Exploring Mauritius

Here’s a guide to discovering some of the best Mauritius has to offer outside of Anahita—from beaches and hikes to restaurants and adventures.

Cars: Your Key to Freedom

To explore the island, a car is heavily recommended.

Cheap Airport Rentals: If you’re on a budget, grab a car rental directly at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport. You’ll find competitive options like Avis, Hertz, and local agencies that cater to short-term tourists.

Our Contact: If you’re looking for something more reliable or customised, we have a trusted car rental contact with limited availability—contact us for details.

Driving Tips: Remember, they drive on the left here, and roundabouts are a staple. Watch out for sudden stops—stray dogs and cyclists don’t come with brake lights, and there are many speed cameras.

Trou d’Eau Douce: Beaches and Dining

This charming village near Anahita is a gateway to Mauritius’s most stunning beaches.

Restaurants:

• Chez Tino: A favourite for fresh seafood with a Creole twist. Order the grilled fish and watch the waves roll in.
• Green Island Beach Restaurant: A cosy spot with local flavours and a warm vibe. Their curries are a must-try.
• La Pizza de L’Est in Trou d’Eau Douce is a cheap gem serving local but Italian-approved pizzas. Perfect for when you’re craving a slice in paradise.

Palmar Beach: A Snorkelling Gem in Mauritius:

If snorkelling is your idea of paradise, then Palmar Beach should be at the top of your list. Nestled on the east coast, this serene stretch of sand is one of Mauritius’s best-kept secrets for underwater exploration. What makes it special? The coral reef here is amazingly close to shore, giving you a front-row seat to a vibrant marine ecosystem without needing a boat.

Snorkelling Highlights at Palmar Beach

• Close-to-Shore Coral Reef: The reef is just a short swim from the beach, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.
• No Boats, No Worries: Unlike many other snorkelling spots in Mauritius, the waters here are blissfully boat-free, ensuring a safer and more peaceful experience.
• Prime Snorkelling Spot: The best part of Palmar Beach for snorkelling lies right in front of the abandoned Cilaos building, located on the side of the public beach closest to Trou d’Eau Douce. Here, the coral is especially vibrant, teeming with marine life like parrotfish, butterflyfish, and even the occasional octopus.

The North: Culture, Nature, and Sugar

• Adventure du Sucre: This sugar museum offers a deep dive into Mauritius’s history. Bonus: you’ll leave with a sweet tooth after sampling the sugar varieties and rum.
• Château de Labourdonnais: A beautifully restored colonial estate with lush gardens and a distillery. Sip on rum and enjoy the serene surroundings.
• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: Known for its giant water lilies and exotic flora. A peaceful, must-visit spot for nature lovers.
• Grand Baie: While touristy, it’s great for nightlife, shopping, and bustling beaches.

Grand Baie: While touristy, it’s great for nightlife, shopping, and bustling beaches.

We recommend visiting the North following the planned scuba diving experience, as you will already be in the area.

Black River Gorges, Grand Bassin, and Bois Chéri

Head west and south for lush greenery and spiritual sites.

Black River Gorges National Park: A hiker’s paradise with trails for all levels. Look out for waterfalls, macaques, and endemic birds.

Grand Bassin: This sacred Hindu site is a crater lake surrounded by temples and statues. Visit during Shivaratri for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Bois Chéri Tea Plantation: Take a tour, sip on some of the finest Mauritian tea, and soak in the panoramic views.

We recommend visiting the Plateau following the planned trekking adventure, as you will already be in the area.

The South and Le Morne

The southern region is rugged and wild, showcasing Mauritius’s raw beauty.

Le Morne Brabant: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a steep but rewarding hike with breathtaking views at the top. It’s steeped in history, too—ask about its connection to freedom-fighting maroons.

Gris Gris: Visit this southern cliffside for dramatic views and crashing waves. No swimming here, just raw, natural beauty.

We recommend visiting the South following the planned trekking adventure on Friday, as you will already be in the area.

Additional Hikes

• Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire: The highest peak in Mauritius, offering spectacular views of the island.
• Ebony Forest: A guided walk through native forests near Chamarel. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Chamarel Waterfall.
• La Pouce Mountain is a must-do hike for breathtaking 360° views of Mauritius from its iconic thumb-shaped peak. It’s beginner-friendly (at least until the last climb) and a favourite for sunrise or sunset treks!
• Lion Mountain (Lion's Head) is a striking peak in southeast Mauritius, offering adventurous hikes with panoramic views of the coastline and emerald-green landscapes. It’s a bit challenging but well worth the effort for those craving a wild adventure.

Beaches Worth Visiting

• Flic en Flac: Long, sandy, and perfect for swimming or sunset walks.
• Blue Bay: Incredible snorkelling, thanks to its marine park.
• Mont Choisy: A family-friendly beach with calm waters and plenty of shade.
• Pereybere: Small but lively, with turquoise waters and nearby eateries.

Restaurants Around the Island

• Amari by Vineet (Trou aux Biches): This fine dining spot offers Indian cuisine with a modern twist. The ambience is as exquisite as the food.
• Le Chamarel Restaurant: Located in the hills, this spot serves Creole dishes with panoramic views of the southwest.
• The Rum Shed (Bel Ombre): A casual yet chic spot to enjoy cocktails and Mauritian cuisine.
• La Table du Château (Labourdonnais): Gourmet dining in a colonial setting. Their desserts are worth the trip alone.
• Escale Créole (Moka): Dive into authentic Creole cuisine in a cozy, homely setting.