12 STUNNING Places in Mauritius to Visit (Still Dreaming of #5!)

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I thought I knew what tropical paradise looked like until I landed in Mauritius. The water shifts from emerald to turquoise to deep sapphire, all in one beach. Below the surface, coral reefs teem with life while above, waterfalls thunder through jungle-covered mountains.

These are the most beautiful places to visit in Mauritius where nature went all out. From swimming with wild dolphins at sunrise to standing on top of seven-colored earth, this island paradise packs more stunning spots into its tiny size than should be physically possible!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Mauritius

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Mauritian adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Mauritius for just $450 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Here’s a money-saving secret: the best Mauritian street food comes out after 6pm! Head to the Central Market in Port Louis around sunset for fresh mine frit (fried noodles) and dholl puri at half the tourist spot prices. Or, grab a weekly apartment rental and experiment with cooking fresh catches from the Mahébourg fish market.
• Transport: I recommend starting each day early to catch the express buses. They’re half the price of taxis and often just as quick. For beach hopping, consider a 3-day unlimited bus pass that includes the north and coastal routes. Skip the hotel transfers and grab the airport shuttle bus instead. Ot runs every 30 minutes to major towns.

Mauritius may have a reputation for luxury resorts, but there are plenty of ways to experience its incredible beaches and culture on a budget. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Mauritius!

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Mauritius

Ready to explore Mauritius beyond the postcards? From black sand coves to wild tea plantations, here are the spots that made me fall for this island.

1. Black River Gorges National Park

• 📍 Location: Southwest Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, wildlife spotters 🐒, nature photographers 📷
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Macchabée Trail, spotting pink pigeons, viewing Alexandra Falls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to December for clear skies and dry forest trails 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge – Peaceful eco-lodge near forest trails and waterfall viewpoints

Black River Gorges National Park is where Mauritius shows off its wild side. This massive rainforest reserve is home to over 300 plant species and rare wildlife like flying foxes and the endangered pink pigeon. It’s easily one of the island’s most stunning natural spots, with viewpoints that stretch from mountaintops to the sea.

One of the best ways to experience the park is on foot. Trails like Macchabée and Black River Peak offer scenic hikes through thick forest, past waterfalls, and up to panoramic lookouts. You might even hear the calls of echo parakeets overhead.

Unlike the island’s beaches, this part of Mauritius feels raw and untamed. It’s humid, lush, and perfect for travelers craving a real nature fix. Whether you go for a short walk or a full-day trek, the park rewards you with some of the most unforgettable views on the island.

2. Chamarel Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Chamarel, Southwest Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Waterfall chasers 💧, first-time visitors 📸, nature lovers 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the 100-meter drop, hiking nearby trails, visiting the Seven Colored Earth nearby
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for lighter rainfall and clearer trails ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: La Vieille Cheminee – Rustic ecolodge with valley views and nearby access to the waterfall

Chamarel Waterfall is one of Mauritius’ most iconic sights and a must-see if you’re into dramatic landscapes. It plunges nearly 100 meters down a cliff surrounded by lush forest, making it feel like a scene straight out of a fantasy film. This is the kind of place that sticks in your memory long after the trip ends.

The main viewing platform gives you a full look at the falls, but there are side trails that offer different angles if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a popular stop on many day tours, especially those that include the nearby Seven Colored Earth.

For anyone chasing the island’s most stunning spots, Chamarel belongs near the top of your list. The raw power of the falls, mixed with the calmness of the surrounding nature, creates a perfect contrast that’s hard to beat.

3. Eau Bleue Waterfalls

• 📍 Location: Central Mauritius, near Curepipe
• 🏆 Best For: Swimmers 🏊, hidden gem hunters 🔍, weekend explorers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in clear pools, hiking through forest trails, waterfall jumping
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to June for the strongest flow and bright blue water 💧
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Domaine de L’arbre du Voyageur – Cozy guesthouse close to the trailhead and natural pools

Eau Bleue Waterfalls feels like stumbling onto a secret side of Mauritius. This set of cascading falls is tucked inside a forest and flows into bright blue pools that live up to their name. It’s one of the island’s most underrated spots and a favorite for locals looking to cool off.

Getting there takes a short hike through dense greenery, and you’ll likely hear the water before you see it. The falls vary in size, with some pools deep enough for a quick swim or even a safe jump. Bring water shoes if you plan on exploring all levels.

Instead of crowded tourist beaches, this quiet waterfall zone gives you space to relax and recharge. The peaceful setting and natural pools make it a great place to hang out for a few hours with friends or on your own.

