Mauritius Holidays

Mauritius is an island of tranquil shores, backed by mountains cloaked in vibrant shades of green.

For a relatively pint-sized tropical island hidden away in the southern Indian Ocean, Mauritius packs a whole lot in. Travellers first come here for the picture-postcard coastline, but scratch below the surface and you’ll discover what draws visitors back time and again. Mauritius holidays can be lazy days on the beach, but they can also be marine adventures and island explorations.

The island’s diverse yet relatively short history has created a remarkably varied culture; quite something for a country that is just a bit smaller than the county of Devon. The descendants of European, African, Indian and Chinese immigrants make up the majority of the population and each group has made their mark on the island. Where else can you take Creole language courses, visit beautiful Hindu temples and grand sugar plantation houses, and dine on cuisine inspired by a melting pot of culinary traditions?

Talk to us and we’ll help create a Mauritius holiday to suit your style.

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Mauritius - Perfect for

  • Picture-perfect beaches

    If flying and flopping is your thing, Mauritian beaches are the perfect spot.

  • It’s a natural beauty

    Mountain peaks and emerald gorges: the island is more than its coast.

  • On and under the water

    Mauritius is a diver’s dream and a great place to see wild dolphins.

  • A mix of cultures

    It’s a paradise island that’s been influenced by worldwide cultures.

Mauritius Hotels

Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Mauritius

The Ravenala Attitude

A popular retreat catering for both couples and families with fantastic dining choices and activi...

Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa

Relaxation is the order of the day at this leafy boutique retreat blessed with idyllic beaches an...

Veranda Grand Baie

With its stylish new look and laidback vibe, this recently upgraded beachside retreat will appeal...

Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness Mauritius

Tucked away in the island’s peaceful north-western corner, this intimate all-suite hideaway is pe...

Zilwa Attitude

Stylish Zilwa exudes Mauritian character and is the ideal place to discover and unwind.

Lagoon Attitude

An island escape combining a chilled daytime vibe with a lively after-hours buzz and local flavou...

LUX* Belle Mare, Mauritius

A beachfront stunner that will scoop you up and bring you back to life with sun, sand, sea and ic...

Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel

A romantic and intimate getaway in a secluded cove-side setting on the island’s north coast.

Le Méridien Ile Maurice

In a prime position on Mauritius’ calm northwest coast, the fabulous sunsets alone are reason eno...

LUX* Grand Gaube, Mauritius

A revamped resort with two beaches and uber-cool interiors with a hint of African influence.

Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa

Exquisitely renovated from top to toe, Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa is a resplendent resort on th...

Preskil Island Resort

Popular Preskil is a modern resort on a private peninsula and is a perfect choice for families an...

LUX* Le Morne

Sitting between the mountain of Le Morne and a white-sand beach, this breathtaking resort has one...

Long Beach

Innovative and contemporary, family-friendly Long Beach is set on the exceptional beach of Belle...

LUX* Grand Baie

At the newest of LUX*’s Mauritius gems, there’s a focus on fun, wellbeing and relaxed, sun-kissed...

Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort

Enjoy understated African influences and a fantastic all-inclusive package.

Ambre

Backing a stretch of coral beach, this relaxed all-inclusive resort is known for its welcoming se...

C Mauritius

A laid-back hotel on the island’s east coast with unbeatable service and a playful atmosphere.

Constance Belle Mare Plage

A popular large resort on one of Mauritius’s most spectacular beaches, with impressive facilities...

Constance Prince Maurice

A stylish and idyllic hideaway set amid vast, luxuriant tropical gardens with freeform pools.

Friday Attitude

This is a charming and serene property – perfect if you are seeking a great-value beach holiday.

Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort

This elegant and colonial-style resort has a beautiful beach-front setting and a focus on wellbei...

La Pirogue

Set on a spectacular mile-long beach, this well-established resort has a great range of facilitie...

Sands Suites Resort & Spa

Traditionally Mauritian in style and delightfully peaceful, this resort has an unbeatable setting...

Shangri-La Le Touessrok Mauritius

Managed by Shangri-La, exceptional service is the focus at this signature Mauritius resort.

Solana Beach Mauritius

This tranquil, good-value resort fuses natural beauty with a cool design for a wonderful Mauritia...

Sugar Beach

This freshly renovated classic resort has a relaxed vibe and is set on one of the island’s best b...

The Oberoi Beach Resort Mauritius

An intimate and romantic retreat with a sublime setting and renowned Oberoi service.

Veranda Paul et Virginie Hotel & Spa

Adults-only hotel with charming thatched buildings, unique experiences and romantic dining.

Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas

Set back from an unspoilt beach, this appealing Anantara resort has a remote feel and an enviable...

Heritage The Villas

An inspired choice for family groups, these beautiful villas offer privacy and independence but w...

20 Degrés Sud Hotel – Relais & Châteaux

Cocooned in a tranquil beachside coconut grove, this refined and characterful boutique resort is...

Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge

This exclusive mountain retreat, surrounded by tropical gardens within The Black River Gorges Nat...

Sunrise Attitude

Serene and stylish while holding sustainability and the environment at its core, this contemporar...

JW Marriott Mauritius Resort

This exceptionally elegant resort is in a peaceful spot, ideal for relaxing getaways. But offshor...

Holidays in Mauritius

  • Mauritius
  • 4 Star

A popular retreat catering for both couples and families with fantastic dining choices and activities.

From £1,747 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 5 Star

Relaxation is the order of the day at this leafy boutique retreat blessed with idyllic beaches and an impressive wellness offering.

From £1,843 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 4 Star

With its stylish new look and laidback vibe, this recently upgraded beachside retreat will appeal to couples, friends and families alike.

From £1,286 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 5 Star

Tucked away in the island’s peaceful north-western corner, this intimate all-suite hideaway is perfect for rest and romance.

From £1,880 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 4 Star

Stylish Zilwa exudes Mauritian character and is the ideal place to discover and unwind.

From £1,736 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 4 Star

An island escape combining a chilled daytime vibe with a lively after-hours buzz and local flavour.

From £1,688 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 5 Star

A beachfront stunner that will scoop you up and bring you back to life with sun, sand, sea and ice-cream.

From £1,593 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 5 Star

A romantic and intimate getaway in a secluded cove-side setting on the island’s north coast.

From £2,020 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 5 Star

In a prime position on Mauritius’ calm northwest coast, the fabulous sunsets alone are reason enough to have Le Méridien Ile Maurice on your shortlist. But there are oh-so-many more reasons besides…

From £1,770 p/p
  • Mauritius
  • 5 Star

A revamped resort with two beaches and uber-cool interiors with a hint of African influence.

From £1,564 p/p

Pamplemousses Gardens & Mauritian Cooking Class

Created by French botanist Pierre Poivre back in 1767 and dotted with trees planted by the likes of Indira Gandhi, Princess Margaret and Robert Mugabe, the history of these world-famous gardens is as impressive as the 500 different species of plants. Officially the oldest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere, weave your way through the diverse flora and fauna with your knowledgeable guide and discover how nutmeg and cloves made their way into Mauritian cuisine, marvelling at the giant Victoria Regina waterlilies as you go. Next you'll meet with a local family to sample some Creole-style home cooking. Preparing lunch together, you’ll learn some of the chefs best kept culinary secrets before sharing the feast with the family and exchanging tales.

• Duration: half day
• Morning departure
• Monday to Saturday departures
• Operates year round
• Private experience

Good to know
An intimate and fascinating trip for both couples and families - the deer and tortoises in the botanical gardens are sure to delight the little ones.

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Mauritian Street Food

Put on your walking shoes as you leisurely taste your way through more than two and a half centuries of history in the island’s capital, Port Louis, on this enlightening walking tour. Immigration has shaped much of Mauritius, so the UNESCO listed Aapravasi Ghat, where almost half a million Indian immigrants arrived to work in the sugar plantations, is a fitting place to begin. As you gently stroll along the waterfront and into the historical centre your experienced guide will help you discover some of the oldest buildings, from the Postal Museum to the Port Louis Theatre all the while filling your imagination with stories of this colourful capital’s past. As you reach the Central Market with a deeper understanding of the rich diversity of Mauritius, tuck into local delicacies from fritters and roti to dumplings, curries and noodles and wash them down with the local speciality Alouda – an ice-cold milk drink served with agar-agar and psyllium grains. Discover even more culinary treasures as you make your way to Chinatown where generations of Chinese immigrants have traded before exploring the boutique shops and craft markets at the Cauden Waterfront.

• Duration: half day
• Morning departure
• Monday to Saturday departures
• Operates year round
• Private experience

Good to know
While every effort is made to accommodate any dietary requirements, please discuss with your guide before booking.

