Mauritius is one of the larger islands in the Indian Ocean, a beautiful country offering a diverse landscape. With this comes so many excellent opportunities to explore new areas and activities whilst on holiday. I have picked my 10 favourite of these for you for those that are looking for something different to do whilst away.

1. A quad biking tour on Mauritius’ north coast. 

Head to Anse La Raie beach, popular for kitesurfing. This beautiful golden sandy beach and lagoon is situated on the northernmost part of Mauritius. A couple of minutes away you will find Gilbert and his company the Quad Anse La Raie, a quad biking company. Gilbert can take you on a tour of the coastal roads and offer knowledge and stories of the islands history and showcase this beautiful spot to show the island in a different light.

2. Head to Flacq Market on a Sunday. 

Flacq Market is lesser known than the capital Port Louis market. Less crowded and touristy this market is more authentic which is part of its beauty. The open-air market in Central Flacq is filled to the brim with aromatic spices, island produce and fantastic street food, a glimpse of the true rustic Mauritius.

3. Go Skydiving. 

A once in a lifetime experience to see Mauritius in a completely different way from how most visitors get to see the island. Freefall for 10,000 feet in a tandem skydive with head-honcho Chris, Fabrice or one of the team. This thrilling activity will certainly stick in the memory for many years to come. The 20 minute ascent by airplane is stunning, the thought of reaching nearly 200km/hr before releasing the parachute is certainly going to get your adrenaline pumping. 

4. Hire a car and explore the island by road. 

Mauritius has an excellent infrastructure combined with the ease of driving on the left hand side of the road. Mauritius is easily explorable, well sign-posted and charming. Grab a map, pin-point a few highlights you wish to see and become your own tour guide for the day.

5. Have a flutter at the races. 

The Champ de Mars racecourse in Port Louis is one of the oldest racecourses in the world and steeped in history. Whether you want to take in the old-world history or make a few bets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, it’s certainly a fun place to spend an afternoon.

6. Buy a Victoria Pineapple from a street-seller or local on the beach. 

Victoria Pineapple’s are a common variety on the island and are typically sweeter and smaller than a traditional pineapple. Mauritian’s shake sea salt, chilli and sometimes a little tamarind  with the pineapple in a bag to set taste buds alive as you enjoy this sweet, sour and salty delicious snack.

7. Hike up Le Pouce Mountain for 360 degree views of the island. 

For anyone with an average fitness level, the Le Pouce Mountain affords a leisurely morning hike that will lead you to perhaps the best views of the island. Taking approximately two hours each way, the top of the 812 metre high peak offers sweeping 360 degree views of the island. These are are truly incredible and it definitely provides a photo opportunity or two.

8. Dance the night away at the Banana Beach Club. 

This popular hangout in the Grand Baie area of Mauritius is home to some of the island’s best live music for approaching 30 years. Understated cool oozes from this evening hotspot. This cosy and quirky bar isn’t known for its culinary prowess or extensive drinks menu but for music lovers there is no better with live bands and plenty of dancing. Just make sure to arrive early at the weekend to ensure you get a table.

9. Dine at Shangri-La Le Tousserok.

Whilst there are no Michelin star restaurants on the island, an evening spent at Le Tousserok leaves you wondering why not. The hotel offers five different restaurants taking you on a gastronomic journey from the far east back round to locally inspired cuisine, many rave about eating here for days and weeks after. There is stunning scenery and views from the Safran restaurant with an Indian menu designed by internationally acclaimed Chef Ramesh Bundi.

10. Visit Chamarel. 

Whilst this can be a little busy, it is one of the island’s most iconic sights: The Seven Coloured Earths. Thanks to geological movements there are seven distinct colours to these sand dunes which change from blue to purple to red stripes. Make sure to say hi to the giant tortoises and also take a snap of the 95 metre long Chamarel Waterfall.

These are just a few of the excellent experiences that Mauritius has to offer, if this has tempted you to visit this wonderful island have a look at some of our properties here. If you would like to find our more about this beautiful island, why not take a read of our blog, Mauritius – a beautiful remote paradise. Mauritius – a beautiful remote paradise