Completely uninhabited until 975 when it was first visited by Arab sailors, Mauritius is home to an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as being home to some of the world’s rarest species of plants and animals – although many are now endangered.
Several of the outlying islands have been turned into protected nature reserves, but the main island, Mauritius was once the home of the now extinct flightless Dodo, a 50-pound bird that became of popular source of fresh meat for early travelers. 1681 was when the last Dodo was killed, but it lives on in the Mauritian coat of arms.
Whether you are looking to hike in forests, relax on beaches, enjoy a high energy adventure, discover unique ecology, or explore a world of history like no other, there is something in Mauritius for the traveler looking for exceptional experiences.
However, the main appeal for tourists travelling to the island is ecotourism – the amazing nature reserves provide opportunities that are not seen anywhere else in the world, whether you look here to join a tour or go it alone, it is a spectacular opportunity.
Île au Aigrettes is a 26-hectare nature reserve just off the coast, so a short boat ride will see you in this amazing natural wonder. Depending on the time of year you may want to take insect repellent, and you absolutely want to go on a guided tour – the information they impart is exceptional. The efforts to rebuild the area are impressive and getting the opportunity to see not only the natural fauna but also to meet exotic wildlife, including several of the giant tortoises that live on the island is a mind opening experience.
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens are known simply as the SSR Gardens and are one of the best botanical gardens in the world. Even the most uninterested will enjoy a good two hours wondering around the gardens. However, because of the nature of plants, not all flowers are blooming year-round, and it is generally recommended to go during March to have the most impact – but the gardens are open year-round and are beautiful at any time. In addition to local varieties of trees and shrubs you’d expect, there are ruins, waterlilies, deer, tortoises, and very helpful guides.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sir_Seewoosagur_Ramgoolam_Botanical_Garden
Blue Bay Marine Parkis full of rare and amazing corals, whether you want to take a glass bottom boat, go snorkelling with a tour guide, or take yourself snorkelling straight off the beach, Blue Bay is an experience. The area can get quite busy at certain times of the year, and it is recommended that you do wear fins or shoes – however please don’t touch or damage the coral!
The coral supports a variety of life and if we are not careful it is easily destroyed. Also be aware of the sunscreens that you wear when in the water as some of these have been shown to increase coral bleaching.
Masion Eureka is a Creole Mansion built in the 1830s that is now run as a museum, showing the colonial history of Mauritius and some lovely French artefacts. With a small rose garden, and a beautiful waterfall a 10-minute walk from the house itself, there is a whole experience to be had (however, wear good walking shoes, as you are heading downhill).
They offer lunch, which uses local food, and has a reputation for being delicious.
When you need a break from nature, there are three primary Markets in Mauritius. The Monday market “foire de Mahébourg” is actually open every day, but the primary day is Monday – with a range of stalls and local food it’s worth the trip to the sleepy waterfront town. While the Saturday Market in Rodrigues provides a great place to get fresh food and souvenirs, the majority of tourists (and locals) go to the Central Market in Port Louis’.
Although it changes seasonally, it is a great place to come to grips with haggling and really enjoy your Mauritius shopping experience.
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