The enchanting island nation of Mauritius serves as the perfect destination for unwinding and recharging. With its warm, turquoise waters offering a wide range of watersports and fishing opportunities, and a wealth of luxurious resorts spread across the island, you'll find an abundance of options for where to stay and how to spend your time. The air is filled with the delightful fragrances of aromatic flowers, vanilla, and bountiful sugar cane fields. Over the centuries, the blend of diverse cultures has given rise to a delightful fusion of cuisines that you can savor both at local markets and within the comfort of your hotel.
Black River Gorges National Park: Situated on the western side of the island, this park is the largest of its kind in Mauritius and is cloaked in lush forest. It's the habitat of a diverse range of native and endemic trees, as well as unique animal species like the Pink Pigeon, Mauritian Parakeet, and the Paradise Flycatcher.
Blue Bay: In the southeastern part of the island, Blue Bay welcomes you with its stunning emerald-blue waters and pristine white sandy beaches. This area is also designated as a marine park, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling amidst the colorful fish in the coral lagoon.
Cap Malheureux: Located in the northern part of Mauritius, Cap Malheureux is one of the most popular destinations for tourists. It offers idyllic sandy beaches and a variety of local restaurants and food trucks to savor.
Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: One of the most frequented attractions in Mauritius, this garden is home to an incredible array of native and endemic plants. Keep an eye out for birdlife, deer, and turtles as you meander along the picturesque pathways. Don't miss the opportunity for some fantastic photos of the giant water lilies adorning the ponds.
Port-Louis: The capital of Mauritius is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture, featuring a charming old town that's perfect for exploring on foot. Its narrow cobbled streets are a sensory delight, where local eateries and street vendors tempt you with delectable treats.
Certainly, the climate is one of the factors that make Mauritius a paradise for beach enthusiasts. It enjoys a tropical and mild climate throughout the year, with even the winter temperatures not dropping below a minimum of 20°C. The island experiences distinct summer and winter seasons, similar to those in New Zealand, with the majority of rainfall occurring in February and March. For diving enthusiasts, the prime time to explore the underwater wonders is from December through March, while deep-sea fishing enthusiasts can enjoy their sport between October and April.
Currency: Mauritian Rupee
Language: Creole, French, and English are the primary languages spoken, with English serving as the official language.
What makes it special: Mauritius offers a dream holiday experience with its crystal-clear blue waters, glistening white sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees. It's an exceptionally romantic destination, featuring a multitude of excellent resorts and hotels spread across all coastlines of the island. The most popular areas on the island include the top North East and West coasts, including Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches. Mauritius tantalizes the taste buds with tropical fruits, cocktails, and a diverse cuisine blending Indian, Creole, Chinese, and European flavors. Additionally, it's renowned as a dream come true for water sports enthusiasts, with beach resorts offering a wide range of activities, including windsurfing, diving, parasailing, snorkeling, and fishing.
Weather: The delightful climate is one of the key reasons why Mauritius is a beach lover's paradise. It boasts a tropical and mild climate year-round, with winter temperatures only dropping to a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius. The island experiences distinct summer and winter seasons, much like New Zealand, with the majority of rainfall occurring in February and March. The best times for diving are from December through March, and for deep-sea fishing, the ideal period is between October and April.
Social customs: Mauritians are the result of a rich blend of cultures and traditions from three continents: Asia, India, and Europe. This multicultural mixture includes Muslim, Tamil, Chinese, and Hindu influences. The country celebrates the unity of its people, who come together to share holidays and festivities in a spirit of peace and harmony.
