GEOGRAPHY
Mauritius has situated in the Indian Ocean approximately 800 km (497 mi) off the east coast of Madagascar, situated just above the Tropic of Capricorn, in the south of the Indian Ocean. The Republic of Mauritius consists of five islands, Mauritius, Rodrigues, the two Agalega-Islands, and the Cargados-Carajos Archipelago. Offshore are smaller, uninhabited islands: Coin de Mire, Ile d’Ambre and Ile aux Bénitiers.
NATURE
Mammals
Being an isolated island from a geographical point of view, Mauritius doesn't have any terrestrial mammals. The only mammals that can be found on the island are bats and other marine mammals. However, only one out of two bat species remain in Mauritius - the Black-Spined Flying Fox after the government began killing the Mauritian fruit bats after suffering significant damage on the harvesting of commercial fruits and accusing the bats to be the sole reason behind it. Over the years, many mammals like rats, mongooses, crab-eating macaques and deer are being introduced to the island.
Birds
On the records, Mauritius has more than 100 bird species spread out across the tropical rainforests. Although only 7 or 8 epidemic bird species exist now, the most common bird present all over the island is the Mauritian grey white-eye. Due to some serious efforts, species like the Pink Pigeon, the Mauritius Parakeet and the Mauritius Kestrel are safe from being extinct and increasing in population. Along with that, many new bird species have been introduced in Mauritius like the Madagascar Fody, Red-whiskered Bulbul and Zebra Dove.
Flora
Moving on from the fauna, the other half of the Mauritian wildlife is balanced perfectly well with more than 700 flowering plant species, nearly half of which are endemic. Palm trees predominantly cover the rainforests, and other parts of the island in a slightly higher altitude are mostly heathlands. The Mauritius ebony, takamaka, manglier rouge, Ox tree are some of the native and endemic plants and trees species. The national flower of Mauritius is 'Boucle d'Oreille'
“MUST SEE” Sightseeing in Mauritius
1.BLACK RIVER GORGES NATIONAL PARK
Located in the southwest of Mauritius,BLACK RIVER GORGES NP is the biggest and the most beautifull National Park in Mauritius.Lush green rainforest and beautiful hills are home toover 300 species od fifferent plants,various birds,boar,monekeys,deer,and big colony of giant fruit bats.this park has over 60 km of hiking trails and it is best explore by foot.The main highlights of Black River Gorges NP are Gorges viewpoints;ALEXANDRA FALLS;MACCHABÉE VIEWPOINT AND PITON DE LA PETITE RIVIÉRE NOIRE(the highest mountain of Mauritius).
2.CHAMAREL: 7 COLORED EARTH,WATERFALL, EBONY FOREST
Chamarel is a charming village in the southwest corner of Mauritius and one of the most popular tourist attraction on the island.It` s bets known for two things:RUM DISTILLERY and 7 COLOURED EARTH GEOPARK.The geopark is a large area and you need ticket to visit it.
The most incredible and famous attraction of the area is the so-called 7 Coloured Earth.It` s a vast area of sand dunes with different colors of sand going from red to brown,violet,green,blue,purple and yellow.Especially when the sun shines all the colour are impressively bright and intense..This place is simply amazing.In the same area,you also have a tortoise park.At the moment,there are 6 giant tortoise living here.Orriginaly from the nearby Seychelles islands,they are about 150 years old.
Not far from the 7 colour earth,you can see another attraction of the area-the CHARAMEL WATERFALL
.It`s the highest single drop waterfall of Mauritius,about 100 meters high.You can reach the viewpoint of the waterfall by car,or you can hike to the base pool of the waterfall where you can also swim,Just beware that it`s a 3-hour hike.
EBONY FOREST is a somewhat lesser-known attraction of the Chamarel area,but it`s well worth a visit.It`s your chance to see many ebony trees along with many different kinds of birds aaaand the mesmerizing blue geckos!Nature here is incredible and the views on the coast and UNESCO site of LE MORNE-simply stunning.This extremely wide forest area can be seen with guided jeep tours or walking.
3.LE MORNE BRABANT
Le Morne Brabant,or simply Le Morne,is an imposing mountain rising 550 meters high in the southwest of Mauritius.It`s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Le Morne is famous for it`s history,a place used as a shelter by runway slaves,and for it`s beauty.You can admire the mountain from the beach nearby,but if you have some time and are fit enough,you can hike all the way to the top.It is recommended to hike with a guide.
