🇲🇺Mauritius

Le Morne Brabant

A dramatic basalt mountain rising sharply from the island's southwest coast, listed by UNESCO for its history as a refuge for escaped slaves. The surrounding lagoon is also home to a famous optical illusion, an underwater 'waterfall' visible from the air where sand slopes drop off the shelf. It's one of the most photographed views in the country.

Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths

A small geological site where volcanic soil has settled into distinct bands of red, brown, and purple that never mix, even after rain. It sits near a striking waterfall of the same name and a well-known rum distillery. The combination makes for an easy half-day trip inland from the coast.

Black River Gorges National Park

The island's largest area of native forest, laced with hiking trails through steep gorges and past several waterfalls. It's one of the few places to see Mauritius's endemic birds, several of which were brought back from the edge of extinction. Trails range from easy viewpoints to full-day hikes.

Île aux Cerfs

A small island off the east coast reached only by boat, ringed by turquoise water and white sand beaches. It's set up for a full day of swimming, water sports, and a round of golf on its course. Boat trips there often stop at a waterfall on the way.

Port Louis Central Market

The capital's covered market is the best place to see the island's cultural mix up close, from spice stalls to Creole street food. Nearby, the Caudan Waterfront adds a more polished harborside shopping and dining area. It's a useful stop for a sense of daily life beyond the resorts.

Grand Bassin

A crater lake considered one of the holiest Hindu sites outside India, ringed by temples and a towering statue of Shiva visible from the road below. It draws large pilgrimage crowds during the Maha Shivaratri festival but is quiet and contemplative most other days. The setting, in the island's forested highlands, adds to its atmosphere.