Dive into the endless and authentic Mauritian cultures during your visit to Mauritius
A holiday to Mauritius would be incomplete without immersion in its cultures. The beautiful culture of Mauritius reflects the diversity of the different societies living there. Mauritian people are mainly of European, Asian, and African descent, which has created an incredible melting pot. Various religions and traditions live in harmony on the island today.
During your visit to the island, be ready to explore the endless and authentic Mauritian cultures and take home the most memorable memories. Here are 6 ways to experience the beautiful culture of Mauritius:
1) Food
Mauritian gastronomy is a fascinating way to experience the culture of Mauritius. The blend of cultures that is present in Mauritius inspired the traditional local dishes.
You can enjoy some of the most delicious local street food in Port Louis, specifically in the local markets and in Chinatown, which are also included in our North Tour. Mauritian gastronomy combines Chinese, Indian, Creole, East African, and European techniques and flavors.
Read more on Best things to eat and drink while in Mauritius.
2) Places of worship
The places of worship found all along the Mauritian landscape are evidence of the peaceful cohabitation of local communities. Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), a place of pilgrimage for the Hindus is worth visiting especially in January or February during Maha Shivratri.
3) Musical cultures
In Mauritius, the different cultures of Mauritius have contributed to creating a musical culture that is unique to this land. This includes the Sega Tipik of Mauritius, the Geet Gawai, the Sega Tambour of Rodrigues, and, more recently, the Sega Tambour from Chagos.
4) Arts and Crafts
The island has plenty of skilled artisans. The local handicrafts of Mauritius are memorable souvenirs to take back home and gifts to your loved ones to take back home to cherish the memories made here. Such as pretty boxes made out of volcanic stones, finely embroidered clothes, and baskets are woven of Vacoas, fiber, raffia, aloe, and bamboo.
5) Historical Cultures
To experience the culture of Mauritius, one must add the historical landscapes to their bucket list. Apravaasi Ghat, situated in the capital of Mauritius called Port Louis, is an Immigration Depot used to receive indentured laborers who arrived from India, Eastern Africa, Madagascar, China, and Southeast Asia to work. Le Morne Brabant is a mountain found in the Southwest of the island. Runaway slaves threw themselves off the cliff for fear of being captured and tortured again by the British colonies. There are still plenty of cultural attractions, such as the Domaine de Labourdonnais, the Rhumerie de Chamarel, or L’aventure de Sucre. Every attraction has its own beautiful story to tell you.
6) Mauritian Festivals
Mauritian festivals reflect the island’s rich culture as people of different religions come together to celebrate them with great enthusiasm. Such as Holi which is a festival of colors, the annual lantern show, to celebrate Chinese new years along with the traditional dragon dance, Eid Ul Fitr which is held at the end of the holy month of Ramzan, and Ganesh Chaturthi where devotees walk and dance on their way to the sea/river.
Mauritius has a rich combination of cultures and histories to offer to you. If you want to dive into the source of its existence, then it is a must to come and explore the beautiful culture of Mauritius on your own.