species of fishes out there, and the reefs are vibrant with life; from sea turtles to clownfish hiding among the corals, it’s beautiful.

What’s the most impressive for me is that you do not have to be Jacques Cousteau to appreciate it! From total novices like myself on the first trip to the seasoned expert with hundreds of dives practiced, the island has something for everyone. The local diving centers are very good - they will allow you to rent all the equipment and get the information required to successfully conduct the dive.

Ever wondered what it’s like to swim through a school of tropical fish? Or peek into the nooks and crannies of an old shipwreck? Well here’s your chance! And if you’re really lucky (like I was) you might even see some whales during the migration season. How cool is that?

Wow, what a week! Now it’s time to chill and soak up those last few hours of this little slice of heaven. I find there’s no better way to spend your last day than lounging on one of Mauritius’s beautiful beaches - Mont Choisy or Pereybere are my faves. Trust me once you’re lying on that sand and watching the crystal clear water you’ll know exactly what I mean.

What do I love doing on my last day? Just sitting back and replaying all those amazing moments in my head. Remember that scuba dive? Or wandering around Port Louis? And that moment when you first saw the colours of Chamarel? Brilliant wasn’t it?

Savvy Ways to Save Those Pennies

Now here are some of my insider tips on how to enjoy Mauritius without breaking the bank (because who doesn’t love a bargain?):

• Where to Stay: Skip the hotels and check out the guesthouses or Airbnbs. I’ve found some real gems that will give you that local experience without emptying your wallet.
• Foodie Finds: Want a real taste of Mauritius? The local food stalls are the way to go! Have you tried Dholl Puri yet? Or those little Gâteau Piments? Yum and budget friendly too!
• Getting Around: Hop on the local buses or share a taxi - that’s how the locals do it and your bank account will thank you.
• Free and Easy: Here’s a little secret - some of the best bits of Mauritius don’t cost a penny. The beaches? Free. Most natural parks? Not a rupee in sight!

Okay, there you go: my final thoughts on how to enjoy the beauty of Mauritius without breaking the bank! I hope you had fun learning how you too can visit and enjoy this beautiful place without emptying your pockets. There is plenty to explore from guesthouses located in the local communities to affordable street food which will have you asking for more and more!

What’s even better? Some of the stunning attractions of the island don’t even cost a dime! Those lovely beaches and hiking trails are all yours – with absolutely no charge. I still remember the beauty of the sunset at Belle Mare beach.

Now that you’re fully in the know on the serenity that Mauritius offers, what hesitates you? Get your sunglasses out and prepare for an incredible trip to Mauritius that has the potential to become the highlight of your life. It’s going to be one unforgettable experience from the beginning to the end and there’s no doubt about that. And when you’re sitting on the beach with a fresh coconut enjoying the sea breeze, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do this touristy thing a long time ago.