10 Reasons to Add Mauritius to Your Travel Bucket List
Mauritius - a tiny East African tropical island in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Often forgotten about or not even known of by many but is now one of my top favorite countries I’ve visited yet. I booked a flight to Mauritius 2 days before departing after other travel plans fell through and I needed a place to go. I arrived in Mauritius with little to no knowledge of the country other than knowing that my boyfriends’ dad lived there for a few years and raved about it, had few concrete plans, and had no idea what to actually expect upon my arrival. I’m here to tell you that Mauritius blew me away in ways that changed my life. There is so much good in Mauritius. So much raw beauty, simplicity, and community that I had never experienced. Because of my unforgettable time in this underrated African country, I have compiled a list of 10 reasons that you too should add Mauritius to your travel bucket list.
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1. Pristine Beaches
Mauritius is renowned for its breathtaking beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and palm-fringed shorelines. From Trou aux Biches to Belle Mare to Le Morne, each beach offers a slice of paradise.
2. Rich Cultural Heritage
Mauritius boasts a diverse cultural heritage influenced by Indian, African, French, and Chinese traditions. Explore the vibrant markets, taste the delectable fusion cuisine, experience a sega dance, and immerse yourself in the warmth of the island's people.
3. Delicious Cuisine
Mauritius is a melting pot of diverse cultures, and its cuisine reflects this fusion of flavors. Indulge in mouthwatering Creole curries, fresh seafood dishes, and tropical fruits that you won’t be able to get enough of.
4. Natural Wonders
Discover the island's natural wonders, such as the Seven Colored Earth in Chamarel, where sands of different colors create a captivating spectacle. Explore breathtaking waterfalls, like Tamarin Falls, Chamarel Falls, and Alexandra Falls, and hike up iconic landmarks such as Le Morne Brabant (if it is open) or the highest peak in Mauritius, the Black River Peak Hike.
5. Serene Atmosphere
Mauritius offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Unwind on secluded beaches, enjoy peaceful sunsets, and embrace the laid-back island lifestyle. Another thing I loved about island life in Mauritius is the African music that makes you want to take it easy and enjoy the day-to-day.
6. Interconnected Communities
Despite the cultural diversity, communities in Mauritius are interconnected and often overlap. Many Mauritians have friends, colleagues, or even family members from different communities, which promotes social cohesion and understanding. One of my favorite examples of this was a football game that brought tons of people together in the small village of La Gaulette (population 2,500). Locals sat around and BBQ’d, played music, drank, and socialized for hours. The vibe was so inviting and simple.
7. Crystal-Clear Waters
The waters surrounding Mauritius are incredibly clear, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and encounter marine creatures like sea turtles and dolphins. If there is one excursion I recommend you do while in Mauritius it’s diving/snorkeling to see all of the beautiful wildlife beneath the surface.
8. Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
Mauritius has been making strides in promoting sustainable tourism practices. From eco-friendly accommodations to conservation efforts, visiting Mauritius allows you to support and contribute to the preservation of its natural beauty.
9. Adventure Activities
From water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing to hiking in lush national parks, Mauritius offers an array of thrilling activities. Go hiking in Black River Gorges National Park or embark on an exciting catamaran cruise. Even if you don’t kite or windsurf yourself, the Southwest Mauritius region is very popular for attracting those that do year-round. It’s very fun to watch!
10. Safety
Mauritius is winning in the safety category as compared to many countries around the world and other parts of Africa. Some factors that contribute to the overall safety of Mauritius are a low crime rate, a stable political environment, well-developed infrastructure, friendly and welcoming locals, no venomous animals on the island, tourist police to focus on the well-being of tourists, and natural disaster preparedness.
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