The island beyond the beach: the activities that make Mauritius a complete destination
Mauritius is more than a beach paradise. The island's multicultural history, shaped by Africa, India, France and China, has produced a way of life that is truly unique. Activities in Mauritius range from cultural discoveries and nature experiences to culinary highlights. Anyone who only sees Mauritius from the pool misses the true soul of the island. As your luxury travel specialist in Switzerland, we show you how a stay in Mauritius, with a varied programme of Mauritius activities, becomes an unforgettable experience well beyond the beach.
Port Louis is one of the most underrated cities in Africa. The Central Market, the Caudan Waterfront and Aapravasi Ghat (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) tell the island's story in a powerful way. In the 19th century, Aapravasi Ghat was the arrival point for more than 450,000 Indian indentured labourers, a moving testimony to the colonial history of Mauritius. The street food of Port Louis is among the most authentic culinary experiences on the island: dholl puri, samosas and briani are a must and rank among the most rewarding activities in Mauritius for culturally curious travellers.
The Black River Gorges National Park in the south-west of Mauritius is the island's largest nature reserve. More than 40 km of hiking trails lead through tropical rainforest, past waterfalls and up to viewpoints overlooking the island's interior and the coast. Endemic bird species such as the Mauritius parakeet, once on the brink of extinction and now living in the wild again, can be spotted here, making this one of the most special activities in Mauritius.
Pink Travel organises private guided hikes with nature guides who bring the park's ecology to life in a captivating way.
Mauritian cuisine is one of the most varied of any island destination. Creole curries, French-influenced seafood dishes and Indian vegetarian cooking coexist peacefully and come together in sophisticated fusion concepts. Excellent restaurants outside the resorts are among the special activities in Mauritius: Le Château de Bel Ombre for refined Creole cuisine in a historic colonial building, and the casual fine dining spots around Grand Baie in the north of the island. On request, Pink Travel will reserve all your tables in advance.
Mauritius has a rich underwater world which, while not as spectacular as that of the Maldives, is extremely appealing for snorkellers and occasional divers. The Blue Bay Marine Park near Mahébourg in the south-east is the best-known snorkelling area and one of the most popular activities in Mauritius. Divers will find excellent dive centres in the south-west around Le Morne, with access to reef fish, turtles and the occasional manta ray. Private boat trips to the small offshore islands can also be booked.
Combine Mauritius with the Maldives for an Indian Ocean twin-centre holiday. The two destinations complement each other perfectly: Mauritius for cultural depth and activities, the Maldives for pure island bliss and underwater life. Pink Travel plans this combination regularly and knows the best routing options from Switzerland.
Are you ready for paradise? As your specialist for tailor-made luxury holidays in Switzerland, we support you in planning your dream journey.
