5 natural attractions in Mauritius
Surely, one of the main reasons for choosing Mauritius as your next travel destination is the stunning natural beauty of this island, still unblemished and unspoiled by tourism. Beaches, tiny tropical offshore islands, volcanic mountains, green hills, valleys, rivers, valleys, waterfalls, spice gardens, sugarcane, tea plantation and so much more. This hidden gem of Africa is waiting to be explored and you can do this from your island base – a charming private Mauritian home or luxury villa with a private swimming pool. Make sure to check out these 5 natural attractions in Mauritius while you are at it;
1) 7-colored earth of Chamarel
This natural attraction is one of Mauritius main points of interests. Caused by the conversion of basaltic lava into clay, a gorgeous moon-like landscape is created, shimming in shades of yellow, purple, red, blue, green brown and violet. The 7-colored earth of Chamarel is surrounded by dense lush green dense, contrasting beautifully with these dunes as they glance and glisten in the sunlight. It is a stunning and enchanting natural phenomenon, not to be missed during your trip to Mauritius. On the way, you can also make a stop at Chamarel Waterfall for a quick swim in refreshing spring waters.
2) Black river gorge national park
The Black River Gorge is Mauritius biggest and most stunning national park, home to lush green rolling hills, dense forests, waterfalls, rivers, hiking trails and viewpoints. If you fancy a day out in nature, away from civilization and only the sounds of nature to distract and disturb the peace of mind that comes naturally here, this is the place to be. There are several hiking trails running through these imposing landscapes, leading to the Black River Peak, sitting 838 meters above sea level. On the way, you may spot deer, exotic birds, wild boars and monkeys and there are lovely picnic areas to sit down in the shade of ancient trees, so make sure to fill up your backpacks with some drinks and snacks for the perfect day out.
3) Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
Despite this being a man-made natural tourist attraction, it doesn’t make it any less beautiful and it is worth every second of your time. The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, also known as SSR Botanic Garden, was founded by Pierre Poivre in 1768 and it is located in the north of Mauritius. Featuring big and beautiful water lily ponds, scenting spice gardens and tons of beautiful orchid flowers and palm trees, strolling around here has the feel of walking around in the Garden of Eden. This amazing natural attraction is expansive in size, spread out across 37 hectares of fertile tropical lands and it is the biggest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere. While strolling around in these beautiful gardens, you may encounter tortoises.
4) Ile aux Aigrettes
Located 800 meters off the south-east coast of Mauritius Island, lies a little hidden gem. Ile aux Aigrettes is a stunning little coral island and a nature conservation site of Mauritius since 1965. It is also a sanctuary for endemic Mauritian birds and endangered wildlife such as the Pink Pigeon and the Green Kestrel the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise. You can go on a boat tour to spot these creatures and birds. Ile aux Aigrettes is not so touristy and it is still very much untouched and therefore even more worth your time. It is a stunning place!
5) Trou aux Cerfs
This natural highlight of Mauritius is also known as Murr’s Volcano – a sleeping volcano that could wake up at any time, though it has been in a deep sleep for hundreds of thousands of years. It is located in the town of Curepipe in the center of Mauritius Island. The crater is surrounded by beautiful ancient forests and the views are quite astonishing! The volcanic crater lies 605 meters above sea level, it has a diameter of 350 meters and a depth of approximately 100 meters. Visitors can walk around the crater lake, taking in the gorgeous natural environment and the views of Mauritius. You can also head over there for an early morning jog like the locals do.
Written by Stephanie of Villa-Finder.com