You may think that Mauritius is small and that there is little to discover here, but this magnificent island holds hidden treasures that will fill you with admiration. To give you a glimpse of the first things you absolutely must experience, we have put together a detailed list that tells you why Mauritius is so famous. Savour them even before you can admire them up close!
THE UNDERWATER WATERFALL
It is often said that the eyes never lie, but here, it is the exception to the rule. Discover the Underwater waterfall in Mauritius. This optical illusion is known for its beauty and uniqueness. Located in Le Morne Peninsula, this unrealistic yet spectacular phenomenon occurs when the sand and fine soil are carried over a sudden edge in the sea floor, giving the illusion of a waterfall when seen from above. This blend of dark blue, turquoise and green blends perfectly with each other, providing an indescribable experience for anyone who is lucky enough to take this seaplane tour.
• Best way to see it : The illusion is only clear from above, so a seaplane, helicopter, or even a drone gives the best view.
• When to visit : Go on clear, calm days. Early mornings and sunny afternoons show off the brightest colors.
• Nearby attractions: Ne manquez pas la montagne du Morne Brabant, les lagons alentours et les magnifiques plages de la péninsule.
LE MORNE BRABANT, A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Rising proudly on the southwest coast of Mauritius, Le Morne Brabant is a mountain, but also a symbol of resilience and history. This striking basaltic peak is surrounded by lagoons, offering breathtaking walks and panoramic views of the island. Beyond its natural beauty, Le Morne carries deep cultural importance, as it served as a refuge for enslaved people in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Today, it is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honouring both its natural charm and historical legacy.
• Best way to experience it : Walk to the summit to sweep the island views or admire it from the beaches and lagoons at its base
• When to visit : Early mornings are cooler and offer the clearest skies for photographs.
• Nearby attraction : Combine your visit with water activities in the lagoon or a trip to the nearby Underwater Waterfall illusion.
Disclaimer: Walking to the top can be physically demanding and is best done with a licensed guide. Always check weather conditions before planning your trip.
CHAMAREL SEVEN COLOURED EARTH
In the village of Chamarel, visitors will find one of Mauritius’s most unusual natural landmarks. The Seven Coloured Earth is a series of small earth dunes that appear striped with shades of red, brown, blue, green and purple. What makes it remarkable is that the colours remain vivid year-round, even after heavy rain. It may not cover a huge area, but the shifting tones under the sunlight give it a striking and memorable character. A visit often includes spotting the resident giant tortoises nearby, which adds to the experience.
• Best way to experience it : Walk along the raised paths for clear views of the coloured earth and pause to notice how the colours change as the light moves.
• When to visit : Late morning to early afternoon brings the strongest sunlight, when the colours look brightest.
• Nearby attractions : The Chamarel Waterfall is close by, and the village itself is known for local food and rum distilleries.
Disclaimer : To preserve the site, visitors are not allowed on the dunes themselves. The viewing areas provide the best and safest perspective.
LOCAL MARKETS
Visiting the markets of Mauritius is a great way to experience the island beyond its beaches. Stalls are filled with colourful fruit, aromatic spices, handmade goods and the smell of street food cooking on the spot. Each market has its own character. The Mahebourg Market is famous for fresh seafood and local snacks, Flacq Market is one of the largest and busiest on the island with everything from clothing to spices, while Quatre Bornes Market is known for textiles and fabrics. You can browse for souvenirs or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere; the markets offer a glimpse into everyday Mauritian life.
• Best way to experience it : Walk slowly through the stalls, taste something new and talk to the vendors for tips and stories.
• When to visit : Mornings are best, especially on market days (like Monday in Mahebourg or Sunday in Flacq), when the selection is at its freshest.
• Nearby attractions : In Mahebourg, you can also explore the National History Museum. Near Quatre Bornes, head towards Curepipe or the central plateau for a cooler climate and shopping.
RUM AND TEA PRODUCTION IN MAURITIUS
Image source: dronepicr, utilisée sous CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Mauritius has a long tradition of producing both rum and tea, two drinks closely tied to the island’s history and culture. Sugarcane plantations, once the backbone of the economy, now supply local distilleries that craft a wide range of rums, from light blends to aged varieties infused with spices or tropical fruits. Many estates welcome visitors with guided tours and tastings. Tea has its own story here too. The highlands of Mauritius are home to tea fields where you can walk through plantations, learn how leaves are harvested and processed, and enjoy a tasting session with views of rolling hills. Together, rum and tea offer a taste of the island that blends heritage with hospitality.