4.TAMARIND FALLS
Tamarind falls also known as Tamarin falls are a series of 7 cascades on the Rivière Tamarin.It`s located in a beautifull canyon in the southwest of Mauritius,not far from the Black River Gorges NP.The area has more than 10 waterfalls,some with deeper ponds where you can also swim.There are several hiking paths here,but they are not very well indicated.as stunning as it is,the area is quite confusing and some parts can be dangerous,so it`s best to hike here with a knowledgeable local guide.Various hiking tours are available,some of just a couple of hourse,while some others that go deeper into the canyon,take almost the whole day.
5.BOAT TRIP TO ILE AUX CERFS
This paradise-like island has stunning scenery and so many activities that it has become one of the most popular day trip destinations from Muritius.
6.BAIE DU CAP MACONDE VIEW POINT
Baie Du Cap Maconde View point(at Captain Matthew Flinders Monument)might not be a major landmark,but it`s one of the most popular viewpoints in Mauritius and so definitely worth a visit when touring the island.This little rocky cliff between Le Morne and Baie du Cap in the south of Mauritius is set on hairpin bend on the coastal road.This area is known fro its picturesque landscapes and incredible seascapes.
Known as Cape Brabant in the past,this area was not easily accessible before 1920 when the first road was built.It is believed that it used to serve as a refuge for runaway slaves from the Makonde tribe of Mozambique,from where it got its current name.
From the road,there are some steep stone steps to climb(just a very short climb,though).From the top,you can enjoy spectacular views of the coastline,the nearby village,Macondé Rock ,and the Savanne Mountains in the backround.Soemtimes,you may also see local fishermen catching fish,or boats out at sea.The vies are well worth a short stops!
7.PAMPLEMOUSSES BOTANICAL GARDEN IN MAURITIUS
Probably one of the most popular things to do in Mauritius is visiting the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden,also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden.Located in Pamplemousses on the north of the island and just a short drive from Port Louise,it is well worth a short visit.It is located in Pamaplemousses on the north of the island.It is created in the 18th century and it is the oldest botanical garden in the Indian Ocean.The original idea behind it was to experiment with the acclimation of tropical species to the climat of Mauritius Island.This lovely botanical garden is a very peacful and relaxing place where you can discover many species of tropical trees and other plants.The giant water-lily pond is one of the main attraction.You can make a pleasant walk through the garden between the giant palm trees and other beautifull plants.Giant tortoises from the Seychelles Islands are roaming freely and will be the highlight of the visit for the kids.If you look carefully, you may also see some giant bats sleeping in the trees.
8.LA VALLEE DES COULEURS NATURE PARK
La Vallee Des Couleurs Nature park is a privatly owned nature park focussed on eco tourism.Located in the south of Mauritius,it´s a natural wonderland with plains and mountains ,waterfalls, streams,and a big variety of flora and fauna.the scenery here is truly beautiful.
The main attractions of the park are the waterfalls ,the 23 Coloured Earth,and a small Geology Museum.in addition,you can opt for a big range of fun outdoor activities such as quad biking,off road buggy riding,zip lining,a hanging bridge,and more.Lots of activities are possible for children as well.
9.TROU AUX CERFS
Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volacno in the center of the island.It is best known for its green lush crater with a small lake inside.
CULTURE AND HISTORY SIGHTSEEINGS
1..GANGA TALAO -GRAND BASSIN
Ganga Talao also known as the Grand Bassin,is a sacred lake and one of the best places to see in Mauritius.Its significance is compared to that of the Ganges river in India.back in the ´70s,some holy water from the Ganges River was brought and mixed into the lake, establishing a symbolic link between the two places.This beautiful crater lake is surrounded by several temples built along its shores.
One of the most impressive Hindu temples and one you should definitely visit when in Mauritius is the GANGA TALAO HALL.It´s an incredibly beautiful temple that not only draws Hindus but people of all faiths.At the entrance,you will find statues of the Hindu Gods Lord Shiva and Mother Durga.Serving as gatekeeper of this sacred place,the cooper-colored statues have incredible details carved into them.The Shiva statue,MANGAL MAHADEV, is 33 meters high and is said to be the tallest statue in Mauritius.
As you wander down the stairs,you will get a really good view of the beautifull lake and other temples.Within the main temple,you´ll find a sacred Hindu stone SHIVA LINGAM.
