Best things to do in Port Louis
Find out more about those top places in Port Louis
Mauritius: Where Paradise Isn't Just a Word (Think Rainbow Waterfalls, Rum That Makes You Smile, and Maybe a Dodo Sighting... Sort Of!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Indian Ocean Dream!
Bonjour from the breathtakingly beautiful island of Mauritius! Seriously, folks, this place isn't just easy to fall in love with; it's practically a full-on, head-over-heels, rom-com-worthy obsession waiting to happen for most who set foot on its sun-kissed shores. Nestled in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, a cool 2,000 km off the southeast coast of Africa, this island might be one of the world's smallest nations (a mere 2,040 km2 – you could probably jog around it in a week... if you're super fit!), but what Mauritius lacks in size, it more than makes up for in sheer, unadulterated beauty.
It's no secret that Mauritius is one of the top destinations for tourists, and honestly, it's not hard to see why. This island is practically overflowing with attractions and activities that will have you extending your vacation faster than you can say "another piña colada, please!" From pristine beaches that look like they've been filtered by angels to lush, emerald-green landscapes that will make your inner nature lover sing, Mauritius is a feast for the senses.
And speaking of feasts, let's dive into some of the major places to visit that should be at the top of your Mauritian bucket list. History buffs and curious minds will be captivated by the Blue Penny Museum, home to some seriously rare and valuable stamps (yes, stamps can be exciting, trust us!). Nature lovers will be mesmerized by the cascading beauty of the Chamarel Waterfalls, where vibrant hues paint the rocks in a natural spectacle that looks like a rainbow decided to take a plunge. And for a poignant journey into the island's past, Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of indentured laborers.
But that's just the tip of the tropical iceberg! Mauritius is also famous for its vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life (perfect for snorkeling and diving!), its rolling sugarcane fields that whisper tales of the island's agricultural heritage (and fuel those delicious rum distilleries!), its charming colonial architecture that adds a touch of European elegance to the tropical setting, and its incredibly warm and welcoming people who will make you feel right at home. And who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of a dodo… in a museum, of course!
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Indian Ocean dream. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring historical museums and marveling at natural wonders to diving into vibrant underwater worlds and indulging in the island's delicious culture, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Mauritius a truly special and hilariously heavenly destination.
Top Attractions: Waterfalls, History, and Stamps That Wow!
Mauritius boasts a diverse range of attractions to captivate every traveler:
Chamarel Waterfalls & Seven Coloured Earth: Nature's Palette
Witness the stunning Chamarel Waterfalls and the unique geological phenomenon of the Seven Coloured Earth, a vibrant landscape of multi-hued dunes. A must-see attraction for your Mauritius sightseeing.
Blue Penny Museum: Philatelic Treasures
Discover rare and valuable stamps, including the famous Blue Penny, at the fascinating Blue Penny Museum in Port Louis. A key place to visit for history buffs and curious minds.
Aapravasi Ghat: A UNESCO Historical Site
Explore Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage site that marks the arrival point of indentured laborers in the 19th century, offering a poignant look into the island's past. A significant place to visit for historical reflection.
Black River Gorges National Park: Nature's Playground
Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of Black River Gorges National Park, offering hiking trails, stunning viewpoints, and the chance to spot endemic wildlife. A top thing to do for nature lovers.
Le Morne Brabant: Iconic Mountain and History
Hike to the summit of the iconic Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking views and a poignant history related to escaped slaves. A challenging but rewarding place to visit for sightseeing and reflection.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this paradise!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Mauritius vibe:
- Relax on Pristine Beaches: Discover the island's numerous stunning beaches, from the lively Grand Baie to the tranquil Belle Mare.
- Go Snorkeling or Diving: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Visit a Rum Distillery: Learn about the rum-making process and sample some of the island's finest spirits.
- Explore the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden: Wander through this beautiful garden with its giant water lilies and exotic plants.
- Indulge in Creole Cuisine: Savor the delicious blend of Indian, African, French, and Chinese flavors.
So, if you're looking for places to visit that offer a slice of paradise with stunning scenery, fascinating history, delicious food, and a whole lot of charm, Mauritius is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to fall head-over-heels – and maybe start planning your return trip before you even leave! À bientôt! (See you soon!)
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Blue Penny Museum
The Blue Penny Museum in Mauritius is dedicated to display the rich heritage of the country. Called the Blue Penny Museum because of its collection of “Post Office” stamps that date as far back as 1847. The Museum exhibits are divided into different rooms such The Age of Discovery and Engraved memory, and they all tell the combined story of Mauritius from precolonial era to modern times. Some items on exhibition include maps, sculptures, paintings and old documents. There is also a shop at the museum for purchasing souvenirs.
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Chamarel Waterfall
Probably Mauritius’s most breath-taking spots, the Chamarel Waterfall showcases the nature brilliance. The waterfall which gets it sources from the River St. Denis has a height of 272ft (82.91 m) and is located in the village of Chamarel, hence the name. Tourist visiting the waterfalls can choose to view the falls by hiking to the top or staying below at the base.
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Aapravasi Ghat
The monumental building played a crucial part in the history of Mauritius. The Aapravasi Ghat was created after abolishing of slavery (1834 -1920) and the sugar plantations owners were seeking cheaper labor. It served as an immigration depot by the British, where indentured laborers were housed before being relocated. Most of the laborers included immigrants from China, India and Madagascar, this is one of the reasons why Mauritius is so diverse population. The Aapravasi Ghat is currently mostly in ruins now and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Maison Eureka
This wonderful piece of architectural brilliance is one of Mauritius oldest colonial buildings. The Maison Eureka located at the river of Moka was built in 1830 and owned by the British and French colonialists. The building is currently used as a museum to display different historical artifacts of Mauritius such as maps, arts and music. Around the buildings are waterfalls, river banks and gardens. After touring this amazing site visit the souvenir shop and “the Old Kitchen” for a taste of the local cuisines.
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Rhumerie de Chamarel Distillery
The island of Mauritius is famous for its rum production and one of its important factories is the Rhumerie de Chamarel Distillery situated in the south western part of Mauritius. A visit usually features a tour of the various parts of the distillery, with brief lectures about the history and production of rum in the country. The main activity is the rum tasting afforded to the visitors.