4. Ganga Talao or Grand Bassin

• 📍 Location: Savanne District, Central Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Spiritual travelers 🕉️, culture lovers 🛕, peaceful wanderers 🌸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Shiva statue, walking around the crater lake, observing Hindu rituals
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to March during Maha Shivaratri for cultural events and ceremonies 🔥
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Bubble Lodge Bois Chéri – Unique dome stay near tea plantations and a short drive to the lake

Ganga Talao is one of Mauritius’ most sacred and serene locations. Set in a volcanic crater and surrounded by forested hills, this spiritual site draws thousands of devotees each year, especially during Maha Shivaratri. Even outside festival season, the calm waters and temple bells create a tranquil atmosphere that’s easy to connect with.

Walking the lake’s perimeter takes you past prayer spots, shrines, and massive statues like the 108-foot Shiva, which greets you at the entrance. You’ll often see locals offering flowers or lighting incense along the path. Visitors are welcome, but respectful behavior is important here.

What makes this place unforgettable isn’t just the setting, but the peaceful rhythm that surrounds it. The mix of sacred rituals, natural beauty, and mountain air creates a calm that’s rare to find. It’s the kind of stop that slows you down in the best way.

5. Gris Gris Beach

• 📍 Location: Souillac, Southern Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Wave watchers 🌊, landscape photographers 📷, moody beach walks 🌧️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching waves crash on cliffs, exploring La Roche Qui Pleure, walking along the bluff
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for dramatic waves and cooler sea breezes 🌬️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Chalets Chamarel – Peaceful hillside retreat with sweeping coastal views nearby

Gris Gris Beach doesn’t fit the postcard-perfect image most people have of Mauritius—and that’s exactly why it sticks with you. Instead of calm lagoons and coral reefs, you’ll find cliffs battered by waves, roaring surf, and skies that shift from blue to stormy gray in minutes. It’s wild, untamed, and strangely comforting.

The main viewpoint sits above a rocky bluff where waves slam into the shore with serious force. You can follow a narrow trail down to La Roche Qui Pleure, a cliffside rock that looks like it’s crying when the surf hits just right. The sound alone is unforgettable.

No other beach on the island hits quite like this one. With untamed energy and dramatic coastal views, Gris Gris delivers something raw and emotional. It feels like the island’s soul is louder here, and for many travelers, this becomes the spot they dream about long after the trip ends.

6. Ile aux Benitiers and Crystal Rock

• 📍 Location: Off the coast of Le Morne, Southwest Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🐠, boat day fans 🚤, island hoppers 🏝️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling near Crystal Rock, sunbathing on the cay, taking boat tours with local guides
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to November for calm seas and vibrant marine life 🐚
• 🏨 Where to Stay: LUX* Le Morne – Laid-back beachfront resort with mountain views and quick access to the water

This combo is one of the coolest outdoor experiences in Mauritius. You can start with a boat ride from Le Morne, then stop at Crystal Rock, a coral formation that juts out of shallow blue water like a floating island. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, with colorful fish swimming below and insane photo angles above the surface.

Nearby, Ile aux Benitiers welcomes you with soft sand, shade trees, and casual beach vibes. Vendors sometimes set up grills, so you might even catch a seafood barbecue while chilling on the shore. You can swim, paddleboard, or just kick back on the boat with a drink in hand.

The whole trip feels low-pressure and totally rewarding. For travelers chasing beauty and fun at the same time, this place nails the balance. It’s scenic, laid-back, and easy to reach with a local tour or private boat hire.

7. La Cambuse

• 📍 Location: Southeast Coast, near Mahébourg
• 🏆 Best For: Beach solitude 🧘, casual hiking 🚶, quiet escapes 🌴
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in clear water, exploring cliffside trails, having a beach picnic
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for breezy weather and fewer crowds 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort – Beachfront comfort close to nature trails and calm swimming spots

La Cambuse is the kind of beach you hope no one else knows about. Just near the airport, it somehow stays low-key even though it’s one of the most beautiful coastal spots on the island. The sand is soft, the water is clean, and the tree line gives plenty of shade when you’re ready to cool off.

What makes this beach extra special are the surrounding trails. You can walk along the coastline and find elevated views of the Indian Ocean or stumble onto other quiet beach patches with barely a soul in sight. It’s a great place to unplug, snack on something local, and take it slow.

For anyone who wants the beauty of Mauritius without the crowds, La Cambuse delivers. It’s peaceful without being boring and scenic without feeling overly curated. 

