Planning a trip to Mauritius? You’re in for something special.

Believe it or not, this island is so much more than just beach resorts. Sure, the turquoise lagoons and white sand are incredible, but Mauritius also has lush mountains, waterfalls, incredible wildlife, and a really rich mix of cultures that makes exploring it feel varied and exciting. Whether you want to hike or dive into the island’s history and food scene, there’s a lot more here than most people expect.

After looking into all the best experiences across the island, we’ve rounded up the top things to do in Mauritius so you can plan a trip that goes beyond the beach. Let’s get into it!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Le Morne Brabant hiking tour. It combined a fun, hands-on climb with insane views at the top. Plus, learning the powerful history made it even more memorable!

Check out the 960+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

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Things to do in Mauritius

1. Spend the day cruising to Île aux Cerf

• Duration: 7 hours
• Time: 9 am 
• Highlights: Cruise along Mauritius’ east coast on a spacious catamaran, snorkel in clear lagoon waters, visit the famous Île aux Cerfs island, enjoy a BBQ lunch onboard with drinks, relax on deck with coastal views and music
• Inclusions: BBQ buffet lunch, snacks, pineapple for dessert, coffee/tea, drinks, use of snorkeling equipment
• Rating: 4.6 stars (check 490+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

This catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs ended up being one of our favorite days in Mauritius. It offers an amazing mix of beautiful scenery and relaxation, plus great food and drinks.

The day starts with a relaxed sail along the east coast, and this is where we really started to appreciate just how beautiful Mauritius is. With the mountains in the distance and that unreal turquoise water beneath us, we felt like we were in a dream! The whole vibe onboard was super laid-back, with music playing and drinks flowing throughout the day, which made it feel more like a floating beach club than a tour.

There was also a stop for snorkeling, which we loved! The water was clear and full of tropical fish, so it was a great way to break up the sailing. We also passed by the Grand River South East waterfall, which was a really nice bonus and added a bit of variety to the day.

And lunch was definitely a highlight for us! If you can, go for the crayfish option. It felt like a bit of an upgrade from your typical boat BBQ and made the whole experience feel more special. Paired with the unlimited drinks, it was the perfect tropical day trip. Honestly, it’s no surprise that this tour has 380+ 5-star reviews – read them here!

Book this epic catamaran cruise here and enjoy free cancellation!

2. Hike Le Morne Brabant for an epic view 

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Time: 6:50 am or 12:50 pm 
• Highlights: Hike the iconic Le Morne Brabant UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoy incredible views over Mauritius’ turquoise lagoons, learn about the mountain’s history from your guide
• Inclusions: All Fees and taxes, small group tour
• Rating: 5 stars (check 960+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Hiking Le Morne Brabant was hands down the best thing we did in Mauritius, and it’s the experience that stuck with us the longest after the trip. If you’re up for something a bit more active, this is 100% worth it.

Le Morne Brabant is one of Mauritius’ most iconic landmarks, known for both its dramatic mountain setting and its powerful history. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that symbolises freedom, as it once served as a refuge for escaped enslaved people. We couldn’t wait to climb it!

We went for the earlier start time in order to beat the heat,  so we met our guide, Matthieu, first thing and then followed him to the base of the mountain. The first section was fairly steady, but trust me, it doesn’t stay early for long. As we climbed higher, it got steeper and more hands-on, especially towards the top, where we had to do some light scrambling to finish the hike. 

This isn’t the easiest hike, but if you enjoy being active, it’s incredibly rewarding. However, what really set the experience apart for us was the combination of the views and the history. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, and learning about the history of Le Morne and what it represents from Matthieu added a much deeper meaning to the whole experience. If you’re up for it physically, this is one thing you absolutely shouldn’t skip in Mauritius!

Book our FAVORITE tour in Mauritius here and get ready for the hike of a lifetime!

3. Spot whales and dolphins

• Duration: 7 hours
• Time: 6 am or 8:30 am 
• Highlights: Cruise along Mauritius’ west coast at sunrise, spot and swim with wild dolphins, chance to see whales depending on season, snorkel in clear lagoon waters, visit Crystal Rock and Île aux Bénitiers, enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch with drinks
• Inclusions: Use of Snorkeling equipment, beverages, bottled water, music, lunch, private tour
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 440+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

This private dolphin and whale watching tour is such a special experience, especially if you don’t mind an early start. We actually think the early morning departure is a big part of what makes it so good!

