For our 11th anniversary last December, we decided to ditch the usual routine and escape to the stunning island nation of Mauritius, after the husband declared he was officially done with paperwork for the year. While it’s not your typical adventure-filled destination that I usually seek, Mauritius turned out to be an absolute gem, offering a much-needed relaxing getaway. From its golden beaches to its charming coastal towns, the island had a peaceful vibe that I hadn’t realized I was craving.
Much like our trip to Seychelles, Mauritius boasts mesmerizing waterfalls, lush hikes through tropical jungles, and plenty of untouched nature - making it the ideal spot for any nature lover. I personally found the beaches in Seychelles a bit more pristine, but Mauritius has a unique charm all of its own, with vibrant culture, incredible local cuisine, and welcoming people.
This road trip across the island gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace, from breathtaking views on the coastal roads to hidden waterfalls tucked away in the hills. Keep reading as I dive into some of the most magical moments from this amazing road trip through Mauritius!
ITINERARY | MAURITIUS ROAD TRIP GUIDE
Arrival and drive to the hotel
Day 1 exploring Black Gorges Area Day 2 Hike in Bras D’eau National Park in the north of Mauritius Day 3 Bois Cheri Tea Factory, Grand Bassin Temples & Alexandra Falls
Day 4 Maison Eureka + Waterfalls hike
Day 5 Relaxing morning at the resort and departure
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FLIGHTS + VISA
We flew Emirates from Dubai to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport (economy, but those legroom upgrades were worth it). As Indian passport holders, we applied for a Mauritius visa on arrival, which was also free - super straightforward, just have your hotel booking and return ticket on hand for immigration.
LANGUAGE
English and French are widely spoken, but locals often switch to Creole. A “bonjour” or “merci” goes a long way. Google Translate saved us at roadside snack stalls!
BEST TIME TO VISIT
December is perfect—warm (25–30°C), sunny, and just before peak tourist season. Mornings were crisp for hikes; evenings breezy for beachside dinners.
RENTING A CAR
We booked a Suzuki Swift online. The response from the owner was spot on, the car was brand new and in excellent condition. They dropped off the car at the airport, which was most convenient. Highly recommended. Driving is on the left, roads are well-marked. Pro tip: Download offline Google Maps - network drops near mountains!
VEGAN + VEGETARIAN FOOD
Mauritius is veg-friendly! Must-tries are the Dholl puri (spicy lentil wraps) from Port Louis street stalls.
WHERE WE STAYED
Our stay at the stunning Anantara Iko Mauritius in the Ocean View Suite Rooms was the perfect way to unwind and kick off our Mauritius adventure. Splurging on this resort was a game-changer. We are big Anantara fans (at least on the rare occasion we go on such “mainstream” trips), and much like their other resorts around the world, this property also focuses on well-being and health, and you can feel it in every corner of this paradise!
Deluxe Ocean View Suite is the one I recommend for longer stays, we stayed for 5 nights and really appreciated the super spacious living area and massive jacuzzi!
Things I loved: The Spa and the daily activities schedule, including archery classes, forest hikes, kayaking, yoga, Tai Chi, mocktail/cocktail tasting/making!
Don’t miss the free snorkeling boat trip to Blue Bay and Aux Cerfs through the resort. It was incredible! The best part? The tour starts right next to the resort so convenient and hassle-free. Food: the food did get a little repetitive as vegetarians, but that happens to us in most places, also why we are not fans of staying for too long in a single resort!
Anki’s rating: 8/10
Highlights
Black Gorges Area
The charming village of Chamarel is famous for its windy roads, scenic views, and unique geological features making it one of the most “popular” places to visit in Mauritius. Two of its most iconic attractions include Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Colored Earth.
As someone who prefers going off the beaten path, both of these were a 6.5/10 for me.
However, there is another trail you should take instead - which is the Le Morne Hike in Ebony Forest. There are different hiking trails that lead to three viewpoints – Le Morne viewpoint, Sublime Point, and Piton Canot. We went all the way to the top, took us 5 hours and it was SO worth doing. So if you find yourself in the area, skip the walls and head over to the forest trails!
Bras D’eau National Park in the north of Mauritius
As a couple who goes to beach destinations to hike, I stumbled on to this deserted national park while I was researching off beat things to do on the island. I was immensely curious because I had never heard of the place before. I was slightly disappointed with the lack of information I received but thrilled that I had discovered a new place in Mauritius. This is a nature walk that takes you through the calm and peaceful atmosphere of a forest. The park is home to historic 400-year-old ruins, including the remains of a sugar mill and lime kiln which were built by the French during the colonization of Mauritius.
