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January 22, 2025
Mauritius in 7 Days: An Ultimate Guide for First Time Visitors - Discover Beaches, Culture, and Adventures!
Lie on a pristine beach, have the warm Indian Ocean lapping at your feet, sip a cocktail, and literally not have a single care in the world. Welcome to my guide on Mauritius in 7 Days, where I’ll share the best experiences for first-time visitors. What if I told you that this slice of paradise doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg? Welcome to Mauritius: the best-kept secret that is going to become your newest favorite travel destination.
Being someone who has explored many tropical spots, I can honestly say that this little island of Mauritius just blew me away. Much more than a beach destination, one of the liveliest and most diverse islands-there’s much more to it than just its shores, as perfect as they are. From hiking up volcanic craters to sampling mouth-watering street food, Mauritius is a feast for your eyes, nose, tongue, and ears.
In this post, I will take you through what I think is the perfect 7-day Mauritius itinerary, from the best beaches to hidden local spots. I share all the tips and tricks that I have gathered during my recent trip. So grab yourself a cup of tea-or a fruity cocktail; I won’t judge-and let’s dive right in to plan your ultimate Mauritius adventure!
Why Mauritius Should Be Your Next Destination in the Travel Bucket List
Before I get down to business detailing what one can expect from an itinerary, let me tell you why it should feature right at the top of your bucket list of travel destinations.
1. Mauritius in 7 Days: Unbeatable Beaches: Imagine stretches of powder-soft sand that can give the Maldives a run for their money sans the hefty price tag. On my trip, I picked my jaw up from the ground nonstop at just how beautiful Mauritius’ coastline was.
2. Diverse Landscapes: Mauritius is not all about beaches. Its volcanic origins have endowed the island with dramatic mountains, lush forests, and otherworldly geological formations. One day you could be sunbathing, the next hiking through a rainforest!
3. Rich Cultural Tapestry: Mauritius is a blend of cultures, with influences from Africa, India, China, and Europe. This diversity shows up everywhere-from architecture to food-and the experience is considerably unique.
4. Mind Blowing Food: Speaking of which, there is the food of Mauritius-criminally underrated if you ask me. Be it just for the street food, it is well worth a visit to this island. I still have dreams of dholl puri, which I had from a small food cart in Port Louis.
5. Affordable Luxury: This is where Mauritius really shines. You’ll feel spoiled without breaking the bank. I could stay in nice guesthouses for as low as U.S.$30 per night, and even the high-scale resorts are more decently priced compared to many other tropical destinations.
6. Safe and Welcoming: Since I travel solo, I’m always concerned with safety, but in Mauritius, I really felt at ease. People are very friendly and warm, always flashing a smile or lending a helping hand.
Now let’s get into the details of planning your perfect week in Mauritius!
Now let’s get into the details of planning your Mauritius in 7 Days itinerary
This feeling for the island will be obtained by dividing our time between four major regions:
1. The Southwest: 2 days
2. West Coast: 2 days
3. North: 2 days
4. East Coast: 1 day
This will give you a taste of everything Mauritius has to offer, from the most famous attractions to some more local, hidden treasures that few tourists ever see.
Day 1-2: Exploring the Southwest
Day 1-2: Exploring the Southwest
Day 1: Arrival and the kick off of Mauritius in 7 Days adventure
nally, you will arrive after your long flight at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, ready to kick off your Mauritius in 7 Days adventure.. No need to worry about the name that twists your tongue, just follow the ‘Arrivals’ signs, and you will be fine.
First Things First: Car Rental
I highly recommend you get yourself a car rental as soon as you leave the airport. To rent a car i usually use Getrentacar and Localrent. Having your wheels gives you the freedom to explore at your own will and pace, making the most of your Mauritius in 7 Days itinerary. Mauritius happens to be one of those places that is perfect for road trips-adequately small to drive around the entire island in about 5 hours! And having your wheels gives you the freedom to explore at your own will and pace, of course. Just remember, they drive on the left side of the road here!
Where to Stay:
You have two primary options for your first two nights: Budget: La Gaulette – I stayed at Mountain View Apartments for only $46 a night. It was clean, spacious, and had a killer view of Le Morne mountain. Well worth it, in my opinion. Luxury: If you want to splurge, take a look at LUX* Le Morne Resort. The beachfront location is unbeatable but pricey. Afternoon: Beach Time!
