Known for its beautiful white sand beaches and vibrant island life, Mauritius is an island located in the Indian Ocean, off the SouthEast Coast of Africa. It’s terrain is large, vast, and diverse, spanning from a northern region with scenic beaches to a mountainous forest located inland.

Rich in culture and history, and home to beautiful nature, Mauritius is a great warm weather destination for a getaway to relax, explore the outdoors, and immerse yourself in local culture. Interested in what there is to do in the South West part of the island? Check out these 6 top activities to do in South West Mauritius!

1. Enjoy Flic en Flac Beach:

Flic en Flac is a public beach, which stretches for miles on end. Home to beautiful clear water with smooth white sand, it’s a beautiful beach to walk on or to relax and soak up the sun. If you plan on spending the whole day relaxing by the water, not to worry, there are food trucks located close by, making it convenient to grab a drink or bite when you get hungry.

2. View (or Swim) with the Dolphins:

The South West is known for its dolphin sights, which isn’t commonly found in other parts of the island. If you’re interested in the experience, book a trip with a local vendor and spend the morning seeing the dolphins. Dolphin sights usually happen around 7/8am and there are two excursion packages available:

Half day excursion: Go by boat to see the dolphins only: 7am-9:30am
Full day excursion: Go by boat to see the dolphins, explore Benitier island, and enjoy lunch provided by the company. This is usually from 7am-4pm.

We booked the half day tour, seeing the dolphins early in the morning and relaxing on the beach the rest of the day. It was a beautiful and enjoyable experience.

3. Be mesmerized by colored Sand Dunes at Chamarel 7 Colored Earth

Colorful, beautiful, and a captivating sight to see, Chamarel Seven colored Earth is an area of sand dunes made up of seven different colors. As a natural phenomenon, Chamarel Seven colored Earth is a major attraction in South West Mauritius. Although scientists don’t know the exact cause, it is thought that these dunes were formed as a result of volcanic activity. As you visit the Seven colored earth, also check out the waterfall nearby. Both experiences are beautiful.

4. Check out a Dormant Volcano at Trou aux Cerfs

The Hole Crater Deer, Mauritius — Trou aux Cerfs, Mauritius

Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano, which is surrounded by lush greenery, and has a crater with a lake at its center. It’s a beautiful, natural, and major attraction located in Curepipe, South West Mauritius. The area is scenic and the views here are spectacular!

5. Visit the Sacred lake of Grand Bassin and the Hindu temples

The Sacred lake of Great Basin and the Hindu temples, Mauritius — The Sacred lake of Grand Bassin and the Hindu temples, Mauritius

This sacred lake referred to both as Ganga Talao or Grand Bassin is located in the mountainous area of Savanne in South West Mauritius, and is home to a Hindu temple and shrines. Visitors come to this religious site to pray, meditate, for festivals, and for pilgrimage. Visit this temple for tranquility and to learn about its religious history and cultural significance.

You might be wondering, what’s a Hindu temple doing in Mauritius? Mauritius is actually home to a diverse and multi-ethnic population with different religions. This diverse ethnic composition is as a result of European colonialism, which first brought slaves and later on indentured laborers from Africa, India, and other parts of Asia to Mauritius to work on plantations.

6. Enjoy the Views at Black River Gorge National Park and Alexandra Falls

The Gorge of the Black River, Mauritius — Black River Gorges National Park, Mauritius

A beautiful national park in South West Mauritius, Black River Gorges is home to the forest, rolling hills, valleys, and waterfalls. Go for the breathtaking views and the peace and tranquility.

BONUS:

Take an organized Tour of the South West.

Would you like to visit all these sites but don’t have a way to get around? Driving isn’t an option and you don’t want to spend outrageous amounts on taxis? Take an organized tour of South West Mauritius instead. The South West tour is usually a full day excursion, from 9am-4pm. This tour is booked through a local vendor, who provides a car and driver that serves as your guide.

Below are typical places you visit during the tour, although these can differ based on your preferences.

Curepipe and Floreal (Ship model manufacturer and local souvenir shop)
Trou aux Cerfs (a dormant volcano with a beautiful view)
The Sacred lake of Grand Bassin and the Hindu temples (spiritual place and pilgrimage)
Black River Gorge National Park - Alexandra Falls (fantastic view of the mountains)
Chamarel 7 Colored Earth and waterfall (natural phenomenon)

You will be moving to and from locations by car but walking to see the sights, so remember to pack water, sunscreen, and stop for lunch to re-energize.

Enjoy Mauritian Food

Mauritian food is a fusion of seafood, Indian, and Chinese influences. The food is rich in flavour and delicious. While there, immerse yourself in the local food and try a variety of dishes. To discover great spots, ask locals for restaurant recommendations

Explore a Local Mall

If you’re interested in change of scenery, step away from the beach (just for a bit), and take some time to explore some of the local malls. We explored Cascavelles, simply by taking the bus from Flic. It was a nice way to explore the island by public transportation.

Interested in exploring other parts of Mauritius?

5 top activities do in north west mauritius.

Curious about what there is to do in North West Mauritius? From exploring the vibrant capital, Port Louis, to visiting surrounding islands, check out these 5 Top Activities to do in North West Mauritius.

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