While planning our dream trip to the paradise island of Mauritius, we knew we wanted to experience more than just the beaches (though those are pretty spectacular!). We wanted to dive into the culture, the flavours, and the natural beauty that makes Mauritius so unique. That’s where Turquoise Voyagers came in. We were lucky to partner with this incredible tour company for a 2-day tour. It gave us a real, authentic sense of Mauritius, hitting all the must-see spots and leaving us with memories to last a lifetime. If you’re looking for the best way to explore Mauritius, keep reading!
North Island Tour: A Whirlwind of Culture and Coastal Charm
Our first day was dedicated to exploring the North of the Island, a vibrant mix of bustling city life and stunning coastal scenery.
- Port Louis: A Capital Experience: Our adventure began in Port Louis, the capital city. We took a short walk through the city centre, snapping photos at the iconic umbrella installation – a must for any Instagram feed! We loved wandering through the lively stalls, soaking in the energy of the commercial heart of Mauritius. It’s a great way to get a feel for the island’s pulse.
- Port Louis Market: A Local’s Paradise: Next up was the Port Louis Market, a sensory explosion of colors, smells, and sounds. I always try to visit local markets when traveling, and this one didn’t disappoint. It’s a fantastic place to witness everyday life and discover unique souvenirs and of course, barter with the traders.
- Tea Time in Mauritius: We then indulged in a tea tour and tasting at one of the famous tea rooms. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much, but it was surprisingly fascinating! We learned about the history of tea production in Mauritius and sampled some delicious local blends. I discovered a new appreciation for tea and an interest in the various healing properties in different types of teas. This experience also made me think back to ancient times where modern medicine was not what it is today and relying on nature and ancient wisdom could in fact save a life. Definitely a worthwhile experience!
- Botanical Gardens (Almost!): Our itinerary included a stop at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, but with a toddler in tow, we sometimes have to make adjustments. We opted to skip the gardens this time, but we did drive past them, and they looked absolutely stunning. If you have the time, I highly recommend a visit and please let us know what we missed out on.
- Grand Baie Bliss: Lunch was in Grand Baie, and wow! The beaches here are some of the most beautiful we’ve ever seen. We enjoyed a leisurely walk along the shore, savoring an ice cream and soaking up the sun. Pure bliss! Grand Baie is a must-visit destination in Mauritiu with loads to see and do. A great place to be located if you are after marine activities.
- Cap Malheureux Church: A Picture-Perfect Ending: We ended the day at the iconic red-roofed church at Cap Malheureux. The setting is breathtaking, with the turquoise sea as a backdrop. It’s the perfect spot for photos and a peaceful moment of reflection.
A brilliant overview of this part of the island and already missing our time spent here!
South Island Tour: Nature’s Masterpiece Unveiled
Day two took us to the South of the Island, a dramatic landscape of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic wonders. This tour was a stark contrast to the North Island, focusing on the incredible natural beauty of Mauritius.
- Waterfalls and Scenic Views: The drive to the south was a bit longer from our hotel, but the scenery along the way was worth it. Our first stop was a stunning waterfall, the perfect introduction to the natural wonders that awaited us.
- Chinese Guava Delight: A truly memorable moment was stopping along the roadside to pick and eat fresh Chinese guavas. They were in season, and our guide knew exactly where to find them. It was a simple pleasure that really connected us to the island. This was not part of the tour as such but the fruit picking was something that was a highlight. We of course sampled the fruit as well which was so yummy. We loved partaking in this as it was not planned and was something so basic to enjoy a piece of nature.
- Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Coloured Earths: A Geological Wonder: The highlight of the South Island tour was undoubtedly Chamarel. The Chamarel Waterfall is a majestic sight, and the Seven Coloured Earths are a geological marvel. It’s hard to believe that these vibrant, undulating landscapes are naturally formed. A must-see!
Why Choose Turquoise Voyagers?
We were incredibly impressed with Turquoise Voyagers. Their guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing their love for Mauritius. They were also flexible and accommodating, which was especially important when traveling with a young child. The tours were well-organized, and we felt like we got a great overview of the island in just two days. It was also really safe as on day 2 we were travelling with all of our luggage as we were staying in the South for 2 days.while site-seeing we left our bags in the taxi which was totally safe.
Tips for Planning Your Mauritius Tour:
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, it’s best to book your tours in advance to ensure availability.
- Consider Your Interests: Choose tours that align with your interests. Whether you’re into culture, nature, or adventure, there’s a tour for you.
- Pack Appropriately: Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks and insect repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
- Be Open to New Experiences: Mauritius has so much to offer, so be open to trying new things and stepping outside your comfort zone.
Overall, our 2-day tour with Turquoise Voyagers was an unforgettable experience. It allowed us to see the best of Mauritius and create lasting memories. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful island, we highly recommend booking a tour with them. You won’t be disappointed.
