Mauritius - more than just a beach

There’s no denying it, Mauritius is home to beautiful white sandy beaches, but what surprised me during my visit was how much more it had to offer. Located just east to Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, for a relatively small island (you can drive from north to south in just a couple of hours), there is so much to see and do and the landscapes change dramatically. The south is lush and mountainous and home to the mighty Le Morne Brabant and the north is renowned for its beaches, vibrant towns and flatter terrain used for agriculture. So what makes Mauritius stand out from the Maldives, Seychelles and Caribbean? It’s history What captivated me most during my visit was the rich and intriguing colonial history of Mauritius, particularly its strong French influences. While English is the official language and the school curriculum is taught in English, much of the media -including television, newspapers, and radio - functions primarily in French. This goes back to 1710 when the French established control over the island, bringing with them slaves from Senegal. This period gave rise to the Creole language - a blend of African dialects and French - which remains widely spoken today. In 1810, the British launched an attack from the north and took control of Mauritius. They allowed the French residents to remain, permitting them to continue speaking both French and Creole. Mauritius subsequently gained independence in 1968, but its colonial legacy continues to shape its identity and culture to this day. Things to do and see in Mauritius If you're considering a visit to Mauritius, here are my top 10 activities to enjoy: 1. Zip lining in Vallée des Couleurs Natural Park - Whether you're a beginner starting with the shorter 500m line or an adrenaline seeker looking to explore the Extreme Valley Tour which spans an impressive 3,100m, there’s something for everyone. 2. Helicopter ride over the mesmerising ‘Underwater waterfall’ located on the south west coast - This unique optical illusion makes it seem as if a huge waterfall is falling into the ocean’s depths from beneath the surface. 3. Hiking at Tamarind Nature Reserve and Black Gorges - Embark on a day-long hike through Tamarind Canyon in the Tamarind Nature Reserve, featuring 11 stunning waterfalls and natural pools for a refreshing dip. Alternatively, explore the breath-taking trails and bike paths around Black Gorges for an unforgettable day immersed in nature. 4. Seven Coloured Earths at Chamarel - a geological wonder made up of mineral clay formed from basaltic lava. The best time to see the sands is sunrise, when the light bounces off the dunes to create a spectacular light show. 5. Dolphin and whale watching boat tours - Mauritius is home to two different species of whales: sperm whales that reside year-round and humpback whales, which migrate to the shores from May to September to feed and nurture their calves. 6. Kitesurfing - Known as one of the best kitesurfing destinations in the world Mauritius offers reliable winds and a great variety of conditions that cater to all levels of kite surfers. 7. Hiking Le Morne Brabant - Classified as a UNESCO world heritage site, Le Morne is an impressive mountain standing at 555 metres altitude in the South-West of Mauritius. With cliffs that plunge down to a magnificent beach with an incredible panoramic view, Le Morne is one of the most iconic spots in Mauritius. The hikes takes approximately three hours and holds historical significance as a refuge for escaped slaves. 8. Grand Bassin - this sacred site is a significant place for the Indian community, featuring a beautiful lake and temples. 9. Wildlife encounters at Ile aux Aigrettes - If you’re interested in wildlife the animal sanctuary of Ile aux Aigrettes allows you to get close to species such as kestrels and giant tortoises. Between July and November, you can also sport a variety of whales just a short boat ride from the coast. 10. Golfing - With over 12 golf courses, including championship courses designed by renowned golfers like Ernie Els and Bernhard Langer, Mauritius offers stunning beachfront locations and ocean views for golf enthusiasts. Where I Stayed I had the pleasure of staying at Anantara IKO Mauritius, a stunning resort that opened in 2019. Conveniently located just 7 minutes from the airport, it’s an ideal spot for guests who want to avoid long car rides while exploring the southern part of the island. Before arriving, I had some concerns about potential noise from planes flying overhead while I relaxed by the pool. However, I’m happy to report that this was not an issue at all. There were only a handful of flights departing during the day, and they flew west of the property—not above it—making the location a definite advantage after a long journey. During my stay at Anantara, I indulged in some incredible dining experiences. From sushi to Indian cuisine, every meal was fantastic. One of the highlights was a trip to the local market in Mahebourg with the hotel’s chef. We returned to the hotel for a cooking lesson and enjoyed a delicious lunch featuring the fresh ingredients we had selected. I stayed in an Ocean View room. For those travelling with friends or family, the hotel also offers two-bedroom and four-bedroom villas, complete with private swimming pools and kitchen areas—perfect for multi-generational gatherings. When is the Best Time to Go? Mauritius has a tropical climate year-round, with its summer being October to May, peaking in January and February. However daytime temperatures rarely drop below 22°C. I visited in November, encountering brief rain, but the weather can change quickly. The best time to visit is from May to December for cooler, dry, and sunny conditions. While January and February attract peak tourism, they are also the hottest months and you may prefer the cooler climate. Final word Mauritius is more than just a beach destination; it’s a vibrant blend of culture, history, and adventure. With stunning landscapes and a rich colonial past, the island offers unique experiences for every traveller. Whether ziplining through lush valleys, enjoying the diverse cuisine, or participating in local festivals, Mauritius guarantees an unforgettable visit. Pack your bags and get ready to explore this Indian Ocean paradise! If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius, contact me today for personalised assistance and recommendations. I can’t wait to return to this beautiful island!