Mauritius - Heaven on Earth

One of the most popular holiday destinations in the world is the island country of Mauritius. And being a relatively short hop by plane (about 4 hours eastwards so there is no jet lag!) from South Africa this idyllic island has over the years been one of South Africa’s favourite foreign places in which to vacation, whether as a single traveller, couple, group of friends or family.

And rightly so. Justifiably called "Heaven on Earth" Mauritius is blessed with a balmy tropical climate; about 100 laid-back beaches; warm sublime, azure, smooth, Indian Ocean waters lapping its shores; spectacular lagoons and beautiful coral reefs (some protecting great swimming and snorkelling areas). Water sports are therefore the first choice of most visitors. These include snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, pedalo self-propelled water scooters, glass-bottomed boats, jet skiing, Sea karting (a unique Mauritian adventure), mini-submarine and semi-submersible excursions, and sub scooters.

Of course, lounging around on one of the beaches while taking an occasional swim in the warm seawater is a truly blissful experience. But, for a thrilling experience, why not take an early morning motorboat ride to a particular spot where you can swim and frolic with dolphins?

There are also a wide variety of land-based activities for the visitor to enjoy, many of which are very family-friendly. For example, exploring Port Louis' waterfront and central market is a day well spent. The nearby Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden (a.k.a. Pamplemousses Gardens) with its giant lily pads, free-roaming deer and giant tortoises is a "must-see". L’Aventure Du Sucre takes you on an eye-opening tour of an old sugar factory. The African-themed Casela Park offers an action-packed day for all ages.

Walk with lions, ride a camel, go on safari, or get adventurous on the zip lines, canyon swing, mud karts and quad bikes. Speaking of wildlife, how about a visit to La Vanille Reserve Des Mascareignes where you can view thousands of Nile crocodiles or the 20,000 species of insects in its fascinating insectarium?

A trip to Chamarel - a small village on the west coast of Mauritius - will not only allow you to visit spectacular waterfalls (and adrenaline junkies can even make a reservation to abseil down one of them!) but also allow you to visit a rum distillery and taste its wares and while you are in the area, take in the Seven-Coloured Earth reserve.

Mauritius is a hot tourist destination, and the country is geared to meet the needs of the thousands of visitors who descend on its shores every year. So, therefore, it goes without saying that the island is blessed with an abundance of holiday resorts, hotels, B&Bs and self-catering accommodations suited to your taste and pocket.

Contact a travel expert today to book your island paradise holiday today or view our deals here.