The Best 7-Day Itinerary and Guide for First-Time Visitors to Mauritius

Mauritius. Just saying the name conjures up thoughts of sun-kissed beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. If you’re a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or someone who enjoys discovering new cultures, Mauritius is a holiday destination waiting to be explored. In this 7-day itinerary, we’ve crafted the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Get ready for an unforgettable trip!

Day 1: Welcome to Mauritius– Exploring the North

Stay: Grand Baie or Trou aux Biches
As soon as you step off the plane at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (SSR Airport), you’ll be greeted by the tropical warmth of Mauritius. Whether you’re coming from a long-haul flight or a quick regional hop, the island’s welcoming atmosphere immediately puts you into “vacation mode.”

Start your first day with a relaxing introduction to Mauritius. The North of the island is all about vibrant beach life, stunning resorts, and laid-back vibes. Settle into your luxury resort — northern Mauritius has luxury hotels of your choice offering world-class service and panoramic beach views.

Explore:

• Grand Baie: This bustling coastal town is the heart of Mauritius’ northern tourism scene. You can wander around its lively streets, shop for unique souvenirs in local boutiques, or grab a coffee at one of the charming cafés by the water.
• Pereybere Beach: A short drive from Grand Baie, this beautiful beach is perfect for a swim, offering calm waters and soft sand. It’s a great spot to dip your toes in the Indian Ocean.

Nearby Additions:

• Cap Malheureux: Just a 15-minute drive north, visit this quaint village famous for the iconic red-roofed Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice chapel, offering scenic views of nearby islands.
• Mont Choisy Beach: If you’re craving more beach time, head to this serene spot, just 10 minutes from Grand Baie, where you can relax in the shade of the trees or enjoy a swim.
• L’Aventure du Sucre (Sugar Museum) – Pamplemousses: Learn about Mauritius’ sugar heritage, located just 25 minutes from Grand Baie. Tour the old sugar factory and sample local rums and sugar products.

Dining:
For your first evening, indulge in a seafood dinner at Grand Baie for fresh, local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere. Alternatively, there are several options for a more refined dining experience under the stars.

Day 2: Culture and History – Port Louis & the Heart of Mauritius

Stay: Grand Baie (continue)
Today, take a 35-minute drive south to Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, where colonial architecture meets modern culture. You can immerse yourself in the rich history and local life of the island.

Explore:

• Aapravasi Ghat(5-10 min drive from Port Louis): A UNESCO World Heritage site, Aapravasi Ghat was once the immigration depot for indentured laborers brought to Mauritius. It’s a sobering and fascinating glimpse into the island’s colonial past.
• Le Caudan Waterfront(5 min drive): A beautiful and bustling shopping complex by the sea. Browse for unique handicrafts, enjoy street food like dholl puri (flatbread with curry), and take in the views of the harbor.
• Central Market(5-10 min walk): Dive into the lively colors and scents of the market where you can buy local produce, spices, and freshly made snacks like gateau piment (spicy lentil cakes).

Nearby Additions:

• Citadelle (Fort Adelaide – 10 min drive from Port Louis): For history lovers, head to this hilltop fort for panoramic views of the city and a peek into Mauritius’ military past. It’s just a 10-minute drive from the heart of Port Louis.
• Le Morne Brabant: A 30-minute drive south, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers dramatic views of the island and is perfect for a scenic hike or a photo op.
• La Citadelle (Fort Adelaide): Located just 10 minutes from Port Louis, the fort offers stunning views of the harbor and the city. It’s a perfect spot to explore the colonial history of Mauritius.

Dining:
Savor Mauritian cuisine with a twist at Le Caudan Waterfront. With gourmet curries and a view of the city’s harbor, it’s a fantastic place to indulge in a fine-dining experience.

Day 3: Beach Bliss – Discovering the East Coast

Stay: Move to the East Coast (optional)
The East Coast of Mauritius is renowned for its peaceful, unspoiled beaches and luxury resorts. Consider shifting to luxury  resorts with serene ocean views, private decks, and exceptional service.

Explore:

• Ile aux Cerfs: Just a 20-minute boat ride away, this island paradise is perfect for a day trip. Relax on its pristine beaches, take part in water sports like parasailing or snorkeling, or simply enjoy the view of turquoise waters.

Nearby Additions:

• Bras d’Eau National Park: A 15-minute drive from the east coast, this park offers an immersive nature experience with trails that wind through dense forests, past rivers, and waterfalls. It’s perfect for nature walks and spotting endemic birds.
• Blue Bay Marine Park: 20 minutes away, it’s a fantastic spot for snorkeling with its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Dining:
Enjoy a sunset dinner at The Floating Market for an unforgettable experience. Freshly prepared seafood served in a picturesque, waterside setting is the perfect way to end your day on the East Coast.

