10 Days in Mauritius: Best things to do and see

You’re planning a 10-day trip to Mauritius and you’re looking for the best Itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and sunshine practically all year round, Mauritius is the dream trip for those looking for relaxation and a laid-back holidays while enjoying amazing natural landscapes.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this recommended Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 days in Mauritius.

During your trip, you will enjoy the most beautiful beaches, hike in the Black River Gorges National Park, go to the top of the Morne Brabant, explore Port Louis (the capital city), scuba dive in the lagoon and a lot more!

For this itinerary, in addition to the best things to do and must-see attractions, I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Mauritius in 10 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1) The north: Grand Baie / Cap Malheureux / Trou aux Biches (2 days)

After a few hours of flight, you’ll touch down early in the morning at Mauritius International Airport, close to Mahébourg, in the southeast.

Drop off your bags at your accommodation and let’s dedicate the first two days of this 10-day Mauritius itinerary to explore the northern region of the island.

To make the most of your trip, rent a car from one of the airport agencies for easy and unrestricted movement. Booking.com Cars is the place to go to easily compare all the car rental offers in Mauritius.

The best part? You can cancel for free if you change your mind!

Not into driving? No worries! Buses are a decent option, but be warned, some trips can be a bit lengthy.

On the first day of this awesome Mauritius tour, head towards Grand Baie, one of the liveliest cities on the island. It’s a magnet for tourists and home to some seriously rich folks! (Just check out those jaw-dropping seaside villas!)

Start your day by walking on the lovely public beach. If you take the bus, you’ll get off directly in front of the beach. A bus stop with a view of a gorgeous white sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise water.

Quite a sight if you’re not used to such stunning scenery!

How about starting your morning with a leisurely stroll along Grand Baie beach?

Picture this: colorful boats gently swaying on the water, warm sand beneath your toes, and plenty of delightful food stalls tempting you with a variety of snacks, fruits, and mouthwatering Mauritian specialties to savor!

After your beach bliss, let’s take a stroll to Sunset Boulevard, the lively shopping street in town. In case you’re in the mood for some retail therapy!

Treat yourself to a scrumptious “roti” on the beach (a pancake stuffed with savory curries), dholl puri, or samosas. And to satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in a pineapple carved into a flower for dessert, or have a freshly hollowed-out coconut right on the spot.

If dining at a restaurant is more your style, fret not! Grand Baie has got you covered with a wide range of options by the sea. I had a delightful lunch at Eatwithfingers (you can find it on Vingt-Pieds Road—hop on a bus or take your wheels), a super cool new restaurant serving up homemade plant-based dishes that are not only modern and delicious but also served in a super family-friendly ambiance.

After this half-day in Grand Baie, I recommend you continue discovering the northern beaches by heading now about ten kilometers from there, towards Pereybere beach. It’s a lovely little beach where it’s nice to swim, relax, and admire the sunset.

For the second day of this 10-day adventure in Mauritius, we keep on rolling with dreamy beaches (because, let’s be honest, that’s why we’re all here!) and make our way to Trou aux Biches.

This charming little tourist town nestles in the northwest of the island, and its beach is one of the finest in the region. Picture this: white powdery sand, turquoise sea, swaying palm trees, and vibrant bougainvillea… A postcard-perfect paradise!

For this second sun-kissed day on the island, here’s the plan to make the most of Trou aux Biches:

• Chillaxing
• Swimming and snorkeling to admire the local marine life
• Trying out water sports offered by the beach hotels (diving, parasailing, water skiing, sailing…)
• Picnicking

In the afternoon, let’s change things up a bit and make our way to the northern tip of the island to check out one of my absolute favorite spots in Mauritius: the stunning beach of Cap Malheureux.

You can’t miss it! This one-of-a-kind location is absolutely unmistakable! The beach is overlooked by a bright red wooden church, which perfectly contrasts with the blue sky and sea.

Wander along the water’s edge, plonk yourself on the sand, and admire the sunset to wrap up this stunning day.

2) The Pamplemousses Botanic Garden / L’aventure du Sucre (1 day)

The next leg of your 10-day Mauritian road trip takes you to the Pamplemousses Botanic Garden, a lush botanical reserve created in the 18th century by a French botanist.

My suggestion for your morning: pay a visit to the garden, either with a guide or on your own, to explore a variety of tropical, local, and imported plants. You’ll come across all sorts of palms, baobabs, giant water lilies, an array of fruit trees, and aromatic plants… and be prepared to spend 1 to 2 hours exploring this fascinating garden!

Pack a picnic and lunch on the grass, by the water, or under the trees!

For the afternoon’s activity, stick around the Pamplemousses area and head to L’Aventure du Sucre, the sugar museum where you’ll get a comprehensive look at Mauritius’ history and local sugar production. “L’aventure du sucre” litteraly means the Sugar Adventure.

