Mauritius is an enchanting island in the Indian Ocean, located off the eastern coast of Africa. The island’s official name is the Republic of Mauritius. It is renowned for its fine white sand beaches, beautiful calm lagoons and stunning reefs rich in marine life.
While many people head there for a beach holiday, there are also plenty of activities to take part in for those who prefer a more adventurous trip away.
You could explore waterfalls and rainforests, follow one of its many hiking trails or even learn about its varying wildlife by seeing it in its natural habitat.
So, if you’re planning your first trip to Mauritius, here are some top tips that can help you make the most of your trip.
1. Consider The Time Of Year
Before you book your holiday, one of the most important things to consider is what time of the year you are going to travel. Choosing the best time for you will help you get the most out of your time there – there’s no fun in having to stay in the shade all the time if you want to be out and about exploring. The island has a sub-tropical climate with two distinct seasons, so depending on what type of break you want, you’ll need to consider this.
If you are looking for hot weather, any time between October and December is your best option, with warm temperatures and less rain. The hottest month, however, is December, when temperatures can get as high as 33℃. If you are looking for a cooler break, you are better off visiting Mauritius in July, which sees daily highs of around 22℃.
2. Consider The Language
It’s always a good idea to have a basic understanding of the language when travelling to any new country. In Mauritius, the majority of people speak Mauritian Creole, which is a French-based language.
This is the language that’s usually spoken in the media too, so if you are planning on watching any news or TV while you are on holiday, it could be helpful to learn a few phrases.
Some good phrases to know include ‘bonzur’, which means ‘hello’; ‘orewar’, which means ‘goodbye’; and ‘si ouplé’, which means ‘please’.
3. Plan Ahead
With so much to see and do, it is not surprising that Mauritius is a popular destination. If you want to make the most of your holiday and explore what the island has to offer, planning ahead will be essential. Some of the top attractions on the island include Grand Bassin (a sacred lake), Ile aux Cerfs (an island specifically for leisure activities and watersports) and the Black River Gorges National Park, but there are plenty more activities to choose from as well.
In fact, it’s definitely worth making time to visit the capital of Port Louis while you’re there. Don’t forget to venture slightly further out of the city and explore the Eureka plantation house and the 18th-century Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens.
.