8. Le Morne

• 📍 Location: Le Morne Peninsula, Southwest Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🧗, history buffs 📖, water sports lovers 🪁
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Le Morne Brabant, kite surfing along the coast, relaxing on white sand beaches
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for steady winds and clear hiking conditions 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The St. Regis Mauritius Resort – Luxe beachfront stay with direct views of Le Morne mountain

Le Morne is more than just a pretty beach, it’s a place where history and scenery meet. The mountain that towers above the peninsula was once a refuge for runaway slaves and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike to the summit early in the morning for wide-open views of lagoons and coral reefs.

Down by the coast, the beach stretches out with powder-soft sand and calm, clear water. It’s a popular launch spot for kitesurfing thanks to consistent wind, but you don’t have to be sporty to enjoy it. Watching the colorful kites dot the sky is worth the visit alone.

Le Morne blends adventure, culture, and beauty in a way few places do. Whether you’re climbing a historic trail or just laying back on the beach, this peninsula gives you a lot to take in without needing to rush.

9. Pereybere

• 📍 Location: Northern Mauritius, near Grand Baie
• 🏆 Best For: Social beachgoers 🏖️, snorkelers 🐟, foodies 🍛
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling near the reef, trying street food, enjoying sunset drinks on the beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for warm sea temps and lively energy ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Bleu de Toi Boutique Guesthouse – Bright, cozy stay just a short walk from the beach

Pereybere is a small beach with a big personality. The water here is calm and clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling right off the shore. Local boats offer short reef trips, but even the shallow areas are full of marine life. It’s also one of the best spots to meet other travelers and soak up the island’s social side.

Just steps from the sand, you’ll find food stalls and cafés serving everything from dholl puri to seafood curry. The area buzzes without being too hectic, making it ideal for day trips or low-key nights out. It’s a great place to post up for a few hours and enjoy good music, good food, and even better views.

Pereybere is fun without being overdone. It feels youthful and casual, and the sunsets here are some of the best on the island’s north coast.

10. Seven Colored Earth Geopark

• 📍 Location: Chamarel, Southwest Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Geology fans 🪨, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, curious travelers 🧠
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the multicolored dunes, spotting giant tortoises, walking scenic trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to November for clear skies and bright dune colors 🌈
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kaz’alala Hosted B&B – Charming local stay close to both the Geopark and Chamarel attractions

Seven Colored Earth Geopark is one of the most unique places in Mauritius. This natural site features rolling sand dunes in vibrant shades of red, brown, purple, and blue, all created by volcanic activity and weathering over time. The colors are real and don’t wash away, even in the rain.

The site is family-friendly, with walking paths and elevated platforms for better views. You’ll also find a pen where giant tortoises roam slowly through the shade. Informational signs explain the science behind the colors and make the visit more engaging.

This spot is easy to combine with other Chamarel sights, but it definitely deserves its own moment. The way the dunes glow under afternoon light makes it feel almost otherworldly. It’s an ideal stop for travelers who like strange and beautiful places that are rooted in natural science.

11. Tamarind Waterfalls

• 📍 Location: Henrietta, Southwest Mauritius
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, swimmers 🏞️, nature photographers 📷
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the seven falls, swimming in jungle pools, cliff-jumping with local guides
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for easier trails and lower water levels for swimming 🌳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Green Cottage Chamarel – Peaceful hillside stay with easy access to nearby waterfall trails

Tamarind Waterfalls, also called the Seven Cascades, offer one of the best outdoor adventures in Mauritius. These waterfalls are stacked along a river trail, with each one feeding into clear pools perfect for a refreshing swim. It’s a rewarding stop for travelers who love a mix of hiking and water-based fun.

The trail winds through dense greenery and opens up to panoramic views of the valley. Some parts can get steep or slippery, but guided tours are available if you want to explore safely. Along the way, you’ll hear birds, rustling trees, and the constant sound of water crashing in the distance.

This isn’t a crowded spot, which makes it even better for a quiet nature day. You can jump into the pools, rest along the rocks, or take in the views as Tamarind blends thrill and calm in one unforgettable place.

12. Trou aux Biches

• 📍 Location: Northern Mauritius, near Mont Choisy
• 🏆 Best For: Families with kids 👶, honeymooners 💑, beach loungers 🌺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling in the lagoon, relaxing under palm trees, enjoying beachfront dining
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for calm seas and golden sunsets 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sakoa Boutik Hotel – Intimate beachfront stay with quiet views and great snorkeling access

Trou aux Biches is what you picture when someone says tropical paradise. The beach is wide and powdery white, with shallow water that glows turquoise under the sun. A coral reef just offshore keeps the waves gentle and makes the area perfect for snorkeling.

You’ll find shaded spots under palms, food stalls serving fresh seafood, and beachfront cafés for longer stays. The beach draws both locals and tourists, but it rarely feels overcrowded. It’s easy to spend an entire day here with no plans other than swimming, eating, and watching the sun go down.