Don’t miss the end-of-tour tasting of various sugars, Mauritian rums, and jams. Allow 1.5 hours for a quick visit, or up to 3 hours for a detailed one.

3) Port Louis (1 day)

For the third leg of your 10-day holiday in Mauritius, I suggest you explore the country’s bustling capital: Port Louis.

Port Louis, teeming and lively, stands in stark contrast to the divine beaches and lush greenery of Mauritius. With scant green spaces, sometimes discordant buildings, concrete, and crowds in motion, the vibe here is quite a departure from what you’ve experienced so far.

But Port Louis is a must-visit for anyone looking to discover authentic local life and Mauritian culture.

Things to do and see in Port Louis include:

• A quick trip to the central market on Queen Street, known as the “bazar” among the locals. It’s a buzzing city hotspot that’s not to be missed!
• A stroll in downtown Port Louis to explore the Place d’Armes, Jardin de la Compagnie, the government palace, charming cobblestone alleys, and the few rare old Creole houses that remain.
• A wander and shopping at Caudan Waterfront, the island’s oldest mall, shaped like a small village and built on the waterfront.
• Visit the Blue Penny Museum (located at the entrance of Caudan, near the parking), which will immerse you in the island’s history and culture.
• Dinner at Caudan in one of the seaside restaurants.

4) Tamarin Falls: The Seven Waterfalls Trail (1 day)

Absolutely no doubt about it, this hike is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have during your tour of Mauritius. It was one of my favorite days during my 10-day stay on the island.

The starting point for the Seven Waterfalls Trail is near Curepipe, in the center-west of the island. You have two exciting routes to choose from: the short route of the 4 cascades (half-day) or the full route of the 7 cascades (full day).

I can’t stress this enough: take a guide with you! Even though the paths are marked (albeit very subtly), it can be quite challenging to find your way when you’re unfamiliar with the area.

You need to book this guided hike by clicking on the following button:

So, get ready for a day of walking in the heart of the tropical forest where several cascades, each more beautiful than the last, await you. Of course, you can take a dip while soaking up the sublime surrounding nature.

5) Flic-en-Flac (1 day)

Let’s now head to the west coast of the island, specifically to the lively tourist town of Flic en Flac.

It’s the liveliest city in the west. Here, tourists and locals blend seamlessly, creating an exciting atmosphere. It also boasts a remarquable concentration of luxury hotels.

You can bask in the beauty of a stunning and expansive beach with a breathtaking view of the Morne Mountain. And when the sun sets, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with cozy cafes, delightful restaurants, and beachfront clubs for an evening of pure fun.

For your day in Flic-en-Flac, I suggest:

• Enjoying the beach while lounging on the white sand or under the filaos trees
• Observing marine life (very rich and not far from the shore!) by snorkeling in the lagoon
• Tasting delicious and fresh snacks and fruits sold by beach vendors
• Having dinner in one of the beachfront restaurants
• And if you’re in the mood to groove and dance the night away, spending some time at the disco just across the beach is an absolute must!

6) Le Morne Brabant (2 days)

It’s time for the sixth stage of this fantastic 10-day adventure in Mauritius! Now we’re heading south to the region of Le Morne Brabant Mountain.

Le Morne Brabant is a symbolic mountain in Mauritius, emblematic of a rich and tragic history linked to the era of slavery. That’s why, at the base of Le Morne mountain, right across the beach of the same name, you’ll spot the “Memorial of the Unknown Slave“, a tribute to the slaves who met their end on the mountain.

So, for day one in the south, how about a trek to Le Morne’s peak? While it’s a pretty doable hike, I wouldn’t recommend it for kiddos or those who aren’t fans of heights. Some paths can get pretty steep.

Sure, you can climb it solo, but grabbing a guide or someone familiar with the terrain might be your best bet. The guides are very cool and will drop tons of knowledge about the area. Plus, they’ll help you navigate and ensure you stay safe. Set aside roughly 3 to 4 hours for the round trip.

To book this hike with a guide, simply click on the following button:

Once you’ve conquered Le Morne, you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the southern coast and the azure ocean. It genuinely took my breath away – easily one of the highlights from my 10-day Mauritius adventure.

Next up, the following morning: make your way to Chamarel to see one of Mauritius’s most iconic sights: the Seven Colored Earth (just a short bus or taxi ride from Le Morne) Admission is charged, but you can grab your tickets in advance right here.

First up, you’ll come across a waterfall and yup, you can dive in if you fancy a swim. Keep going, and you’ll find yourself in front of an expansive clearing of sand dunes, displaying an impressive gradient of colors.

You might find it hard to believe it’s all-natural, but trust me, it is, and it’s drop-dead gorgeous.

