More than a Bounty island: the 8 golden tips for anyone wanting to go to Mauritius
Mauritius: a dream destination. The worst part is, sorry, I've already been there twice. After my last trip, I got to know Mauritius even better. The white sandy beaches with sunsets, the friendly people, the beautiful hotels (from nicely affordable to super luxurious, decadent, and trendy) and the delicious food... Enough reasons to put Mauritius on your bucket list.
But it offers so much more than that. It is an island full of history, culture, and natural wonders.
Mauritius is a small island with about one and a half million inhabitants. It is located in the Indian Ocean and belongs to one of the African countries.
The originally volcanic island, first inhabited in 1598 by Dutch sailors, is named after Prince Maurits (the brother of William of Orange). After colonization by the Dutch, the French and later the British took over. Due to this history, the island has interesting architecture (colonial houses) and culture. The main religion is Hinduism (52 percent), which you can see everywhere in the most beautiful colorful temples (about 150) across the island.
The volcanic soil of Mauritius has made the island particularly fertile, allowing you to see the most unexpected nature. In some places, you feel like you're in scenes from Jungle Book.
Tips for your visit to Mauritius:
1. Visit the Northern Islands by catamaran. This excursion is one you really shouldn't miss!
2. Book a street food tour in the capital Port Louis for the tastiest local culinary dishes. Don't eat anything beforehand so you can fully enjoy all the flavors.
3. Book a day trip with lunch to Île aux Cerfs. This island is a paradise on earth. More information: Île aux Cerfs Leisure Island.
4. Take an authentic Mauritian cooking class with legend Marie Michelle. A unique culinary experience (early reservation necessary). More information: Marie Michelle Cooking Workshop.
5. Visit the Grand Bassin. This sacred lake, located 500 meters high, is surrounded by various Hindu temples. It is a colorful and serene place where you are welcomed by the 33-meter-high Shiva. A visit to the Grand Bassin is free.
6. Dine in the romantic colonial Le Château Bel Ombre. As if you step right into the 19th century. It offers one of the most luxurious dining experiences in Mauritius. More information: Le Château de Bel Ombre.
7. Visit the seven colored earth in Chamarel. In this small area with sand dunes, you see a spectacular volcanic natural phenomenon with seven colors. Although the origin is still a subject of debate, it resembles a volcanic eruption that has oxidized, creating the beautiful colors. More information: Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth.
8. Underwater Waterfall. We had the privilege of viewing this waterfall from a helicopter. And what a bizarre flight that was. This optical underwater waterfall is an illusion. What you see is real, but a waterfall underwater is impossible. Due to the strong currents in the Indian Ocean, the sand from the southwest coast is pulled away.
Snorkeling: a vacation in Mauritius is not complete if you don't go snorkeling at least once. We did this at Marine Discovery Center, part of Attitude Hotel, but it can also be booked separately. Sustainability is highly valued across the island, and you can see and learn about this, among other things, at Marine Discovery Center, where they tell you more about the rich biodiversity underwater, as well as all the programs and research they are involved in daily. The boat you will sail on has a glass bottom, allowing you to see a bizarre colorful underwater world.
Do you want to start or end your trip in absolute luxury? Then Jet Prime is the ultimate experience for you, perhaps even a perfect gift idea for a honeymoon. Luxury at its best: you are directly escorted from the plane to a luxury external location (about a five-minute drive) where you can enjoy champagne, fresh fruit, and delicious snacks. Meanwhile, your luggage is picked up from the conveyor belt and taken to Jet Prime. Jet Prime also ensures a perfect experience for your return trip: no airport visit but directly to Jet Prime, no check-in worries; customs formalities and check-in are all arranged on-site while you relax in peace and luxury. Just remember to make a reservation (Jet Prime).
Last free tip: book a package deal. It is often much cheaper than separate flights and hotels. Mauritius doesn't have to be the most expensive vacation, but plan it well.
The best time to go has always been from April to June and from September to December, but don't forget: due to global warming, the climate there is changing, so you can actually expect good weather in Mauritius all year round.
