Chic Indian Ocean hideaway
Mauritius transports you to an island paradise featuring turquoise lagoons bordered by ribbons of white sand beaches, with a tropical jungle and impressive mountain backdrop. Divers and adventurers will appreciate the colourful sea life, water sports, and shipwrecks, while families can enjoy precious time together paddling shallow, warm waters, and enjoying the year-round sunshine. Golfers will be spoilt for choice with world class fairways, including the famous 18-hole course on the Ile aux Cerfs islet. Couples can select from tranquil bays providing the perfect sanctuary to get away from it all.
Immerse yourself in the fusion of French, Chinese, Creole, and English influences found in the island’s vibrant culture and exquisite cuisine. Sample coq au vin in upmarket restaurants, or spicy samosas from roadside vendors. Visitors can also enjoy year-round festivals, highlights of which include the Cavadee Festival in January or February, featuring flower covered arches, the colourful Lord Shiva Hindu Festival in March and Diwali during October and November.
Holidays in Mauritius offer a wealth of sightseeing opportunities, including an excursion to the island capital of Port Louis and its swanky waterfront and colourful markets. The whole family will enjoy exploring Pamplemousses. Botanical Gardens or a sugar cane plantation, while for a unique experience witness the red, orange, grey, and purple sands of the Seven Coloured Earths at Chamarel. Belle Mare and Turtle Bay feature swathes of golden sands, while Bel Ombre offers peaceful rural charm. Flic en Flac attracts visitors with its tranquil beach scene and impressive dive sites.
Set on the fringes of a national park, Chamarel delivers lush scenery, sugarcane plantations, and photogenic sand dunes. The coast is only a 10-minute drive away, too.
Flight time from the UK to Mauritius is 11 hours 50 minutes.
Mauritius is a year-round destination, with summer and winter months offering something different. The summer months, from October through to April, are perfect for beach lovers - days are long and temperatures are in the high 20s. There is the odd chance of a cyclone in the south of the island, though. The winter months (during the UK summer) are a little cooler, in the early 20s, so are ideal for hiking and exploring. If you’re planning on diving, the summer months are your best bet – the waters are warmer and (usually) calmer, and there’s more sea life around.
Visas are not required for Mauritius. You will receive a stamp in your passport valid for 60 days.
Tipping in Mauritius is appreciated, but not expected. In restaurants you can leave the small change or round the bill up if you received excellent service. Ensure you give your tip directly to the person whom you wish to receive it.
The official language of Mauritius is English.
No vaccines are required or recommended for Mauritius, however all routine immunisations should be up-to-date. For full details, please contact your GP.
