Can you hear the song Stairway to Heaven? Because we can. Quite literally. The Mauritius borders have now reopened and it has rolled out the red carpet for travellers.
Nestled between the Islands of Reunion and Rodrigues, this tiny island in the Indian Ocean is not nicknamed the Pearl of the Indian Ocean without a reason. Azure waters, white beaches, swaying palms, together with the slew of exotic resorts, gourmet food and a diverse range of water sports... The tropical paradise is the perfect family getaway.
The country’s lively and alluring beaches are charged and ready to play. Its beaming people are jumping for joy and thrilled to welcome you. Naturally, health and safety remain its top priority.
So, be it a short break or a summer vacation, it is truly time to head to heaven. Not sure what all you can do? Let’s cut to the chase, right here, right now! We bring you everything you need for the perfect family holiday in the Indian Ocean paradise island. Are you ready? It's time to discover #MauritiusNow.
Be the water baby
You can enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving in its vibrant waters as well as other water sports like kite surfing. The country is a one-stop shop for watersports loving families. So, it is time to fetch your kids and watch the tropical fish lapping their toes when they paddle in the sea and work out ways of enticing crabs out of their beachside holes at sunset.
Go for glass-bottomed boat rides to spot lionfish, clownfish, parrotfish and sea sponges amongst the coral reefs that ring the island. You can also swim with the dolphins off the coast of Mauritius and go snorkelling amongst the fish, with supervision of course. Early morning is the best time to spot them playing. Do you feel playful enough?
Kayaking, wind surfing and more
If you have not had your fill yet, try water skiing, catamarans, sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddle wind-surfing, kite-surfing and pedalos. Some of the most adventurous activities offered here will keep your adrenaline rush satiated. You can also go scuba diving.
Explore and experience stunning botanical gardens
Post the white sandy beaches and the turquoise waters, you can look within. The beach nation offers some of the most panoramic natural inland landscapes including vast plains of sugarcanes, spectacular waterfalls, mountains and forests.
If you are on a quest to find the tree that helps cure flatulence and learn how water lilies emerge white amongst the vast Amazonica lily pads, you are at the right place.
From lilies, palm trees and the scents of stunning flowers, the sights of charming Frédérica Nature Reserve and Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens will keep you glued as you admire the variety of exotic flora and fauna. The Pamplemousses is one of the top attractions in the paradise. Fun fact: It is also the oldest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere, close to 300 years old. It is generally put second only to Kew Gardens in London when rating the world’s best botanical gardens.
From the seven colours of rainbow to Seven Coloured Earth
A geological formation, the Seven Coloured Earths remains one of the most popular attractions in Mauritius. The small area of basalt from lava which has undergone changes over the years in Chamarel is made of seven distinct colours. The high concentration of metals in the soil is responsible for this special natural wonder, which shimmers in all its glory. This is the perfect trek for your family. So, take out that camera and click that perfect family picture with the lovely backdrop.
Of gorges and perfect hikes
Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the best views of Mauritius from the Gorges viewpoint. Hiking through the Black River Gorges National Park to observe rare bird species, many of which are only in Mauritius as well as endemic flora in Black River Gorges is another way to spend that family time with kids.
Another worth visiting place is Le Morne Brabant Mountain or the Table Mountain. Enjoy the captivating views of the Indian Ocean and admire the waterfalls and caves that dot the mountain, as you hike up with La Familia. The 556-meter high mountain has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008. During the reign of the French, this imposing boulder served as a refuge for slaves.
Mauritian cuisine, a gourmet delight
If food is your best way to unwind like me, then this destination will have you at Hello! A melting pot of flavours, the cuisine of the beach nation is a mix of various influences with French, Chinese, European and Indian flavours. You will be spoilt for choice with popular dishes ranging from curries, farata or a type of Indian bread, seafood dishes as well as a popular street food called dholl puri. Bon Apetit!
