A honeymoon idyll and beachgoer’s paradise, Mauritius is legendary for its powdery white sands and crystal waters, but rest and relaxation is only half the story.
Fancy swimming with dolphins? Ever thought of learning to kitesurf? Want to try your hand at landing a marlin or ziplining above the treetops? Or perhaps a sedate round of golf, played on a world-class green.
ADVERTISEMENTMauritius’ diverse landscapes offer abundant opportunities for every stripe of visitor, from adrenaline junkies to young families – and everyone in between.
The big blue
You’re never far from the sea in Mauritius, and many of the activities on offer take place on the water – or under it.
Snorkelling is a firm favourite with every age, and there are few places in the world with such a dazzling array of marine life. Shoals of flamboyant angel fish, trumpetfish and clownfish nose around the corals and sponges in water that is warm and shallow enough even for small children to explore.
Keep an eye open for turtles, too. There are two types in Mauritius: the green sea turtle and the hawksbill. Both are regularly spotted in the lagoons of the northern coasts.
More intrepid holidaymakers might want to try scuba diving. There are diving centres all over the island, but some of the best spots are the reefs off Trou aux Biches and Grand Baie in the north, Le Morne in the southwest and off the coast of Flic en Flac to the west.
ADVERTISEMENTIt’s here that you’ll find the Cathedral dive spot, a huge and atmospheric underwater cavern. Its dramatic rock formations are alive with tropical fish, eels and reef sharks. Other fascinating dive sites include the various shipwrecks that are dotted around off the coast of Mauritius.
If catching fish appeals, there is a number of operators that will take you far out to sea on big-game fishing expeditions. Several types of shark, blue marlin, yellow fin tuna and barracuda can all be found prowling the deeper waters off Mauritius, particularly off the west coast.
Many hotels and tour companies can also organise dolphin-watching tours. Pods of bottleneck and spinner dolphins are frequently seen in Tamarin Bay and elsewhere, along with – at certain times of the year – humpback whales.
Surfing enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Mauritius. The conditions along the west coast are ideal for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, along with ‘seakarting’ – a combination of go-karting and jet-skiing.
Equipment for all of these can be hired from most of the upmarket hotels or watersports centres.
Gentler maritime pursuits include catamaran cruises (perhaps with some gentle snorkelling and an island barbecue lunch added in) or simply hiring a pedalo or dinghy.
A great way to teach children about life underwater is to take one of the glass-bottomed boats that cruise around the protected marine parks, while at Mont Choisy there are boats that will ferry you out to a submarine that will take you down through the coral reefs.
Mountains, rivers and forests
There’s more to the island than its coastline, however, and its forested hills, rivers and nature reserves are suited to an array of activities, including kayaking, canyoning, quad biking, climbing and trail biking.
Hiking enthusiasts are spoilt for choice thanks to Mauritius’ unique wealth of flora and fauna, along with its stunning natural landscapes.
The Black River National Park is home to an extraordinary number of rare animals and plants, and is crossed by many scenic trails that offer differing levels of difficulty. Most will take you on paths through tropical rainforest, where you’re likely to see some of the most colourful birds on earth.
ADVERTISEMENTThe UNESCO-protected Le Morne Brabant is another favourite with hikers. It’s a challenging climb, but the views from the top are unbeatable.
Once a refuge for runaway slaves, the hill is now private property and can only be visited with an accredited guide. These guides can show you the best routes for spotting endemic species, such as the Mauritian national flower, and will steer you to the best places for spectacular views over the hills and out to sea.
Le Morne is also the best place on the island for horse-riding, either within the reserve itself or along the beach at the foot of the hill. Mont Choisy in the north also offers good riding possibilities, as does the forest reserve Domaine de l’Etoile, a former sugar estate teeming with birds and deer.
And if ground level doesn’t appeal? Take in the scenery from above, by ziplining through the forest canopy, parasailing above the coastline or even tandem skydiving. The possibilities are endless.
The range of activities available in Mauritius means that every visitor can tailor an itinerary to suit their needs, balancing adventure and relaxation, exploration and entertainment. However they decide to spend their time, some unforgettable memories are guaranteed.
