Things to do in Mauritius Island during your holidays in 2026

You step off the plane, stretch your legs after the long haul, and feel that warm ocean air settle around you like a friendly welcome. The sunlight is soft, the palm trees are waving lazily, and somewhere just beyond the airport road, the lagoon is showing off all its shades of blue. It’s the moment you realise your holiday has truly begun — and now it’s time to think about the many things to do in Mauritius.

One thing newcomers notice immediately is how easy this island feels. Getting around is simple, people are helpful, and the pace is naturally relaxed. Whether your trip is for family fun, romance, adventure, or just a well-deserved rest, Mauritius has a gentle way of adapting to your mood. If this is Mauritius for First-Timers, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how quickly you settle into island rhythm, especially with a bit of local guidance.

As drivers and guides at Taxi Service Mauritius, we’ve spent years showing visitors around — from early‑morning airport pickups to long coastal drives, secret food stops, and viewpoint recommendations you won’t find on the big travel sites. This guide reads like the kind of conversation you’d have with your driver on the way to your hotel: friendly, honest, and full of practical tips.

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Why the island feels easy to explore

Mauritius is small enough that you never feel stuck in transit, but varied enough that every region has its own personality. English and French are spoken everywhere, towns are close together, and the main attractions are spread across scenic roads lined with sugarcane, beaches, and mountain silhouettes.

Most travellers like to arrange their Airport Transfers before arrival so they can skip the queue and step straight into holiday mode. Once you’re settled in, the island opens up at its own comfortable pace. You’ll find calm beaches in the north, dramatic landscapes in the south, cultural treasures inland, and a friendly atmosphere everywhere you go.

The result is simple: discovering the best things to do in Mauritius never feels rushed or complicated.

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A relaxed Top 10 list

Sometimes you just want a straightforward starting point. Here’s a gentle, well-balanced mix of the island’s favourite experiences:

• Spending long, lazy hours on the beaches of the north
• Exploring the wild, scenic coastline of the south
• Visiting the colourful earth and waterfall views at Chamarel
• Cruising the lagoon on the way to Île aux Cerfs
• Snorkelling above shallow, bright coral gardens
• Eating your way through local street food markets
• Spotting dolphins early in the morning offshore
• Taking refreshing hikes in the forests and national parks
• Tasting rum and learning about sugar heritage
• Taking a day to do absolutely nothing at all

These are popular for a reason, yes — but each one has its own quiet magic when you experience it in person.

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Things to do in Mauritius with kids

Mauritius with children is surprisingly smooth, and parents often tell us this destination gives them a break, not more stress. Beaches like Mont Choisy and Trou aux Biches offer calm, shallow water ideal for small swimmers. Many resorts have wide lawns and shaded areas, which makes beach days feel safe and manageable.

Glass‑bottom boat rides, nature parks, and gentle half-day outings keep young travellers engaged without overwhelming them. Families looking for things to do in Mauritius with family will find that it’s easy to mix outdoor adventure with downtime. The short driving distances mean kids aren’t stuck in the car for too long, and they often nap peacefully once we start the engine — a small miracle most parents appreciate.

We also notice that kids love simple moments: spotting giant tortoises, tasting fresh coconut water, or feeding small fish near the shore. Those quiet experiences add warmth to the overall trip.

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Things to do in Mauritius with baby

If you’re travelling with a baby, Mauritius is wonderfully accommodating. Resorts and restaurants are used to little ones, and locals genuinely adore babies — you’ll get warm smiles everywhere you go. The weather is mild most of the year, and you can easily structure your day around naps and feeds.

Calm lagoons provide perfect stroller-friendly walks. Short scenic drives let you explore without overcommitting. Cafés and family-friendly beach bars make feeding times stress-free. Many parents prefer to pre-book taxis so they aren’t juggling bags, prams, and unpredictable schedules. Among all the things to do in Mauritius, simply enjoying peaceful family moments on the beach often becomes the most treasured memory.

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Things to do in Mauritius for couples

Mauritius has a reputation as a romantic getaway, but what couples appreciate most is the effortless simplicity of it all. You can enjoy slow breakfasts, spend lazy hours on quiet stretches of sand, then venture out in the afternoon for a little exploring.

Sunset viewpoints, rum tastings, quiet coastal roads, and relaxed dinners overlooking the lagoon are perfect for reconnecting. A private catamaran tours experience adds a touch of luxury without feeling pretentious — just the two of you, warm breezes, and an ever-changing horizon.

Read also: Things to do in Mauritius for couples

Couples often tell us they love how the island gives them space. No pressure to “do everything,” just gentle suggestions and beautiful settings everywhere you look.

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Things to do in Mauritius with friends

If you’re planning a lively, fun-filled getaway, Mauritius is a great choice. A Holiday with Friends in Mauritius usually has a nice balance: morning adventures, lazy lunches, afternoon swims, and relaxed evenings.

