8 reasons Mauritius is the next big destination

With calm lagoons, tropical beaches, volcanic mountains and a deeply layered culture, Mauritius is the perfect place to relax.

If your holiday checklist includes glassy aqua beaches, lively coral reefs, dramatic natural wonders and unique wildlife, then Mauritius is for you. This tropical island nation is a harmonious melting pot of cultures, traditions and languages.

On its pristine shores, you’ll find a rich culture influenced by Indian, Chinese and African traditions, incredible culinary offerings and everything you’ll need for a refreshing wellness holiday. This island paradise is still off the well-worn path of most tourists. So, now’s your chance to enjoy this pocket of peace in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

1. Underwater worlds (and peaceful beaches)

With over 330km of beautiful coastline to explore, Mauritius is just made for water play. Grab a paddleboard, go snorkelling or hop aboard a catamaran and enjoy the clear blue waters, coral reef and over 49 sparkling inlets. For those who like the world underwater, there are around 100 spectacular diving sites to immerse yourself in, where you can get up close and personal with the local marine life.

Have an up-close encounter with Mauritius’s vibrant marine life.

2. Rich culture

Mauritians are proud to celebrate different religions and ethnicities, and as such, there is a beautiful, complex tapestry of architecture, festivals and events throughout the year for locals and visitors to experience. A favourite pastime, the joyous, traditional Sega dance connects the whole island. It’s so important to the local culture that it’s even on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Plan your trip around one of their many festivals, ranging from regattas, culinary festivals and music festivals, or be a part of the traditions of Diwali, Chinese New Year, Holi, Independence and Republic Day.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture.

3. Tasty cuisine

If food is your love language, Mauritius will be your culinary heaven. The diverse mix of Indian, Chinese and African cultures has created a foodie scene that is exploding with flavour and colours. As well as the many fine dining experiences, the food stalls offer fresh food on a daily basis. When you’re finished savouring the island’s foodie fare, sit back and relax with a glass of their local rum or tea as the sun sets over the beach.

Delight in mouthwatering meals.

4. Family-friendly

Finding a holiday for the whole family can be challenging. But not in Mauritius. Whether your kids (and you) like hiking, ziplining, treetop walks, quad biking, mountain biking, or abseiling and canyoning, they will find an adrenaline rush to keep them busy. If they are water lovers, there’s also snorkelling, diving, kitesurfing, paddleboarding or kayaking. You could join in, of course, or you could relax in a lounge chair on the beach and sip a cocktail in the sun. It’s your choice (and no one is judging).

Find plenty of activities to entertain the whole family.

5. Unbelievable nature

Mauritius isn’t all adventure sports and spice-filled cuisine. This island nation happens to be packed full of bubbling waterfalls, misty mountains, protected wetlands, marine parks and even bird sanctuaries. Known as the home of the now-extinct dodo, this remote island has several endemic species such as the pink pigeon, Mauritius kestrel and the echo parakeet. Bring your binoculars and swimmers and spend the day as a twitcher.  

Spend a day diving deeper into nature.

6. Luxury lifestyles

While you don’t need a big budget to enjoy the lagoons, beaches and culture of Mauritius, if you’re after a little luxury, you’ll easily be able to find it. There are incredible five-star resorts and catamarans. And let’s not forget the 12 impeccably manicured golf courses to choose from. You don’t even need to bring your five-iron, as you can hire a set of clubs on arrival.

Treat yourself to a luxurious experience.

7. Romantic offerings

While you could bring your family and friends, Mauritius is also the perfect place for a little alone time with your significant other. From couple’s massages and private catamaran snorkelling trips to hiking and exploring the Mauritian culture in the capital Port Louis, you’ll find new (and rediscover old) ways of connecting. Plus, nothing beats an evening walk on the beach, holding hands as you count the stars.

Take a serene walk, hand in hand.

8. Wonderful for wellness

With more and more travellers looking for holidays with a wellness edge to them, Mauritius is becoming a haven for relaxation and reflection. The locals say the volcanic island soil has a unique energy to it, and after a few days you’ll start to agree. Create your ideal wellness holiday with world-class spas, yoga classes on the beach, forest bathing in the rainforests, Tai chi lessons and local energy experts. There’s even medical tourism. However you choose to spend your time, you’ll feel brighter and have more energy after just a few days.

Indulge in a peaceful recovery retreat.