The Wild South Eden
Prepare for amazing encounters among the island’s natural wonders as guests head to the Black River Gorges National Park to see the protected tropical hardwood trees, including the Mauritius ebony which once covered much of the island. Famous for its waterfalls, vistas and hiking, the gorge is the largest national park in Mauritius, located in the central highlands. The viewpoint at the park offers captivating views of the forested mountain landscape, often include sightings of white-tailed tropicbirds, variety of dove species and the rare Mauritian pink pigeon for the lucky ones.
For a more leisurely park exploration, Vanilla Nature Park is a stunning lush tropical vegetation covering 3.5 hectares. Showcasing a diverse range of animal species, this reserve comprises a large number of crocodiles as well as the largest colony of tortoise in captivity in the world in addition to many other animals including deer, wild boars and carp to name a few. The park also houses an insectarium where the work of Jacques Siedlecki is stored and features specimens of inestimable rarity, some of which are now extinct.
Mauritius Cultural Trail
Explore the historical side of Mauritius through a visit across the island’s museums, from experiencing the life of a once renowned Mauritian poet, Edward Hart, through artefacts and published manuscripts showcased at his attractive coral-stone cottage, La Nef, to visiting the splendid French colonial mansion built around 1770 known as Mahebourg Naval Museum, and exploring the remains of an old Dutch bakery, a prison, a forge, a powder magazine and a dispensary at the Frederik Hendrik Museum that stands in a park near the church at Vieux Grand Port. Guests can also opt to visit the Rhumerie of Charamel and enjoy a wonderful experience in the southwest of Mauritius, take part in the rum making process, unique fermentation techniques and different flavours rum tasting.
For a day of post-card perfect discovery, Mauritius is filled with dozens of beautiful beaches and neighbouring islands which can be reached just a few minutes from the mainland. Easily accessed on foot during low tide, Sancho Island is an unavoidable destination to stop at during a trip in the south. Known to locals as Ilot Sancho, the place is a favourite surf spot that perfectly blends history and nature. Near to the Sancho is Riviere des Galets, one of the most unexpected beaches in the south of Mauritius. Surrounded by thousands of small pebbles, this unique location is perfect to relax and enjoy the large waves while taking in the sight of the polished pebbles and the sheer calming beauty. At the extreme south of the island is Gris Gris beach. Offering a spectacular view, Gris Gris boasts an amazing shape which has been formed as a result of the absence of a corral barrier. A place for a refreshing walk by the beach where the high cliffs drop abruptly to the sea and the winds of the Indian Ocean blow all year.
No Mauritius excursion is complete without a trip to Grand Bassin. A sacred natural lake resting on a volcanic crater, this picturesque Bassin is a spectacular beauty with interesting legend, believed to be filled with the waters of the holy Ganges of India. This lake is of immense religious significance for the Hindus residing in Mauritius, a place of worship where several temples dedicated to Shiva and other Gods are located.
