Fly Time
~6 Hours
Currency
Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
Local Transfer
Buses, Taxis, Car Rentals
~6 Hours
Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
Buses, Taxis, Car Rentals
MUT (UTC/GMT +4:00 hours)
Visa-Free for Indians (up to 90 days)
0
About
MAURITIUS
Mauritius, officially the Republic of Mauritius, is an island nation in the Indian Ocean about 2,000 kilometres off the southeast coast of the African continent. The country includes the islands of Mauritius, Rodrigues, Agaléga, and St. Brandon. Known for its stunning beaches, lagoons and reefs, the mountainous interior includes Black River Gorges National Park, with rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails and wildlife like the flying fox. The island is particularly renowned for its diverse culture and history, having been ruled previously by the Dutch, French, and British before gaining independence in 1968. This multicultural heritage is reflected in the population, cuisine, and architecture of the country. Mauritius is the only African country where Hinduism is the largest religion and is known for its stable democracy and economic progress, making it one of Africa's wealthiest and most developed nations.
Mauritius is a multicultural and multi-religious society, a result of its diverse history and immigration patterns. The constitution provides for freedom of religion, and the government generally respects this right in practice. The population is predominantly Hindu (about 48.5%), followed by Christianity (32.7%, mainly Roman Catholicism), Islam (17.3%), and other religions including Buddhism. This religious diversity is celebrated through various public holidays and festivals throughout the year, including Diwali, Eid, Christmas, Chinese Spring Festival, and Maha Shivaratri, which is one of the largest Hindu pilgrimages outside India. This rich cultural tapestry is reflected in the island's architecture, cuisine, and daily life, creating a unique harmonious blend of traditions from Africa, India, Europe, and China.
Mauritius is renowned for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sand. From the famous Flic en Flac on the west coast to the beautiful Belle Mare on the east, each beach offers a unique experience. Don't miss the unique underwater waterfall illusion visible from above at the southwestern tip of the island - a spectacular natural phenomenon that looks like the ocean is draining into a abyss.
Visit the fascinating geological formation of seven-colored earth at Chamarel, where sand dunes of different colors create a surreal landscape. The colors evolved through conversion of basaltic lava to clay minerals, and the particular arrangement of colors is a result of the different compositions cooling at different temperatures. This natural wonder is one of Mauritius' most visited attractions.
Explore the largest protected forest in Mauritius, home to abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. The park covers 3.5% of the island's total area and features numerous hiking trails through dense forest, past waterfalls, and to scenic viewpoints. Keep an eye out for rare bird species like the Mauritius kestrel, pink pigeon, and echo parakeet, all of which were brought back from the brink of extinction.
Discover the vibrant capital city of Port Louis, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside historical buildings. Visit the Central Market for local crafts and produce, see the beautiful Jummah Mosque, and learn about the island's history at the Natural History Museum. Don't miss the Caudan Waterfront for shopping, dining, and entertainment with a beautiful harbor view.
Take a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs, a beautiful paradise island on the east coast famous for its magnificent beaches and lush vegetation. The island offers numerous water sports activities including parasailing, undersea walk, and snorkeling in the crystal clear lagoon. With its pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters, it's the perfect place to spend a day relaxing in tropical paradise.
Experience the thrill of swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat off the west coast of Mauritius. Every morning, pods of spinner dolphins come close to the shore to rest before heading out to deeper waters to feed. This ethical dolphin watching experience allows you to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild while respecting their natural behavior and environment.
Mauritian Creole cuisine is a flavorful blend of African, Indian, and French influences. Dishes often feature seafood, spices, and tropical fruits. Rougaille (a tomato-based dish), vindaye (pickled fish), and various seafood curries are staples. The cuisine makes generous use of local ingredients like palm hearts, octopus, and exotic fruits, creating unique flavors that represent the island's cultural melting pot.
With over half the population of Indian descent, Indian cuisine has significantly influenced Mauritian food. You'll find delicious dholl puri (flatbread filled with ground split peas), roti, biryani, and various curries that have been adapted to local tastes. Street food stalls offer these delicacies throughout the island, often with a unique Mauritian twist that distinguishes them from their Indian counterparts.
The Chinese community has contributed dishes like mine frit (fried noodles) and boulettes (dumplings). European influences, particularly French, are evident in the use of ingredients like vanilla, chocolate, and rum in desserts and beverages. The blend of these diverse culinary traditions has created a unique fusion cuisine that is distinctly Mauritian.