About Mauritius

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Mauritius benefits from a mild climate all year round with an average temperature of 25ºC and a pleasant water temperature suitable for swimming both during summer and winter. Almost all activities you are looking forward to do during your holidays can be made at any time of the year. However, the most agreeable times to visit the island are from April to June and from September to December to avoid the peak of summer and winter, the only two seasons in Mauritius.

Summer in Mauritius lasts from October to April, no spring unlike Europe, with sunlight from 5:30 am to 7 pm at the peak of the season. The heat peaks combined with a high degree of humidity, are felt from December to February, while periods of heavy rainfall are expected in February and March. The Indian Ocean records a cyclonic activity relatively intense each year during this season, but Mauritius, with its small size, is often spared. The buildings have been conceived to withstand strong winds, and you will be safe in your tourist residence. Security protocols have been settled and officials are prepared to deal with cyclones. The rooms are usually air-conditioned for your comfort during the hottest periods. Diving and deep-sea fishing enthusiasts will opt for this time to travel to Mauritius. It is also tropical fruit season, take the opportunity to taste litchis, mangoes, dragon-eye fruit and other delicious local fruits available on the market stalls.

Winter in Mauritius is rather mild with an average temperature of around 22°C. The nights are cooler and the hours of sunlight range from 6:45 to 17:35 during the peak of winter. The months of July and August are the windiest for the greatest pleasure of surfers, kite surfers and windsurfers. The winter sky in the evening is wonderful in Mauritius, perfect for stargazing and watch the Perseids, the annual rendezvous of shooting star enthusiasts in August.

Mauritius also has a microclimate with different temperatures and climatic conditions depending on the region. The centre of the island located on a high plateau, benefits from cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than the coastal zones. There may be a 3 to 5 degree difference between these regions. The North and West of the island are warmer and drier while the East is constantly under the influence of the south-eastern winds, stronger in winter.

CLIMATE

Mauritius is the perfect destination for your holidays under the sun. The island enjoys a pleasant climate with a mild temperature all year round, and only two seasons, summer, from October to April, and winter that extends from May to September. The heat peaks are felt between December and February, always accompanied by a high humidity level, while the lowest temperatures and the strong winds come between July and September. It should be noted that the average temperature in winter is 22ºC…

The coastal regions are warmer and less rainy, while the central plateau, which is 400 to 600 metres above sea level, has a cooler temperature and is also more humid. There is a significant change in temperature between the centre and the coast. The West and North of the island are the warmest and most protected areas, while the East is subject to the south-east trade winds all year round, mild and pleasant in summer, and cooler and stronger in winter.

The rainy season is usually expected in February and strong winds in July and August for the greatest pleasure of sailing and surfing enthusiasts. Since Mauritius is located in the tropics, it is under the threat of cyclones during summer, but the island being small, it is most often spared by the storm trajectories. The buildings have been designed to resist bad weather and officials are all aware of the protocol to apply in time of cyclone – so, you will be safe here in case of a storm!

WHERE TO STAY

When planning your stay in Mauritius, you need to choose which region will suit you best. Although it is a small island, Mauritius benefits from a microclimate and different landscapes and lifestyles depending on the region. Warmer and more touristy in some places while other areas are more preserved and windier. The centre will immerse you in the buzz of Mauritian urban lifestyle. A wide choice of accommodation is available in all regions, from big luxury hotels to boutique-hotels, guest houses and other charming residences.

The North

The North of Mauritius is the most popular tourist area of the country. Tourism took off in this region more than 40 years ago. This part of the island includes the most beautiful sandy beaches protected from the wind all year round, perfect for sunbathing and swimming, like Grand-Bay, Péreybère, Trou aux Biches or Mont Choisy. These seaside villages comprise of a concentration of hotels, various restaurants and all sorts of shops.

For those who are looking for more tranquillity, Cap Malheureux will offer you this feeling of authenticity, with its famous red-roofed chapel, Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice, the whereabouts of the fishermen with their catch of the day and the indolence of life by the sea, facing the northern islands. The villages of Bain Boeuf and Anse la Raie will also appeal to you.

