15 places to visit in Mauritius
Mauritius is renowned for its lush vegetation, crystal clear water and unique monuments. Mountains, gardens, churches or lighthouses: discover the sites not to be missed in Mauritius.
The Morne Brabant, the Black River Mountain
Ranked a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Morne Brabant overlooks the Indian Ocean from its 550m altitude. Main attraction of the Black River district, this unique mountain is the favorite excursion place for hikers. Reserved for experienced walkers, his ascent is difficult but worth a visit. At the top of the Morne Brabant, a breathtaking panorama awaits you. In trekking, hiking or trail running, the course takes 3 to 4 hours. Below, the beach of Morne Brabant will offer you a moment of relaxation after the effort, and will fill those who have renounced the climb. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius, with its white sand and translucent water, it is also the ideal place to enjoy nautical activities.
Return: Le Morne Brabant is located in the municipality of Morne, in the district of Black River. The site is accessible by bus while stopping at « Dinarobin ».
Seven Colored Earths, the park with seven colors of Chamarel
This is one of Mauritius' most popular excursions. Seven Colored Earths Park is a wonder of nature. This rocky hill offers a palette of different colors depending on the sunlight. The waterfall, the giant turtles, and the general atmosphere of the place make it a magical hike.
Go back : Seven Colored Earths Park is located in Chamarel, Black River district, between Le Morne and Case Noyale. It is accessible by car, it is advisable to get there by taxi.
Piton Canot, a view of the West Coast of Mauritius
After Le Morne, this is the second panorama to be seen absolutely from Mauritius. Arriving at the top deserves, if access is free, the climb is difficult and the paths steep. Throughout the hike you can admire the unique vegetation of the island: flowers, trees, undergrowth. Once above, the west coast of Mauritius offers to you with, in the background, Le Morne.
Go back : The early hike next to the restaurant Le Chamarel, parking is available for parking.
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Great Basin, the volcanic lake « Ganga Talao »
Grand Bassin is one of the pilgrimage sites of the Hindu community of Mauritius. There are four Hindu temples: Shiv Mandir, Lord Shiva, Pari Talao and Ganga Talao, and huge pink stone statues have been erected there. Lake Grand Bassin is a unique, quiet and relaxing place. A path turns it around, and you can see monkeys at large.
Go back Grand Bassin is located in Savanne district, south of Mauritius. To get there, take the Bois Chéri road, also accessible by bus. Large car parks are planned to accommodate tourists and pilgrims.
Trou aux Cerfs, the former volcano of Mauritius
Emblem of Mauritius, Trou aux Cerfs is a volcanic crater bordered by greenery. Water formed in its center to create a lake, surrounded by dense forest. It is not possible to go down to the lake, but the panorama is worth a visit.
Go back : Between Floréal and Camp Caval, a few minutes from Curepipe, Trou aux Cerfs is accessible by car, walking or bus, stopping at the station « Darne ».
Our Lady Helper, the church of Cap Malheureux
Represented on many postcards of Mauritius, the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Church is located on the northern tip of Mauritius. Back to the bay, this red roofed building is one of the most authentic attractions on the island. It is loaded with history and is located in front of a fishing beach, 10 minutes from Grand Baie.
Go back : The Church of Our Lady Auxiliatrice of Cap Malheureux is accessible via the B13 along the coast of Rivière du Rempart.
Crystal Rock, the crystal rock of Mauritius
Opposite the island of the Bientiers, the crystal rock – made of volcanic rock – is one of the must-see places in Mauritius.
Transparent water, overlooking the Morne, the place is also renowned for its nautical activities. In particular, we swim with dolphins!
Go back : The crystal rock is accessible by boat from Morne Bay and island to the bentiers.
The Botanical Garden of Grapemousse (Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam)
It is the most famous botanical garden in Mauritius. Neslon Mandela, Indira Gandhi, or François Mitterrand planted a tree among the park's unique plant species. 95 varieties of palm trees, baobab, talipot, victoria amazonica... but also animals will punctuate your visit.
Go back : The Pamplemousse Botanical Garden is open daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm and accessible by car or bus.
House Eureka, vestige of the colonial era
In the Moka district, the Eureka House is an ancient master house full of history. Visits to the house, gardens and the service of a traditional Mauritian lunch are possible. A true museum, the Eureka house is furnished with photos and antique furniture. On its grounds you can admire gardens, waterfalls and river.
Go back : The visit of the Eureka house, its garden and waterfalls is paid (10€ for adults, 6€ for children. )
It is accessible from Mount Ory Road,
Northwestern Mauritius.
Aapravasi Ghat, historic monument of Port-Louis
Aapravasi Ghat has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006.
Located in Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, the site gathers the remains of an immigration centre created following the abolition of slavery. It represents the arrival of « first workers » Indian contract in Mauritius, which became a holiday for Mauritians.
Go back : The Aapravasi Ghat site is easily accessible by bus (Immigration Square Station), by car, and even by foot, as it is located in downtown Port Louis.
Natural Bridge, a must-see attraction in Grand Port
To the south of the Grand Port district, the Mauritius Natural Bridge consists of volcanic stones. Created by erosion, it is a must-see attraction for lovers of nature and authenticity. No sandy beach, but an expedition in the heart of the cliffs to admire this out-of-town show.
It is possible to cross the bridge with vigilance, with strong winds making the route dangerous.
Go back : The Natural Bridge of Mauritius is accessible by the school village or the village of Trois Boutiques. The path to get there is ideal for nature lovers.
St. Gabriel Cathedral of Rodrigues, built by parishioners
Located on the island of Rodrigues, in the east of Mauritius, the Cathedral of St.Gabriel impresses with its unique architecture. It is the largest cathedral in the Indian Ocean, and its history is unique. Built by the parishioners themselves, his visit is a must.
Go back : To reach the island of Rodrigues, you must take La Trochetia, the ferry makes the crossing in 36 hours. It is also possible to fly there from Sir Seewoosagur-Ramgoolam International Airport in 1h30.
Albion Lighthouse, the iconic lighthouse of Mauritius
The village of Albion is a natural setting close to Gros Cailloux, on the coast. Its desert reliefs, rocks, and lighthouse make it a different place from Mauritius' tourist towns. The Albion Lighthouse is open to visitors upon presentation of an identification document, by the guard himself. It offers a panoramic view of the island, as impressive by day as by night.
Go back : The Albion lighthouse is located in the north of the village. It is possible to get there by bus, going down to the Terminus da Albion and making the rest of the journey by foot, but it is better to reach it by car.
The Tamil Surya Oudaya Sangam Temple of Grand Bay
It is one of the most impressive Hindu temples in Mauritius. The Tamil Surya Oudaya Sangam Temple captive by its colors, and the precision of its details. It is decorated with dozens of statuettes dedicated to Ganesh and Muruga, emblematic figures of Hindu and Tamil culture. It is possible to visit it with the keeper of the temple.
Go back : The temple is located at the boundary between the district of Rivière du Rempart and that of Pamplemousses, bordering the D13. It is accessible from Grand Bay.
The Temple of Triolet Maheswarnath Mandir
The Maheswarnath Mandir Hindu temple in Triolet, near Trou aux Biches, is the largest in Mauritius. Dedicated to Shiva, it is characterized by its pastel colours and minimalist spirit for such a construction. Renovated in 2006, it inspires peace and tranquility. The guide will show you around.
Go back : The temple is accessible by bus, at the Triolet terminus, by foot from the city centre of Triolet, or by car.
