Mauritius Tour Packages

Picture a ring of powdery white beaches wrapped around a turquoise lagoon, volcanic peaks rising inland, and sugarcane fields glowing gold at sunset. That’s Mauritius—an island nation in the Indian Ocean where Creole charm, French elegance, African rhythm, and Indian heritage blend seamlessly. From the sacred crater lake at Ganga Talao to the UNESCO-listed Le Morne Brabant, Mauritius offers serene lagoons, lush forests, colorful markets, and a thriving food scene. It’s equally perfect for a relaxed family vacation, a luxurious honeymoon, or an adventure-filled escape.

• Expect warm hospitality, excellent resorts, great roads, and year-round beach weather.
• The island drives on the left (like India), vegetarian food is easy to find, and Hindi/Bhojpuri surnames and temples feel wonderfully familiar.
• The lagoons are protected by coral reefs—ideal for swimmers and first-time snorkellers.

Type of Destination

• Nature & Beaches: Calm lagoons, coral reefs, botanical gardens, waterfalls, national parks.
• Adventure: Kitesurfing, scuba diving, canyoning, hiking volcanic peaks.
• Cultural & Heritage: Aapravasi Ghat (UNESCO), Ganga Talao, Indian-origin communities, Creole villages.
• Honeymoon/Luxury: Iconic beachfront resorts, private pool villas, spa and wellness.
• Family-Friendly: Safe beaches, wildlife parks, light-rail, easy self-drive or chauffeured tours.

Prime Season and “Snow” Season

• Prime Season: May–October (cooler, drier, breezy). Ideal for hiking, sightseeing, kitesurfing (especially east/south coasts), and comfortable beach days.
• Festive High: Mid-December–mid-January sees brilliant beach weather and holiday buzz, but higher prices and fuller hotels.
• Snow Season: Not applicable. Mauritius is tropical and has no snowfall.

Languages Spoken

• Everyday: Mauritian Creole (Kreol Morisien)
• Widely Understood: English and French (official/administrative and media)
• Also Heard: Bhojpuri, Hindi, Tamil, Marathi, Urdu in communities and temples

Local Transport Options

• Buses: Extensive, inexpensive network linking towns and beaches; great for slow travel.
• Taxis: Abundant; usually fixed fares—confirm before starting or hire for the day.
• Self‑Drive/Chauffeur: Driving is on the left; roads are good but narrow in places. An Indian licence in English is usually accepted; an IDP is a plus.
• Metro Express (Light Rail): Modern line connecting Curepipe–Quatre Bornes–Ebène–Rose Hill–Port Louis; clean, efficient for urban sightseeing.
• Bicycles/Scooters: Possible in quieter coastal areas; always wear helmets.
• Hotel Shuttles & Tours: Convenient for airport transfers and day trips.

How to Reach

• By Air: Fly into Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) in the southeast.
  • Non-stop/seasonal non-stop flights often operate from Mumbai and sometimes Delhi; otherwise easy one-stops via Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Nairobi.
  • Typical non-stop flying time from Mumbai: ~6.5–7 hours.
• By Sea: Occasional cruise calls to Port Louis. Ferries from continental Africa/India are not practical for tourists.
• By Road/Rail (on the island):
  • Main roads: M1/M2/M3 link the capital, airport, and resorts.
  • No intercity rail, but the Metro Express serves the central urban corridor.

Best Time to Visit (for Indian Travellers)

Mauritius is a year-round destination with two broad seasons:

• Hot/wet: November–April (summer; warm seas, chance of showers/cyclones mainly Jan–Mar)
• Cool/dry: May–October (winter; breezy, sunny, less humid)

Summer (November–April)

• Avg temperature: 25–33°C (coast), sea ~27–29°C
• Weather: Hot, humid; lush landscapes; quick tropical showers. Cyclone risk peaks Jan–Mar.
• Crowd Density: High in late Dec–early Jan; moderate otherwise.
• Budget: Peak festive rates mid-Dec–early Jan; shoulder deals in Nov & Apr.
• Packing Tips: Light cottons/linens, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, mosquito repellent, light rain jacket, dry bag for boat trips.

