Mauritius
Language → English
Population (around) → 4,863,406
Currency→ Mauritian rupee (MUR)
General weather Overview
Similar to many equatorial regions, a tropical climate prevails in
Mauritius. There is essentially little seasonal variation. The number of daylight hours varies
slightly, as do the temperature changes between summer and winter. Despite intermittent
drizzles, the temperature stays comfortable all year. The island is just beginning to warm up after
the significantly chilly winter months, although it is still cool and breezy.
Cities
Port Louis / Capital – Vacoas – Curepipe – Quatre Bornes – Triolet – Goodlands – Centre
de Flacq – Bel Air Rivière Sèche – Mahébourg – Saint Pierre – Le Hochet – Rose Belle – Chemin
Grenier – Rivière du Rempart – Grand Baie – Plaine Magnien – Pailles – Surinam – Lallmatie –
New Grove – Rivière des Anguilles – Terre Rouge – Petit Raffray – Pamplemousses –
Pamplemousses – Port Mathurin – Souillac – Tamarin
Fun facts
- The island was formed by underwater volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago
- The long-extinct dodo bird was endemic to Mauritius, with the main island of Mauritius being the only known habitat of the flightless bird, which is still considered the national bird of Mauritius. The dodo features prominently on the country's national coat of arms
- Mauritius is home to a spectacular underwater "waterfall". From the air, it looks like an amazing canyon opening meters from the peninsula. Unfortunately, it's just an optical illusion caused by sand and silt runoff
Some popular local foods
Bol Renversé, Boulettes, Briyani, Dholl Puri & Roti, Gateau Piment,
Mine Frite, Riz Frite, Sept Cari, Rougaille, Vindaye
Some native animals:
Pink Pigeon, Mauritius Kestrel, Echo Parakeet, Mauritian Flying Fox,
Olive White-Eye, Ornate Day Gecko, Terrestrial Crab, Aldabra Tortoise
Couple of reasons to visit
- Mauritius is the perfect place for activities like island hopping. Hop on a ferry or catamaran to various islands around the main island. You'll experience dance, music, lunch and visits to exciting locations such as golf courses and sandy coves amidst scenic waterfalls
- Explore some spectacular coral reefs and exotic marine life including dolphin and whale watching. There are underwater excursions that you can choose from. Visit two of the most popular dive sites, varying in difficulty and depth. They have great locations and are a great place to enjoy diving or even snorkeling, whether you are a beginner or an experienced!
- Mauritius is home to several species of endemic flora and fauna. You'll be able to see rare tropical birds like pink doves and echoey parakeets. Some of its national parks have more than 300 species of flowers that are so beautiful that you will have a hard time tearing yourself away from the amazing scenes that await you. Try kayaking through the beautiful and lush green tea plantations. This is a great way to relax or enjoy a romantic evening as the sun sets on the horizon above you!
- Get on a unique safari trip, discovering all about the wildlife and numerous different game you get to spot through your choice of Jeep, horse-back, segways, and more