The East

A completely different landscape will be unveiled to you in the eastern part of the country. Beautiful beaches that seem to spread to infinity, small authentic villages and a choice of luxury hotels are available to you there. The East is the windiest part of Mauritius, pleasant in summer and cooler in winter. The beach at Belle Mare is a dream with its stretch of fine sand as far as the eye can see. It is also the region where the Île aux Cerfs is located, a small idyllic island for holidaymakers, with its beautiful beaches, its wide selection of nautical activities and its golf course. The islet is accessible by boat from Trou d'Eau Douce or Pointe Maurice. It can also be part of a catamaran day out in the south-east region.

Further north, Roches-Noires, Bras d'Eau and Poste Lafayette exude tranquillity. Their beaches may not be the most attractive ones, sometimes dangerous in some places, but they form a scenery that will appeal to nature lovers. Bras d'Eau National Park is a call for walks in the forest among endemic trees and protected animals and to reconnect with nature.

Heading south, you will discover a less known aspect of Mauritius, far from postcards. The villages of Trou d'Eau Douce, Beau Champ, Grande-Rivière Sud-Est and Vieux Grand Port will give you unexpected settings between the Grand Port mountain range and the ocean. Do not hesitate to visit the small villages of this region with certain charm.

The West

The west coast is another facet of Mauritius to discover. Protected from the winds and enjoying a mild temperature and low rainfall all year round, it is very similar to the African savanna landscape. Flic-en-Flac, Tamarin and Le Morne are the most popular seaside villages.

Flic-en-Flac is very popular among tourists, especially those who come with their family, with its beautiful beach, its numerous restaurants and street-food trucks, and the proximity to the centre of the island. The village features several large hotels as well as many holiday residences. A few minutes away, the Casela Park proposes to discover a multitude of animals and many activities to practise surrounded by nature. The Black River Gorges National Park is located a few kilometres further south and is home to an extraordinary protected fauna and flora, perfect for rejuvenating in the heart of nature. The marked trails of the park will lead you to the centre of the island, in the region of Plaine Champagne.

Kitesurfing and surfing enthusiasts will obviously opt for the villages of Tamarin and Le Morne, which are very popular with surfers. This region is also home to dolphin populations that can be observed during a catamaran outing or a motor boat trip. Black River is also the privileged place for Big Game fishing. International competitions are held at the beginning of each year.

If you move away from the coast, climb up to Chamarel via Case Noyale, and enjoy the fresh air and authentic atmosphere of this village. Discover the Seven Coloured Earth, the Ebony Forest, the Chamarel Rum Factory, among other places of interest. This road will also take you to the centre, to Grand Bassin, the Ganga Talao, the sacred lake where pilgrims of Hindu faith converge each year. This ancient flooded crater is surrounded by multiple statues of deities and places of worship. You will also be able to meet monkeys who stroll freely there.

The Centre

The centre of the island stands out completely from the coastal region with a cooler climate, being located higher (400-600 meters above sea level) and denser in terms of population. Unexpectedly, it houses a large part of the Mauritian forest and green areas outside the cities. All the towns of the country are located there: Beau-Bassin/Rose-Hill, Quatre-Bornes, Vacoas/Phoenix, and Curepipe. Port-Louis, the capital city, is on the northwest coast.

The towns have a large concentration of shops, clothing fairs and restaurants. Although there is constant activity during the day, cities no longer have activities after 18 hours, except for restaurants. If you are in Rose-Hill for your shopping, you can take a break in the Balfour Garden, a few minutes from the centre for a breath of fresh air and enjoy the view of the gorges.

Shopping in Quatre-Bornes is recommended, especially on Thursdays and Sundays, days for the clothing fair – many good deals to grab! Vacoas is not known for shopping, but more for the Gymkhana golf course, the oldest in the southern hemisphere. The coolest town, Curepipe, is perfect for shopping, with an interesting choice of outlets and souvenir shops. Make a stopover at the botanical garden for a tour in a beautiful park among rare trees, and drive to the top of Trou aux Cerfs, a sleeping volcano crater, to see the centre of the island from above.

The South

Called the Wild South, this part of the island deserves its name. An ocean in continuous motion, impressive cliffs, and sugar cane fields as far as the eye can see and villages that take you back in time, this is the beauty of the region. This part of the island is an invitation to those who want to get closer to nature and local life. It does not have the most beautiful sandy beaches, but is definitely exceptional. Gris-Gris with its steep cliffs and constantly raging waves, Pont Naturel (Natural Bridge), Souillac with its historic remains and the Rochester Falls, Baie du Cap, Bel Ombre and Le Morne with its impressive mountain, are worth staying around.