We highly recommend going for the 6 am departure if you can. Being out on the water so early in the morning feels pretty unique in itself. It’s also the best time to spot dolphins, as they’re usually more active and there are fewer boats around. That means the whole experience feels a bit calmer and less crowded, which makes a big difference.

One thing we like about this tour is the way it’s done. The guides focus on respecting the dolphins rather than chasing them, so it’s an ethical and environmentally friendly experience, which we’re all about. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get the chance to swim nearby!

After the dolphin spotting, the day continues with a few different stops, so it’s not just a quick trip out on the water. There’s time for snorkeling in clear lagoon water, plus a visit to Crystal Rock, which you’ve probably seen photos of already! You’ll also stop at Île aux Bénitiers, where you can relax and enjoy a BBQ lunch with drinks.

We think this is a great option if you want something a bit different from your usual beach day. Just keep in mind that sightings can never be guaranteed, but even if you don’t spot dolphins, it’s still a fun day out on a boat with food, drinks, and epic scenery!

Grab your spot on this epic dolphin-spotting tour here, before it sells out!

4. Visit the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

If you’re looking for something a bit slower-paced, this is a really nice break from all the beach days and boat trips. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden is one of the island’s most well-known attractions, and it’s easy to see why!

The gardens are huge, so you’ll want to give yourself a couple of hours to explore them properly. The main highlight is definitely the giant water lilies, which are just as impressive in real life as they look in photos! There are also massive palm collections and shaded walking paths, so you won’t be in the beating sun the entire time. 

The site is located in Pamplemousses, not far from Port Louis, so you can easily visit on a half-day trip if you’re staying in this area. And if you’re staying further from Port Louis, you can combine the gardens with a trip to the capital and lunch nearby. We loved L’Ocean, a family-run seafood restaurant just around the corner from the gardens. 

Entry to the botanical garden is 300 Mauritian Rupees per person, which is roughly $6–7 USD, so it’s also one of the more affordable things to do on the island. We think it’s a great option if you want to enjoy a cultural activity without committing to a full day out. 

5. Tour Mauritius’ scenic southwest 

• Duration: 8 hours
• Time: 8:30 am
• Highlights: Explore the best of southwest Mauritius, including Chamarel Waterfall and the Seven Coloured Earth, visit the sacred lake of Grand Bassin, stop at Alexandra Falls and Black River Gorges viewpoints, enjoy a traditional Mauritian lunch, travel in a private vehicle
• Inclusions: pick-up/drop-off (Mauritius accommodations), lunch (vegetarian or non-vegetarian), non-alcoholic beverages, private transport, private guide/driver, bottled water, entrance to Twenty-Three Colored Earth and Chamouny Waterfall
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 470+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We think that this southwest Mauritius tour is a really good option for travelers who want to see more of the island beyond the beaches. While the coast is obviously a huge part of Mauritius, the southwest shows a very different side of it, with crater lakes, forested viewpoints, waterfalls, sacred sites, and some of the island’s most dramatic scenery!

That variety is what makes this part of Mauritius worth exploring. In just one day, you can go from the crater at Trou aux Cerfs to the peaceful setting of Grand Bassin, then on to viewpoints over Black River Gorges National Park and stops like Chamarel Waterfall and the coloured earth. It gives a much broader picture of the island and helps break up all the lagoon and resort time.

This tour is also a smart choice because it includes private transport, which makes a big difference on a full-day route like this. Southwest Mauritius has a lot of worthwhile stops, but they’re spread out, so having a driver and guide takes away the stress of figuring it all out alone.

One thing travelers should keep in mind is that this is a pretty action-packed day, but it breaks up all the beach time nicely. For first-time visitors especially, we think this is a great way to experience one of the most beautiful and varied parts of Mauritius. And we’re not alone – read hundreds of glowing reviews here!

Book this scenic southwest Mauritius tour here and enjoy free cancellation!

6. Taste your way around Port Louis

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 11 am
• Highlights: Taste local street food in Port Louis with a small group, try Mauritian-style roti, fresh sugarcane juice, Chinese sweets, and other local specialties, explore Chinatown and the Central Market, learn about the island’s history, culture, and culinary influences from a local guide
• Inclusions: Food tasting, local guide, bottled water, lunch, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 290+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

This Port Louis street food tour is such a good pick for travelers who want to understand Mauritius a bit better, beyond the beaches and glorious coastline. Food is a huge part of the island’s identity, and this tour gives a really fun introduction to that side of it while also showing you around the capital.