Day 4: Nature Adventures – Hiking and Exploration in the South

Stay: Belle Mare or Mahebourg
For a more adventurous day, head to the South of Mauritius. Stay in areas like Belle Mare or Mahebourg, which offer great access to nature reserves and more remote beaches.

Explore:

• Black River Gorges National Park (35-40 min drive from Belle Mare or Mahebourg): A nature lover’s paradise, this park features scenic hiking trails with impressive viewpoints over lush, forested valleys. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, including endemic birds and plants, making it an excellent destination for those who enjoy nature and hiking.
• Seven Colored Earths (Chamarel) (50-55 min drive from Belle Mare or Mahebourg): This surreal natural phenomenon features vibrant, multicolored sand dunes that change color depending on the sunlight. It’s a photographer’s dream, and the nearby Chamarel Waterfall adds to the area’s beauty, making this a must-see spot.

Nearby Additions:

• Rochester Falls (10-15 min drive from Chamarel): A stunning waterfall, perfect for those seeking a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature’s splendor. The waterfall is surrounded by dense vegetation and offers an excellent photo opportunity.
• La Vanille Nature Park (25-30 min drive from Belle Mare or Mahebourg): This wildlife park is home to giant tortoises, crocodiles, and various indigenous animals. It’s a great family-friendly attraction, with walking trails and opportunities to learn more about the island’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
• Grand Bassin (Sacred Lake) (30-35 min drive from Belle Mare or Mahebourg): A sacred Hindu site that is deeply significant to the local population. The tranquil lake, surrounded by lush hills and adorned with statues of Hindu gods, provides a serene setting for reflection and spiritual connection.
• Sagar Shiv Mandir Hindu Temple (15 min drive from Belle Mare or Mahebourg): Located near Grand Bassin, this picturesque Hindu temple offers a serene atmosphere. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a peaceful spot for visitors to explore Mauritian Hindu culture and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Dining:
Head to Le Chamarel for a traditional Mauritian meal. The panoramic views of the surrounding hills and ocean, combined with delicious local dishes, make for an unforgettable experience.

Day 5: Underwater Wonders – Snorkeling and Diving in the West

Stay: Flic en Flac
The West Coast of Mauritius is the place to be for marine life and adventure. With some of the island’s best diving spots and snorkeling, spend your day exploring the underwater world of Mauritius.

Explore:

• Flic en Flac Beach: A 30-minute drive from the south, this beach offers calm waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The long stretch of golden sand makes it ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
• Blue Bay Marine Park (20-25 min drive from Flic en Flac): An ideal snorkeling spot with abundant marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

Nearby Additions:

• Casela Nature Park (20-25 min drive): Experience wildlife adventures like safaris, ziplining, and interacting with animals.
• Tamarin Bay (15-20 min drive): Famous for surfing, but also a great spot to relax and watch the surfers.

Dining:
End your day with dinner at Flic en Flac, where fresh seafood and a romantic setting by the ocean await.

Day 6: Thrills and Nature – Adventure and Exploration

Stay: Flic en Flac (continue)
For your penultimate day, embrace your adventurous side with a mix of hiking, wildlife exploration, and scenic views.

Explore:

• Le Morne Brabant (1 hr 15 min drive from Flic en Flac): A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering an exhilarating hike with breathtaking views of the island.
• Casela Nature Park (20-25 min drive): Enjoy thrilling experiences like ziplining, quad biking, and safaris.

Nearby Additions:

• La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park (30-40 min drive): Explore the colorful landscapes and enjoy quad biking, nature trails, and stunning views.

Dining:
Treat yourself to a lavish dinner of delicious grilled meats and seafood with a view of the stunning coastline.

Day 7: Chill and Unwind – Your Last Day in Paradise

Stay: Wherever you are
On your final day, take it easy and enjoy the last moments of Mauritius’ beauty and tranquility.

Explore:

• Mauritius Botanical Garden: Located in Pamplemousses, this garden is home to endemic plants and the famous giant

Dining:

For your final evening, enjoy a peaceful dinner in your hotel’s restaurant — many of the luxury resorts offer private dining experiences by the beach, perfect for a farewell to paradise.

Say ‘See You Again’ Mauritius

This itinerary is designed to offer first-time visitors the perfect introduction to Mauritius—from its vibrant culture and fascinating history to its stunning landscapes and luxurious beaches. While there’s more to see, this 7-day plan covers the island’s most iconic spots, allowing you to relax and explore at a comfortable pace.

Whether you choose to stay in one place or move between regions, each part of Mauritius offers a unique experience.