It’s easy to assume that a holiday to Mauritius comes with a hefty price tag. However, while that’s true at its legion of upscale resorts, it’s possible to enjoy this island paradise on a budget. Here are our top tips.
When to Go
Flexibility is key when planning your trip. You’ll find the best prices during the low season (May to September) when temperatures are lower but still tropical. The exception to this is during European school holidays. High season generally runs from around December to February, with prices soaring over Christmas and New Year. A good compromise might be the shoulder season (March, April, October, and November). During this time, accommodation prices are slightly lower than in high season, and there are fewer visitors, yet temperatures remain high.
Where to Stay
Mauritius is synonymous with top-end, opulent hotels and resorts. Still, you can opt for mid-range accommodations that offer quality and comfort. Consider places like Veranda Resorts, which provide contemporary rooms and friendly staff in picturesque beachfront settings. Renting a holiday apartment or villa can also save you money, especially if you are traveling with a group. Alongside options like Airbnb, larger agencies such as CG Villas, Ropsen, and Grand Bay Travel & Tours are available. Additionally, staying at guesthouses managed by locals in regions like Pointe d’Esny provides a more authentic experience.
What to Eat
You needn’t spend a fortune on dining in Mauritius, as street food and inexpensive treats are abundant. Enjoy local delicacies such as biryani and faratas (unleavened flaky flour pancakes). You’ll also find affordable snacks like gâteaux piments (chili cakes), rotis, samosas, bhajas (fried balls of besan dough), dhal puris (lentil pancakes), and boulettes (tiny steamed dumplings). These are readily available at markets, public beaches, and in the capital, Port Louis. If you’re visiting Port Louis, consider joining a street food tour with Taste Buddies for an in-depth culinary exploration.
Activities
Mauritius offers a plethora of activities, both land and water-based, ranging from catamaran cruises, diving, and surfing to golf and mountain biking. Fortunately, two of the best activities are completely free. The island boasts stunning beaches, particularly along the east coast, which feature long, photogenic, often deserted stretches. Excellent hiking opportunities exist as well; Black River Gorges National Park showcases incredible scenery with its well-maintained, clearly marked trails leading through forests, waterfalls, and gorges. Climbing the dramatic outcrop of Le Morne provides extraordinary views, though hiring a guide for major hikes is often advisable.
Moreover, participating in local festivals is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the island’s culture. The largest festival, held in February or March, sees 500,000 Hindus pilgrimage to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin. March heralds Holi celebrations, while October is dedicated to Divali and Teemeedee takes place in December or January, featuring fire-walking ceremonies.
Although diving is one of the main attractions in Mauritius, it can also be on the pricier side. Therefore, consider snorkeling instead – a budget-friendly way to explore mesmerizing underwater environments with minimal gear. Even shallow reefs near Mauritius teem with fascinating marine life. Rental equipment is widely available from dive centers, boat operators, and hotels, and many catamaran cruises include snorkeling as part of their package.
Getting There and Around
Many airlines operate direct flights to Mauritius. Air Mauritius serves as the national carrier and boasts a solid international network while currently upgrading their economy cabins.
To save on transportation costs, consider traveling by bus, which is affordable, enjoyable, and generally an easy and reliable method of getting around. The country lacks a nationwide bus service; instead, several bus companies and individual operators operate in different regions. Consequently, talking to locals provides the best and most accurate information, as bus services typically do not publish timetables.
Tom travelled to Mauritius with assistance from Veranda Resorts and Air Mauritius. GoTravelDaily contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
