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Mauritius is the Indian Ocean's paradise: turquoise lagoons protected by the world's 3rd largest coral reef, white sand beaches ringed with coconut palms, Blue Bay Marine Park (UNESCO), the colours of the Seven Coloured Earths, and a blended Creole, Indian and French culture.
The north coast is the island's liveliest: Trou aux Biches, a postcard beach with a crystal-clear lagoon, Grand Baie for shopping and nightlife, and Tamarin where you can swim with wild dolphins in the morning — a unique experience out at sea.
Highlights : Swimming with wild dolphins (Tamarin), Trou aux Biches — perfect turquoise lagoon, Île Plate and Île Gabriel — unspoiled snorkelling, Grand Baie Bazaar — shopping & nightlife.
The southwest concentrates the island's natural beauty: Black River Gorges National Park (primary forest, Mauritius kestrel), the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths (a unique multicoloured volcanic sand formation), and La Gaulette for kitesurfing.
Highlights : Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths, Chamarel Falls (83 m), Kitesurfing & windsurfing at Le Morne, Black River Gorges hike — Mauritius kestrel.
Rodrigues is Mauritius's sister island, 560 km to the east: a lagoon four times bigger than the island itself, pristine seabeds and absolute calm. No chain hotels, just family guesthouses, artisanal fishing and a Caribbean-like slowness in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
Highlights : Turquoise lagoon — snorkelling & kitesurfing, Île aux Cocos — deserted island picnic.
Blue Bay Marine Park is UNESCO-listed: Mauritius's finest beach, a breathtaking coral reef for snorkelling (brain coral, parrotfish, rays), and islets reachable by boat — Île aux Cerfs lies in Mauritius's largest lagoon.
Highlights : Snorkelling at Blue Bay Marine Park (UNESCO), Île aux Cerfs — giant lagoon & boat excursion, Scuba diving — reef sharks, Deserted islet picnic.
Mauritius is one of the priciest destinations in the Indian Ocean, dominated by upscale all-inclusive resorts. It is still possible to visit on a mid-range budget by staying in guesthouses and eating with locals.