On your way out, consider stopping by the Chamarel Rum Distillery to learn all about Mauritian rum.

Next on the agenda, indulge in some mind-bending fun at the “Curious Corner“, a quirky optical illusion museum right next to the Seven Colored Earth.. It’ll take about an hour of your time.

Got some energy still bouncing around in you? Then hit the road to the Black River Gorges National Park. It’s a trekker’s paradise with plenty of hiking trails revealing the tropical forest’s heart and soul, complemented by breathtaking views.

7) Belle Mare and Île aux Cerfs (1 day)

For day seven of your 10-day Mauritian road trip, the east coast awaits.

Wild and still pristine, the East is a trove of wonders, and an essential pitstop for a full Mauritian experience.

So, steer your way to Belle Mare with its breathtaking 10 km beach stretch. This part of the island boasts the country’s largest lagoons, making it a dream spot for snorkeling and diving.

By midday or early afternoon, set your sights on Trou d’Eau Douce beach, just a hop, skip, and a jump to the south. From there, you can hop on a boat to Île aux Cerfs.

Book your boat trip here:

Île aux Cerfs is a dreamy little island off the coast. Gonna lay it out straight: it’s a tourist magnet. But, oh boy, it’s worth it. The island is utterly mesmerizing! The boat ride on the crystal-clear lagoon is an experience in itself.

You can spend a glorious half-day chilling on Île aux Cerfs, exploring, swimming, or trying out various sporty and water activities. And yes, they’ve got shops and eateries to indulge in.

Bright and early the next morning, coast along the shoreline northwards, heading for Bras d’Eau National Park.

Spanning roughly 500 hectares, this forest reserve is the perfect recharge spot. It’s serene with few visitors, plunging you deep into nature’s embrace.

Getting there by car? Piece of cake. Just park at the entrance.

Opting for public transport? Drop off at Flacq, then grab a taxi to the park’s entrance.

I’d say, get there early to spot and hear local endemic birds like the Grey White Eye, the Woodcock, or the Kestrel. You might also bump into monkeys, bats, and wild boars.

Along your stroll, you’ll stumble upon ancient sugar mill ruins, a lime kiln, an old railway line, and several ponds.

Why not pack a picnic and enjoy it in the midst of nature’s wonders, immersing yourself in the delightful atmosphere?

8) Mahébourg and Blue Bay (1 day)

As your final day in Mauritius approaches, consider heading south to conclude your journey while staying conveniently close to the airport.

You’ve been to the southwest already, so now it’s time to zip over to the southeast, to the delightful town of Mahébourg. Fun fact: this was once the capital of Mauritius. Today, it’s a quaint harbor and tourist town, oozing with laid-back vibes.

Here’s what’s popping in Mahébourg:

• Stroll through central Mahébourg to get a taste of local life. Eye the charming Creole houses, meander through quaint alleys, and take in those oceanfront views.
• Check out Rault’s Biscuit Factory for some scrumptious traditional Mauritian cassava biscuits. Trust me; you’ll want seconds (and thirds)!
• Swing by the covered market for some souvenir shopping. (Your friends and fam will thank you.)

Next stop: Blue Bay, just a few kilometers down the road. Blue Bay’s a posh touristy spot with an absolutely gorgeous beach.

Your time in the Mauritian sun is ticking, so I’d say spend the rest of the day chilling on the sandy shores, taking a dip, and maybe even hopping on a glass-bottom boat tour for some underwater sightseeing.

Tickets for the boat tour are available for purchase by clicking here.

If you’ve got some time on your hands, don’t skip the boat trip to Île aux Aigrettes, a must-see bird sanctuary. You can set sail from Pointe Jérôme.

Where to stay in Mauritius

When in Mauritius, you’ve got two choices:

• Book just one hotel for your entire stay. Mauritius might be tiny, but this means a tad more driving each day. Bright side? No packing and unpacking!
• Book different hotels for each leg of our 9-10 day Mauritius adventure. Less time on the road and a fresh new place to crash each night. Win-win!

Check out our top hotel picks for every leg of your journey based on your budget. Book ASAP, because the best rooms in Mauritius get snapped up in no time!

Where to stay in the north of Mauritius: Stages 1, 2, and 3

• Résidence Obleue: Situated in Peyrebere. Brand-new, modern, and bright apartment with a fully equipped kitchen from €50 a night. Strong points: The location, free private parking, the pool, and the rooftop. The top choice in the north for an affordable stay in Mauritius!
• Bleu de toi Boutique Guesthouse: Located a mere 5-minute walk from Peyrebere beach. Warm and nicely decorated double rooms from €75 a night. Strong points: The pool, the outdoor areas, the peaceful atmosphere, the top-notch staff!
• Corail Blue Private Villas by Lov: Located between Grand Baie and Peyrebere. Ultra-modern, enormous (180m²), and superbly equipped villa with a private pool from €145 a night, breakfast at €12. Strong points: The beauty of the luxurious villas, the private pool, the location, the comfort. Truly an exceptional place in the north of Mauritius!
• Seapoint Boutique Hotel: Located 4 km from Grand Baie. Luxurious and stunning double rooms from €340 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The breathtaking views from the rooms of the garden and the sea, the beautiful outdoor areas, the excellent breakfast, the proximity to the beach, the attentive staff, and the quality of service. The best choice for a luxury stay in the north of Mauritius!  