“Monsoon”/Wettest Months (January–March)

• Mauritius doesn’t have an Indian-style monsoon, but these are the wettest months.
• Avg temperature: 26–32°C; sea ~28–29°C
• Weather: Short heavy showers, possible cyclones; still many sunny spells.
• Crowd Density: Moderate except New Year week.
• Budget: Good value outside holiday weeks; watch flexible cancellation policies.
• Packing Tips: Quick-dry clothes, rain protection, anti-nausea bands for choppy-sea days.

Winter (May–October)

• Avg temperature: 18–26°C (coast), sea ~23–25°C
• Weather: Pleasant, less humid; stronger trade winds on east/south—great for kitesurfing.
• Crowd Density: Moderate in May–Jun & Sep–Oct; busier Jul–Aug (school holidays).
• Budget: Attractive shoulder-season offers in May–June and Sept.
• Packing Tips: Light layers, a thin jacket for evenings/windy coasts, closed shoes for hikes.

Places to Visit

1. Port Louis & Caudan Waterfront
   • Vibrant capital with the Central Market, street food stalls, Blue Penny Museum, and harbor promenade for sunset strolls.
2. Aapravasi Ghat (UNESCO)
   • Emotional, must-visit immigration depot where indentured laborers—many from India—first arrived in the 19th century.
3. Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin)
   • Sacred crater lake with towering statues of Shiva and Durga; the heart of Maha Shivaratri celebrations.
4. Le Morne Brabant (UNESCO)
   • Dramatic basalt mountain and symbol of resistance; hike to viewpoints for sweeping lagoon panoramas.
5. Chamarel
   • See the surreal Seven Coloured Earths, Chamarel Falls, and enjoy rum tasting at nearby distilleries.
6. Black River Gorges National Park
   • The island’s green lung: endemic forests, waterfalls, viewpoints, and hiking trails.
7. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
   • Giant water lilies, spice trees, and colonial-era avenues in one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens.
8. Île aux Cerfs
   • Picture-perfect islet with turquoise shallows—great for parasailing, snorkelling, and beach picnics.
9. Blue Bay Marine Park
   • Glass-bottom boats and easy reef snorkelling over lively coral gardens.
10. Flic-en-Flac & Tamarin
    • Long west‑coast beaches; sunsets, dolphin safaris (choose ethical operators), and casual seaside dining.

Things to Do

• Catamaran Cruise to Île aux Cerfs or the northern islands (Flat Island, Gabriel Island) with BBQ lunch.
• Street Food Trail in Port Louis: dholl puri, gateau piment, alouda, fish fritters—authentic and affordable.
• Tea & Rum Routes: Visit Bois Chéri tea estate and Chamarel/St Aubin rum distilleries for tastings and history.
• Sega Night: Enjoy a live Creole Sega performance—barefoot dancing on the beach under the stars.
• Wildlife Encounters: Casela Nature Parks or La Vanille for giant tortoises and crocodiles; great for families.
• Sunset Rituals: West-coast beaches (Flic-en-Flac, Tamarin, Le Morne) glow at dusk—carry a sarong and snacks.

Adventure Activities

• Kitesurfing at Le Morne: World-class winds, flat lagoons, and schools for beginners to pros.
• Scuba Diving & Snorkelling: North and west coasts offer calm sites, coral bommies, and occasional wrecks.
• Hiking: Trails in Black River Gorges, Le Morne, Le Pouce; guided hikes reveal endemic flora and birds.
• Canyoning at Tamarind Falls (7 Cascades): Abseil beside waterfalls and swim in natural pools.
• Ziplining & Quad Biking: Domains like Vallée des Couleurs, Domaine de l’Étoile, and Casela’s rugged tracks.
• Additional thrills: Parasailing, sea kayaking in mangroves, stand-up paddleboarding, sub-scooter/submarine rides.

