Explore Mauritius: the art of uncovering the unexpected

Beyond the lapping shores of its paradise beaches and the blissful quiet of its luxury resorts, lies a hidden Mauritius that whispers secrets of the wild and promises adventure.

Shake off the temptation to spend your Mauritius trip poolside with cocktail in hand. Instead answer the island’s call to adventure, uncovering untold stories, hidden paths and surprises on every corner.

Adventurous trails less travelled

Travellers seeking adventure can journey in any direction. Eco-friendly, off-the-beaten-path experiences abound throughout the main island – and even on some offshore islets – allowing immersion in Mauritius’ diverse natural beauty and sustainable ethos.  

Discovering these trails is easy, especially in accessible spots like La Vallée de Ferney, a stunning wildlife reserve near Mahébourg and Vieux Grand Port. Here, hilly hiking trails await, with options for guided or self-guided tours and even 4×4 excursions. Keep an eye out for the rare Mauritian Echo Parakeet overhead. 

Head north to explore the breathtaking Bambou Virieux lagoons, Belle Mare beaches and craggy coastal paths leading to Roches Noires. Beneath this quaint village lies a subterranean cave system, home to freshwater pools and fascinating rock formations. 

From mystical depths to great heights, Mauritius’ mountainous terrain offers fantastic hiking. Rivalling the iconic ‘head-shaped’ Pieter Both is the Le Pouce summit, once scaled by Charles Darwin, and rewards hikers with mesmerising views over the capital city of Port Louis. 

For a memorable coastal trek, try the 13-kilometre Albion Lighthouse Trail, starting at Pointe aux Sables and leading to the historic red-and-white-striped lighthouse with panoramic ocean vistas. In the south, the climb to Baie du Cap, near the UNESCO-listed Le Morne Brabant Mountain, is worth the challenge with rocky cliffs, narrow stairways and unforgettable views.

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Hidden gems worth seeking out

The rugged and quiet southern coast of Mauritius contrasts with its buzzing northern side. A coastal drive reveals authentic fishing villages like Souillac and La Morne, alongside hidden beaches such as Riambel and Rivière des Galets. 

Surprises abound along the way, from the dramatic cliff formations at Pont Naturel to the quirky seashell collection at Bel Ombre. 

Venture inland, guided by the sounds of rushing water, to discover Eau Bleue, Rochester Falls and Cascade Léon. Among the lush wilderness lies the Sacred Lake of Ganga Talao, one of the island’s most important Hindu pilgrimage sites, guarded by a grand statue of Lord Shiva. 

For more serenity, explore Black River Gorges National Park or Ebony Forest, both showcasing the island’s conservation efforts. Offshore, islets like Ile aux Aigrettes in Mahebourg Bay offer blissful solitude.

Craftsmanship and artistry: meeting Mauritius’ creators

Blessed with natural beauty and cultural heritage, Mauritius is home to a thriving arts scene. Begin your artistic exploration at the Blue Penny Museum in Port Louis, where exhibits from local painters, sculptors and textile artists reflect the island’s vibrant history and landscape. 

In villages like Moka, discover creators crafting everything from handmade baskets and intricate batik fabrics to detailed ship replicas and jewellery. Initiatives like Baz’Art Kreasion empower locals to learn traditional techniques while supporting their communities. 

For unique souvenirs, visit the Mauritius Glass Gallery in Curepipe, where you’ll find stunning glasswork sculptures and one-of-a-kind jewellery. To ensure authenticity, look for the ‘Made in Moris’ label. 

Serenity redefined

After exploring hidden gems and timeless trails, Mauritius invites you on a holistic journey of relaxation through beach yoga, meditation retreats and indigenous massage treatments inspired by centuries-old wellness traditions. 

For a self-guided wellness experience, the exotic blooms of Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens and the tranquil sands of La Cambuse Beach provide the perfect settings to unwind and reconnect. 

Wellness can also mean authentic interactions with locals, experienced through eco-lodges, glamping sites, liveaboard yachts, or guided tours exploring Mauritius’ mountains, coral reefs and offshore islands.

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Mauritius isn’t just a destination – it’s an invitation

An invitation to find the story beyond the brochure; to hike its untamed landscapes, admire its artworks and uncover surprising wellness experiences. Each corner of this island offers the chance to connect, learn and create memories that resonate long after you’ve left. 

Plan your next meaningful adventure on the Mauritius Now website.