Once you freshen up and check-in, it’s time for the beach! Head to Le Morne Beach. I can assure you, this will be the exact dose of medicine needed after jet lag. The water is still, crystal clear, and just right in temperature. I must have spent a solid hour just floating on my back, staring up at the dramatic Le Morne Brabant mountain looming over the beach.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
As I wrapped up my first day in Mauritius in 7 Days, I found myself at Café and Restaurant Heritage Sunset in La Gaulette. This charming family-run place stole my heart with its warm atmosphere and incredible food. I couldn’t resist ordering the octopus vindaye, and let me tell you, it was out of this world—definitely a highlight of my trip! Do yourself a favor and order the octopus vindaye – it’s a local specialty and absolutely delicious.
Pro Tip: If you’re not too wiped out from your journey, hang in there after dinner for the sunset. You will not be disappointed when the sun sets behind Le Morne mountain.
Day 2: Seven Colored Earths and Chamarel
Today’s adventure continues with the Mauritius in 7 Days plan, where we’ll explore some of the most unique attractions that Mauritius has to offer!
Morning: Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark
Start off early and drive to Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark. In case you don’t want to be in the crowd, try and enter right at opening time at 8:30 AM.Â
The major reason to come here is the Seven Colored Earths-in a weirdly beautiful geological formation, the earth is striped with seven colors, and it looks like someone took a big paintbrush and swished color across the landscape! At the Seven Colored Earths, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a painting. This colorful marvel is a must-see during your Mauritius in 7 Days journey!
Don’t miss the giant tortoises that inhabit the park—this experience is a must on your Mauritius in 7 Days itinerary: gentle giants over 100 years old, loving nothing more than to munch on grass and have their shells scratched-mostly ask a park ranger before you touch them.
Next Stop: Chamarel Waterfall
A short walk away from the Seven Colored Earths, you will have the Chamarel Waterfall. With a height of 83 meters, it is amongst the highest in Mauritius. There are two spots from where one can observe it: one near the car park and the other – after a 10 minute climb uphill. Let me assure you that the view will be worth the climb!
Lunch Break
You must be starving by this time. Head back to La Gaulette and have lunch at Eldorade Resto & Bar. The samosas are to die for, and they do a mean fish curry too.
Afternoon: Maconde Viewpoint
Lunch over, head out to Maconde Viewpoint. Some of the finest views of Mauritius’ rugged southern coastline await you here. After enjoying the breathtaking views at Maconde Viewpoint, you’ll appreciate how much beauty Mauritius offers, making it an essential stop in your Mauritius in 7 Days itinerary. The road here is serpentine and narrow, but it pays off. Climb the steps to the viewing platform and prepare to be wowed.
Evening: Beach and Sunset
End your day back at Le Morne Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a sunset catamaran cruise. Otherwise, just plant yourself in the sand and enjoy the pink-and-orange sky as the sun creeps below the horizon.
Dinner: For your last night in the southwest, try Vania’s Restaurant in La Gaulette. Their seafood platter is big enough to feed a small army and really showcases the best of Mauritian seafood.
Day 3-4: West Coast Wonders
Day 3: Adventure and Flic-en-Flac
Today you’ve got a choice to make: hiking or boating. Whether you choose hiking or boating, both options are fantastic ways to experience the beauty of the island as part of your Mauritius in 7 Days adventure.
Option 1: Hiking Black River Gorges National Park
If you are looking for some challenge, head to Black River Gorges National Park for a hike up the Black River Peak-highest point in Mauritius. The top is about 4 km either way, and round trip, that would be three to four hours.
I won’t lie, it’s a bit of a harsh climb. On the other hand, though, the panorama from the top is simply out of this world. On a clear day, you can see right across to the coast. Just remember to bring plenty of water and some snacks.
Option 2: Boat Trip to Ile Aux Benitiers
Those who enjoy spending the day on the water can take a boat tour to Ile Aux Benitiers. A lot of the accommodation may provide this service, or you may go down to the beach and negotiate it yourself with a local fisherman, which is precisely what I did.
Other things the usual excursion would include are:
Snorkeling around Crystal Rock-home to sea turtles
Swimming with wild dolphins-an unforgettable experience, but mind the animals and please do not chase or touch them. BBQ lunch on Ile Aux Benitiers. Whether you go hiking or take the boat trip, try to wrap things up by 2 PM. You’ll now head on to the next stop: Flic-en-Flac.
