Crystalline waters of Mauritius. (Image: Getty)
The island nation of Mauritius, formally known as the Republic of , is located in the Indian Ocean, around 2,000 kilometres off the southeast coast of East Africa.
Mauritius is paradise, with world-class spas, golf courses on private islands, Michelin-starred chefs, upscale hotels, and stunning beaches.
Away from the glitz, however, Mauritius has another side.
Nature lovers can explore the Black River Gorges National Park, home to fruit bats, kestrels, the endangered Mauritius pink pigeon, and budget-friendly boutique hotels.
It is renowned for water sports, including kite-surfing at Le Morne on the south coast. It is surrounded by a 177-kilometer (110-mile) “glittering coastline” protected by an almost intact coral reef.
The Island found itself on the Telegraph’s ‘best Islands in Indian Ocean’ list late 2024, with an overall rating of 32 out of 40.
Don’t miss…
This is Le Morne – One of the country’s famous kite surfing spots (Image: Getty)
Despite being a tropical destination, there isn’t really a terrible time to visit Mauritius, unlike most other countries.
There are just two distinct seasons: the lovely winter months of May through October and the scorching summer months of November through April.
Daily temperatures in the mid-twenties are typical during the summer, although they can easily rise to 30°C.
Even though July is the coldest month, you may still count on pleasant days with temperatures of 20°C.
October is the ideal month to visit Mauritius if you want sunshine that isn’t too hot.
Cotton candy sunrise at Belle-Mare beach, Mauritius (Image: Getty)
It’s no secret that Mauritius is home to some truly incredible beaches.
You can sunbathe on pure-white sands, read your book in the shade of a swaying palm tree, and go for a dip in bright blue waters.
Wherever you’re staying, you’ll never be far from a postcard-worthy beach – Belle Mare, Flic en Flac and Le Morne are all top choices.
Or you could take a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs.
Anchored off the east coast, this little islet has tranquil lagoons perfect for swimming.
Clearly, Mother Nature took her time adding as much colour as possible to the island’s landscapes.
The Seven Coloured Earths, a must-see natural phenomenon, are hidden away near Chamarel.
The minerals on Earth have changed the sands into seven different colours over time – blue, purple, violet, red, brown, green, and yellow.
If you combined all of the sand, it would eventually split into seven different levels of colour, like a rainbow.
Green mountains peeking over The Seven Coloured Earths in, Chamarel, Mauritius (Image: Getty)
Don’t miss…
Parrot fish for sell at a local market – Mauritius (Image: Getty)
Arguably, some of the world’s best meals can be found in Mauritius.
Creole foods are rich in taste because of the diverse population of Mauritius, which has inspired them with French, Indian, African, and Asian recipes.
Freshly caught seafood, hearty tomato-based stews, and dhal puri, a tart flatbread accompanied by cool chutney, are all delectable.
A woman taking a dive with the dolphins, Maurititus (Image: Getty)
In Mauritius, sea temperatures are as consistent as the sun.
The ocean remains warm throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 28°C, which is good news for scuba divers.
In addition to turtles, sting rays, and tropical inhabitants like butterfly fish, parrot fish, and clownfish, you could be seeing vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks once you’re in the water.
Don’t worry about missing out on Mauritius’ marine life if you’re not a confident diver.
Why not visit wild dolphins on a boat trip?
If you want to observe these ingenious creatures up close, you can even jump in the water and watch them play in their natural environment.
The majority of dolphin-watching excursions leave from Tamarin Bay or the west coast, close to Flic en Flac.
It’s preferable to leave before daybreak if you want to have the best chance of sighting Flipper and friends; the early start will be well worth it.
Sunset on Le Morne, Mauritius (Image: Getty)
Mauritius is definitely a luxury vacation spot, but it’s not as expensive as you may assume.
A trip to Mauritius will undoubtedly be less expensive than visiting either of its lovely siblings, the Maldives and the Seychelles, if you’re searching for an upscale beach vacation.
Because all of your meals, snacks, and beverages are included when you book an all-inclusive vacation to Mauritius, it can also help you stay within your budget.
So, is it possible you could be adding this paradise destination to your list? We believe you ought to!
Beautiful ariel view of underwater waterfall captured in Mauritius (Image: Getty)