ABOUT MAURITIUS
Location & History
Born in the vast Indian Ocean, the island of Mauritius is situated 1100 kms away from the east coast Madagascar and 2000 kms to the eastern coast of South Africa and considered to be in the continent of Africa and belongs to Mascarene Island; Mauritius covers an area of 1865 kms and a coastline of 330 kms in approximate length.
Mauritius with its turquoise blue lagoons is a volcanic island which was first discovered by the Portuguese navigator Pedro Mascarenhas in 1505 and then claimed by the Dutch in the year of 1598-1712 and successively occupied by the French in 1715-1810. After the treaty of Paris and before gaining independence and becoming a republic island in 1992, Mauritius was ruled by the Great Britain from 1814-1968.
Best season & climate
Mauritius with its tropical climate welcomes you all through the year. Summer is from November to May. At this time the temperature varies between 22-35 degrees Celsius. Summer seasons are very hot and humid. During this season January-April the island may be affected by cyclones.
Winter would be the best season to visit as the temperature varies between 17-26 degrees Celsius, with less humidity and a dryer temperature. The coats lines are usually warmer, with the big blue sea temperature varying from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius.
Mauritius Info
Mauritius with its diversity of different cultures and ethnic groups like Indian, Creole and Chinese brings a multilingual to the island, fluent in both English and French.
Creole and French are the main spoken languages in the everyday life. Numerous other oriental languages are also spoken.
Port-Louis is the capital of Mauritius and the largest city, some places to visit are the Caudan Waterfront for shopping, the main bazaar can also be quite intriguing, or if you want to just relax on a bench watching the sails of the yacht in the bay. Other towns like Quatre Bornes known for the bazaar and a great place if you enjoy bargaining.
Some other important towns and regions are Curpipe, Vacoas, Phoenix, Rose-Hill, Beau-Bassin, Eben (known as the cyber city) and Grand-Bay which is on the north coast.
What to do when not enjoying the big blue
In The North
Take pleasure of the green virtues of Mauritius at Pamplemousse and learn about the different plants. It’s worthwhile to take a guide which makes it more fun.
At the Sugar Factory Museum L’Aventure du Sucre gain knowledge of the history of Mauritius.
Enjoy shopping, fun filled leisure activities like parasailing etc, eating good food and dancing. Grand Bay is the place to go.
Or maybe Horse Riding is what you interested the place to go is La Ferme de Mont-Choisy Limitee.
Take a beautiful boat trip to Flat Island/Gabriel Island which is surrounded by crystal clear lagoons and is a natural habitat for birds.
If you are a non diver and appreciate watching Nemo and his friends from a distance, The Aquarium welcomes you to visit to see the different species of the fauna of the Indian Ocean.
In The East
Ile Aux Cerfs a small island on the east coast, great for sunbathing on its white sandy beaches and ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Offered are other activities at the island. You can also find a restaurant and a golf course for those interested.
If you have children or you feel a bit adventures why not spend a great day on the water slides at the Water Park.
In The West
With its 25 hectares Casela has over 140 bird species from around the world. As well as tortoises, monkeys, tigers, dears and a tempting walk with lions. Also offered are quad bike rides.
For the smallest you have a pet farm with rabbits and other soft animals.
Would you feel hungry do not worry, a restaurant is to be found on the facility.
Benitier Island situated close to Riviere Noire, would be your destinations for dolphin watch or maybe if you lucky a swim with the friendly mammal. A catamaran cruise or boat offers these day trips included are snacks, drinks and lunch, Bon appetite!
Heard about the seven coloured earth? It’s not a legend. Find the place right here in Mauritius at Chamarel.
Parc Aventure, natures combine with a lot of adventure like its name.
In The South
Rochester falls and Alexandra falls have both stunning scenery with a view of slates and mounts.
Windsurfing and kite surfing are common in le Morne at La gaulette. Professionals go on and try your new wings in the south east wind of the island and for amateurs like me join to see a spectacular sight of a colourful sky.
Gris Gris, a view point close by called Roche Qui Pleure (The crying Rock) brings impressive views of a wild sea and huge waves.
The Crocodile Park, there you can find the nightmare of captain Hook Mr. Crocodile, also other animals there are to see. You can even fill your stomach with a delicious crocodile steak if so wanted and other appetizing meals.
Sightseeing inland, you will find
Grand Bassin a natural lake 1800 feet above sea level; is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Bois Cheri, La Route Du The. Takes you on a travel through tea history, and brings a lot of joy for tea lovers like you and me, you will be able to taste different savour and visit the factory.
One of the few colonial houses on the island Eureka, built in 1830. Take a walk through colonial time in a wonderful garden.