Mauritius holidays
White beaches, coral lagoons and a green volcanic interior. Mauritius is the island holiday that has a little of everything.
Life on the lagoon
Most of Mauritius is ringed by coral reef, which keeps the lagoons calm and perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and snorkelling.
Why Mauritius works for almost every kind of holiday
Mauritius lies in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar, and it is one of the easiest tropical islands to enjoy. Beaches are long and sandy, the water inside the reef is warm and sheltered, and the island is small enough to explore in day trips from wherever you stay.
It suits honeymooners, families and anyone who simply wants to switch off. Our writer even chose it for a babymoon in Mauritius, praising it as safe, clean and wonderfully relaxed.
Sandy white beaches
The north and east coasts have some of the island's best-known beaches, while the west coast is the place for sunsets.
Things to do in Mauritius
Beyond the beach, Mauritius has plenty to keep you busy. Take a catamaran trip to the islets off the coast, snorkel or dive on the reefs, or head inland to Black River Gorges National Park for hiking, viewpoints and waterfalls. Le Morne Brabant, a dramatic mountain on the southwest tip of the island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Spend a morning at the market in the capital, Port Louis, and you will see how Indian, African, Chinese and French influences meet. Read more in our guide to Mauritius, Africa's island paradise.
Strong culinary influences
Look out for dholl puri, a flatbread filled with split peas, along with curries, rougaille and fresh seafood.
Where to stay in Mauritius
The north, around Grand Baie, is lively, with restaurants and nightlife. The east coast has long beaches and many of the island's large resorts, while the west is drier and sunnier with spectacular sunsets. The south is wilder and greener.
For a quiet, grown-up stay, Picolo recommends the adults-only Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel, set on its own small cove on the north of the island.
Paradise Cove
A private cove, adults-only peace and quiet, and lagoon views from almost every room.
Best time to visit Mauritius
Mauritius is a year-round destination, but the drier, slightly cooler months from May to November are the most comfortable for most visitors. September to November is particularly lovely, with warm sea temperatures and little rain.
December to April is the hot and humid summer, and also the cyclone season. Trips are still possible, but it is worth choosing flexible bookings and keeping an eye on the forecast.
Mauritius holidays: frequently asked questions
Where is Mauritius?
Mauritius is an island nation in the southwestern Indian Ocean, about 2,000 kilometres off the southeast coast of Africa and east of Madagascar. Together with Rodrigues and a few smaller islands, it forms the Republic of Mauritius, which is part of the African continent.
What language is spoken in Mauritius?
English is the official language of government, but French is widely used in everyday life and the media, and most Mauritians speak Mauritian Creole at home. Visitors who speak English or French will find it easy to get around.
Is Mauritius expensive?
Mauritius can be as expensive as you want it to be. Its luxury resorts are among the finest in the Indian Ocean, but there are also guesthouses, self-catering apartments and cheap, delicious street food, so a mid-range trip is very achievable.
How many days do you need in Mauritius?
Most visitors spend between one and two weeks. A week is enough to relax and see the highlights, while ten days or more lets you split your stay between two coasts or add a few days on Rodrigues or a safari on the African mainland.