No metter when you visit,there is always a hive of activity here with locals and tourists of all faiths praying and leaving offers.Despite this, there is always a sence of tranquility at Ganga Talao.
2.L´AVENTURE DU SUCRE
Located in the beautiful Beau Plan Sugar Estate,L´Aventure du Sucre is an events center that also houses a museum,a restaurant,and a shop.The museum is set inside an old sugar factory.A vsisit here is like stepping back in time,yet the place is very modern and the exhibits are well thought-off.Every museum visit includes rum-and sugar tasting.In addition cocktail-making lessons and sugarcane cutting tours are available.There is also good restaurant on site.
3.CH^ATEAU DE LABOURDONNAIS
Chateau de Labourdonnais is a Victorian mansion on a sugarcane plantation that has been restored and now serves as a museum.It is located in Mapou district in the North of Mauritius.You can visit the beautifully restored Victorian manor with it´s antique furniture and interiors in their original set-up,indulge in a rum tasting,or take a tour via the Labourdonnais Express mini train.Also there is a rum tasting bar in a beutifull courtyard.
4.AAPRAVASI GHAT WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Aapravsi Ghat UNESCO World Heritage Site is a 19th century Immigration Depot site located in Port Luis that gives visitors a glimpse into the „Indentured servitude” experiment that the british established in Mauritius.Now known as „the great experiment”,it was a system put in place in order to replace slaves by „free”labor.
The abolition of slavory in European colonies in 1834-35 was a problem for the sugar plantations in Mauritius which depended on slave labor.The emancipated slaves were demanding higher wages and better living conditions.at this time India was experiencing a highly depressed economy and the hardworking Indian population seemed to be great solution tot he problem.It is estimated that half a million laborers passed through this site in Port Louis between 1849 and 1923.A big majority of them came from India.This migration is the reason why about 70% of the current Mauritius population has Indian roots.The exhibits at the Aapravasi Ghat give you a glimpse into the lives taht these brave souls led.Their living and working conditions were not ideal or lived up tot he promises they were made to believe.
FUN ACTIVITIES
QUAD BIKING, SUB SCOOTER DIVING, JEEP SAFARI& PICNIC IN HERRITAGE NATURE RESERVE, SUBMARINE EXPERIENCE, E-BIKING, CASELA WORLD OF ADVENTURES, HELICOPTER TOUR, FLYBOARDING, SWIMMING WITH WILD DOLPHINS, KAYAKING IN TAMARIN BAY, BEACH,SNORKELING, DIVING AND WATER SPORTS
BEST BEACHES IN MAURITIUS
1.FLIC EN FLACK
Located on the west coast of Mauritius, you’ll find Flic en Flac a little further south than Grand Baie. It has become the second most popular place for local tourists over the years and probably owes its reputation to its slightly halted developed and original, unspoiled charm. Not too long ago, Flic en Flac was a slow-paced fishing village, but it has since been redeveloped into a tourist hub for luxury holidays. Flic en Flac attracts thousands of tourists every year from nearby and from further afield. Adding to the beauty of this spectacular location is of course its wonderful beaches. This is the place to come if you’re looking for soft, cloud-like sand and crystal clear waters in an enchanted landscape. Leave your towel on the beach and get ready to explore eight kilometres of coastline, along with water sports, long walks, and some great sunbathing spots. Flic en Flac’s entire coastline is dotted with casuarina trees and is protected by a coral reef that blocks ocean currents, making it a great place for children and less-able swimmers to enjoy a dip in complete safety. Flic en Flac is also the perfect place to visit with your children, thanks to its public loos, picnic and barbecue areas, music events and shows.
2.PEREYBERE
Pereybere, one of Mauritius’ most beautiful and popular coastlines. Surrounded by incredible, sandy beaches, Pereybere is exactly what you might expect when imagining this picture-perfect island. Pack everything you need for a long day of sun and sea and head to Pereybere. You’ll find this particular beach between Grande Baie and Malheureux and it’s easy to get to thanks to its plethora of hotels, villas, restaurants and shops. Pereybere doesn’t benefit from much shade, and renting an umbrella can be very expensive during the high season, so we recommend choosing a spot near a shady plant, so you can enjoy the beach all day long.If you can, get here early in the morning to find the best spot on the beach and for an amazing view of the sunrise. Despite being a relatively small beach, Pereybere is famous for its calm, clear waters. Its seabed is clean and sandy and great to walk on without fear of injuring yourself on pieces of glass or coral. The beach is divided into three sections. On the left side, you can dock small boats, in the centre is a cordoned off swimming area and to the right is an area designated to all sorts of water sports, including kayaking.
