Top 20 Things to Do in Mauritius

Top 20 Things to Do in Mauritius

Mauritius is one of the most beautiful island destinations in the Indian Ocean, but the best holidays here are not only about lying on the beach. The island is full of turquoise lagoons, dramatic mountains, hidden waterfalls, colourful markets, sacred temples, local food, luxury resorts, island excursions and unforgettable coastal drives.

Whether you are visiting Mauritius for a honeymoon, family holiday, wedding, adventure trip or luxury escape, there is something for every type of traveller. You can start your morning with a swim in a calm lagoon, enjoy lunch on a catamaran, visit a waterfall in the afternoon and finish the day with a sunset on the west coast.

This guide covers the top 20 things to do in Mauritius, plus the best activities by region, romantic experiences, family-friendly ideas, free attractions, paid tours, itinerary suggestions, map planning and useful internal links to help you plan your trip.

1. Visit Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant is one of the most iconic landmarks in Mauritius. This dramatic mountain rises beside a turquoise lagoon in the southwest and is strongly connected to the island’s history and identity.

Travellers visit Le Morne for its scenery, hiking, kite surfing, lagoon cruises, and luxury resorts. Even if you do not climb the mountain, the surrounding area is one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius.

Best for: scenery, hiking, photography, history, couples
Region: Southwest
Related guide: Things to Do in Le Morne

2. Relax on Trou aux Biches Beach

Trou aux Biches is one of the best beaches in Mauritius for swimming, families, and calm lagoon conditions. The water is usually gentle, the sand is soft, and the beach has a relaxed northern-island feel.

It is also a good base for travellers who want access to restaurants, hotels, water activities, and nearby Grand Baie.

Best for: families, swimming, beach walks, sunsets
Region: North
Related guide: Trou aux Biches Beach Guide

3. Take a Catamaran Cruise to Île aux Cerfs

Île aux Cerfs is one of the most famous island excursions in Mauritius. Located off the east coast, it is known for its clear lagoon, white sand, and relaxed island atmosphere.

A catamaran cruise usually includes sailing, lunch, drinks, snorkelling, and time on the island. Some tours also include a visit near the Grand River South East waterfall.

Best for: couples, groups, families, island hopping
Region: East Coast
Booking page: Catamaran Cruises in Mauritius

4. Explore Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth

Chamarel is one of the most popular inland attractions in Mauritius. The Seven Coloured Earth is a natural geological formation with dunes in shades of red, brown, purple, and orange.

Nearby, you can also visit Chamarel Waterfall, one of the most impressive waterfalls on the island. This makes Chamarel a great half-day or full-day stop when exploring the southwest.

Best for: nature, photography, families, sightseeing
Region: Southwest
Related guide: Chamarel Travel Guide

5. Swim and Snorkel at Blue Bay Marine Park

Blue Bay is one of the best places in Mauritius for snorkelling. The marine park is located in the southeast and is known for clear water, coral formations, and colourful fish.

Glass-bottom boat tours are popular here, especially for families and visitors who want to enjoy the lagoon without deep swimming.

Best for: snorkelling, families, marine life
Region: Southeast
Related guide: Blue Bay Beach Guide

6. Visit Grand Baie

Grand Baie is the main tourist hub in the north of Mauritius. It offers shopping, restaurants, nightlife, beaches, boat tours, and easy access to nearby islands.

It is a great area for travellers who want convenience and activity. From here, you can explore beaches like Mont Choisy, Pereybere, and Trou aux Biches.

Best for: nightlife, restaurants, shopping, tours
Region: North
Related guide: Things to Do in Grand Baie

7. Discover Black River Gorges National Park

Black River Gorges National Park is the largest protected forest area in Mauritius. It is ideal for travellers who want to see the island’s greener, wilder side.

The park has viewpoints, hiking trails, waterfalls, native plants, and birdlife. Popular stops include Alexandra Falls viewpoint, Gorges viewpoint, and hiking routes through the forest.

Best for: hiking, nature, viewpoints, wildlife
Region: Southwest / Central Highlands
Related guide: Best Hikes in Mauritius

8. Watch the Sunset at Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is one of the best sunset beaches in Mauritius. Located on the west coast, it has a long stretch of sand, calm swimming areas, restaurants, and a lively but relaxed coastal atmosphere.

It is also a good base for exploring the west, including Tamarin, Black River, Casela, and Le Morne.

Best for: sunsets, swimming, restaurants, families
Region: West Coast
Related guide: Flic en Flac Beach Guide

9. Visit Port Louis and Caudan Waterfront

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and offers a different side of the island. It is busy, colourful, historical, and full of local character.

Top stops include Central Market, Caudan Waterfront, the umbrella alley, local street food areas, and cultural sites. It is a good place to experience the everyday rhythm of Mauritius beyond the resorts.

