Mauritius: The Jewel of the Indian Ocean

Mauritius Airport Directory (MRU)
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Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius shines like a gem with its stunning natural beauty and culture. This island nation is a tropical paradise widely renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and lush green landscapes. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Mauritius caters to all with its diverse attractions, including coral reefs teeming with marine life, majestic waterfalls, and verdant forests. The island's pleasant climate and warm temperatures year-round make it a terrific destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

The island is influenced by its history of colonisation and migration. Its rich heritage is beautifully reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals, where African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences blend harmoniously. Visitors can explore the markets of Port Louis, the capital city, indulge in delectable local dishes, and witness traditional Sega dance performances. Are you ready to learn more about this exquisite place?

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Mauritius is from May to December when the weather is cool, dry, and sunny. This makes it perfect for beach lounging, snorkelling, and exploring the island's natural beauty. You can book flights to Mauritius during these months, you'll enjoy the most transparent waters and the most comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for adventure and relaxation. There's nothing like a Mauritian winter—it's like a summer dream come true!

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How to reach?

By Air: Flying is the best and fastest way to reach Mauritius. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is Mauritius’s main gateway, well-connected with flights from major cities in Asia, Africa, America, Europe, and the Middle East. If you are travelling from India to Mauritius, find multiple options with IndiGo. 

By Sea: Reaching Mauritius by sea is an option for those who prefer a slower, scenic journey. Some cruise lines include Mauritius in their itineraries, allowing travellers to experience the island as part of a more extended voyage. Additionally, private yachts are welcome to dock at Port Louis Harbour.

Getting Around Mauritius: Once you land at the airport, you have several options to reach your final destination on the island. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Taxis are easily available outside the airport, offering a convenient and quick way to get to your accommodation. Many hotels also facilitate shuttle services for their guests.

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Places to visit

  • Port Louis: Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a city rich in history and culture. Explore the Caudan Waterfront, a lively shopping and entertainment complex with various boutiques and restaurants. The Blue Penny Museum is a must for every history enthusiast, showcasing rare stamps and artefacts that tell the story of Mauritius. Don't miss the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which marks the history of indentured labourers on the island. As you wander through the city, you'll encounter a mix of colonial and modern architecture.
  • Grand Baie: Known for its beautiful beaches and nightlife, it is a tourist favourite. The bay's calm, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Take a serene boat trip to explore nearby islands or the stunning coral reefs. During the day, you can relax on the white sandy beaches or try water sports. In the evening, Grand Baie comes alive with its numerous eateries, offering a lively atmosphere and a taste of Mauritian nightlife. The area is also home to various boutiques and shopping centres.
  • Chamarel: Chamarel is a little village in southwest Mauritius, famous for its unique geological formations and natural beauty. The main attraction here is the Seven Colored Earths, a striking landscape of dunes in hues of red, brown, violet, blue, green, purple, and yellow. Nearby, you can visit the Chamarel Waterfall, the highest waterfall on the island, cascading down from about 100 meters. The surrounding area is lush and green, perfect for nature walks and photography.
  • Black River Gorges National Park: This park is a peaceful haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It covers an area of over 6,500 hectares and is the largest protected forest in Mauritius. The park hosts diverse flora and fauna. They include several endemic species. Hiking trails of different difficulty levels offer stunning views of the island's interior, with dense forests, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. Watch for the Mauritian flying fox, the pink pigeon, and other rare birds. The park is also home to the Black River Peak, the highest point on the island. Trekkers, take note!
  • Île aux Cerfs: Île aux Cerfs is a picturesque island off Mauritius's east coast, renowned for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Accessible by boat from Trou d'Eau Douce, it is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Try parasailing, water skiing, and snorkelling activities. The island's lagoon is ideal for swimming and relaxing, while the 18-hole golf course designed by Bernhard Langer provides a scenic and challenging experience for golfers.
  • Le Morne Brabant: Le Morne Brabant is an exquisite UNESCO World Heritage Site on the southwestern tip of Mauritius. This iconic basaltic mountain stands 556 meters above sea level and is a significant symbol of the island's history. The mountain was a refuge for several runaway slaves during the 18th and early 19th centuries, and its dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain provide a poignant reminder of this past. Today, Le Morne is a popular hiking destination, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding landscapes. The nearby beaches are perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Places to eat

  • La Table du Château: Located in the beautiful Domaine de Labourdonnais in Mapou, La Table du Château offers a unique dining experience in a charming colonial setting. The restaurant is renowned for its gourmet Mauritian cuisine. Signature dishes include the venison curry and the smoked marlin salad made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The lush gardens surrounding the restaurant provide an exquisite backdrop, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner. To complete your visit, explore the nearby Château de Labourdonnais, a stunning historic estate.
  • Chez Tino: Perched on the coast in Trou d'Eau Douce, Chez Tino is a beloved seafood restaurant offering stunning lagoon views. Known for its warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere, Chez Tino serves various freshly caught seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, octopus curry, and prawn rougaille. The menu also features Mauritian classics like biryani and dholl puri, giving you a taste of the island's culinary diversity. The restaurant's terrace provides a perfect vantage point to enjoy a memorable meal while watching the sunset over the ocean.
  • Le Fangourin: Set within the picturesque grounds of L'Aventure du Sucre, a former sugar factory turned museum in Pamplemousses, Le Fangourin offers a delightful fusion of Mauritian and international cuisine. The restaurant's menu showcases the island's rich culinary heritage, including Creole chicken stew, palm heart salad, and caramelised pineapple dessert. The setting is equally impressive, with outdoor seating under a century-old mango tree and views of the lush gardens. After your meal, tour the museum to learn about Mauritius' sugar history.
  • Le Chamarel Restaurant: Nestled in the hills of Chamarel, this restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the southwest coast. It specialises in Creole and Mauritian dishes, such as the famous Chamarel chicken curry and the aromatic seafood bouillabaisse. The restaurant emphasises using fresh, local ingredients, ensuring an authentic and flavourful dining experience. The tranquil setting and the stunning vistas make it a great spot for a memorable lunch or dinner, especially after exploring the nearby Seven Colored Earths and Chamarel Waterfall.