Mauritian food culture is incredibly rich because the island has been shaped by so many different influences over time. Indian, Chinese, Creole, and French traditions all show up in the food, and that mix is exactly what makes eating in Mauritius so interesting. On this tour, you’ll get to try some of the island’s best-known street food staples, from dholl puri and roti to Chinese sweets, fresh fruit, and sugarcane juice. 

As you explore, your guide will share the background behind the dishes and explain how different communities helped shape the food scene in Mauritius. It’s an awesome (and delicious) way to learn about the island’s history and culture through food. 

It also helps that the tour takes place in Port Louis, which is one of the best places to see this cultural mix in action. You’ll explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown and the Central Market, and witness everyday life in the capital. 

We think this is a great tour to do early on in your trip to Mauritius, as it will teach you about the best things to order for the rest of your time here. Just make sure you arrive hungry, because there’s a lot of food involved! 

Book this popular Port Louis street food tour here before it sells out!

7. Explore the waterfalls of Sept Cascades

• Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
• Time: 8:50 am or 1 pm
• Highlights: Hike through lush forest and volcanic rock landscapes at Sept Cascades, admire a series of beautiful waterfalls and canyon views, swim in a natural pool
• Inclusions: All fees and taxes, small group tour
• Rating: 5 stars (check 690+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This Tamarind Falls hike is easily one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in Mauritius, and it shows you a side of the island that many travellers never get to see! While Mauritius is often associated with beaches and resorts, this tour dives straight into its wild, untouched jungle and shows just how diverse the landscape really is.

What makes Tamarind Falls so special is the sheer variety packed into one hike. It’s not just a single viewpoint or waterfall. Instead, it’s a series of cascading falls set deep within lush tropical forest, surrounded by dramatic volcanic rock formations and wide canyon views. The scenery constantly changes as you move through the trail, so you’ll be ooh-ing and aah-ing from start to finish. 

This tour is so much more than just a walk. With a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, travellers get a deeper understanding of the island’s geology and plant life. The terrain can be a little challenging in places, so you should be reasonably fit and mobile to do this tour, but you don’t need to be a pro hiker or anything like that. 

One of the best parts is that you get the chance to swim in the natural pools formed by the falls. You can even stand under the cascading water and get a natural massage, which is such a fun and memorable experience! This experience showcases a raw and authentic side of Mauritius that contrasts beautifully with its coastline, and we can’t recommend it enough.

Read HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this Tamarind Falls hike here!

8. See Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis

Set right in the heart of Port Louis, Aapravasi Ghat is one of the most historically significant places in Mauritius. This UNESCO World Heritage Site marks the exact spot where the modern indentured labour diaspora began.

In 1834, Mauritius became the testing ground for what the British called the “great experiment,” replacing enslaved labour with indentured workers. This means that workers were brought over under fixed-term contracts, where they were promised wages, housing, and eventual return passage. It wasn’t exactly the fair and hopeful system it was made out to be, and labourers faced tough working conditions and very little control over their lives. So although it was technically different from slavery, the experience wasn’t all that different in practice.

Mauritius was the first place where this system was introduced at scale, before being expanded across other colonies. This site represents the beginning of a huge migration that shaped communities all over the world, and over the following decades, nearly half a million labourers arrived here.

A visit to Aapravasi Ghat is not packed with activities or long walking routes. Rather, informational displays and preserved structures help tell the story in a simple and direct way, so visitors have time to take it in at their own pace. And with free entry, it was an easy and worthwhile stop that brought real depth to our time in Port Louis. 

9. Zip through South Mauritius on a quad bike

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 10 am or 1 pm 
• Highlights: Quad biking through sugar cane fields, forest trails, and rugged coastal landscapes, stops at the Natural Bridge and wild beaches, scenic viewpoints
• Inclusions: Hygienic hair protection, helmet, driving initiation, small-group guided experience
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 480+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

This quad biking tour is one of the most exciting ways to experience the wilder and less polished side of Mauritius. Instead of sticking to the usual beaches and resorts, it dives straight into the island’s raw landscapes, covering around 35km (22 miles) of varied terrain that you simply wouldn’t reach on a typical sightseeing trip.