• Best way to experience it : Join a distillery or estate tour, where you can see the production process and sample different flavours.
• When to visit : Mornings are cooler for walking through tea fields, while afternoons are perfect for relaxed rum tastings.
• Nearby attractions : Combine a tea visit with the Bois Chéri plantation and museum, or explore rum houses such as Rhumerie de Chamarel, often set in beautiful surroundings.
GOLF COURSES IN MAURITIUS
Mauritius has become a favourite destination for golfers, with courses that combine challenging play and breathtaking scenery. Many of the island’s courses are set along the coast, where fairways overlook blue lagoons and volcanic peaks rise in the background. Designed by some of the world’s leading golfers and architects, they range from beginner-friendly greens to championship-level courses that host international tournaments. Playing here is as much about the views as it is about the sport itself.
• Best way to experience it : Book a round at one of the island’s signature courses such as Heritage Golf Club, well known for its stunning settings.
• When to visit : The cooler, drier months from May to October are the most comfortable for playing.
• Nearby attractions : After a game, relax on nearby beaches, enjoy a spa treatment at a resort, or pair the day with fine dining overlooking the ocean.
MAURITIAN CUISINE AND STREET FOOD
Food in Mauritius is a true reflection of the island’s melting pot of cultures. Influences from Indian, Chinese, African and French traditions come together to create dishes that are rich in flavour and variety. Street food is especially popular, with vendors serving everything from spicy samosas and dhal puri to fresh seafood and sweet treats. Markets and seaside towns are some of the best places to try these local favourites, where the atmosphere is just as vibrant as the food itself. Dining here is not only about eating, but also about discovering the story of Mauritius through its flavours.
• Best way to experience it : Sample a bit of everything! Grab a dholl puri from a street stall, try fish vindaye at a small eatery and finish with some gateau piment for a quick snack.
• When to visit : Evening markets and seaside villages come alive with food stalls, though daytime vendors offer plenty of choice too.
• Nearby attractions : Enjoy your food while exploring Port Louis, Grand Baie or Mahebourg, where the bustle of daily life adds to the experience.
BEACHES AND CORAL REEFS
Mauritius is ringed by beautiful coastlines, where calm blue water meets stretches of golden sand. Much of the shoreline is sheltered by coral reefs, creating safe areas for swimming and excellent conditions for snorkelling. The reefs are full of marine life, from bright tropical fish to intricate corals, making them a favourite spot for divers. Popular beaches such as Flic en Flac offer a lively atmosphere, while Belle Mare and Blue Bay are known for their quieter charm and clear water.
• Best way to experience it : Relax on the beach, swim in the lagoon, or head out with a mask and fins to explore the reefs.
• Best way to experience it : Relax on the beach, swim in the lagoon, or head out with a mask and fins to explore the reefs.
• Nearby attractions : Combine a beach visit with fresh seafood at a coastal restaurant, a boat trip to small offshore islands, or an evening walk along the shore at sunset.
THE DODO BIRD, MAURITIUS’ ENDEMIC SYMBOL
The dodo bird is one of the most famous symbols of Mauritius. This flightless bird once lived only on the island, but it became extinct in the 17th century after the arrival of settlers and invasive animals. Although it no longer exists, the dodo has become a lasting emblem of Mauritius, appearing in art, souvenirs, museums and even on the country’s coat of arms. For many, it represents both the island’s unique natural heritage and the importance of protecting wildlife for the future.
SEGA MUSIC
Mauritian sega is a style of music that dates to the days of slavery. Despite its cheerful rhythm, it embodies suffering, sadness and pain. You will easily recognise it by the instruments used: the ravanne, a drum made from goatskin, and the triangle, a small triangular instrument that is struck with a small stick. Mauritian sega is also danced by performers dressed in colourful costumes. It is impossible to resist the vibrations of this dance, which today brings happiness to the Mauritian people.
MAURITIUS, AN UNFORGETTABLE PLACE TO VISIT
Mauritius is a small island that never ceases to amaze. Its rich cultural blend, its one-of-a-kind landscapes, and the emblematic dodo you will spot on towels, tote bags or T-shirts all contribute to its distinctive charm. It is an ideal choice for a family holiday or a romantic getaway.
Enhance your journey by staying at Veranda Resorts, where authenticity and Mauritian hospitality come together seamlessly. It’s the perfect moment to plan your next holiday in Mauritius.
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