Cuisines to Try

• Dholl Puri & Farata (Paratha): Flaky bread with bean curry, chutneys, pickles.
• Rougaille: Tomato-based Creole stew (veg/seafood/chicken).
• Vindaye: Mustard-turmeric marinated fish or veg—tangy and delicious.
• Mine/La Noodles (Fried Noodles): Sino-Mauritian staple with veg/meat/seafood.
• Briyani (Mauritian Biryani): Fragrant, often with fish or chicken; Indian roots with island flair.
• Gâteaux Piments: Spicy lentil fritters.
• Seafood: Grilled catch of the day, octopus salad, prawns.
• Sweets & Sips: Napolitaine biscuits, fresh pineapple with chilli-salt, alouda (sweet milk drink), Phoenix beer, Mauritian rum.

Dining Places (Recommended)

• Le Capitaine (Grand Baie): Fresh seafood with lagoon views.
• Escale Creole (Moka): Home-style Creole thali in a garden setting—book ahead.
• Domaine Anna (Flic-en-Flac): Romantic ponds, Asian‑Creole menu, great for families too.
• Le Fangourin (Pamplemousses): At L’Aventure du Sucre—sugar-inspired cuisine near the museum.
• Le Chamarel Restaurant (Chamarel): Panoramic terrace over the southwest coast; classic Mauritian plates.
• Château Mon Désir (Balaclava): Elegant fine dining in a colonial mansion.
• Lakaz Cascavelle (Cascavelle): Lively spot for grills and drinks after a west‑coast day out.

Resorts & Stays

• LUX Belle Mare (East):* Chic, family-friendly luxury; fabulous beach and spa.
• The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius (Balaclava): Tranquil boutique luxury on Turtle Bay; sunset-perfect.
• Constance Prince Maurice (East/Northeast): Secluded elegance, overwater dining, superb service.
• JW Marriott Mauritius Resort (Le Morne): Colonial-style charm at the foot of Le Morne; kite and sunset paradise.
• Heritage Le Telfair / Heritage Awali (Bel Ombre): Lush domain with golf course and C Beach Club access.
• Also consider: Four Seasons at Anahita, Shanti Maurice, Constance Belle Mare Plage for varied budgets and vibes.

Nightlife

• Banana Beach Club (Grand Baie): Iconic bar with live music and a buzzy dance floor.
• Big Willy’s (Tamarin): Sports bar by day, lively club by night; theme parties often.
• C Beach Club (Bel Ombre): Day-to-night beach club vibes—DJ sets, sundowners, cabanas.
• Le Suffren Hotel & Marina (Port Louis): After-work crowd, waterfront drinks.
• Flic-en-Flac Beach Bars (e.g., Kenzi Bar): Casual cocktails, live bands, open-air vibes.
• Casinos: At Caudan Waterfront and Grand Baie for a flutter after dinner.

Shopping

• Port Louis Central Market: Spices, vanilla pods, local snacks, woven baskets.
• Caudan Waterfront Craft Market: Quality souvenirs, ship models, artisanal rum and sugars.
• Floreal & Curepipe Factories: Textiles, cashmere, model ship workshops.
• Grand Baie La Croisette & Sunset Boulevard: Boutiques and beachwear.
• Bagatelle Mall (Moka): Island’s largest mall—brands, food court.
• What to Buy: Speciality sugars, local tea (Bois Chéri), Mauritian rum (Chamarel/St Aubin), vanilla, Dodo-themed keepsakes.