Afternoon: Flic-en-Flac
It takes about 40 minutes to drive from the southwest to Flic-en-Flac. Arrive and check into your accommodation. I stayed at Aux Plaisirs de la Viex, which cost $47.50 a night and had a lovely pool.
Late Afternoon: Beach Time
Relax in the afternoon on Flic-en-Flac beach. The long stretch of white sand is fringed with casuarinas providing ample shade by nature. The water here is tranquil and shallow, perfect for swimming.
Dinner: Street Food Heaven
Dinner time street food in Flic-en-Flac. There is one small food stall called Farata AKA Vinoda. This is the best Farata that I ever had in my life, Mauritian name for paratha, basically just flaky flat bread stuffed with curry, for 40 Rupees, just less than a dollar, and I love it so much, went back for second and third time (hahaha)! Indulging in local street food in Flic-en-Flac is a delightful way to experience Mauritius, making it a perfect addition to your 7 days itinerary
Day 4: Beach Day and Local Experiences
Today’s all about embracing the laid-back beach lifestyle that Mauritius is famous for. This laid-back beach lifestyle is an integral part of what makes your Mauritius in 7 Days experience truly memorable
Morning: Breakfast and Beach
Start your day with coffee and pastries from La Kaz à Pain. Their pain au chocolat is divine.
Then, head to the beach for a morning of sunbathing and swimming. If you’re feeling active, you can try your hand at water sports like jet skiing or parasailing.
Lunch: More Street Food
For lunch, head back to Farata AKA Vinoda. Trust me, you will never get bored with it. This time, have its filling with butter bean curry-it’s one of the local favorites.
Option Afternoon Activities:
1. Trou aux Cerfs: An extinct volcanic crater offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the island. As you soak in the breathtaking views at Trou aux Cerfs, you’ll realize how much adventure awaits you during your Mauritius in 7 Days journey
2. Quatre Bornes Market: The place is abuzz with local life, which will be great for souvenir shopping. Expect to bargain, though!
3. Casela World of Adventures: If you’re traveling with kids-or even if you are a big kid yourself-this nature park offers zip-lining and walking with lions.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the beach at sunset. Dinner tonight can be at one of two excellent options:
1. Marco Polo Resto & Bar: If you love seafood and cocktails.
2. Mosaic: Order their prawn rougaille, a spicy Mauritian tomato-based dish.
Day 5-6: Delights of the North
Day 5: Port Louis and Grand Baie
We’re off north today, but not before we take in Mauritius’s capital city.
Morning: Port Louis Central Market
Start your day early at the Port Louis Central Market. This is a riotous assault on the senses-a bustling bazaar. The air is thick with spice, and vendors shout out their wares in a cacophony of Creole, French, and English.
Don’t skip the street food tour in Port Louis! It’s a fun way to savor the flavors of Mauritius and a true highlight of your Mauritius in 7 Days adventure. Have some local snacks. Snack on gateaux piments, or chili cakes, and dholl puri, or split-pea flatbread. They’re cheap, delicious, and oh-so Mauritian.Â
Late Morning: Aapravasi Ghat
Later, take a trip to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aapravasi Ghat. This immigration depot was really indispensable in Mauritius. It’s the place where indentured laborers originating from India arrived on the island, and by so doing, they shaped the cultural picture of modern-day Mauritius.
Lunch: Street Food Tour
Lunch – I highly recommend that you take a street food tour. I did one with Taste Buddies and it was one of the real highlights of my trip. Over three hours we sampled everything from Chinese dumplings to Indian curries, all with a narrative explaining Mauritius’ history through food.
Afternoon: Botanical Gardens
After lunch, head to the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens. Try saying that three times fast! The big attractions here are the giant water lilies and the talipot palms. It felt like stepping into a magical world, perfectly fitting into my Mauritius in 7 Days itinerary. A beautiful stop on my journey.Â
Evening: Grand Baie
Late afternoon, drive to Grand Baie, located on the north of the island. This lively coastal town is known for its beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.
Check-in to your hotel. I have stayed at Residence Le Point Choisy in nearby Mont Choisy, which was a steal for $30 a night. If you’re looking for middle to high end, consider Seapoint Boutique Hotel or LUX* Grand Baie Resort & Residences.
