Mauritius is full of spots that look like they were made for the 'gram—from giant water lilies and umbrella alleys to sacred lakes, mountain viewpoints, and even an underwater waterfall. This itinerary strings together some of the island's most photogenic places: Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, Caudan Waterfront, Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), Black River Gorges, Crystal Rock, and the famous Underwater Waterfall experience.
Whether you're after golden-hour shots, cultural backdrops, or once-in-a-lifetime aerial views, these stops will fill your feed with the best of Mauritius. Book helicopter or boat tours in advance for Crystal Rock and the Underwater Waterfall.
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, home to giant water lilies. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, commonly known as Pamplemousses, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mauritius. Founded in 1770, the garden spans 37 hectares and features an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plants, including the famous giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies.
Port Louis's premier shopping and entertainment complex on the harbor. Located on the waterfront of Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, the Caudan Waterfront is one of the island’s most popular destinations for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Overlooking the harbor and marina, this lively complex offers visitors a vibrant atmosphere where modern attractions meet the historic charm of the city. The Caudan Waterfront is well known for its boutiques, local craft shops, duty-free stores, and souvenir markets, making it a great place to shop for Mauritian products, clothing, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Visitors can also explore art galleries, bookshops, and specialty stores showcasing local creativity. Food lovers will find a wide variety of restaurants, cafés, and street food stalls offering both Mauritian cuisine and international dishes. From fresh seafood to traditional Creole flavors, the waterfront is a perfect place to enjoy a meal while overlooking the ocean. The area also features cinemas, street performances, cultural events, and the famous Umbrella Square, one of the most photographed spots in Port Louis. Located close to major attractions such as the Port Louis Central Market, Blue Penny Museum, and Aapravasi Ghat, the Caudan Waterfront is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the capital city of Mauritius.
A sacred crater lake and the most important Hindu pilgrimage site outside India. Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao, is a sacred crater lake situated in an isolated mountain area. It is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites outside of India. The lake is home to several temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other Hindu deities. A massive statue of Shiva, standing 33 meters tall, guards the entrance to the site.
Mauritius's only national park, covering 67 square kilometers of pristine forest. 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. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, and visitors may even spot rare endemic birds such as the Pink Pigeon, Mauritius Kestrel, and Echo Parakeet. Several hiking trails begin within the park, making the viewpoint a great starting point for exploring the natural beauty of Black River Gorges National Park. Easily accessible by car and located near popular attractions like Chamarel and Seven Coloured Earth, the Black River Gorges Viewpoint is a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the southwest of Mauritius. It offers one of the most impressive panoramic landscapes on the island and a chance to experience the island’s incredible natural heritage.
An iconic rock formation rising from the lagoon, popular for boat tours and photos. Crystal Rock is a stunning coral formation that rises from the shallow turquoise waters near Ile aux Benitiers. The rock has become one of Mauritius's most photographed spots, especially at low tide when you can walk around it.
Witness the incredible optical illusion of the underwater waterfall from above Witness the incredible optical illusion of the underwater waterfall from above by helicopter or seaplane. Off the coast of Le Morne on the southwest of Mauritius, sand and silt on the ocean floor are carried by currents in a way that creates a stunning visual effect resembling a waterfall flowing beneath the surface. This natural phenomenon is one of the most iconic aerial views in the world and has been featured in countless films and documentaries. The best way to experience it is from the air—either on a helicopter tour or a seaplane flight that takes you right over the spot. Tours typically depart from the airport, Triolet helipad, or selected hotels. Morning flights offer the clearest visibility and the most dramatic contrast between the turquoise lagoon and the deeper blue where the 'waterfall' appears.
Tips
Gardens, beaches & Cap Malheureux
Scenic south coast
Le Morne, Chamarel & south coast
Beaches & landmarks of the south east
Adventure & Explore
Capital highlights: waterfront, heritage & museums