Mauritius – Mountains, Waves and Sugarcane

Mauritius, the emerging destination that is fighting Sri Lanka and Maldives in terms of tourist arrivals.

Beyond it being known as a honeymoon destination, what else can Mauritius offer in terms of fun, outdoors and adventure?

6 Reasons why Mauritius is an emerging nature destination 

1. Mountainous Terrain – A Hiker’s Paradise

Le Pouce, meaning ‘The Thumb’ in french, is the 3rd highest mountain in Mauritius at 812 metres high ( 2664 feet). It was an amazing easy/ medium hike that started off rather gradual through the sugarcane plantations but gets a lot steeper as you ascend higher.

The mountain is part of the Moka Range which is formed ten million years ago from volcano eruptions. The hike up gets steep only nearer the top and it was extremely torturous just as we are touching the ‘thumb. But the view from up there was amazing and we even spotted a mini tropical cyclone, an extremely fascinating sight!

2. Sugarcane Plantations – One of the Top Income Stream for Mauritius?!

One thing that Mauritius has plenty of acres of is – sugarcane!

Fields and fields of them, together with tea/ corn/ potatoes and more are some of the agriculture produce this country exports. During our hike up to Le Pouce, we were constantly quenching our thirst with sweet sugarcane shoots that our brave Mauritian friend stomped through to cut down for us.

Like Africa? Read about my road trip in South Africa

3. Stunning Coastal View – The ‘Great Ocean Road’ of Africa

One thing that Mauritius had which few knew about is the stunning coastal line – absolutely breathtaking! The whole bunch of us in our summer clothes and all kinds of inappropriate footwear, still somehow managed to make our way to the lookout point edging through the rocky surface. One could sit there all day and be mesmerized by the waves crashing and splashing.

4. Port in Mauritius? Port Louis is its name

Port Louis is the main city area of Mauritius, with a very pretty and relaxing waterfront area, with plenty of shops and restaurants to dine and relax.

5. Catamaran and hunt for dolphins

And yes, finally not forgetting one of the best things of Mauritius – the Catamaran Cruises to remote islands! Popular activity for tourists, this is a must-try water attraction to get some good Mauritian sun and fresh wind. Other than being so much fun, with some luck, you can also spot jumping dolphins!

Chilling out on the catamaran as we headed towards a private deserted island to play and snorkel. We had plenty of fun chilling out on the comfortable catamaran and getting a nice bronze tan as well. Depending on the tour operator you work with, you can visit islands the lovely islands like Ile aux cerfs, Ile aux benitiers, Ile de la passe.

6. Outdoor Adventures

Last but not least, there is a whole bunch of outdoor adventurous activities one can embark on in Mauritius, from waterfall abseiling; quad biking to flying fox and hiking. You can get the best of Mauritius at all these amazing scenic spots.

This above was the spot we were waiting before we abseil down the waterfall. Best to be all geared up in proper waterproof wetsuit as well as sturdy canyoneering shoes to minimise slipping and injuring yourself.

Hence this concludes the list of amazing outdoor and nature activities on can embark on when visiting Les jours à l’île Maurice.

Like Africa? Read about my South Africa trip.

Sunset at Mauritius