3.GRANDBAIE
Known as Grand Baie or Grand Bay, this area of coastline takes its name from the nearby village in the Rivière du Rempart district of northern Mauritius. Back in the seventeenth century, this area of the island was under Dutch rule, and was called De Bogt Zonder Eyndt, or The Endless Bay. And you’ll see why when strolling along Grand Baie beach. Once you get here, it becomes pretty obvious why it’s home to the largest resort in Mauritius. Grand Baie owes its popularity to its spectacularly clean waters and lively local towns. It’s also equipped with loads of water sports facilities, including sailing, swimming, windsurfing, water skiing and much more. Grand Baie is also a great place to start a trip to Gunner’s Quoin, Flat Island, Round Island or Serpent Island in northern Mauritius. Grand Baie is great for the whole family and has excellent facilities for all ages and needs. Enjoy the never-ending white, sandy beach as you stroll along the shore towards one of the many bars or restaurants. If you head a little further into town, you’ll also find spectacular clothing, jewellery and textile shops, which are guaranteed to satisfy all your shopping needs. Last but not least, Grande Baie is famous for its incredible nightlife, clubs and bars. Come here if you’re in Mauritius with your friends and looking for an unforgettable night out with some good music and dancing.
4.DEER ISLAND BEACHES
Deer Island or Île aux Cerfs,as itś called, is just off the east coast of Mauritius and occupies over 100 hectares of land. Unsurprisingly, this island is famous for its deer, although these days you’re probably more likely to spot them on Mauritius itself. Known for its white, sandy beaches, tranquil lagoon and water sports facilities, Deer Island is perfect for the whole family and is great for a sun-filled day out in nature. The area is well equipped with bars and restaurants so you can spend the whole day here, without having to head off in search of sustenance. Deer Island’s beautiful beaches can be accessed by boat, which you can book on the island. Despite its fame, you’re guaranteed to avoid the large crowds that gather in places such as Grand Baie. Instead, you can enjoy a day of sun and sea in a relatively peaceful environment. It is also one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius to photograph, so don’t forget your camera!
5.BELLE MARE
Belle Mare’s sandy beaches make it seem like paradise on earth. Imagine you’ve just landed in Mauritius and want to find a beach to enjoy all to yourself. Belle Mare is a strip of white coastline that stretches from Palmar to Trou d’Eau Douce and up to Mahebourg, making it the perfect place to lay out your towel and enjoy Mauritius’ unspoiled beauty. Belle Mare is frequented mainly by local tourists, who come here at the weekend to enjoy the sun and sea. It’s therefore a great place to visit if you’re looking for a beach day immersed in local culture. Belle Mare is a great place to relax and go on long walks among the many ice cream stands, but it’s also known for its parasailing. Adventurers wanting to take a break from Belle Mare’s fabulous beaches can put on a pair of walking boots and hike up Lion Mountain. The hike takes about half a day and is fairly challenging for inexperienced climbers, but the fabulous view from the top makes it all worth it. Thanks to its ten kilometres of coastline, Belle Mare is perfect for long romantic walks, a run or a relaxing day immersed in nature. And if tranquillity isn’t enough for you, you can head fifteen minutes up the road to Central Flacq, where you can indulge in a spot of shopping.
6.BLUE BAY
Blue Bay is a small jewel in southeast Mauritius. This beautiful area is protected by local laws and has been a natural park since 1997. Blue Bay is the place to go if you’re visiting Mauritius but don’t have much time on your hands. Come here if you are looking for peace and harmony surrounded by the beauty of an uncontaminated, protected environment. Just ten minutes from the beautiful village of Mahbourg, Blue Bay is home to some of the best snorkelling spots on the island. The beach offers a whole host of opportunities to admire the seabed and enjoy this tropical paradise, which has not yet been infiltrated by mass tourist facilities. Blue Bay doesn’t have quite as many restaurants and bars as other beaches, so we recommend a visit if you’re looking for some peace, quiet and tranquillity. This is also a great place to embark on boat tours to the surrounding islands, as well as to explore the wildlife, such as the local turtle population.
