Mauritius: An Island That Has It All

Northern Isles catamaran cruise

A catamaran takes you into some of the bluest water you’ll ever see on your way to the Northern Isles. You stop to snorkel in clear reef spots—Coin de Mire—then continue to Gabriel Island and Flat Island, where the beaches look unreal. Fresh barbecue is cooked on board, and the vibe is pure sunshine and saltwater. It’s peaceful, social, and the kind of day that instantly becomes a favorite memory.

Le Morne sunrise hike

This guided hike is led by the family that owns the surrounding estate, including a seasoned mountaineer who has trekked some of the world’s most iconic peaks. You start before dawn and make your way up as the sky gradually lights up, reaching the summit just in time for sunrise over the famous “underwater waterfall” illusion. It’s a bit challenging but manageable for most reasonably fit travelers, and the views are more than worth the effort. It remains under the radar, which keeps the experience peaceful and special.

Swim with dolphins at Tamarin Bay

If you love the ocean, this is one of the most unforgettable experiences Mauritius offers. You head out into crystal-clear turquoise water where dolphins often appear right near the boat, and you can hop in with a snorkel to swim alongside them. With mountains on one side and open sea on the other, the whole scene feels magical.

Helicopter tour over the island

A short flight gives you a bird’s-eye view of Mauritius, from the coastline and harbor to lush forests and dramatic waterfalls. You fly over Chamarel Waterfall and the Tamarin Seven Cascades, seeing places that are hard to appreciate fully from the ground. For travelers who don’t prefer hiking, this is also the best way to witness the famous “underwater waterfall” illusion at Le Morne from above. It’s a surprisingly accessible splurge for something that feels once-in-a-lifetime.

Chamarel Waterfall Viewpoint

This is located in the Black River Gorges National Park. It’s just a short walk from the parking area to a viewpoint where you can see the tallest waterfall in Mauritius pouring into a forested canyon. It’s calm, not crowded, and an easy stop if you want to enjoy nature without a long hike.

Seven Coloured Earths

This small but striking geological site features naturally layered sands in shades of red, violet, purple, green, and yellow. You can wander the viewing deck, spot giant tortoises, and then relax at a café overlooking the landscape with a cup of Chamarel coffee. The coffee is incredible by the way, and you can take some home as a souvenir.

Valle of Adventure

This adventure park is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without anything feeling too intense or risky. You can zipline through forest views that open up to hidden waterfalls, ride an ATV through wide-open nature, and even try fun extras like a luge or bicycle zipline. It’s calm, scenic, and family-friendly, which makes it an easy win for both kids and adults.

Casela Nature Park

Part wildlife sanctuary, part adventure zone. You can hop into safari vehicles to see giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos up close, then switch gears and try ziplining or quad-biking inside the park. There’s even a separate safari van experience for lions and big cats. It’s a full day out where you get a taste of that African-style wilderness without leaving Mauritius

Le Château de Bel Ombre

Set in a magnificent 19th-century colonial mansion surrounded by lush French gardens, Le Château de Bel Ombre offers a dining experience deeply rooted in heritage. The restaurant embraces farm-to-fork dining and locavorism, delivering a gourmet celebration of local Mauritian produce, and was featured in the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2024. If you’re passing through the south of the island, this is a wonderful stop—especially for a relaxed lunch in the gardens or an elegant meal steeped in history and quiet charm.

Floating Market (The St. Regis Le Morne Resort)

The St. Regis resort itself is stunning and worth experiencing even beyond the dining. Floating Market is beautifully designed, showcasing refined Asian flavors with Indian and Thai influences, paired with ocean views and a calm, elegant atmosphere—perfect for a polished dinner after a day at the beach.

Le Capitaine Restaurant

A Grand Baie institution since 1989, Le Capitaine is known for consistently excellent, locally sourced seafood served in a historic beachfront setting. Blending French culinary technique with Mauritian Creole influences, it’s especially worth stopping for if you’re in the north—the ocean views, daily catch, and sense of tradition make it a standout.

Le Chamarel Panoramic Restaurant

Set high in the hills of Chamarel at 260 meters above sea level, this restaurant offers an authentic Creole dining experience with sweeping views of mountains and coastline. Rooted in Mauritian heritage and local produce, it’s a serene stop where traditional flavors are thoughtfully reimagined—ideal after exploring Chamarel’s natural sights.

Maré Maré Beach Restaurant

A laid-back beachfront restaurant serving Mediterranean-style cuisine and fresh seafood. Perfect for sunset dinners with your feet in the sand.