Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
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Best Instagram Photo Spots

Discover Mauritius through its most photogenic places.

Discover 6 of the best photo spots in Mauritius, from Pamplemousses and Grand Bassin to Crystal Rock and the famous Underwater Waterfall.

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  • 1. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

    Trade the coastline for a greener side of Mauritius. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, officially Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden, is a historic tropical garden in northern Mauritius. Visit for its giant water lilies, palm avenues, spice plants and botanical history. It suits families, nature lovers and photographers; allow around 1.5–2.5 hours for a relaxed visit. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden offers a very different side of Mauritius from the coast. Officially named the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden, this historic garden in the village of Pamplemousses brings together tropical plants, centuries of botanical history, broad avenues and ornamental ponds.

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  • 2. Caudan Waterfront

    Come for the landmark; stay for the local rhythm. Caudan Waterfront is a local market or city stop in Port Louis. Its main appeal is its local atmosphere and everyday Mauritian character, making it most relevant to travellers who enjoy local atmosphere, food and everyday culture. Travellers focused mainly on quiet resort time may prefer to treat it as a secondary stop rather than a must-do. Visit length varies with how deeply you explore; for organised experiences, use the operator’s confirmed duration and inclusions rather than old listings. Check current access, booking and opening information before setting out. Pair it with Caudan Waterfront, Central Market or another Port Louis heritage stop.

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  • 3. Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)

    Where architecture, faith and local history meet. Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao, is one of the most sacred and important religious sites in Mauritius. Located in the highlands near Savanne, this peaceful crater lake is surrounded by temples, statues, forest scenery and a deeply spiritual atmosphere. It is a meaningful place for Hindu devotees and one of the best cultural attractions for visitors who want to understand the spiritual side of Mauritius. The site is especially important during Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of pilgrims walk to Grand Bassin to offer prayers. Visitors can admire the impressive Lord Shiva statue, explore the lakeside temples, see colourful religious architecture and enjoy the calm mountain setting. Grand Bassin is ideal to combine with Black River Gorges, Alexandra Falls, Bois Chéri Tea Factory and other south Mauritius attractions.

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  • 4. Black River Gorges

    A short stop with a much bigger view. The Black River Gorges Viewpoint is one of the most spectacular scenic viewpoints in Mauritius, located in the heart of Black River Gorges National Park in the southwest of the island. Surrounded by lush mountains and dense tropical forest, this viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views over deep valleys, green hills, and one of the last remaining native forests in Mauritius. From the viewpoint, visitors can admire the dramatic landscapes of the national park, which covers thousands of hectares of protected rainforest. It’s a perfect stop for photographers and nature lovers who want to experience the wild and untouched side of Mauritius beyond its famous beaches and lagoons.

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  • 5. Crystal Rock

    One stop, another side of Mauritius. Crystal Rock is one of the most photographed lagoon landmarks in Mauritius, located near Île aux Bénitiers on the west coast. Rising from the shallow turquoise water, this unique coral rock formation has become a must-see stop on boat trips around Le Morne, Black River and Tamarin. A visit to Crystal Rock is usually part of an Île aux Bénitiers catamaran cruise, private boat tour or west coast lagoon excursion. The scenery is beautiful, with clear blue water, views of Le Morne Brabant and the peaceful island backdrop of Île aux Bénitiers. It is a perfect stop for photos, swimming, snorkelling and enjoying one of the most iconic lagoon views in Mauritius.

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  • 6. Underwater Waterfall Tour

    See Mauritius from a completely different angle. The Underwater Waterfall Helicopter Tour from Bel Ombre is a 15-minute scenic flight over southwest Mauritius to the famous optical illusion near Le Morne. It suits couples, photographers and travellers wanting a short aerial experience; flights are subject to weather and operational conditions. The Underwater Waterfall Helicopter Tour from Bel Ombre is one of the most focused ways to see Mauritius' famous aerial illusion. Instead of spending much of the flight crossing the island, the route starts in the south and heads directly through the landscapes surrounding Baie du Cap, La Prairie and Îlot Fourneau before reaching the waters near Le Morne.

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Mauritius ExploredTips

  • 1Route runs north to south then west: start at Pamplemousses and Caudan, then Grand Bassin, Black River Gorges, Crystal Rock, and the Underwater Waterfall experience.
  • 2Pamplemousses: giant water lilies and baobabs – best in morning light.
  • 3Caudan: umbrella alley and harbour – great for golden hour.
  • 4Grand Bassin: dress modestly; the Shiva statue and lake are iconic.
  • 5Black River Gorges: viewpoints and forest trails – bring water and good shoes.
  • 6Crystal Rock: book a boat tour from Le Morne or Black River; low tide is best for photos.
  • 7Underwater Waterfall: helicopter or seaplane from Le Morne/airport – book in advance.

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