10 Most Instagrammable Spots in Mauritius
Image Credit: Unsplash | Xavier Coiffic
“Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and then heaven was copied after Mauritius” — Mark Twain
Turquoise waters and white dust beaches, towering palm trees, and Sega music — this is the definition of paradise.
Located east of the African continent, the island of Mauritius and its subtropical climate, pristine beaches, and tremendous landscapes attract more than 1.4 million visitors from around the world each year. Once you approach the archipelago and take in the scenery from an aerial view above, you will understand why this destination is so special.
Home to French, Creole and English-speaking natives, this Indian Ocean Island is one of Africa’s most picturesque destinations. Mauritius is an incredible island getaway that will provide you with a trip of endless photo opportunities and magical moments. These are the 10 best locations around Mauritius to capture your enviable memories in paradise.
10. Chase waterfalls in Chamarel
With a decent of more than 100 meters and enclosed by a panoramic landscape, the Chamarel Waterfall is the highest waterfall on Mauritius Island. The lush greenery and deeply entwined roots, surrounding the waterfall, capture the origins of the volcanic eruptions that formed the island millions of years ago. The tranquility and serenity of this magical waterfall is an indescribable encounter being at one with Mother Nature. For the best photo op and undisturbed view of this marvel, make your way up the hiking trail where at the highest point, you will be enchanted by the cascading waters that pool into clear waters perfect for swimming.
9. Light a candle at the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel
The Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel is an iconic postcard photograph, a historical landmark for French and British sailors. On a sunny day, the vibrant red wooden roof, against the clear sea and endless sky paint an incredible scene. Watching the sunrise illuminate the sky with orange and golden views from the Roman Catholic Church is a worthwhile experience. The chapel is established in the Cap Malheureux fishing village that was named “Unfortunate Cape” after the region’s history of numerous shipwrecks. Today it is a place of spirituality and devotion where churchgoers, fishermen, and tourists gather all year round.
8. Experience the underwater world in Grand Baie
If walking on the moon with a space helmet is on your bucket list, Mauritius offers the unique experience of submerging into their clear blue waters and walking on the seabed. An equally fantastic adventure for both experienced and non-experienced swimmers, the underwater walk is bound to leave you awestruck. Decked in your solar-powered oxygen mask and promoting ecotourism, you will leave this gravity-defying, aquatic adventure with many stories and phenomenal underwater snapshots. The fish circling you and treks above the coral reefs are the backdrop of a photographer’s paradise. A waterproof camera is not essential to the experience as pictures can be purchased for an extra fee.
7. Stoll under the multicolored rainbow at Le Caudan Umbrella Alley
Located on the main street of the Caudan Waterfront in the capital city of Port Louis, the kaleidoscopic umbrella display is guaranteed to add a pop of color to your Instagram feed. A city bustling with commerce and activity, Port Louis provides a glimpse into the culture of the island’s economic hub. One of its main attractions, Le Caudan Waterfront, is a combination of contemporary and historical architecture that attracts locals and tourists alike especially during the weekends where live entertainment, a multitude of shops, and excellent cuisines will make it difficult to leave!
6. Discover the island’s secrets at the Sockalingum Meenatchee Amman Kovil temple
More than picturesque beaches and palm tree archways; the predominately Hindu nation is home to an abundance of grand temples. The Sockalingum Meenatchee Amman Kovil temple is one of Mauritius’ most divine and sacred temples on the island. The ancient Dravidian architecture inspired by South Indian styles and iconic for their pyramidal rectangular structures and artistically carved figures is an enchanting sight to be seen. The exquisite scenery, vividly colored artwork and intricately designed shine make for the perfect photo opportunity.
5. Whisper with Mother Nature at the Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens
The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. This historical gem is home to an astonishing variety of fauna and flora and the gardens host an admirable collection of different species from around the world. The gardens have it all from palm trees to African shrubs, Asian saplings to South American fruit trees. One of its iconic and most beloved features is its captivating lily pond. The giant water lilies, whose diameter can extend to over 3 meters, form an idyllic background for your photoshoot. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled on the lookout for the giant tortoises that call these gardens their home.
4. Take a swing at the Ile aux Cerfs Golf Course
You don’t have to be a professional golfer to appreciate the 18-hole course designed by golf champion Bernhard Langer. Ranked as one of the best golf courses in the world, the remarkable layout of Ile aux Cerfs Golf Course and its rolling hills and luscious lawns are picture-perfect. The course is situated on its own island only accessible by a boat service and it is dubbed by many players as the most beautiful course. The mountainous range and azure sea compose a place where the grass is indeed always green.
3. Summit Le Morne Brabant Mountain
A refuge for indentured slaves that were bought to the island to work on the sugar cane field; this historical landmark has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The aquamarine lagoons, jagged mountains, and dense foliage that construct the topography of this peninsula are difficult to describe in words. This majestic view and jaw-dropping symbol of freedom are best appreciated from the peninsula’s peak. After climbing the mountain on a rather challenging hike, you will be rewarded with one of nature’s best gifts to humanity.
2. Soak up the sun at Trou aux Biches
Hours spent in the sun, on sandy, white shores give for any beach holiday. Surrounded by 330 km of coastline, beaches on this island are not scarce. One of the most unspoiled beaches in Mauritius, Trou aux Biches Beach was once awarded the World’s Leading Beach Destination at the World Travel Awards. The prime location of the beach and the rich marine biodiversity of the area make this beach movie-like. Fishing boats scattered across the ocean lay on an almost glass-like surface to create a panorama of distinguished beauty. There is an endless amount of water activities for adventure seekers on this beach and the ocean’s high visibility makes for an unforgettable experience swimming with turtles.
1. Sip on sundowners at sunset
Your dreamy island getaway is incomplete without marveling at the sunset at one of the most gorgeous sundowner’s spots. All beaches in Mauritius are open to the public to use and enjoy but the best places to experience the glowing Mauritian sunset are on the Western Coast. End your day at one of the most famous sunsets watching spots. After an adventurous day of swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear lagoons, take a few moments to unwind at Flic En Flac Beach. As the sky is bursting with orange and crimson hues, the waves crash onto the shore and salty sea breeze fills the air, you will discover that some experiences can never be captured in an Instagram post but are moments in time that you will always remember.
For the beach babes and sun lovers, the adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, the history and architecture lovers, Mauritius offer unsurpassed experiences for every traveler. There are many heavenly gems, island secrets, and unique spots that cannot be missed. You will leave this heavenly place with pictures beyond comparison and a treasure of lifelong memories.
Don’t wait any longer — pack your sunglasses, sunhat, and flip-flops. Paradise is calling!