Read also: Things to do in Mauritius with friends

Groups enjoy beach hopping, rum tastings, snorkelling spots that don’t feel too crowded, and scenic viewpoints that make great group photos. A speedboat trip to the eastern islands is always a hit — high-energy, social, and memorable.

Having a driver for the day also makes things easy. You stay together, avoid debates about directions, and can enjoy the day without worrying about logistics. Windows down, good music, everyone chatting — it’s one of the little joys of island travel.

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Things to do in Mauritius for adults who want more adventure

If a full week of sunbathing isn’t your idea of a holiday, Mauritius has plenty to keep you moving. Inland forests and mountains offer shaded hiking trips where the air feels cooler and the scenery shifts from beach to lush greenery. National parks are the perfect escape for visitors looking to see a different side of the island.

Many travellers are increasingly interested in Eco-friendly activities in Mauritius. These can include guided forest walks, responsible wildlife encounters, and exploring areas that promote conservation. Historical estates and rum distilleries also offer relaxing yet informative outings.

It’s not uncommon for visitors to tell us, halfway through a hike, “I had no idea Mauritius looked like this.” That sense of discovery is a big part of the charm.

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Unique things to do in Mauritius

Some of the best experiences here are the small ones. Stopping at a roadside stand for pineapple with chilli salt. Hearing sega music drifting from a local celebration. Watching fishermen mend nets at sunrise.

One memorable morning, we took guests out to swim with dolphins in Mauritius. The sun was still rising, the sea was calm, and when the dolphins appeared, the entire boat fell quiet. No one needed words. On the way back, someone whispered “Ala li bon,” a short Creole phrase meaning “this is so good.” It ended up becoming their favourite phrase of the trip.

These simple, heartfelt moments often stay with you long after your holiday ends.

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Must-Do Activities During Your Mauritius Cruise Layover

If you’re arriving by cruise and only have a few hours, you can still enjoy a surprising amount. Many cruise passengers opt for a short custom tour: wandering around Port Louis, stopping at markets, visiting viewpoints, or taking a quick coastal drive. Because distances are small, you can see lagoon, mountains, and city life all in a single outing. It’s a great way to capture the island’s personality even with limited time.

 

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North vs south: choosing your vibe

The north tends to be lively and social, with long sandy beaches, restaurants, and great swimming conditions. If you like having plenty of food and activity options nearby, it’s a solid base. This area includes several of the best places to visit in the north.

The south has a wilder feel — rugged cliffs, powerful waves, open landscapes, and quieter coastal roads. Many of the best places to visit in the south appeal to nature lovers and those who enjoy scenic drives and dramatic viewpoints.

Both regions complement each other beautifully, and exploring a mix of the best places to visit in Mauritius gives you the full island experience.

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Things to do in Mauritius today

If you’re already here and deciding what to do right now, just look outside. Clear skies? Head to the beach or lagoon. Windy weather? The south becomes dramatic and beautiful. Cloudy skies? Perfect for markets, rum tastings, and waterfalls.

Mauritius rewards spontaneity. Because nothing is far away, you can change plans without stress — one of the most underrated things to do in Mauritius is simply enjoy how flexible your days can be.

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Getting around: smooth and simple

Let’s be honest — getting around can make or break a holiday. Renting a car in Mauritius is possible, but many travellers prefer taxis for convenience, safety, and the ability to relax rather than navigate unfamiliar roads. It also avoids the uncertainty of taxi prices in Mauritius, which can vary when booked on the spot.

At Taxi Service Mauritius, we run a family-style operation with friendly English- and French-speaking drivers, clean vehicles, and day tours you can easily customise. From airport pickups to full-day catamaran cruises in Mauritius and guided excursions, we try to make everything feel effortless. People also ask more frequently about using a Taxi App Mauritius for quick bookings — it’s become a normal part of getting around.

We work every day, maintain our vehicles carefully, and have earned a strong reputation over the years, including a Travellers’ Choice Award. But more important than any award is this: we show up on time, keep things smooth, and help you enjoy your holiday without stress.

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Tips for a smoother trip

• Mix active days with peaceful, slow ones
• Book popular experiences a little ahead, especially in peak season
• Leave room for unexpected stops — some of the best ones aren’t planned
• Trust local timing and advice; we know when certain routes flow better
• Don’t try to do the whole island in two days — let the rhythm guide you

Mauritian holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.

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A final word from your local driver

Mauritius isn’t a place where you check off tasks from a list. It’s a place that quietly invites you to slow down, breathe deeper, and appreciate simple pleasures. Whether you’re travelling with kids, a baby, your partner, or your friends, the things to do in Mauritius adapt naturally to your pace.

If you plan a smooth arrival, choose a few highlights, and let the rest unfold spontaneously, your holiday will find its own flow. And if Taxi Service Mauritius ends up being part of your journey — picking you up, showing you around, sharing little tips — even better.

Enjoy the island. Enjoy the warmth. And don’t be surprised if you’re already thinking about your next visit before you leave, dreaming of all the new things to do in Mauritius you still want to try.