7.LE MORNE
Le Morne Beach is located in southwest Mauritius and offers visitors an unforgettable view of the surrounding seascape and Morne Brabant hill. Le Morne is not as easy to reach as other beaches, but it’s incredibly satisfying once you make the trip. In fact, compared to the rest of Mauritius’ beaches, this one is relatively uncrowded. So bring a towel and enjoy the tropical, unspoiled climate without having to contend with anyone for space. Le Morne’s ocean currents and strong winds also make it the ideal destination for a spot of kitesurfing or parasailing. There aren’t many restaurants or bars around here, though, so if you do decide to visit, remember to bring a packed lunch with you. If you’re looking for a good way to spend the morning, we recommend visiting Morne Brabant, the famous slave route that became a UNESCO heritage site in 2008. This is a private area but is home to one of the most unspoiled and natural spots on Mauritius. Set out on a walk if you love nature and want to spot a few native plants to the area. Several boat tours also pass through Le Morne, and if you’re hoping to go dolphin watching, you’ve come to the right place. Expeditions depart from the coast and are the perfect way to make some unforgettable memories.
8.GRIS GRIS
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, head to Gris Gris, which is surrounded by dark, rocky terrain. The absence of a coral reef makes Gris Gris a fascinating place with a very intriguing landscape. Located near the village of Souillac on the southern tip of the island, Gris Gris owes its bristly, jagged landscape to the local beating winds. In fact, the area is known for its powerful natural elements, which shape the terrain every day, and it’s a must-visit for travellers wanting to discover even more of spectacular Mauritius. Giant waves, angular cliffs running headlong into the howling sea and incredible beaches: Gris Gris is a wild and unforgiving place, and it’s visited every year by thousands of tourists fascinated by its fame. Upon entering the area, you’ll see a sign dedicated to its history. Along with many interesting facts, you’ll also read about a legend regarding its name. Apparently, Gris Gris owes its name to the pet dog belonging to French cartographer Abbott de la Caille, who explored the island back in the eighteenth century. If you decide to visit Gris Gris, don’t forget to bring your camera. Also, keep in mind that you can’t swim here. The currents are very strong and it is best to stay ashore, enjoy the landscape and maybe even settle down for a splendid picnic among the surrounding nature.
9.TROU AUX
If you are looking for a fabulous beach in an idyllic Mauritius setting, you’ve come to the right place. Trou Aux Biches is home to delightful, white beaches and a number of activities that make this island famous. Trou aux Biches is one of the best locations to dive and admire the seabed, turtles and numerous other animals that live in the depths of the ocean. This is the best place to come if you are looking to snorkel in a spot that’s also suitable for the whole family. There are also lots of restaurants nearby, so you can set up camp for the day and make the most of the benefits of mass tourism.
10.MONT CHOISY
It’s in an easy-to-reach area that’s also incredibly beautiful. Its white beaches benefit from the shade of nearby trees and incredible, crystal clear waters. Take a stroll through the area and you’ll soon find your own personal corner of paradise. Come here to enjoy the sunrise or sunset and sink your feet into the soft, irresistible sand. Relax in the sun and listen to the sound of the waves, or perhaps enjoy some snorkelling off the coast. Mont Choisy is the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday to Mauritius!
RELIGION
Religion Hinduism is the primary religion in Mauritius with around 52% identifying as Hindu.Christians make up about 28% of the population(26% Chatolic,2% Protestant)16,65 of residents are Muslim.
LANGUAGE
The most prominent languages you’ll hear on an every day level are Mauritian Creole, French and English. Mauritian Creole is a French-based Creole and estimated to be spoken by around 90% of the population. French is the language that tends to be used in education and media, while English is the official language in Parliament, however members can still speak French. For government administration and the business of courts, French and English are generally accepted as the official languages.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Mauritius benefits from a mild climate all year round with an average temperature of 25ºC and a pleasant water temperature suitable for swimming both during summer and winter. Almost all activities you are looking forward to do during your holidays can be made at any time of the year. However, the most agreeable times to visit the island are from April to June and from September to December to avoid the peak of summer and winter, the only two seasons in Mauritius.
Sites that were used: www.airmauritius.com;www.mymauritius.travel.com;www.costacruise.co.uk:www.fullsuitcase.com;www.holidify.com;www.goway.com;www.govmu.com;www.britannica.com
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