Shopping places

  • Caudan Waterfront: Caudan Waterfront is a shopping and entertainment complex offering high-end boutiques, local craft shops, and international brands. The waterfront setting adds to the charm, with picturesque harbour views. Shoppers can find designer clothing, jewellery, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts. The complex also has various restaurants and cafes. There is a cinema for those looking to extend their entertainment.
  • Central Market (Bazaar Port Louis): For a more authentic and lively shopping experience, head to the Central Market in Port Louis. This sensory delight market offers fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local handicrafts. It's the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, such as colourful sarongs, woven baskets, and traditional Mauritian spices. The market also has a section dedicated to street food, where you can sample local delicacies like dholl puri, samosas, and fresh tropical fruits. 
  • Grand Baie La Croisette: Grand Baie La Croisette is a contemporary shopping and lifestyle complex in the renowned tourist area of Grand Baie. The complex boasts local and international stores offering fashion, beauty, home decor, and more. In addition to shopping, Grand Baie La Croisette has various restaurants and cafes, a cinema, a fitness centre, and a children's playground. The open-air design and atmosphere create a pleasant shopping environment.
  • Flacq Market: Located in Flacq, this market is one of Mauritius's largest open-air markets. It is the perfect place to experience the local culture and the island's everyday life. The market is known for its various goods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic spices, colourful textiles, and unique handicrafts. It's a fantastic spot to find local products such as handmade jewellery, traditional clothing, and Mauritian delicacies.

Where to stay?

  • Lux* Belle Mare: Situated on the east coast of Mauritius, Lux* Belle Mare offers a luxurious and relaxing stay with unbelievable views of the Indian Ocean. The resort features spacious suites and villas, each designed with contemporary elegance. You can enjoy various amenities, including a large lagoon-style swimming pool, a world-class spa, and multiple dining options that serve everything from gourmet cuisine to local delicacies. 
  • The St. Regis Mauritius Resort: Located on Mauritius’s southwestern tip at Le Morne Peninsula, The St. Regis Mauritius Resort is a five-star luxury destination combining colonial-style architecture and modern amenities. The resort has elegantly appointed rooms and suites with private terraces offering unbelievable views of the ocean or the lush gardens. Guests can indulge in the resort's six distinctive restaurants, which provide culinary experiences from traditional Mauritian dishes to international flavours. 
  • Constance Belle Mare Plage: Constance Belle Mare Plage is a premier beachfront resort on the East Coast, known for its elegant accommodation and extensive facilities. The resort has various rooms, suites, and villas, each beautifully designed with modern comforts and stunning ocean or garden views. The long, sandy beach is perfect for relaxation and water activities such as snorkelling, diving, and sailing. 
  • Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa: Situated on the secluded northwest coast of Mauritius, Trou aux Biches Beachcomber is renowned for its stunning beachfront setting and lush tropical gardens. The resort provides multiple accommodation options, from beachfront suites to private villas. With six restaurants on-site, guests can enjoy a variety of culinary experiences, including Italian, Indian, and seafood cuisines. The crystal-clear lagoon and coral reefs make it ideal for snorkelling and diving.

More reasons to visit

  • Delicious cuisine: Mauritian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours and influences worldwide. The island's culinary scene offers various dishes, from street food to gourmet dining. Savour traditional Creole dishes like rougaille (a tomato-based stew), dholl puri (a flatbread filled with split peas), and biryani. Seafood lovers will be delighted by the day's fresh catch, including grilled fish, octopus curry, and seafood platters.
  • Outdoor activities and adventures: Mauritius is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering various activities to suit all interests. The island's diverse landscapes provide hiking, cycling, and horseback riding opportunities. Explore the scenic trails of Black River Gorges National Park, go zip-lining through the lush forest canopy, or take a leisurely bike ride along the coastal roads. 
  • Rich cultural diversity: Mauritius's migration history has created African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences. This cultural richness is evident in the island's festivals, cuisine, music, and daily life. Celebrations such as Diwali, Chinese New Year, and the Cavadee Festival offer a glimpse into the island's multicultural heritage. 
  • Warm hospitality: Mauritians are known for their warmth and hospitality. The island's friendly locals are always eager to share their culture and traditions with tourists, providing a genuine and enriching travel experience. Whether in a luxury resort or a local guesthouse, you can expect excellent service and a personal touch that makes your stay memorable. The island's commitment to tourism and visitor satisfaction ensures that every aspect of your trip is well-catered and enjoyable.

Visa and Immigration

Indian tourists visiting Mauritius do not require a visa for short stays. Indian passport holders can enter Mauritius for tourism and stay for up to 60 days without a visa. There are a few entry requirements that need to be met: your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date, you need a confirmed return or onward travel ticket, sufficient proof of accommodation (such as a hotel booking confirmation), and sufficient funds to cover your stay. Upon arrival, ensure these documents are ready for a smooth entry process.

You need a Mauritius visa in order to visit Mauritius. However, since Mauritius is a member of Africa. Also, make sure to keep your travel documents, like your passport, with you to ensure a hassle-free process at immigration.

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