Things to do in  Mauritius

In the southwest reaches of Mauritius, Chamarel Waterfall is the nation’s highest single-drop waterfall. Its thundering waters plunge 300 feet (100 meters)—almost as tall as the Statue of Liberty—into crystal clear pools surrounded by lush vegetation. A trip to this scenic spot proves to be one of the best photo opportunities in the country.

Black River Gorges National Park is home to most of Mauritius’ remaining indigenous rainforests—as well as some of the most scenic hiking trails the island nation has to offer. Within the park, you can find endemic plants and animals, including the endangered pink pigeon. A short, popular hike leads to Alexandra Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country.

The southernmost of Mauritius’ nine districts, the scenic Savanne District is known for its rugged, unspoiled scenery, idyllic beaches, and several major cultural attractions. Seaside resort towns such as Souillac and Bel Ombre offer a more traditional tropical getaway experience. However, it’s worth venturing to inland natural wonders like the Black River Gorges National Park.

At 1,985 feet (605 meters above sea level, the Trou aux Cerfs volcano provides sweeping views of the Mauritian landscape and its dramatic mountain ranges. With a diameter of more than 980 feet (300 meters and depth of 260 feet (80 meters, its giant crater is also a sight in itself and is an ideal setting for a short stroll.

In Mauritius, a region replete with beautiful beaches, it’s difficult to name a true standout. However, the white sands of Île aux Cerfs may just take the title. This private island boasts unspoiled beaches, tropical jungle, an 18-hole golf course, and one of Mauritius’ most luxurious hotels.

The Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is known for its multicolored sand dunes formed by unique volcanic terrain. Fans of fun photo ops come for snaps of the striped spectacle, while geologists are drawn to the science behind the separating soils. Chamarel Waterfall, the tallest single-drop cascade on Mauritius, is another highlight of the park.

Casela World of Adventures is one of Mauritius’ top family-friendly attractions—for good reason. It’s home to adrenaline-fueled activities such as ATV riding, suspended bridges, a high-speed zipline, and a wealth of African animals you can see on a safari with a difference.

This islet off the coast of southwest Mauritius gets its name from Crystal Coral, a coral formation off its west coast that appears to hover above the water. Formed by a coral reef and less than half a mile (.8 kilometers) from the coastal towns La Gaulette and Le Morne, the island is a top destination for dolphin swims and snorkeling.

One of Mauritius’ Northern Islands, the small and uninhabited Ilot Gabriel (Gabriel Island) offers paradise on an accessible scale. Notable for its white-sand beaches, surrounding coral reef, and crystal-clear waters, it’s a popular place to snorkel, swim, and sunbathe. The island also is a nature reserve, and bird watchers may spy its resident long-tailed seabird, the paille-en-queue.

If you're in the mood for a bit of sea, sun, and snorkeling, Blue Bay Marine Park is a great place to start. On the southwestern side of Mauritius, this beautiful area offers white sands, shallow waters, and more than its fair share of colorful sea life, from tropical fish to coral.

On the southernmost part of Mauritius, Gris Gris Cape is a beautiful—but treacherous—spot where the land meets the sea. Here, you can take in views of water crashing up against the "Roche Qui Pleure" (French for “the crying rock”), named as such because the violent waters make it look like it is, indeed, weeping.

From mind-bending optical illusions and mirror mazes to interactive puzzles and forced-perspective photo ops, the Curious Corner of Chamarel is a museum unlike any other in Mauritius. It’s full of fun exhibitions for the Instagram age that challenge your perceptions and make you smile.

The Bois Cheri Plantation has been producing tea in southern Mauritius since 1892. Spread out over around 617 acres (250 hectares), the plantation comprises fields, a production facility, and a museum where visitors can learn about tea from the source.

Dedicated to conserving Mauritius’ indigenous forest and endangered wildlife, the Ebony Forest Reserve is one of the island’s most important ecoreserves. Home to more than 140 native and endemic plant and animal species, it’s a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, with scenic hiking trails and ocean-view overlooks.

A historical landmark and a working rum distillery, Mauritius’ St. Aubin House & Sugar Estate links the island’s colonial past to its contemporary present. Centered on an 1819 plantation house with National Heritage Site status, the estate teaches visitors about rum history and production, hosts tastings, and welcomes diners to its traditional restaurant.