The road from Macondé to Baie du Cap is a must during your stay in Mauritius. The Macondé promontory overlooking the ocean is one of the most photographed sites of the island. Climb to the top and you will be stunned by the view! La Vanille Park at Rivière des Anguilles is also to be included in your itinerary. You will meet giant turtles and crocodiles and discover a unique insectarium.
On the sea side, the most popular beaches are Blue Bay in Mahebourg, which is also a protected marine park,  St Félix and Le Morne, ideal for the family but also very popular among surf and kitesurf enthusiasts. The region of Mahebourg is rich in history, having long been the main port of the island and witnessed many battles. The waterfront and the small streets of the village will offer you great opportunities to meet the locals.

ACCOMMODATION

Mauritius is renowned worldwide for its exceptional hospitality and hotel service. With different types of accommodation, from luxury resorts to boutique-hotels, guest houses and business hotels, there is a wide choice for all kinds of travellers. All these resorts are driven by a common sense of hospitality and professionalism.

The Mauritian hospitality landscape consists of local and international brands and groups such as Accor, Anantara, Attitude Resorts, Beachcomber, Club Med, Constance Hotels, Four Seasons, Heritage Resorts, Hilton, Indigo Hotels, Intercontinental, The Lux Collective, Marriott, Maritim, Oberoi, One&Only, Radisson Blu, Sofitel, Sun Resorts and Veranda Resorts.

There are also other quality hotels and boutique-hotels that are not part of large groups all around the island. Most hotels are located on the coast with the exception of some business hotels mainly. If you want to get closer to the local community and live like a Mauritian during your stay, you can opt for one of the many guest houses on the island.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

There are 15 annual public holidays In Mauritius. Seven of these are fixed holidays: 1st and 2nd January; 1st February; 12th March; 1st May; 2nd November; and 25th December. The remaining public holidays are religious festivals with dates that vary from year to year.

History of Mauritius

Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. It has a rich history dating back to the 10th century when Arab sailors first visited the island. The island was then uninhabited until the 16th century when the Dutch established a small colony.

In 1715, the French claimed Mauritius and named it Isle de France. The French brought slaves from Africa and Madagascar to work on sugarcane plantations, making Mauritius a prosperous colony. However, in 1810, the British Navy seized control of the island during the Napoleonic Wars.

Under British rule, Mauritius experienced significant economic growth, particularly in the sugarcane industry. The British abolished slavery in 1835 and brought in indentured laborers from India to work on the plantations. This diverse population laid the foundation for the multicultural society that exists in Mauritius today.

Mauritius gained independence from Britain in 1968 and became a republic in 1992. Since then, the country has continued to develop economically, diversifying its economy beyond sugarcane to include tourism, manufacturing, and financial services.

Today, Mauritius is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and political stability. It is considered one of the most developed countries in Africa, with a high standard of living and a strong democratic tradition. The island nation faces challenges such as environmental degradation, income inequality, and political corruption, but it continues to strive for progress and prosperity for its people.

Economy of Mauritius

The economy of Mauritius has undergone significant changes over the years, from being primarily based on agriculture to becoming a diverse and dynamic economy driven by tourism, manufacturing, finance, and information technology.

Historically, Mauritius was known for its sugar industry, which was the mainstay of the economy for many years. The island was colonized by the Dutch, French, and British, all of whom introduced sugar cultivation to the island. By the late 19th century, sugar had become the dominant crop, and Mauritius was known as the "Sugar Island."

However, in the late 20th century, the government of Mauritius began to diversify the economy in order to reduce its dependence on sugar. This diversification was driven by the recognition that the sugar industry was no longer sustainable due to declining prices in the global market and changes in international trade policies.

One of the key sectors that the government focused on developing was tourism. Mauritius is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The government invested heavily in infrastructure and marketing to promote tourism, and today the sector accounts for a significant portion of the country's GDP.

In addition to tourism, Mauritius has also seen significant growth in the manufacturing sector. The government has implemented policies to attract foreign investment and promote local industries, leading to the establishment of a number of manufacturing plants in sectors such as textiles, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. The export-oriented nature of these industries has helped to boost the country's exports and create jobs for the local population.

