Mauritius never ceases to amaze the whole world! As well as its majestic landscapes, its stunning beaches and its generous inhabitants, you’ll soon find a place in the sun through the best summer activities available in Mauritius.
Begin with the Basics: Beach Days
Even if it’s as old as time, days at the beach are always the best in summer. You can never get enough of them! During your holiday in Mauritius, we recommend that you try out the island’s most beautiful beaches. Each beach has a unique and undeniable asset that will amaze you.
Start early in the morning with a gentle wake-up call. You can’t always boast of being able to admire the sunrise, with beaches covered in golden lights. Belle Mare beach is ideal for this breathtaking experience. The fine sand, still fresh beneath your feet, contrasts incredibly with the crystal-clear waters that stretch as far as the eye can see.
During the day, indulge in a picnic by the water, under a parasol or in the shade of the
Casuarina Equisetifolia, also known as Filao trees. You’ll find local kiosks or beach restaurants where you can taste typical Mauritian dishes. The choice is endless: gâteau piment, grilled fish, dholl puri, fried noodles and much more. In the afternoon, you’re free to relax on a sun lounger or in the shade of the coconut palms. A little relaxation doesn’t hurt during the first few days of your stay.
As the sun begins to sink over the horizon, settle down to admire one of the most beautiful sunsets the island has to offer. Flic en Flac or Tamarin Bay are perfect spots to watch this natural show. Let yourself be carried away by the beauty of the moment!
Boat Trips in the Middle of Summer
Catamaran Cruises in Mauritius
Catamaran cruises in Mauritius remain among the most popular activities for holidaymakers. You’ll be dazzled by the undeniable beauty of the lagoons and brightly painted landscapes. These excursions offer a day of relaxation and adventure at sea, with frequent departures from popular points such as Grand Baie, Black River, or Trou d’Eau Douce.
Stop off at picturesque islands such as Île aux Cerfs, Île aux Gabriel or Île aux Bénitiers, where you can swim, snorkel or simply enjoy the white sandy beaches. Some cruises, especially from the west coast, offer the unique opportunity to see dolphins in the open sea.
Perfect for a romantic getaway or a family day out, catamaran cruises allow you to relax and admire the seascapes and turquoise waters.
Dolphin Watching
For those who don’t like to get up early, we promise that the experience is well worth it! The excursion starts very early in the morning, between 6 and 7 o’clock, as this is the ideal time to observe the dolphins in their natural habitat.
Once aboard the boat, you’ll sail gently towards the areas where the dolphins are often spotted. Once there, you can watch the dolphins swim in groups. Some excursions also allow you to swim with the dolphins in their natural environment. If you choose this option, you will be given a mask, snorkel and flippers to dive into the water at a distance that respects the dolphins. It’s important to follow the guides’ instructions so as not to interrupt the life of the dolphins and to observe them in complete freedom.
Water Sports and Underwater Activities in Mauritius
Snorkelling and Scuba Diving
All you need for snorkelling is a mask, snorkel and flippers. This exceptional activity lets you discover coral reefs and marine life. For a moment, you’ll become one with the flora and fauna.
For scuba diving enthusiasts, Mauritius offers spectacular dive sites suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike. PADI-certified dive centres such as those in Flic en Flac, Grand Baie and Belle Mare organise guided expeditions to explore deep coral reefs, wrecks and underwater caves.
Kitesurfing and Windsurfing
Kitesurfing is an activity not to be missed in summer. The best spot for it is in Le Morne, in the south-west of the island. This activity is practised in protected lagoons, which are perfect for beginners, while the waves further offshore are suitable for experienced kitesurfers. The constant wind, especially between June and September, guarantees ideal climate conditions for a dynamic kitesurfing session.
As for windsurfing, renowned spots such as Le Morne and Belle Mare are excellent places to learn or perfect your skills. These two water sports allow you to take full advantage of the island’s crystal-clear lagoons and perfect winds.
Underwater Sea Walk
Go for a unique and accessible experience with underwater walking. This popular activity in Mauritius takes place in shallow waters, where you walk on the ocean floor wearing a diving helmet that allows you to breathe normally.
After a briefing by the professionals who will accompany you, you can admire the coral reefs, colourful tropical fish and other marine creatures, while keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground. This exercise will introduce you to a whole new world of possibilities.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddling is a relaxing activity accessible to all, perfect for exploring the lagoons and coasts of Mauritius.
The aim of this activity, which is more popular in summer, is to stand up on a large board and paddle, gliding gently across the blue waters of Mauritius. This allows you to enjoy the sea while getting some exercise. Relaxing, stand-up paddling is often found in Blue Bay, Trou aux Biches and Le Morne.