The energy is peaceful but never boring. From honeymooners enjoying the calm to families building sandcastles by the shore, this beach suits just about every kind of traveler. Trou aux Biches is exactly the kind of place people fall in love with and keep coming back to.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Mauritius

Interested in broadening your understanding of Mauritius’s most picturesque locations? Here are frequently asked questions about its top attractions.

What is the most beautiful part of Mauritius?

The beauty of Mauritius is diverse and spread across the island, making it difficult to pinpoint just one “most beautiful part.” However, many travelers find the southwestern region, home to places like Le Morne and Black River Gorges National Park, to be exceptionally scenic. It’s a Mauritius beauty that combines mountains, beaches, and lush forests.

Which is the most beautiful city in Mauritius?

While Mauritius is more renowned for its natural landscapes than its cities, Port Louis, the capital, offers a blend of cultural and modern attractions. From the bustling Central Market to the serene Caudan Waterfront, it’s the most beautiful city in Mauritius in terms of diversity and vibrancy.

Which part of Mauritius has the best beaches?

The northern region of Mauritius boasts some of the best beaches. Here are a few standout locations:

1. Grand Baie: This popular beach offers soft white sand, turquoise waters, and a variety of water sports activities. Its lively ambiance, with numerous restaurants and shops nearby, attracts both locals and tourists.
2. Pereybere: A favorite among families, Pereybere has calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
3. Trou aux Biches: Recognized for its stunning sunset views, this beach also provides a long stretch of shallow waters, making it perfect for families with children.
4. Mont Choisy: As one of the longest beaches in Mauritius, Mont Choisy offers ample space for relaxation and beach games. The casuarina trees lining the beach provide shade for picnickers.
5. La Cuvette: Located near Grand Baie, this smaller beach offers tranquility and scenic beauty.

Where to go in Mauritius for a secluded getaway?

For travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty, the southeastern region offers several secluded spots. Places like Eau Bleue Waterfalls and La Cambuse are less frequented by tourists, making them ideal for a peaceful retreat.

What are the prettiest places in Mauritius for photography?

Photographers will find no shortage of stunning locations in Mauritius. Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Colored Earth Geopark are among the prettiest places in Mauritius for capturing the island’s natural beauty.

Visiting Mauritius for the first time, what should I not miss?

If you’re visiting Mauritius for the first time, make sure to explore both the beaches and the inland attractions. From the vibrant marine life at Pereybere to the spiritual serenity of Ganga Talao, there’s a wide range of experiences that you shouldn’t miss.

What are the most scenic places in Mauritius for hiking?

For hiking enthusiasts, Black River Gorges National Park and Le Morne offer some of the most scenic places in Mauritius. The trails take you through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to panoramic mountain views.

Why is Mauritius the best place to visit?

Mauritius stands out as a top travel destination for several compelling reasons:

1. Stunning Beaches: Mauritius offers pristine white-sand beaches like Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, and Belle Mare, where visitors can relax, sunbathe, and indulge in water sports.
2. Diverse Culture: The island’s rich history has led to a blend of cultures, including Indian, African, European, and Chinese influences. This diversity reflects in its festivals, food, music, and traditions.
3. Adventure Activities: Beyond the beaches, Mauritius offers thrilling activities such as hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park, quad biking at Valriche Nature Reserve, and deep-sea fishing.
4. Underwater Wonders: The island’s coral reefs make it a haven for snorkelers and divers. The underwater sea walk and submarine rides provide unique ways to explore marine life.
5. Luxury Resorts: Mauritius boasts world-class resorts that offer top-notch amenities, spa treatments, and gourmet dining experiences.
6. Natural Beauty: From the colored sands of the Seven Coloured Earths to the waterfalls of Chamarel, Mauritius showcases diverse natural attractions.
7. Wildlife Encounters: The island is home to unique flora and fauna. Visitors can spot giant tortoises at Île aux Serpents and interact with lions at Casela World of Adventures.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Mauritius

Mauritius is more than just a travel destination; it’s a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. From the tranquil beauty of Black River Gorges National Park to the bustling atmosphere of Port Louis, the island offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone simply looking to unwind, Mauritius has something for you.

The island is a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural richness, and historical significance. It’s a place where you can hike through lush forests one day and explore vibrant markets the next. Each region offers its own unique charm and set of activities, making every visit to this island nation a unique experience.

So, if you’re planning a trip to this tropical paradise, make sure to explore as much as you can. From the most beautiful places to visit in Mauritius to the hidden gems that are off the beaten path, there’s a world of beauty and adventure waiting for you in Mauritius.