Spend the evening exploring Grand Baie. The main street is lined with shops and restaurants. For dinner, try Zanzibar Restaurant for great seafood, or Botteghita for excellent Italian-sometimes you need a break from curry!.
Day 6: Beach Hopping and Water Activities
Today is all about exploring the beautiful beaches of northern Mauritius.
Morning: Mont Choisy Beach
Start your day at Mont Choisy Beach. This 3 km stretch of sand is one of the longest beaches in Mauritius. It’s perfect for a morning walk or jog. The calm waters here are great for swimming too.
Mid-Morning: Trou-aux-Biches
Next stop, Trou-aux-Biches. The beach is renowned for its transparent waters and for snorkeling. Rent some equipment from one of the beach vendors there and take a glimpse at what’s happening underwater. I saw dozens of colorful fish a few meters from the shore!
Lunch: Picnic on the Beach
For lunch, prepare a picnic at the beach. In Grand Baie, there is a supermarket called Super U where you can get everything. Don’t forget to buy some local fruits like lychee or mango. They are just so sweet and juicy.
Afternoon: Water Activities
In the afternoon, do some water activities. Here are a few:
1. Glass-bottom boat tour: Leaving from Grand Baie, these are a very good way to see the coral reefs without getting wet.
2. Stand-up paddleboarding: You can rent boards from most beaches. It’s a fun way to explore the coastline.
3. Catamaran cruise: For a bit of luxury, book a catamaran cruise to the northern islets. Most include snorkeling stops and an open bar.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
Take some time to enjoy the sunset at this beach. While small, it is a really beautiful one with some of the clearest waters that I have ever seen.
Dinner: La Rougaille Créole, Grand Baie. As the name suggests this is Creole food. Get the chicken rougaille -it’s superb.
Day 7: East Coast Adventure
Well, your last day in Mauritius is here, and we’re going out with a bang! Today we’re going to take a look at the wild and rugged east coast.
Morning: Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice
Start off your day at Theo Fourneaux for some breakfast. I can promise you, this small café serves the best coffee in Mauritius. The croissants aren’t bad either; I might’ve had one or two!
After breakfast, head to Cap Malheureux to visit the famous Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice. This is a red-roofed church that is probably the most photographed building in Mauritius, and when I saw it in person, I understood why. The bright red roof against the turquoise ocean just looks amazing. Don’t forget to walk past the church to the beach behind it-the view of the northern islands from here is breathtaking.
Mid-Morning: Kitesurfing Spectacle
Next, make for Anse La Raie. For kitesurfers, this is the spot; even if you are not into the sport, it is quite something to watch. I sat here for an hour, hypnotized by the kites dancing across in a rainbow of colors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even book a lesson – just be prepared for a workout!
Late Morning: Lava Tube Adventure
Now for something different, the Roche Noire Lava Tubes. This was probably one of those odd experiences on my trip; the creation of underground tunnels by old streams of molten lava is almost bizarre to explore.
A word of advice: bring a good torch-as in, your phone light will not cut it-and wear robust shoes. It can be slippery and dark in there. As I went down into the tubes, I couldn’t help thinking that I was some sort of Indiana Jones in real life!
Lunch: Local Flavors
Now, for lunch, you have two great options:
If you are feeling local, then head to the central market in Flacq. This vibrant market is a very good place to begin with Mauritian street food. I tried alouda-a sweet milk drink-and gateaux piments-chili cakes-both tasted very nice.
For something slightly fancier, try The Cafe at Radisson Blu Azuri Mauritius. Their smoked marlin sandwich is to die for!
Afternoon: Beach Hopping
Well, spend your afternoon exploring the beautiful beaches along the east coast. Some of my favorites include:
1. Belle Mare Public Beach: A real stretch of white sand, very picturesque. The water is rougher than on the west coast and thus ideal for a refreshing dip.
2. Pointe du Diable: This rocky outcrop is lined with old cannons, remnants of the battles between the French and British. The views from here are spectacular.
3. Blue Bay Marine Park: If you have time, this is a great spot for some last-minute snorkeling. The coral here is some of the best preserved in Mauritius.
In fact, when driving along the coast, one should be sure to watch for the small monument marking where the Dutch first landed on Mauritius. A small reminder of just how long and colourful the history of the island is.
