Mauritius Main Page

A beautiful, tropical island set in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is an ideal holiday destination, with varied geographical features. A central plateau falls gently to the Northern coast and mountains lie behind the capital, Port Louis. The beaches are some of the best in the world and the whole island is ringed by coral reef which makes it marvelous for snorkeling and water sports.

Mauritius has a fascinating history. Settled at different times by the Portuguese, Dutch, French and the British, with strong Indian, Creole and Chinese influence, Mauritius is nothing if not multicultural. This is particularly reflected in the food of the island - Mauritius offered "fusion" cuisine long time before that offered by Australia became so fashionable!

Once home of the Dodo, extinct since the seventeenth century, Mauritius is now of much concern to conservationists. The nature reserves corral the last of the rare species and the island is home to the Mauritius kestrel, once the rarest bird in the world, and the pink pigeon, which Gerald Durrell famously fought to preserve. The ocean contains a myriad of species, including dolphins, turtles and whales, and the plant life is lush and verdant.

The island is enlivened by many cultural events. Hindu, Tamil, Chinese, Muslim and Christian festivals are all marked with fascinating and often spectacular display throughout the year.

If you are seeking a contrast to beach life you might visit the new Le Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis, which boasts cinemas, shops, restaurants and a casino. The bustling market in the downtown area offers the opportunity for souvenir buying, and serious bargaining, and gives an ideal opportunity for you to observe Mauritian life. Mosques, museums, botanical gardens, cultural centers, the extinct volcanic crater at Trou aux Cerfs with fabulous views from the rim, are just some of the other attractions that might tempt you from your lotus eating on the beach. Mauritius can offer you experiences as rich and varied as its own history.