Introduction: Mauritius Beyond the Brochure

Mauritius may be known worldwide for its picture-perfect beaches and luxurious resorts, but there’s so much more to this Indian Ocean gem than meets the eye. Behind the turquoise waters and palm-fringed shores lies a rich mosaic of cultures, cuisines, landscapes, and experiences. This island isn’t just for lounging—it’s for exploring, tasting, hiking, learning, and remembering. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, wandering through spice-scented markets, or sailing into a fiery sunset, Mauritius offers layers of beauty that stay with you long after you’ve left its shores. Here’s a personal take on the top things to do in Mauritius, drawn from a journey of discovery through its most soul-stirring corners.

Hike Through Black River Gorges National Park

One of the most unforgettable adventures in Mauritius takes place away from the coastline, in the heart of the island’s verdant interior. Black River Gorges National Park is a sanctuary of endemic flora, native birdlife, and dramatic vistas. The trails here range from gentle ambles to challenging climbs, each offering a unique perspective on the island’s natural heritage. Along the way, you might spot the pink pigeon or the Mauritian kestrel, both rare and fiercely protected. There’s a deep, quiet magic in walking through this rainforest, where waterfalls tumble from high cliffs and mist curls around the treetops—it’s a part of Mauritius that feels untouched by time.

Swim with Wild Dolphins in Tamarin Bay

There are few experiences more humbling than slipping into the ocean alongside wild dolphins. Off the coast of Tamarin Bay, you can do just that in the early morning hours, when pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins come to rest in the calm waters. Watching them glide and leap, free and untrained, is a moment that etches itself into memory. The key here is to choose a responsible operator who respects marine life, ensuring that this magical experience doesn’t come at a cost to the animals or their habitat. For me, this early morning swim was a reminder of how small and connected we are to the wider world.

Explore the Colours of Chamarel

Chamarel is a small village with a big reputation, thanks to its surreal natural attraction—the Seven Coloured Earths. This otherworldly geological formation reveals rippling dunes of red, purple, blue, and ochre sand, formed by volcanic activity and mineral deposits. It’s striking to see with your own eyes, particularly in the warm afternoon light. Nearby, the Chamarel Waterfall plunges dramatically into a lush gorge, offering a perfect contrast to the quiet stillness of the coloured earth. This corner of Mauritius is also home to rum distilleries, artisan cafes, and breathtaking forest drives—an essential day out that showcases the island’s diversity.

Savour Street Food in Port Louis

Mauritian cuisine is a melting pot of Indian, Creole, Chinese, and French influences—and there’s no better place to taste this culinary heritage than the bustling streets of Port Louis. At the Central Market or along the waterfront, you’ll find sizzling street vendors selling everything from dholl puri (lentil-filled flatbread) to boulettes (dumplings in broth) to gateaux piments (spicy fritters). Sampling your way through this city’s vibrant food scene is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural immersion. Each bite tells a story, and every vendor adds to the island’s colorful personality. Eating with your hands, chatting with locals, and savoring bold spices—these are the kind of memories that stay long after the flavor fades.

Relax on the Beaches of Le Morne

Yes, Mauritius is famous for its beaches, and yes, they are every bit as stunning as you imagine. But Le Morne stands out—not just for its silky sands and crystal-clear water, but for its emotional weight. Le Morne Brabant mountain, which towers above the lagoon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of freedom. It was once a refuge for escaped slaves, and its history adds a layer of reverence to this otherwise idyllic place. Whether you’re sunbathing, kitesurfing in the trade winds, or hiking to the summit at dawn, Le Morne offers a deep sense of beauty and meaning—a rare combination that elevates the experience.

Sail to Île aux Cerfs

This tiny island off the east coast is everything you dream an island paradise to be: powdery white sand, shallow turquoise water, and a rhythm that invites you to slow down. A day trip to Île aux Cerfs often includes a catamaran cruise across the shimmering lagoon, with snorkeling stops along the way. Once on the island, you can choose to lounge in a hammock under casuarina trees or go full throttle with water sports. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with postcard-perfect scenery, makes this one of Mauritius’ most iconic and rewarding excursions. For me, it felt like the very definition of escape.

Discover the Cultural Richness of Grand Bassin

At the high-altitude crater lake of Grand Bassin, spirituality and nature meet. This sacred site is home to a Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva, and during the Maha Shivaratri festival, thousands of pilgrims walk for miles to offer prayers. Even outside festival times, the site hums with peaceful energy. Surrounded by statues, incense smoke, and wild monkeys watching from the trees, you’ll sense the reverence that flows through this place. It’s a moment of stillness, a chance to witness the spiritual heartbeat of the island—a side of Mauritius many tourists overlook but one that deeply enriches the overall experience.

Visit the Tea Plantations in Bois Chéri

Mauritius’ colonial history is etched into its sugarcane fields and tea estates. A visit to Bois Chéri, the island’s oldest tea plantation, is both educational and delightfully indulgent. You’ll learn how tea leaves are cultivated and processed, walk through fragrant fields, and sample a variety of local blends with panoramic views as your backdrop. It’s a reminder of the island’s agricultural heritage, and how local flavors continue to shape Mauritian identity. I left with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind something as simple as a cup of tea—and a few tins to bring home the taste of Mauritius.

Experience a Sunset Cruise

As the sun begins to sink over the Indian Ocean, there’s nothing quite like watching it from the deck of a catamaran, drink in hand, sails catching the breeze. A sunset cruise isn’t just a tourist activity—it’s a celebration of the island’s rhythm. The sea turns gold, the sky deepens into flame, and dolphins occasionally dance along the bow. These are the moments when you realize why Mauritius is more than just a destination—it’s a feeling, a memory in the making. For me, this was the perfect way to close a day and feel the full enchantment of the island.