Explore the authentic side of Mauritius when you book return tickets from any major city in South Africa. Embrace the unique flavours of Mauritian street food, seek out waterfalls and the Crying Rock, find serenity at temples and stroll around Port Louis’ vibrant waterfront and markets. Palm trees, sunsets and beach hammocks are waiting for you in Mauritius! Though there’s even more to this island paradise than you might expect.
How far is it?
Less than 4 hours from Johannesburg.
Where do I fly in?
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Air Mauritius flies from its hub – Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport found about 48km from the beautiful and vibrant capital city of Port Louis. In 40 years of operating Air Mauritius has never had a single incident. They are one of a handful of airlines in the world that combine commercial flights with helicopter flights using 3 Bell Jet Ranger helicopters.
The Friendly Island
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Voted the world’s friendliest country in 2014, Mauritius is all about good vibes. Smile and chat with the local people when you venture into spots less frequented by tourists and you’ll be rewarded in kind.
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Explore the streets and markets of vibrant Port Louis
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Take in the view of Port Louis from Signal Mountain
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Buy an ice cream from a street van and take a walk to the famous Crying Rock
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All about the street food
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Try delicious rotis of all kinds with tamarind sauce, a plain roti is just Rs12 (R4,50), a veg one is Rs20 (just over R7) and chicken is Rs35 (just under R13). You’ll find roti kiosks near beaches and in markets perfect for a tasty meal on the go that’s easy on your pocket. You can also get wild raspberries picked on the island, sprinkled with sugar and faratas (the French Mauritian version of a parata), not to mention in the french-influence sandwiches with interesting vegetable fillings. The famous rougaille spicy tomato sauce is a Mauritian speciality not to be missed!
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Sundays are for families, barbecues, music, sunsets and sport at Flic-en-Flac Beach
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Not just frequented by tourists Flic-en-Flac beach on a Sunday is a great spot to take in the view while absorbing the feel-good family vibe. People play volley ball and football and relax with friends and family.
Make sure to drink the local favourite Phoenix Beer
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Do a tasting at a rum distillery
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La Rhumerie de Chamarel is one of the few distilleries to still cultivate its own sugarcane.
Find serenity at the Grand Bassin crater lake
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Visit this beautiful crater lake surrounded by temples and the impressively tall statue of Lord Shiva.
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Several religions and three languages coexist peacefully in Mauritius
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Visit the 300-foot Chamarel Falls
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Should you hire a car?
If you want to explore the more unusual spots on the island renting a car from one of the local rental agencies is a good idea, you’ll have the freedom to go where you want when you want and the traffic is negligible outside of Port Louis. If you hire from a larger international rental company expect to pay a bit more.
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