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Plant a Love Tree & Leave a Legacy

Explore the natural beauty of inland Mauritius, which combines the wonders of the Chamarel Coloured Earths and the majestic Ebony Forest, while contributing to the conservation of this delicate habitat. A fascinating natural phenomenon, the seven distinct colours of sand at Chamarel are a sight to behold as is the nearby waterfall plunging 100 metres down into the Black River Gorge – both perfect spots for some holiday snaps before heading into the reserve with your conservationist guide. Buckle up as you explore the Ebony Forest together on a jeep safari and discover the work being done to create a sanctuary for the island’s rich biodiversity. Walk along the raised walkways in the forest’s canopy, look out for Fruit Bats hanging in the trees and spot Pic Pic birds gliding above the foliage. At Sublime Point, with breath taking views across Le Morne, put pen to paper and write your own love note to be placed under the native tree you’ll shortly be planting. Not only will you be contributing to the ongoing conservation of the forest, you can return in years to come to see how it’s grown.

• Duration: half day
• Morning departure
• Monday to Saturday departures
• Operates year round
• Private experience

Good to know
This is a beautiful experience for honeymooners, anniversary couples or a special proposal.

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Mauritian Wildlife Experience supported by the Der Touristik Foundation

Experience conservation in action as you explore the Ile Aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve run by the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation on this insightful guided eco tour. Having previously been devastated by tree logging and the introduction of non-native animal and plant species, the foundation’s intense conservation efforts have resulted in the restoration of the forest and species that had long since disappeared from the island. After a short boat trip from the mainland across Mahebourg Bay, your private ranger will guide you along the reserve’s trails introducing you to the distinctive flora and fauna, pointing out rare species such as the Pink Pigeon and Giant Aldabra Tortoise as you go. Before leaving, head to the islands famed Rault Biscuit Factory where cassava biscuits have been produced for over a century and tuck into an authentic Mauritian lunch at a local restaurant.

• £10 of each excursion sale goes towards the Der Touristik Foundation
• Duration: half day
• Morning departure
• Monday to Saturday departures (excluding Wednesday) • Operates year round
• Private experience

Good to know
Although a gentle route suitable for children, we recommend packing a good pair of walking shoes and some bug repellent for the trail.

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Mauritius Your Way (Private Driver/ Guide)

Whether you know exactly where you want to go or you’re looking for some direction, there’s no better way to explore the island than with a personal guide and chauffeur who can share their expansive knowledge and experience with you. From hidden dining spots you’d otherwise miss to insights about the local culture, spend the day discovering the sights at your own pace and relish in the freedom to change course at a whim. A fantastic option for those travelling with children or those looking to delve deeper into the Mauritian spirit.

• Duration: full day
• Morning departure
• Monday to Saturday departures
• Operates year round
• Private experience

Good to know
You’ll benefit from a personal car with driver and local guide for the entire day but please be aware fees to any attractions you decide to visit will be payable locally.

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Sunset Beach Horse Riding

Spend a memorable evening horse riding along a beach in Mauritius, enjoying the soothing sound of gentle waves as the sun melts away, accompanied by an experienced and trained guide. Wade into the cool water with your horse, canter along the stunning white sand and soak up the majestic sea views as the sun sets into the ocean. After your ride, enjoy a cheese and wine session to round off an idyllic evening. Don’t forget your camera!

• Duration: 1-hour ride
• Evening departure
• Daily departures
• Operates year round
• Private experience

Good to know
Suitable for both novice and experienced riders, the trek will be tailored to your abilities and led by an experienced guide.

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Dolphin And Whales Encounter

Catching your first glimpse of a dolphin racing beside your boat or spotting a giant humpback whale breaching on the ocean’s surface are moments that will stay with you forever. As you head out along the west coast, your experienced crew will begin briefing you on the types of dolphins and whales you can hope to spot and most importantly how to view these magnificent mammals in a sustainable and responsible manner. It won’t be long before you’re an expert at identifying the two types of dolphins found here – Bottlenose and Spinners – as you watch them play in their natural habitat. Sperm Whales call these waters home all year-round while between July and November giant Humpback Whales travel up from the arctic to breed and give birth. As you continue into deeper waters in search of these graceful creatures, the skippers will be on hand to answer all your questions and ensure you’re prepared for your first encounter.

• Duration: half day
• Time: 7.30am to 12.30pm
• Monday to Saturday departures
• Operates year Round
• Private experience

Good to know
As this experience involves wild animals, there’s no guarantee you’ll encounter the dolphins or whales in their natural habitat but the crew at Dolswim have a 90% success rate. Due to the nature of the activity this experience is not recommended for pregnant women, those who are physically challenged or children under five years old.