Fishing and Deep-Sea Fishing
Deep-sea fishing in Mauritius is a very popular activity, ideal for thrill-seekers and sea adventurers. The island is surrounded by rich waters, making it a prime destination for this type of fishing. Common species caught include tuna, blue marlin, bonito and sea bream. Trips are organised all year round, with a peak season from November to April. Several operators offer fully equipped boat trips, and fishermen can choose from half-day or full-day options.
Exploring the Wildlife of Mauritius
Casela Nature Park
Not far from Flic en Flac is the Casela Nature Park, a magnificent place where you can discover several species of animals, as well as a wide variety of activities for all the family.
Take a 4×4 or quad safari across vast plains to see animals such as zebras, ostriches, antelopes, giraffes and rhinoceroses. You’ll also find exotic birds and impressive felines on your excursion.
Spice up your visit and try your hand at adventure by flying over magnificent landscapes on zip-lines and suspension bridges. You’ll have an uninterrupted view of the entire adventure park. It’s the perfect opportunity to take some great pictures and share them with family and friends.
La Vanille Nature Park
Vanille Nature Park, located in the south of Mauritius at Rivière des Anguilles, is an animal and botanical park famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises and crocodiles, which you can observe in secure enclosures.
This is an exciting way to discover local and exotic wildlife in a tropical setting, while raising awareness of species conservation. Not only is the park home to more than 1,000 turtles, some of which are decades old, but it also boasts one of the world’s largest insectariums, with a vast collection of butterflies and insects from the four corners of the globe.
Children can also discover animals housed in a mini-farm, including deer, monkeys and iguanas. Vanille Nature Park is a special place that offers an immersive experience in nature.
Horseback Riding in Mauritius
Horse riding in Mauritius is a fantastic way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from idyllic beaches to forests and nature reserves. These rides are suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders, with itineraries adapted to different levels.
One of the most popular experiences is a horseback ride along the beaches of Le Morne or Riambel. These rides offer breathtaking views of the ocean and are particularly popular at sunrise or sunset.
Some excursions take place in nature parks such as La Vieille Cheminée in Chamarel. Children can have a lovely morning out, in a serene and authentic atmosphere, while enjoying horse-riding.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Le Morne Brabant
Morne Brabant is a symbolic mountain, full of memories for Mauritians. It used to be home to runaway slaves. Many lost their lives here.
However, this imposing mountain is one of the greatest challenges that visitors from all over the world can take on. The hike up Morne Brabant takes around 3 to 4 hours round trip. The first part of the trail is moderate, with well-marked paths and dense vegetation. The second part becomes more difficult, with steeper slopes and some rock-climbing, particularly near the summit. We recommend an experienced guide who can travel with you. Not only will he know the best spots for magnificent views, but he will also be able to advise you about safety.
Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with an indescribable panoramic view of the south-west coast, lagoons, beaches and surrounding mountains.
Black River Gorges National Park
Renowned for its lush landscapes, deep gorges, waterfalls and exceptional biodiversity, the Black River Gorges National Park is the largest national park in Mauritius.
Enjoy beautiful walks on hiking trails, where you will discover spectacular landscapes, gorges and waterfalls such as Alexandra Falls. You’ll be exposed to a variety of species, including Mauritius kestrels, deer and monkeys.
Covering some 6,500 hectares, Black River Gorges National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers, offering both outdoor adventure and immersion in Mauritius’ rich biodiversity.
Tamarind Falls (7 Cascades)
The Tamarind Falls, also known as the 7 Cascades, are a series of gorgeous waterfalls located near the village of Henrietta. Renowned for the beauty of its natural pools, the Tamarind Falls offer several levels of hiking, from easy to more technical, with trails passing through rainforest, rivers and rocks. You can choose to visit one or more of the seven waterfalls.
After a long and worthwhile walk, you’ll be free to cool off and take a dip in the refreshing waterfalls. This site is the perfect opportunity to disconnect and recharge your batteries.
Seaplane Tours
People often say that love is in the air, so why not enjoy a little romantic getaway, just the two of you? Take a seaplane flight over the island’s land and sea for a unique experience that offers an incredible illusion of the underwater waterfall, not far from Le Morne Brabant.
This impressive activity gives you a close-up view of the reefs, mountains and beaches, a unique and rewarding adventure that must be done at least once in a lifetime! There’s nothing quite as thrilling as a beautiful ride through the air, and it can also be an excellent occasion for an unusual marriage proposal!
Cultural Visits in Mauritius
Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
Let yourself be seduced by giant water lilies, a beautiful lotus pond and a breathtaking garden in Pamplemousses, in the north of the island.
