Tourism in Mauritius
Mauritius has many attractions that reflect its authentic culture. Visit the small village of Chamarel to take a hike and meet local coffee producers.
Mauritius’ Seven Coloured Earth is a must-see natural phenomenon, while Grand Bassin holds sacred Hindu significance for the island’s community.
Petty crime does occur, so keep an eye on your belongings in public places and avoid walking alone at night.
Beaches
Mauritius’s beaches are among the island’s most stunning attractions. They boast dazzling white sand and crystal-clear waters, making them the perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
Wellness beach tourism aims to attract individuals seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic well-being. Often, wellness beach resorts offer yoga classes and spa treatments.
One of the most famous Mauritius beaches, Flic-en-Flac offers a great place for swimming and snorkeling. Its clear waters and pristine coral reefs are a delight to explore, but it is important to note that its strong currents make the area more suitable for experienced swimmers. Its calm water and wide lagoon also attract water sports enthusiasts. The beach is dotted with luxury resorts and restaurants. Those who prefer to be on land can enjoy a range of activities such as kayaking and boating.
Nature
Mauritius is a paradise of tropical beaches and rainforests. The island is a haven for nature lovers, with lush forests, plunging waterfalls, and endemic wildlife.
For example, you can visit the small village of Chamarel to discover authentic Mauritian life. The village has many small coffee producers and you can taste local cuisine in restaurants. You can also take a guided tour of Ile aux Aigrettes to discover its endemic wildlife including the Telfair skink and the elusive owl.
Tourism has long been a significant contributor to the Mauritian economy. But rising sea levels and climate change are threatening its pristine beaches. As a result, hoteliers and other hospitality actors are rethinking their business model to be more eco-friendly. For example, Mautourco and Constance Belle Mare Plage were the first tour operators and hotels in Mauritius to obtain a local eco-label certification.
Culture
The capital Port Louis draws the most interest from travellers wishing to experience Mauritius in all its vibrant, eclectic glory. Whether taking in the cosmopolitan vibe of the bustling Caudan waterfront or savouring Mauritian street food, the capital’s streets reflect an authentic flavour of local life and culture.
Artisans are another key draw, and a number of hoteliers and tour operators have partnered with artisans to offer unique experiences that showcase their craft, and the story behind it. These co-creation ateliers have also helped to introduce new sustainable and green offerings to tourists.
Port Louis is a microcosm of Mauritius itself, where modernity rubs shoulders with tradition, from candy-coloured Hindu temples to elegant sweeping Chinese pagodas. The island’s tea and sugar industries shaped its architecture, while Indian labourers gave it a cultural identity.
Cuisine
Mauritius is a multi-cultural place where Indian, French and Chinese influences are evident. This is also reflected in the cuisine, which features many exotic catches and traditional dishes. The eggplant, for example, is used in a variety of ways and it’s an ingredient that should not be missed while visiting the island.
The west coast of the island is the most popular and is where many of the luxurious hotels are located. Here you can enjoy incredible sunsets and a relaxed atmosphere.
Mauritians love street food and the island boasts one of the best selections in the world. Dholl puris, samoussas and boulettes (dumplings), boiled or fried noodles, otay cakes and gateaux piments are all favorites. In addition to these, there are plenty of sweet treats, including napolitains and gâteaux de chocolat.
Nightlife
Urban nightlife landscapes are important to the tourism industry, as they play a role in attracting tourists. They are also an important source of cultural identity, as they serve as an important medium through which historical and cultural ideas are conveyed.
The study of nightlife landscapes is an important research area for both cultural and social geographers. It can help understand the complexities of urban culture, history and spatial distribution. It can also improve understanding of the dynamics of urban life and contribute to a more sustainable development.
The interplay of commercialisation and romanticisation trends results in distinct landscape characteristics, influenced by varying combinations of location advantages. This has resulted in the emergence of four discernible districts, each of which has unique ambiances and visual characteristics.