We learned about the two main trails in the park, the first trail is known as the “Coq des Bois Trail” is a direct trail through the forest which ends at the Mares Chevrettes. It is a 2.5km trail. The second, the “Coq de Bois Loop” is an extension of the first trail by 3.5km that ends at a beach. The entire forest trail was peaceful and serene, with only the sounds of birds and the crunching of footsteps upon leaves breaking the silence. Highly recommended if you are looking to take a break from chilling at the beach!
Bois Cheri Tea Factory, Grand Bassin Temples & Alexandra Falls
From sipping fresh brews at the oldest tea plantation on the island to soaking in the serenity of Grand Bassin, a sacred Hindu lake surrounded by towering deities - it was fun escaping to the places that are under the radar.
We wrapped up the day with a scenic hike to Alexandra Falls, where lush greenery and misty cascades made for the perfect quiet escape. The best part? No crowds, just pure bliss!
Maison Eureka
Tucked near the iconic Eureka Mansion in Moka, Mauritius, lies the enchanting Eureka Falls - a series of four cascading waterfalls that promise an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Steeped in the island’s colonial-era charm, this destination blends history, lush landscapes, and serene vibes, making it a must-visit Mauritius hidden gem for nature lovers and explorers.
Starting from the historic Eureka Mansion - a beautifully preserved 19th-century colonial house - you’ll follow a small trail downhill. Don’t worry! The path, though adventurous, is worth every step. As you weave through towering palm trees, fragrant mango groves, and vibrant tropical foliage, the soothing sounds of rushing water will hint that the falls are near.
This lesser-known spot combines Mauritius eco-tourism with cultural heritage, offering a tranquil escape from crowded beaches. Whether you’re hiking the Moka nature trails, photographing waterfalls, or soaking in history, Eureka Falls delivers an unforgettable slice of island magic.
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and long pants for the trail, pack a picnic, and arrive early to enjoy the falls in peaceful solitude.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Mauritius vs. Seychelles vs. Maldives – which Is Better for You?
As much as we loved our road trip through Mauritius, I can’t help but compare it to the two other famous island destinations we’ve visited: Seychelles and the Maldives. Each has its own charm, but depending on your interests, one might stand out more than the others.
Seychelles: Our Clear Favorite
For us, Seychelles remains the winner, and here's why. If you’re someone who craves natural beauty and a sense of adventure, Seychelles is hard to beat. The islands are known for their dramatic granite boulders, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. What sets it apart from Mauritius (and even the Maldives) is the sheer variety of landscapes you can explore. For those who prefer a mix of adventure, culture, and pristine nature, Seychelles offers more than what Mauritius provides.
Maldives: Ideal for Pure Luxury and Relaxation
On the other hand, the Maldives is often the go-to destination for travelers seeking ultimate luxury, overwater bungalows, and world-class marine life. While Mauritius offers a lot of variety with its inland landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails, the Maldives is all about the sea. If you’re more into underwater experiences, such as snorkeling or diving, the Maldives is unparalleled. The marine biodiversity is astonishing, and the coral reefs are some of the best in the world. However, the Maldives isn’t great for travelers who want to explore beyond the beach.
Mauritius: A Perfect Middle Ground
Mauritius lies somewhere between these two extremes. While it doesn't have the same secluded feel as Seychelles or the ultra-luxurious resorts of the Maldives, it offers a more balanced experience for travelers who want to explore a bit of everything. For those who want an island getaway that combines both inland and coastal experiences without the heavy price tag of the Maldives or the exclusivity of Seychelles, Mauritius is an ideal choice. It’s also a more family-friendly destination, with a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to more budget-friendly choices.
Which one should you choose?
If you’re looking for seclusion, intimacy, and natural beauty with the opportunity to truly disconnect, Seychelles will win your heart. It's perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and couples who want to explore and enjoy both the land and sea in a more private setting.
For those who crave luxury, marine life, and indulgence, Maldives should be your top pick. If you envision yourself lounging on a private island, diving into turquoise waters, and experiencing luxury like no other, the Maldives is where you should go.
However, if you’re after a well-rounded island experience, with a little bit of everything from adventure to cultural exploration to pristine beaches, Mauritius offers a fantastic option. It’s an excellent destination for those who want a varied itinerary with opportunities for hiking, history, relaxation, and great food - plus it won’t break the bank as much as the Maldives might.
In the end, it all depends on your personal preferences. Whether you choose Mauritius, Seychelles, or the Maldives, you’re sure to have an unforgettable island experience.
Thanks for reading. Leave your questions and comments below.
Lots of love,
Anki
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