Promising absolute perfection and complete exhilaration, Mauritius is a holiday destination straight from a dream.

If 'pinch me' moments of wonder and delight are what you crave, this enchanting Indian Ocean island nation is for you. Captivating beaches, enriching activities and glorious tropical sunshine all await. You’ll discover fascinating wildlife, a rich heritage and irresistible cuisine, sharing unforgettable adventures and enriching experiences with family, friends or that special someone. With so much to offer, you’ll have an excuse to return again and again.

To give you a taste of the joys that you’ll find, here are our top 10 things to do on your holiday in Mauritius.

1. Embrace Castaway Life On Ile Des Deux Cocos

Discover paradise with a day trip to this tropical island haven located in Blue Bay Marine Park, just off the south east coast of Mauritius. Following a short speed boat or glass-bottom boat ride, you’ll have the freedom to explore the exotic surroundings. You can relax on pristine white sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, play volleyball and snorkel amidst the vibrant coral and colourful sea life to be found in the marine park. A buffet lunch is included, along with wine, beer and soft drinks, You’ll also be treated to homemade rum and ice cream.

2. Snorkel In Blue Bay Marine Park

Step straight from the sugar-soft sands of Blue Bay Beach into a world of underwater wonder teeming with mesmerising marine creatures. Offering clear and calm, shallow waters, the marine reserve is a supreme snorkelling spot, located off Mauritius’ south east coast. Butterfly fish, damselfish, clownfish, angelfish and wrasse await in the dazzling coral and seagrasses beneath the ocean surface, while you may also be lucky enough to spot turtles and dolphins. If you don’t fancy getting wet, you can always enjoy the aquatic delights of Blue Bay Marine Park during a magical glass-bottom boat trip.

3. Explore Port Louis

Discovering Mauritius’ lively capital is a must, and a walking tour is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of the beguiling island nation. Stroll along the palm-lined Place d’Armes boulevard to Government House, a French-colonial building dating back to the early 18th century, followed by a visit to the nearby Jardin de la Compagnie, a delightful green oasis. Caudan Waterfront offers a variety of shops and restaurants, while you can pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir at Port Louis Market. For views over the city, visit the Citadelle, also known as Fort Adelaide, an old hillside fortress built by the British. Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another historic landmark worth discovering, being the place where Indian indentured labourers arrived in Mauritius following the abolition of slavery.

4. Visit Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark

Mauritius is brimming with scenic beauty and one must-visit natural attraction is Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earth. A geological phenomenon, the site is located 283 metres above sea level and surrounded by lush tropical forest. The colourful swirling spectacle can be enjoyed from a number of vantage points and is sure to leave you spellbound. While here, you should also make time to discover Chamarel Waterfall, which at around 100m is the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius and a breathtaking sight. A visit to La Rhumerie de Chamarel rum distillery is a superb way to end the day.

5. Discover Local Delicacies

If embracing traditional flavours plays a part in your holiday experience, you won’t be disappointed by what’s on the menu in Mauritius. A spectrum of irresistible street food awaits in Port Louis, where treats include dholl puris, roti, boulettes, samosas, gateaux arouille and gateaux piments. Sample the local beer of Mauritius with a visit to Phoenix Brewery, or head to Tamaka Boutique Winery to savour delightful wines. If a refreshing cuppa is more to your liking, a tour of Bois Cheri Tea Factory might be in order. For a true taste of authentic Mauritian cuisine, you can even enjoy a meal with a local family.

6. Set Sail On A Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Watching the sun set from the deck of a catamaran while bobbing gently on the Indian Ocean is an experience that will be cherished forever. The serene waters that surround the entrancing island of Ile aux Cerfs provide a magical setting to enjoy this spectacle, with immaculate beaches and sparkling lagoons helping to provide a dreamy backdrop. If you’ve visiting Mauritius for romance, a sunset catamaran cruise is a must. Alternatively, Ile aux Cerfs is a heavenly destination for peaceful beach days and also boasts a 18-hole golf course designed by two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer.

7. Hike up Le Morne Brabant

If you’re feeling energetic and craving spectacular scenery, a hike up Le Morne Brabant will provide the ideal activity. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 556-metre high mountain is located on the southern tip of Mauritius. Once a haven for escaped slaves, it is now regarded as a symbol of their struggle for freedom. You'll need to be up early to start your trek up the natural landmark, and it’s best to go with a knowledgeable guide. When you reach the summit, your endeavours will be rewarded with incredible views over the island and out across the Indian Ocean.

8. Seek Out Wild Wonders

For animal loving families, a trip to one of Mauritius’ wildlife parks is an absolute treat. Spectacular creatures including lions, tigers and giant tortoises can be found at Casela Nature and Reserve Park, on the west of the island, with ziplining, quad biking and safari experiences among the activities you can enjoy during your visit. La Vanille Nature Park, to the south, will wow you with crocodile feeding shows, while also being home to giant Aldabra tortoises, monkeys, bats, iguana and more. Gros Cailloux Park, situated on the west of Mauritius, is another option for animal magic and activities, offering turtles, rabbits and birds, as well as kayaking, pedalos and ziplining.

9. Tee Off In paradise

Mauritius is the perfect destination for a golf holiday, boasting an array of award-winning golf courses, surrounded by picture-perfect natural scenery. Heritage Golf Club, in Bel Ombre on the south coast, offers two world-class 18-hole courses, including La Réserve Golf Links, which is located next to Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Two more superb 18-hole courses - Links and Legend - can be found at Constance Belle Mare, on the east coast. Other excellent golfing destinations include Tamarina Golf Club, at Tamarina Golf & Spa Boutique Hotel, Anahita Golf Club, Mont Choisy Le Golf, Paradis Golf Club, Maritim Golf Club, at Maritim Resort & Spa, and The Nine Azuri Golf, at Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa. If you’re lucky enough to stay at a resort with its own golf club, you’ll have access to the course with your green fees covered.

10. Take Sightseeing To New Heights

Take off for a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride that promises a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking sights, scenery and landmarks of Mauritius. You’ll pass over verdant tropical landscapes and take in stunning coastal vistas with beaches beyond your imagination. One of the highlights of the trip is sure to be flying above the underwater waterfall, located in the ocean off the awe-inspiring Le Morne Peninsula, on the south east of the island. A world-famous beauty spot, the aquatic phenomenon is actually an optical illusion created by sand and silt falling around 4,000 metres from an underwater shelf. If your budget allows, a helicopter ride to take in this mesmeric natural attraction is an experience not to be missed.