The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden covers around 33 hectares and is a must-see for nature lovers. It houses a collection of plant species from all over the world, including palms, tropical trees and plants endemic to Mauritius. The talipot palm, which only flowers once every 30 to 80 years before dying, is one of the most remarkable trees in this exceptional place.
You will also find spice trees such as nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon, which bear witness to the island’s historical importance in the spice trade.
The garden also contains monuments such as the bust of Pierre Poivre, the French botanist who initiated the creation of the garden in the 18th century, and a monument in honour of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, former Prime Minister of Mauritius. A peaceful and magnificent place, well worth a visit.
L’Aventure du Sucre
L’Aventure du Sucre, located in Beau Plan near Pamplemousses, is much more than just a museum. It’s an interactive experience that plunges visitors into the fascinating history of sugar cane, a central part of Mauritius’ heritage.
The sugar factory, transformed into an exhibition space, invites visitors to discover the evolution of sugarcane growing, its economic and social importance, and its many applications, from sugar production to rum-making. The tour is punctuated by models, videos and interactive animations to make the visit fun and instructive.
There is also a souvenir shop where you can buy different types of Mauritian sugar, local jams and artisanal products. In addition, the Le Fangourin restaurant offers cuisine inspired by local flavours, for an authentic meal with a view of the surrounding mountains and gardens.
L’Aventure du Sucre is a must for those wishing to gain a better understanding of Mauritian culture, while enjoying an immersive and educational visit.
Veranda Resorts
Imagine a summer vacation in Mauritius where you can explore thrilling activities with your tribe or savour some quiet time to recharge. Veranda Resorts has got you covered with its exciting summer lineup.
Veranda Pointe aux Biches
Find your haven at Veranda Pointe aux Biches hotel, uniquely positioned near Trou aux Biches beach, overflowing with outdoor activities that are equal parts thrilling and rejuvenating. Whether you’re a curiosity-driven explorer or a family seeking quality time, the fun never fades.
With kids, the next great escapade is always just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Veranda Pointe aux Biches is where kids can let their imagination run wild at our Timomo kids’ club, surrounded by our caring team who’ll keep them safe and engaged with a host of exciting activities on the beach, by the pool, or in the lagoon – designed for kids aged 3 to 11.
As the kids play and laugh, take a moment for yourself at the Seven Colours spa, where expert therapists will work their magic to ease tension, soothe your soul, and leave you feeling revitalised. From this serene haven, drink in the breathtaking ocean views that unfold before you.
Veranda Paul et Virginie
The Veranda Paul et Virginie hotel is designed for an experience centred on romance. The colonial-inspired architecture and decoration, combined with panoramic ocean views, create the perfect setting for couples. The hotel offers a variety of activities, from culinary workshops to cycling tours around the north-east of the island. Couples can also enjoy boat trips or romantic spa sessions for an even more memorable experience.
Veranda Palmar Beach
The Veranda Palmar Beach Hotel is a charming three-star hotel located on the east coast of Mauritius, in Belle Mare. Ideal for families, couples and groups of friends, this hotel offers a friendly and authentic seaside experience with a magnificent white sandy beach and turquoise lagoon.
It offers a wide range of water and land-based activities, such as:
- Water sports: diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing.
- Swimming pool: A large outdoor pool, ideal for relaxing
- Excursions and local activities: Tours of the island, boat trips, bike rides and catamaran cruises can be organised.
Veranda Tamarin
Veranda Tamarin is particularly focused on exploration, relaxation and outdoor activities, with a wide variety of options.
Famous for its waves, Tamarin is ideal for surfing enthusiasts. Our three-star hotel provides surf and paddle sessions for all levels. For scuba diving enthusiasts, the crystal-clear waters of the west coast offer the perfect spots to discover the underwater flora and fauna. You can also take advantage of boat trips to observe dolphins in their natural habitat or take a sunset cruise.
Yoga sessions are also available for those looking to reconnect and relax.
Veranda Grand Baie
The Veranda Grand Baie Hotel is a four-star hotel located in the famous seaside resort of Grand Baie, in the north of Mauritius. It is ideally placed to offer guests a vibrant and authentic island experience, with a tropical atmosphere and easy access to the shops, restaurants and nightlife of Grand Baie.
The hotel offers a wide variety of activities for its guests, whether for relaxation, adventure or well-being. Indulge in wellness treatments and massages inspired by local traditions, ideal for unwinding after a day of activities, at the Seven Colours Spa. You can also enjoy glass-bottom boat trips to observe marine life, jogging sessions, pedalos, kayaking, petanque, golf at the Heritage Golf Club, deep-sea fishing, water-skiing and much more. Choose the activity that suits you best and Veranda Resorts will take care of everything!