Off‑Beat Places

• Île aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve: Guided walks with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation among ebony trees and rare species.
• Pont Naturel (Natural Bridge): Wave‑carved rock arch on the wild south coast—dramatic photo stop.
• Gris Gris & Roche qui Pleure: Clifftop vistas where the reef opens and waves crash—no swimming, just views.
• Albion Lighthouse (Phare d’Albion): Sunset picnics with sweeping ocean horizons.
• Le Pouce Mountain: A relatively easy hike with magnificent views over Port Louis.
• Alexandra Falls & Plaine Champagne: Misty highlands, fern forests, and scenic viewpoints.
• Ebony Forest (Chamarel): Conservation park with skywalks and endemic birding.

Festivals & Events (Dates vary by lunar/annual calendars)

• Maha Shivaratri (Feb/March): Pilgrimage to Ganga Talao—an unforgettable cultural experience.
• Thaipoosam Cavadee (Jan/Feb): Tamil festival marked by colorful processions and devotion.
• Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb): Lion dances and lanterns in Chinatown, Port Louis.
• Independence & Republic Day (12 March): Parades, flags, and cultural shows.
• Ganesh Chaturthi (Aug/Sept) & Diwali (Oct/Nov): Island-wide decorations and family celebrations.
• Eid‑ul‑Fitr: Community feasts and markets following Ramadan.
• Sports & Culture: Trail runs (e.g., Dodo Trail), kitesurf events (June–Aug), music and food festivals seasonally.

Key Experiences (Must-Do)

• Hike or photograph Le Morne and unwind on its crescent beach at golden hour.
• Snorkel Blue Bay Marine Park to spot parrotfish, clams, and vibrant corals.
• Spend a day in Chamarel: Seven Coloured Earths + rum tasting + panoramic lunch.
• Take a catamaran to Flat/Gabriel Islands for sandbank swims and a lazy BBQ at sea.
• Join a Sega dance on the sand—barefoot, drumbeats, and starlight.
• Explore Aapravasi Ghat, then savour a Port Louis street‑food crawl.

Travel Tips (Practical)

• Visa & Entry: Check latest rules before travel; carry return tickets, hotel confirmations, and proof of funds.
• Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Use cards widely; withdraw from ATMs for best rates. Consider a forex card.
• Time Zone: Mauritius is UTC+4, about 1 hour 30 minutes behind India (IST).
• Health & Safety: Tap water is treated but bottled is recommended for short stays. Strong sun—use high‑SPF, reef‑safe sunscreen. Observe beach safety flags; currents can be strong beyond lagoons.
• Dress Code: Beachwear is fine on beaches; dress modestly for temples/markets. Remove shoes in shrines.
• Transport: Negotiate taxi fares; consider hiring a car/driver for flexibility. Avoid driving at night on unfamiliar rural roads.
• Connectivity: Local SIM/eSIM from MyT (Mauritius Telecom), Emtel, Chili—excellent coverage.
• Tipping: Not mandatory; 5–10% appreciated for great service.
• Sustainability: Choose ethical dolphin tours (no chasing), avoid single-use plastics, and use reef‑safe products.

Interesting Facts

• Multicultural Harmony: Hindus, Christians, Muslims, and Buddhists live side by side; festivals overlap joyfully.
• Reef‑Fringed Lagoon: A near‑continuous coral reef creates calm, shallow waters ideal for families and learners.
• UNESCO Heritage x2: Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape.
• Left‑Hand Drive & Familiar Flavours: Driving like India and menus featuring rotis, biryani, and chutneys—yet with Creole twists.
• Dodo Legacy: Though extinct, the dodo lives on as a beloved national icon.
• Tea & Sugar Island: Historic estates produce fine teas and a range of artisanal sugars and rums.
• Compact Yet Diverse: In just a couple of hours you can cross from wild cliffs to serene lagoons to misty highlands.

Mauritius pairs Indian cultural familiarity with island‑escape novelty—temples and Sega drums, rotis and rum, hikes and hammocks. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family holiday, or a solo reset, this jewel in the Indian Ocean makes it easy to slow down, dive in, and feel at home.