Where to stay in the south of Mauritius: Stages 4, 5 and 6

• Arkenstone Studios: Located close to Chamarel and Le Morne Brabant mountain. Modern, spacious, bright, fully equipped studio with a kitchen starting at only €50 a night! Strong points: The location for visiting the 7 Colored Earths and climbing the Morne Brabant mountain, free private parking, the view from the studio balconies, the friendly and helpful host, and the peaceful neighborhood. The best choice for an affordable stay in the south of Mauritius!
• The River House: Located in Tamarin next to the Black River Gorges National Park and Flic-en-Flac. Spacious double room with a terrace and splendid river views starting from €110 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The peaceful location, the stunning setting with the garden and the river, the beach only a 5-minute walk away, the fantastic breakfast, and the pool. It’s my favorite for its incredible value for money!
• Sands Suites Resort & Spa: Located in Tamarin Bay, right on the beachfront. Bright and spacious suites tastefully decorated from €350 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The magnificent views from the rooms, the services on offer, the delightful staff, and the delicious food. Recommended for a luxury stay in south Mauritius!

Where to stay in the east of Mauritius: Stage 7

• Studio Manguillier : Located in Trou d’Eau Douce, just a stone’s throw from the beach. Very spacious, well-equipped apartment from just €50 a night and the bonus, breakfast is even included! Strong points: The view, the terrace, the hearty breakfast, the perfect location for visiting Ile aux Cerfs. Excellent value for money.
• Horisun: Located in Belle Mare, a 10-minute walk from the beach. Double room with balcony and beautiful view from €110 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The quiet location, the exceptional breakfast, the very pleasant staff, the zen ambiance, and bicycles available for riding to the beach. My favorite for its value for money!
• The Residence Mauritius: Located in Belle Mare. Elegant and super spacious double rooms from €200 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The excellent breakfast buffet, the kindness of the staff, the fantastic view, the pool, and the “on the water’s edge” location! A superb choice for treating yourself in Mauritius!

Where to stay in Mahébourg: Stage 8

• Sacha Resorts: Nestled in Mahébourg, just 4 km from the airport. Modern and comfortable double room starting at €25 per night. Strong points: The warm welcome, the pool, and a kitchen at your disposal to whip up a meal.
• La Caze Roche Guest House: Located 9 km from the airport. Roomy, super comfortable double rooms starting from €70 a night, including breakfast. Strong points: Exceptionally hearty breakfast, the friendly and helpful owner, the prime location within walking distance to the sea and the Egret Island.
• Holiday Inn Mauritius Mon Trésor: Ideally placed right next to the airport. Stylish and bright double rooms from €160 a night, breakfast included. Strong points: The comfy rooms, amenities such as the free shuttle to and from the airport, the quality of the breakfast. The best choice for a high-end hotel in Mahébourg!

10-day Mauritius Road trip: Rent a Car

For your 9-10 day trip to Mauritius, seriously consider renting a car. It’s hands down the best and quickest way to get around.

For your car rental needs, I’d recommend Booking.com Cars for three solid reasons:

• Compare prices among different providers: Get more bang for your buck and ensure you snag the best deal.
• The site offers a super affordable “full protection” insurance option. Optional, of course, but it’s a steal compared to what other rental places might pitch to you. If any damage occurs, you’re covered!
• Cancellations are often free: Handy if you change your mind!

I’m a regular customer of theirs! Their services have never let me down. If you know your travel dates, you should book right away to get the car you want at the best price. (And anyway, you can always cancel for free if you need to!)

Click the button below to compare prices right away:

Renting a boat in Mauritius

If you want to rent a boat for a fun day at sea during your stay in Mauritius, I highly recommend using Samboat. Simply put, they have the most comprehensive boat rental offerings!

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small license-free boats, with or without a skipper: you’ll be spoiled for choice.

So, why wait any longer to book your incredible sea trip in Mauritius?

You’re traveling in Mauritius? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mauritius: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mauritius are listed there.

21 Best Things to do in Mauritius – All the best places to visit!

• Itinerary: 1 week in Mauritius – How to visit Mauritius in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mauritius – The definitive guide to visit Mauritius in 10 days!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mauritius – The perfect 14, 15 or 16 days itinerary in Mauritius

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