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Discover Black River Gorges

Go beyond the smouldering beaches of Mauritius and you’ll unearth a vivid island interior, where rare birds soar over lime-green landscapes and wild trails lead to epic mountain views. Black River Gorges is the only national park in Mauritius. It’s a must if you’re into nature. Pull on your walking boots for this half-day hike and you’ll get to see some of the island’s most mesmerising sights. Follow your guide through forested trails to discover rushing waterfalls and towering trees, and listen out for local birdlife as you go. If you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of the native echo parakeet, Mauritius kestrel or pink pigeon.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departs on Monday, Wednesday and Friday\ • Operates year-round\ • Group experience

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Hike Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant is one of Mauritius's most famous and scenic hikes, with spectacular views of the island's southwestern corner. In the company of an experienced guide, you’ll start the seven-kilometre hike at dawn, ascending the mountain to see expansive views stretching across the island's interior and down to the shoreline and the sea.

• Duration: 5 hours
• Time: 5am to 10am
• Daily departures
• Operates year-round
• Group experience

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Get to know Mauritius and those important practicalities when planning your perfect holiday.

Capital
TIME DIFFERENCE

GMT +4 hours

CURRENCY

Mauritian Rupee

FLYING TIME TO DESTINATION

12 hours

RELIGION

Hinduism, Christianity & Islam

LANGUAGE

English, French and Mauritian Creole

Where is Mauritius?
The island nation of Mauritius is located in the southern Indian Ocean, approximately 1240 miles from the east coast of Africa. It is one of the three main islands of the Mascarenhas Archipelago. The French territory of La Réunion, a Jurassic-esque world of towering peaks, emerald cirques and flowing lava, is just an hour away by air so you can combine adventure and beach holidays. Alternatively, add a stay in Mauritius to your African safari.

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West coast
Calm waters, a coral reef not far from shore and some of the island’s most popular towns and beach resorts await you on Mauritius’ sheltered west coast. On the north-west coast is Grand Baie; the island’s only resort town and a popular option for eating, drinking and shopping. Lively by day and night, the town sits on a pretty bay that’s a popular spot for watersports and swimming. The capital of Port Louis has an international atmosphere, with its bustling streets and intoxicating smell of spices and fresh tea leaves.

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East coast
Quieter and less built up than its western counterpart, the east coast is also more exclusive with some of the island’s most luxurious resorts backing its bays and beaches. Enjoy the welcoming sea breeze of the south-east trade winds, the sleepy fishing village vibe and the spectacular beaches of the Belle Mare and Beau Champ regions. Offshore, the stunning island of Ile aux Cerfs to the east is a popular day trip. In the southeast, the tiny coral island of Ile aux Aigrettes – owned by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation – provides habitat for rare and endemic flora and fauna including the giant tortoise, the Mauritius kestrel and the pink pigeon.

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South coast
The south coast of Mauritius is slightly wilder; with no protecting reef, there are larger waves and sea-sculpted cliffs. As you head westwards you’ll reach some wonderfully quiet beaches which back calm lagoons. The beaches of the Le Morne Peninsula, which is located in the south-west corner of the island, are the most scenically spectacular with the La Morne Brabant mountain in the background. This part of the coast is slightly less sheltered than further along the west coast making it a popular place for kite surfing.

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North coast
Trou-aux-Biches and Mont Choisy are the beaches of choice in the island’s north-west corner. It’s worth the short trip along the coast to make the most of the calm lagoon and nearby reef. Further north, beyond the resort town of Grand Baie, there are a handful of secluded coves and beaches that, while still technically public, are only accessible from the sea or from the resort itself.

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Inland Mauritius
Away from its beaches, Mauritius bursts with historic sights, cultural diversity and ever-changing scenery. Take a dip beneath cascading waters at Tamarin Falls – a beautiful natural collection of waterfalls in south-west Mauritius which, though awkward to get to, are well worth a visit. Black River Gorges is Mauritius’ sole national park – a wild area of thick indigenous forest in the central highlands that’s home to over 300 plant species and rare bird life. Visit Pamplemousses Royal Botanical Gardens and stroll through lush vegetation including the unique collection of palms and the ‘Victoria Regia water lily’ which has leaves that grow to over two feet wide.

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Diving & snorkelling
With beautiful reefs, coral-filled lagoons, caverns, tunnels and historic wrecks, the snorkelling and diving in Mauritius is excellent. A barrier reef encircles almost the entire 205-mile coastline of Mauritius and there are large lagoons that make the perfect spot for beginners. Water temperatures range from 23-25 degrees in the winter and 26-29 degrees in the summer. The summer is considered the best time to dive as the warmer sea temperatures attract a wider variety of marine life. There are around 100 dive sites to choose from which range in depth from 7 to 45 metres. On the clearest day, the visibility can reach up to 50 metres.

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