The route itself is what makes this experience stand out. One moment you’re riding through wide-open sugar cane fields, and the next you’re weaving through forest trails or zooming along rugged cliffs with the waves crashing below! There are also stops at places like La Cambuse Beach, Bouchon Beach, and the dramatic Natural Bridge to break up the ride.

We have always loved ATV riding, because it’s just such a fun way to get off-road and experience wild, rugged landscapes. Then doing it in Mauritius really takes it to the next level, because the scenery is just so beautiful. 

It’s also a very accessible experience. You don’t need any prior experience, and beginners get comfortable quickly. Your guides will offer a short introduction before you head out, and after that, you’ll hit the road and enjoy an unprecedented feeling of freedom. 

We think that this tour is ideal for anyone who wants to see the untamed side of Mauritius, away from the glitzy resorts. It’s a wild adventure, and the 460+ 5-star reviews certainly attest to that! 

You can book this exciting ATV tour here, with free cancellation!

10. Go island hopping

• Duration: 7 hours
• Time: 8:30 am
• Highlights: Speedboat ride across the east coast, island hopping to five different islands, snorkelling in crystal-clear lagoons, visit to the Grand River South East waterfall, relaxing on Île aux Cerfs, BBQ lunch on the beach with drinks
• Inclusions: Snacks, beverages, BBQ lunch, soda/pop, mineral water, use of snorkeling equipment
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 230+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This island-hopping tour is perfect for those who are short on time in Mauritius, because it really shows off just how beautiful the country is in just one day! Instead of staying in one spot, you’re constantly moving, hopping between islands, lagoons, and viewpoints, so it’s a super exciting way to explore.

What makes this trip stand out is the variety. The itinerary includes cruising along the east coast by speedboat, stopping at places like Île aux Cerfs, visiting the Grand River South East waterfall, and passing historic islets and nature reserves along the way. Whew! 

The speedboat element definitely adds a fun, energetic edge to the day. It may be a bit bumpy at times, but it definitely provides the adventure factor. Plus, seeing Mauritius from the water is a must while you’re here, as the coastline is just so beautiful. 

And in true Mauritian style, there’s a beach barbecue for lunch! There are plenty of options available like chicken, sausage, and plenty of chargrilled veggies – yum. Drinks are also included, so you’ll have your pick of beer, wine, and rum. 

We love this tour because it packs the best of Mauritius into just one day. It’s also a great way to access parts of the country that would be difficult to reach on your own. Many of these islands and viewpoints aren’t places you can just drive to, so a boat tour is the perfect way to get a deeper look at the island.

Read 230+ reviews and book this exciting island-hopping tour here!

11. Follow the Mauritius Tea Route

The Mauritius Tea Route is a scenic, self-guided journey through the island’s lush south. It links three historic estates: Domaine des Aubineaux, Bois Chéri, and Saint Aubin, and it showcases a completely different side of Mauritius. So if you’re ready to swap beaches for rolling green plantations and colonial houses, be sure to give this a try! 

What makes this route so interesting is how much variety it packs into one day. We loved moving from tea plantations and tastings to elegant estate homes, botanical gardens, and we even learned a bit of sugar and rum history along the way. It definitely feels more cultural and immersive than a lot of the island’s typical activities.

Bois Chéri is the standout stop. It’s the oldest tea plantation in Mauritius, and it gave us a real insight into how tea is produced on the island. The tasting experience was definitely one of the highlights of our time here! Sitting on the terrace overlooking the plantation with a fresh cup of Mauritian tea felt pretty special.

Then, Domaine des Aubineaux adds a more historical touch, with its colonial-style house and peaceful gardens, and Saint Aubin rounds things out with a mix of rum production and tropical agriculture. You’ll need your own car for this route, or you can arrange a driver, because the stops are quite spread out across the south. But if you’re looking to go beyond the beaches and see a quieter, more traditional side of Mauritius, we think that the Tea Route is well worth the effort!

