If you plan to visit the North of Mauritius then this post is perfect for you!
The North of Mauritius is full of beautiful beaches and water activities. However, the island of Mauritius is unique since there is so much more to do besides lying on the beach. There are many cultural sites, parks, hiking places etc. that you should definitely visit if you have time!
The North of Mauritius is considered flat and there are very few hills. Here you will find beautiful beaches and lagoons. North of Mauritius in terms of activities and the vibe. The North is more busy and it is offering more nightlife and restaurants. From the North you can also visit extraordinary islands that are located in the north of the island.
1. Admire the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice at Cap Malheureux
Notre Dame Auxiliatrice is a stunning church with red roof that is located on the beach in the village of Cap Malheureux.
I really recommend to visit this church during sunset. The scenic background behind the church combined with a beautiful soft light from a setting sun that hits the surface of the water behind the church is absolutely amazing.
If you walk along the shore you can also see Coin de mire, beautiful island that rises from the water.
2. Spend time at the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
This botanical garden that is officially known as he Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern hemisphere. The garden covers an area of ca. 37 hectares.
This botanical garden is set knowns for its pond with giant water lilies. Besides the lilies here you will find a great variety of trees and plants such as baobab tree, palm trees and jackfruit trees. In addition there are some animals such as giant tortoises and deers.
This garden as no restaurants or shops inside so remember to take your own water or little snack with you 🙂
3. Visit Château de Labourdonnais
This colonial mansion is located in the Domaine de Labourdonnais and it is a historic destination in Mauritius. It was built in the late 1850’s, and a Mauritian family lived there for over 150 years. There are several “Chateau” in Mauritius but you should visit at least this one that now serves as a museum where you can discover the 19th century Mauritian lifestyle.
This restored grand mansion has rich cultural value and it is important national heritage. At the site you will find beautiful gardens with mango trees, giant tortoises and a tasting bar with various rums.
The entrance ticket will include a complimentary rum tasting.
4. Take a catamaran cruise to Gabriel island
You should definitely book a full-day catamaran cruise to Gabriel island. This island is famous for its beautiful beach that is surrounded with crystal-clear water. The site is perfect for snorkelling and if you are lucky you can spot turtles in the water.
We took a catamaran on Sunday with locals and the personnel on the catamaran provided us with music, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and BBQ lunch buffet. The BBQ consisted of chicken, garlic bread, marlin fish, chicken sausage etc.
When you take the cruise on the way to the Gabriel island you will also see Flat island and Coin de mire. Some cruises also stop at Flat island.
5. Go to Grand Bay
Grand Bay (Grand Baie) is a seaside village and it is a popular holiday destination among tourist. In this village you will find nightlife, shopping and some great restaurants.
There are two popular beaches that are called La Cuvette Beach and Grand Bay Public Beach. I personally prefer La Cuvette beach since it is more private. Public beach has plenty of boats and the water is not that clear.
6. Go on a city tour to Port Louis
Port Louis is the bustling capital of Mauritius. If you have time to visit the lively capital try to include at least these places on your list: The Central Market, the Caudan Waterfron, Chinatown and the viewpoint at Fort Adelaide (Citadel).
The Central Market is the biggest market in Mauritius that is under the roof. Here you will find food, spices and souvenirs. The market is huge so prepare to spend some time admiring the stalls. The Caudan Waterfront was the first shopping Mall in Mauritius. If you are not into expensive shopping you can stroll around the area and enjoy the seaside and colourful umbrellas that are found outside the shopping mall. The Chinatown here is relatively small but the colourful murals and Asian food make this part of the city worthy of visiting. From the viewpoint at Fort Adelaide you will see a 360-degree view of the capital.
7. Snorkel with turtles at Trou-aux-Biches
Trou-aux-Biches is a nice small town with beautiful public beach where you can find plenty of food stalls and water activities. If you want to try delicious street food you should definitely try Farathas and Samosas at BluVital Fast food stall.
On the beach there are many boats that are offering to take you deeper to the water to snorkel with sea turtles. You get to swim with the turtles for approx 40 minutes and you’ll get to take beautiful pictures with your own camera.
The North of Mauritius is very beautiful, you will definitely enjoy it here! 🙂
Check out my TikTok “Must see places in the North of Mauritius”