Another key sector of the Mauritian economy is finance. The country has established itself as a financial hub in the region, attracting a number of international banks and financial institutions. The government has implemented policies to promote the development of the financial sector, including the establishment of a financial services commission to regulate the industry and ensure its stability.

Information technology is another growing sector in Mauritius. The government has invested in infrastructure and training to develop a skilled workforce in IT, leading to the establishment of a number of IT companies and call centers in the country. The government has also implemented policies to attract foreign investment in the sector, further boosting its growth.

Overall, the economy of Mauritius has shown remarkable resilience and growth over the years. The government's focus on diversification and investment in key sectors has helped to create a dynamic and sustainable economy that is less reliant on any one industry. While challenges remain, such as high levels of inequality and unemployment, Mauritius is well positioned to continue its growth and development in the years to come.

Tourism in Mauritius

Mauritius is a picturesque island located in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Tourism has played a significant role in the development of the island, contributing to its economic growth and providing employment opportunities for the local population.

The island's natural beauty and tropical climate attracted Europeans seeking an exotic escape, and soon, hotels and resorts began to spring up along the coastline to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

In the early 20th century, the government of Mauritius recognized the potential of tourism as an economic driver and began to invest in infrastructure and marketing efforts to promote the island as a tourist destination. The construction of an international airport and the development of luxury resorts and golf courses helped to attract affluent travelers from Europe and other parts of the world.

Today, tourism is one of the main pillars of Mauritius's economy, accounting for a significant portion of the country's GDP. The island welcomes millions of visitors each year, drawn by its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports are popular among tourists, as are visits to the island's botanical gardens, nature reserves, and historical sites.

In recent years, Mauritius has also been positioning itself as a luxury destination, catering to high-end travelers looking for exclusive experiences and personalized service. The island boasts a number of world-class hotels and resorts, many of which offer gourmet dining, spa treatments, and private villa accommodations.

In addition to its natural beauty, Mauritius also has a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its cuisine, music, and festivals. Visitors can sample unique Creole dishes, explore the colorful markets of Port Louis, and attend traditional sega dance performances.

Despite its success as a tourist destination, Mauritius faces challenges in sustaining its tourism industry, such as environmental degradation, overdevelopment, and competition from other destinations. The government is taking steps to address these issues by promoting sustainable tourism practices, preserving natural habitats, and diversifying the tourism offerings to attract a wider range of visitors.

In conclusion, tourism has played a crucial role in shaping the economy and culture of Mauritius, contributing to its status as a world-class destination. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, the island continues to enchant travelers from around the globe, ensuring that tourism will remain a vital part of Mauritius's identity for years to come.

Culture of Mauritius

Mauritius has a diverse and vibrant culture that is a reflection of the island's history of colonization and immigration. The population of Mauritius is made up of people of Indian, African, Chinese, and European descent, and this multicultural mix has contributed to the unique cultural landscape of the island.

One of the most prominent aspects of Mauritian culture is its cuisine, which is a fusion of flavors and influences from the island's diverse population. Local dishes such as dholl puri (a type of flatbread), venison curry, and gateau piment (chili cakes) are popular among locals and visitors alike.

In addition to its cuisine, Mauritius is known for its music and dance. Sega is a traditional Mauritian dance that originated from the music and rhythms of African slaves, and is characterized by hip-shaking movements and colorful costumes. Chutney music, which has Indian and Caribbean influences, is also popular in Mauritius and is often played at festivals and celebrations.

Mauritius is home to a number of local festivals that celebrate the island's culture and heritage. One of the most famous festivals is the Thaipoosam Cavadee, which is celebrated by the Tamil community in Mauritius. This festival involves devotees carrying cavadees (wooden structures adorned with flowers and offerings) on their shoulders as they walk to temples to fulfill their vows and seek blessings.

Another popular festival in Mauritius is the Chinese New Year, which is celebrated with dragon dances, fireworks, and traditional Chinese music and dance performances. The Cavadee Festival, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Eid ul-Fitr are also celebrated with great enthusiasm across the island.

Overall, the culture of Mauritius is a vibrant mix of traditions and customs from various ethnic groups, making it a truly unique and multicultural destination.

Street food in Mauritius (Dholl puri, roti and fritters)