12. Paddle Along the Tamarin River 

• Duration: 2.5 hours 
• Time: 1:30 pm 
• Highlights: Kayaking along the peaceful Tamarin River, watching the sunset over the mountains, spotting wildlife like birds and monkeys, calm and scenic paddling experience
• Inclusions: Lifejacket, small-group guided tour
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 130+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This guided kayak tour on the Tamarin River is an ideal option if you want to see a more peaceful side of Mauritius. A lot of the island’s big-ticket activities are fast-paced or full-day adventures, so this is great if you want an active adventure that won’t take up your entire day. 

Besides, gliding along the Tamarin River is so special. Instead of being out on the open ocean, you’re paddling along calm river water surrounded by lush greenery and mangroves. It also feels a lot quieter and more intimate than a boat trip.

We also like that it’s a guided tour, because it adds a bit more depth to the experience than just renting a kayak and heading off on your own. The local guides share information about Tamarin and the river itself, and they also know all the best routes through the mangroves! That really comes in handy because the river has quite a few shallow sections and hidden turns that you might struggle with if you were on your own. 

Best of all, you’re likely to spot lots of wildlife along the way! You can spot birds and fruit bats along the way, as well as various species of fish swimming around in the water. 

Although this is an active tour, it’s not an adrenaline-fuelled experience, but that’s the beauty of it. We think it’s a really good choice for couples, families, or anyone who wants a break from beaches and road trips. 

Read 120+ 5-star reviews and book this peaceful paddle here!

Where to Stay in Mauritius 

So now that you know what to do in Mauritius, you just need a great place to stay! For first-time visitors, we recommend basing yourself on the North Coast, as it’s one of the most convenient and well-rounded areas on the island. Centred around Grand Baie, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafés, beaches, and easy access to tours and boat trips. It makes it super easy to explore Mauritius, and you still get that lovely tropical island feel!

Mauricia Beachcomber Resort & Spa – $$$ 

Mauricia Beachcomber Resort & Spa is a fantastic 4-star beachfront hotel right in the heart of Grand Baie. It has that classic tropical resort feel, with bright, spacious rooms and a beautiful setting overlooking the bay.

One of the best things about staying here is the location. You’re literally steps from the beach, but also less than a 5-10 minute walk from restaurants, bars, shops, and even some nightlife, which makes it super convenient and will save you a lot of taxi fare.

There’s also plenty to keep you busy on-site, including a large pool, spa, gym, and a range of land and water sports. The hotel has two restaurants, including a more relaxed beachfront option, and there’s often live music or entertainment in the evenings, which gives the place a really fun, social vibe.

Rooms typically start from $400 USD per night. Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!

Coral Azur Beach Resort Mont Choisy – $$ 

Coral Azur Beach Resort Mont Choisy is a laid-back beachfront stay just steps from one of the nicest beaches on the North Coast. It’s set in a lush garden setting, which gives it a much quieter, more relaxed feel compared to some of the bigger resorts nearby.

The rooms are simple but spacious, with private balconies and large windows that let in loads of natural light. It’s not a luxury stay, but it’s comfortable and has everything you need for an easy beach holiday.

One of the highlights here is the pool, which overlooks the sea and is a really nice spot to unwind after a day out exploring. You’ve also got direct access to the beach, plus activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and windsurfing if you want to get out on the water.

Rooms typically start from around $200 USD per night, which we think is great value for this prime beachfront location. Book your stay here!

Mon Choisy Beach R – $

Mon Choisy Beach R is a great budget-friendly option just steps from one of the best beaches on the North Coast. It’s a simple, self-catering setup, but what really stands out here is the pool, which is honestly better than you’d expect for this price point.

The pool area overlooks Mon Choisy Beach and has plenty of loungers, making it a really nice place to relax between beach time and exploring. For a budget stay, it feels very resort-like, which is a big win if you still want that holiday vibe without spending too much! You’re also just a short drive from Grand Baie, so it’s easy to head out for restaurants or nightlife.

Rooms typically start from around $160 per night, which is excellent value for the location and that pool alone. Check dates and book your stay here!

Want even more great options? Check out all the hotels listed for Mauritius here!

Thanks for reading!

We absolutely loved our time in Mauritius! It’s one of those places that really surprised us with how much there is to see and do beyond the beaches. From hiking Le Morne Brabant to cruising out to tiny islands and eating our way through Port Louis, every day felt completely different in the best way.

Before you hit the waves, we’ve got plenty more Africa blogs here to explore, from where to stay to full itineraries and more must-do experiences. Or check out a few of our favorite travel guides below to spark some ideas!

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