Best for: culture, food, shopping, city photography
Region: Northwest
Related guide: Things to Do in Port Louis

10. Go Dolphin Watching in Tamarin Bay

Tamarin Bay is one of the most popular areas for dolphin watching in Mauritius. Tours usually start early in the morning and may include swimming, snorkelling, or cruising along the west coast.

Choose responsible operators who respect marine life, avoid crowding dolphins, and follow ethical viewing practices.

Best for: wildlife, boat tours, early morning activities
Region: West Coast
Booking page: Best Boat Tours in Mauritius

11. Explore Grand Bassin

Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao, is a sacred lake and one of the most important spiritual sites in Mauritius. It is surrounded by temples, statues, and peaceful mountain scenery.

Visitors should dress respectfully and behave quietly, as this is an active religious site.

Best for: culture, spirituality, photography
Region: Central / South
Related guide: Grand Bassin Mauritius Guide

12. Visit La Vanille Nature Park

La Vanille Nature Park is a family-friendly attraction in the south of Mauritius. It is known for giant tortoises, crocodiles, tropical plants, and nature walks.

It is especially popular with children and families looking for an inland activity away from the beach.

Best for: families, children, nature
Region: South
Related guide: Family Activities in Mauritius

13. Go Hiking at Le Pouce Mountain

Le Pouce is one of the best-known hikes in Mauritius. The mountain offers panoramic views over Port Louis, Moka, and the northern plains.

It is a rewarding hike for active travellers and photographers, though it is best done in good weather and with proper footwear.

Best for: hiking, views, adventure
Region: Central / Moka
Related guide: Le Pouce

14. Visit Cap Malheureux

Cap Malheureux is famous for its red-roof church overlooking the northern lagoon and islands. It is one of the most photographed places in Mauritius.

The area is peaceful and scenic, making it a good stop when exploring the north coast.

Best for: photography, coastal views, couples
Region: North
Related guide: Cap Malheureux Guide

15. Experience Local Food

Mauritius has one of the most exciting food cultures in the Indian Ocean. Local dishes reflect Indian, Creole, Chinese, French, and African influences.

Popular foods to try include dholl puri, farata, boulettes, mine frit, biryani, rougaille, fish vindaye, gateaux piments, and fresh tropical fruit.

Best for: food lovers, culture, local experiences
Related guide: Best Local Food in Mauritius

16. Visit Mahébourg

Mahébourg is one of the most charming coastal towns in Mauritius. Located in the southeast, it has a strong historical identity, a relaxed waterfront, local markets, and easy access to Blue Bay and Pointe d’Esny.

It is a great place to experience a more authentic and slower side of the island.

Best for: culture, history, local atmosphere
Region: Southeast
Related guide: Mahébourg Travel Guide

17. Explore Île aux Aigrettes

Île aux Aigrettes is a small nature reserve off the southeast coast. It is one of the best places to learn about native Mauritian wildlife and conservation.

Visits are usually done through guided tours, making it a meaningful stop for nature lovers.

Best for: conservation, wildlife, eco-tourism
Region: Southeast
Related guide: Nature Reserves in Mauritius

18. Visit Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, often called Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, is one of the oldest and most famous botanical gardens in the region.

It is known for giant water lilies, palm avenues, tropical plants, and peaceful walking paths.

Best for: gardens, history, relaxed sightseeing
Region: North
Related guide: Pamplemousses Botanical Garden Guide

19. Take a Northern Islands Boat Trip

From the north, travellers can take boat trips to islands such as Coin de Mire, Flat Island, Gabriel Island, and Round Island viewing areas.

These excursions are popular for snorkelling, clear water, island scenery, and full-day boat experiences.

Best for: island hopping, snorkelling, boat trips
Region: North
Relate Guide: Northern Islands Boat Trips

20. Stay at a Luxury Beach Resort

Mauritius is famous for luxury resorts, especially along the east, west, north, and southwest coasts. Many resorts offer beachfront rooms, spa experiences, water sports, fine dining, wedding packages, and honeymoon stays.

Even if you plan to explore the island, choosing the right hotel location can shape your entire holiday.

Best for: honeymoons, weddings, luxury travel, relaxation
Hotel guide: Best Hotels in Mauritius

Final Travel Tip

The best way to experience Mauritius is to mix beach time with exploration. Spend time in the lagoon, but also visit the mountains, waterfalls, markets, temples, villages and coastal roads.

For the best holiday, choose one or two main regions as your base, then plan day trips around the island. Combine free attractions with a few high-value paid experiences such as a catamaran cruise, snorkelling tour, guided hike or private boat trip.

Mauritius is not only a beach destination. It is an island of colour, culture, food, nature and unforgettable scenery — and the more you explore, the more beautiful it becomes.