A sensory overload of flavours greets me in the lively capital of Port Louis in Mauritius. Standing at the Le Caudan Waterfront, the promenade is covered with a canopy of whimsical umbrellas that shelter a motley crowd of tourists and locals from the sweltering sun. Strains of music can be heard from the cafes and restaurants as the atmospheric district is filled with boutiques and stalls selling crafts and souvenirs.
I am on a road trip in Mauritius and my journey starts at the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO Heritage Site in Port Louis where it all began with the poignant lives of the indentured labourers, There are many monuments and museums in the capital, including the quaint Postage and Blue Penny Museums, the National History Museum and the National Maritime Museum, housed in the iconic Port-Louis Citadel. The Central Market adds to the kaleidoscopic array of colours as I soak in the local ethos. Port Louis is the very nucleus of the island nation, blending in historic charm and island vibes but there is so much more to discover in Mauritius.
My journey continues as I crisscross the island soaking in the natural beauty, and savouring the local cuisine while listening to many stories. If you are planning a road trip around the island, then here is a comprehensive itinerary for you with a list of fascinating places to see and things to do in Mauritius.
Places to see in South Mauritius
Every region in Mauritius is so distinct from the others, despite the beaches being a constant motif. And in the South, as you take in the coastal vibes, the beaches here seem far more picturesque, hemmed in by volcanic cliffs. Lose yourself in the pristine natural beauty of the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, the Blue Bay Marine Park where you can snorkel and dive into the turquoise waters, and admire the views at Pont Naturel, a volcanic rock formation on the ocean. My personal favourite is the little islet of Ile Aux Aigrettes where you can hike with a naturalist and spot the endangered Mauritius Fody, the Pink Pigeon and the Giant Aldabra Tortoises. Head to beaches like Pomponette and Riambel, refresh yourself at the Rochester Falls, Cascade Leon and Le Souffleur water springs and take a leisurely drive around the tea plantation trail. The South is also home to the sacred Lake of Ganga Talao also known as the Grand Bassin, where a 33-metre-high statue of Lord Shiva towers over the lake, blessing the island.
Places to see in East Mauritius
Lagoons, beaches, national parks and traditional fishing villages – there is so much beauty around as I drive towards the East. The scenery urges you to slow down. Stroll around the Belle Mare Beach which has one of the longest stretches of white sands. Take a catamaran on a lazy day to islands like Ile aux Cerfs where you can even play a round of golf. Savour the languid vibes of the traditional fishing village of Trou d’Eau Douce and enjoy the cuisine. The vibrant market at Central Flacq is a pleasant assault on your senses.
If you are feeling a tad bit adventurous then climb Lion Mountain, and go hiking in the dense La Vallée de Ferney, a biodiversity hotspot with native Mauritian forest. Another unspoilt nature reserve is the Bras d’Eau National Park, a bird watcher’s paradise. You can even spot ancient ruins here as you potter around the towering ancient ebony trees.
Places to see in West Mauritius
The Wild West is my personal favourite as it’s a riveting region filled with UNESCO Heritage Sites where you can hike in the woods, scuba dive in the oceans, experience kite surfing and chase waterfalls. You will even find an underwater cascade, an optical illusion best viewed from a seaplane. Hike the two UNESCO sites – the iconic Le Morne Brabant, the towering symbol of resistance to slavery and explore the secrets of the Black River Gorges National Park which has over 50 km of trails. But if beaches lure you then kitesurfing on the Le Morne and snorkelling at Crystal Rock should be on your itinerary. Admire the views at Phare d’ Albion Lighthouse, lose yourself in Chamarel Waterfalls and gorge on delicious street food at Tamarin Bay.
Places to see in Central Mauritius
As you head towards the North of the island, take a short detour passing through the central heartland of the island where mountains give you company. Hike the Le Pouce Mountain for sweeping views of Port Louis or scale the imposing Pieter Both Mountain with a local guide.
The colonial flavour can be experienced in the sprawling mansions and plantations as you can tour the historic Le Domaine des Aubineaux or visit the museum at Eureka House. Golfers throng the Gymkhana Club while shoppers head to the malls and markets for a quick break before continuing the journey.
Places to see in North Mauritius
And finally, we are at the vibrant North, known for its mansions, museums and malls. And there are the fascinating Northern Islands including the Ilot Gabriel and Coin de Mire where you can scuba dive, snorkel and just soak in the sun and sand. Back on the mainland, it’s time for some rest and relaxation. Step back in time at the Château de Labourdonnais where you can taste some rum as well, feel the bygone era at the quaint red-roofed church at Cap Malheureux, read all about the history of sugar and sugarcane at the L’Aventure du Sucre and soak in the buzz at Grand Baie’s where the bars and restaurants are pulsating with life after sunset. Sip a cocktail, dance your blues away and relax by the ocean after a long drive around the island.
