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7 must-sees off the beaten path of Mauritius

Written on : 08 March 2019

If you tell your friends about your next travel destination, expect a conversation around beaches and idleness. Its beaches are heavenly, yet Mauritius is much more than that: it is turquoise lagoons, dizzying mountains, green and tropical forests, incredible waterfalls, intriguing wildlife...Not to mention, a cultural richness from a heritage abundant in history and a diverse people. Discover the traditions of the archipelago around a meeting with its people under the sign of good humour.
We present to you the 7 essential of Mauritius, off the beaten track.

1 - Chamarel Waterfall

1 - Chamarel Waterfall

Mauritius has undergone many transformations over time, including in its small villages and sugar cane plantations. But when you leave the tourist trails, on the small roads that climb to the end of the island, you will find a raw and unspoiled nature, where rivers, waterfalls and mountains coexist in an enchanting environment. This is the case in the southwest of the country.

In the middle of the plain of Chamarel, following the small raw roads of ochre colour, you arrive in the Saint Denis river, where a stream of water more than a hundred metres in height is thrown! The Chamarel Waterfall is impressive, spectacular and triumphant amidst lush tropical vegetation. It's an experience that certainly won’t leave you indifferent!

2 - The Seven Coloured Earth

2 - The Seven Coloured Earth

On your way to the vertiginous waterfall, do not miss the Seven Coloured Earth, offering an unusual landscape: from pinks, through to brown, red, purple, and ochre, these hills of coloured shades are the result of erosion, and a land rich in mineral oxides. Without a doubt one of the wonders of nature!

3- Discover Mauritius from the sky

3- Discover Mauritius from the sky

Mark your stay in Mauritius with a unique perspective during a helicopter ride! What way is more impressive than flying for the first time while looking down on the extraordinary rich and varied landscapes of Mauritius? From the south, join the take-off platform from the mountains of the highest plateaus in the region. A guaranteed adrenaline rush from the start!

If the natural landscapes have conquered you from the ground, seen from the sky, it is another dimension that is offered to you: a beautiful mixture of colours ranging from the turquoise shades of lagoons, to the green of the tropical forests, passing by the rainbow of The Land of the Seven Colours, not forgetting the general views of the natural jewels of the island such as waterfalls entering the forests, or the impressive rocks rising out of the water.

4 - The Black River Gorges

4 - The Black River Gorges

The Black River Gorges National Park is a natural treasure, preserved and protected since it is the last native forest of the island. More than 6500 hectares of nature extends in a setting where mountains, tropical plants, trees, and a diversified fauna cohabit in the greatest harmony.

We guarantee you, its atypical flora and fauna will amaze you: more than 150 varieties of plants and 9 different species of animals. This natural park is simply a getaway not to be missed. The park is dominated by the highest peak of Mauritius, the Piton de la Rivière Noire. We will let you imagine the magnitude of the view from its peak of 828 metres...

If the park is enchanting in appearance, it also offers a range of activities to share with the family. You will find hiking trails suitable for all levels, which all members of your family can indulge in. Also, to find the most beautiful nooks and crannies, you can follow the trails on bike rides, which offer sublime panoramas. For the more daring thrill seekers, canyoning is the perfect combination of nature and adrenaline. Venture off the beaten path and make waterfalls and the Mauritian ecosystem your adventure course!

5 - The tea fields

5 - The tea fields

Tea plantations...Surprising is it not? If the climate of Mauritius seems to be more conducive to beaches, some regions benefit from a microclimate that is very favourable for the cultivation of tea. In the middle of flora and fauna, you will be able to admire these sublime natural landscapes at Aubineaux, Saint Aubin, and Bois Chéri.

In addition to contemplating this green nature, you can learn more about the worldwide-popular drink. At Bois Chéri, you will find a museum and a factory. Here, you witness the gathering that is done in the early morning. When you visit the factory, all your senses are awakened. The tea process will keep no secrets from you: sorting, fermentation, drying, bag design and packing. The big tea drinkers will be passionate about this visit!

Finally, to end this excursion in style, you can indulge in a tasting of the wide range of tea, as well as unusual dishes such as tea tapenade, or even fascinating cooked dishes that go beyond the ordinary!

6 - Swimming with dolphins

6 - Swimming with dolphins

Who has never dreamed of getting in the water with these magnificent creatures? Venture into the natural habitat of dolphins, and experience a special moment that will undoubtedly become one of your best memories. The shores of the island are home to entire colonies of these beautiful species.

Begin the experience with a boat trip early in the morning before you jump into the water. The show is equally impressive!

Imagine, diving into one of the turquoise lagoons of Mauritius and finding yourself alongside a pod of twenty dolphins...A powerful moment is guaranteed!

7- Experience an authentic experience in Port Louis

7- Experience an authentic experience in Port Louis

You will not be able to leave the island without visiting the capital! We guarantee you an off-the-beaten track experience.

Another of the many interesting facts about Mauritius is its mix of cultures and religions from its many colonizations of the past. Coming from Europe, Africa, and Asia, the harmonious cohabitation of its diverse population only illustrates its benevolence. A good example to follow! Expect a warm welcome, and sharing and inclusive interactions. Once there, you can immerse yourself in an authentic and local experience to familiarise yourself with an extraordinary culture.

You will understand that the gastronomic diversity of Mauritius is in the image of its people. You will enjoy a mix of Creole, Indian, Chinese and European flavours that will fill you with spices and flavours.

Have a guide accompany you for a morning that will deliver secrets combining culinary specialties and history, during a tour around the city. This walk is punctuated by gourmet breaks in street kitchens. Accompanied by locals, you will discover an authentic atmosphere such as in the lively Chinatown.

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