Evening: Final Sunset and Farewell Dinner
For your last evening in Mauritius, well, I highly recommend Ile aux Cerfs for sunset-you know, that tiny island on the east coast, renowned for its superior beaches and golf course. I found a quiet place on the beach, got a cocktail in my hand, and watched the sky change a million shades of orange and pink. It was just the perfect moment to say goodbye to this beautiful island.
Pamper yourself on the last dinner and book a table at Le Barachois at Constance Prince Maurice. This lagoon floating restaurant has a rather memorable dining experience. Expensive, yes it is, but I can assure you that the great seafood and magical atmosphere make it worth every penny invested.
Practical Tips for Your Mauritius Trip
As by now that we have covered the itinerary, let me share with you some practical tips I gathered during my trip:
1. Best Time to Visit: I went in May, and it was great-sunny days, low humidity, and less tourists. Generally speaking, the months from May to December are ideal, though even the wet season from January to April has plenty of sunny days.
2. Getting Around: Renting a car is recommended for getting around. I was very apprehensive about driving on the left, but soon got used to it. Just take it slow on those curving mountain roads!
3. Currency: The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). The best exchange rates are at airport ATMs; this is where I would recommend drawing cash from.
4. Language: Many people speak English, but a smattering of French or Creole goes a long way. A simple “Bonzour” or “Mersi” always brought smiles to locals’ faces.
5. Packing Essentials: Remember to pack:
– High SPF sunscreen – the sun is strong here!
– Insect repellent (if you plan on hiking)
A refillable water bottle: tap water is safe to drink in most places
Modest clothing to visit temples: shoulders and knees to be covered
6. Local Customs: Generally, the people of Mauritius are very relaxed, but do show respect when visiting religious sites. I always asked permission for photos of people; they were much appreciated.
7. Tipping: Tipping is not expected but appreciated. I generally rounded up taxi fares and left 10% at restaurants for good service.
8. Wi-Fi and Mobile Data: I found Wi-Fi available almost everywhere in the hotels and restaurants. I also, however, bought a local SIM card for mobile data use-pretty cheap and helpful with navigation.
9. Safety: I felt super safe in Mauritius, even as a solo female traveler. But again, as with anywhere, it is always best to exercise common-sense precautions like not flashing expensive items and being aware of your surroundings.
10. Food and Drink: Don’t be afraid to try the street food – it’s delicious and I never had any issues with my stomach. Do drink plenty of water though, especially if you’re not used to the heat.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Mauritius
As I sit here back home, scrolling through my photos of Mauritius, I just can’t help but smile. This island captured my heart in a way I hadn’t expected. It is more than just the postcard-perfect beaches and luxurious resorts-apparently, those are great too. It is the warmth in people, the richness in culture, and how much variation in experiences there is packed into one small island.
In Mauritius, the balance was just right. You can spend one day lazing on the beach, the next day hiking in a rainforest. You can dine at world-class restaurants or sample delicious street food for less than one dollar. You can stay in luxury villas or charming local guesthouses. Whatever your traveling style may be, Mauritius has got something for everyone.
And it is with this in mind that one will not say icing, but the cherry on top is the Mauritian people. A history of invasions has left an indelible imprint on Mauritius in the form of a rich cultural melting pot, which reflects in almost everything-from food to festivals. I left with a deeper appreciation for the power of diversity and the beauty of cultural harmony.
From beachcomber to thrill-seeker, foodie to culture vulture, I can safely say you will be shocked, amazed, and planning your next trip before you are ever out of Mauritius. This little Indian Ocean island might just surprise you, delight you, and have you jotting down dates for return trips before you even leave.
Final Words
It is my hope, as I go through this guide, that I have been able to push across a fraction of what makes Mauritius special. The 7-day itinerary is full-on, but it is just scratching the surface of what the island has to offer.
My advice? Take this itinerary as a starting point but do not be afraid to divert from it. Some of my best memories from Mauritius came from spontaneous detours and chance encounters. Chat with the locals, follow that intriguing side road, say yes to new experiences. That’s the beauty of travel, after all.
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If you’re interested in exploring more travel tips, check out my article on Tips for Planning Your Next Trip and learn how to travel smart. Check also my one day Travel to Rome: Your Ultimate One-Day Itinerary for a Memorable Adventure for €30 or Less
So, what are you waiting for? It is time to set off on a Mauritian adventure. Paradise is calling, and it is much closer and more pocket-friendly than you think. Bon voyage!