There are a wide range of unique activities to do in Mauritius, here is a short-list of our top picks:
1. Grand Bassin’s Crater Lake
This beautiful lake is located in a mountainous area, in the Southern tip of the island. It is considered to be the most sacred Hindu location in Mauritius. This is honoured with a striking temple, clutching the side of the lake, dedicated to the god Shiva.
Shiva is known as the auspicious god; one of the most striking aspects of this lake is the 33 metre high statue of the deity. We would recommend walking up to the Hanuman Temple at the top, as it boasts stunning views over the lake and beyond.
2. Champ de Mars Racecourse
The Champ de Mars Racecourse is located in Port Louis, the racecourse is infamous for being the second oldest racecourse in the world. There are many different ways to experience the races with a variety of seating options.
The grounds are bustling with locals betting on horses, it is a fun day out for the family. We would recommend going to see the Maiden Cup, which is the biggest race that is hosted there.
3. Chamarel
Chamarel is a village located in Savanne, the same district as Grand Bassin’s Crater Lake; making it a good pairing to twin on a tour. Chamarel is home to the ‘Seven Coloured Earths’, a geographical phenomenon of sand dunes which are comprised of seven different colours of sand.
What makes it so astounding, is the layers in which the sand has settled, creating a striped pattern. The end result is an unusual aesthetic, tailored by nature. The rainwater has carved these sand dunes into beautiful and intricate curved patterns.
4. Black River Gorges
The Black River Gorges is a beautiful national park, it is host to a variety of activities. River rafting and hiking being the most popular, the hiking trails range on skill, so there is something for everyone.
The trails offer beautiful views of waterfalls and the gorge. The opportunity for nature spotting is rich as well, with a variety of animals and birds, such as the pink pigeon and wild boar.
5. Scuba Diving
Mauritius is renowned for scuba diving due to the great expanse of protected, unbroken natural coral. This combined with crystal clear water, creates good visibility, which is extremely important when diving.
Mauritius is a great location for scuba beginners, because most resorts will offer beginners courses in the swimming pools. For the more advanced divers, there are a variety of shipwrecks to explore, hidden in the beautiful Indian Ocean. We would recommend diving in the warmer summer months, as this time of year attracts more marine life.
6. Mountain Biking & Quad Biking
For the more adventurous, located in the lush valleys surrounding The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita there is the opportunity to explore the island on a mountain bike or quad bike. On this tour you will be taken up the mountain peaks of Domaine de L’Etoile, and rewarded with panoramic views over the beautiful island.
7. SSR Botanical Garden
The SSR Botanical Garden otherwise known as the, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, is located in Port Louis. It is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern hemisphere; and is home to a variety of unusual plant species. With eighty five different types of palm, and over thirty six hectares of land to explore, plant lovers could be exploring for hours! We particularly love the giant waterlilies in the pond.
8. Crocodile & Giant Tortoises Park (Nature Reserve)
This nature reserve is home to a variety of animal species. It is located in the beautiful lush rainforest, surrounded by freshwater lagoons. You will be guided through the extensive land, surrounded by banana and palm trees above and crocodiles and giant tortoises below.
You will have a unique opportunity to feed the animals, this is a great family day out as there is also a jungle adventure playground for children to play on. We particularly like the rare collection of butterflies, with over twenty thousand species.
9. Spa Treatment
If you just want to relax and unwind in the hotel, we would suggest getting a treatment at the award winning Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita spa. Set against the glorious backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the spa boasts 12 signature treatment rooms.
Private wellness classes, and a spa cuisine menu are on offer here, so you can spend the day in your own private retreat promoting holistic rejuvenation. Our favourite treatment is the ‘Neem Healing Body Ritual’ which uses the exquisite ‘Sundari’ body products.
10. Cruise along the Coast
Many of the resorts in Mauritius will organise a catamaran cruise along the coastline. It is a lovely way to view the island and explore the ocean. Ask the hotel to organise a picnic to bring with you, so that you can find an island to enjoy the sun and you can enjoy a spot of snorkelling after lunch.
If you want to hear more about Mauritius, or hear about our wonderful offers, contact us on 020 7751 0660