Mauritius is located some 500 miles off the east coast of Madagascar, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn at latitude 20 degrees south and longitude 57 degrees, 35 minutes east. The island’s 200 mile coastline is virtually encircled by one of the world’s largest unbroken coral reef systems. It is part of the African continent, rising from the sea in a series of volcanic eruptions over 8 million years ago. It is also the best known of the Mascarene Islands, first described by Arab traders a millennium ago, and named for the Portuguese explorer Pedro Mascarenhas in 1513. The Portuguese used this largest, uninhabited island for reprovisioning, but it was claimed and named by the Dutch for Prince Maurice of Nassau, son of William of Orange.

Its major cities are the capital--Port Louis (pop.146,000), Beau Bassin and Rose Hill (98,000), Vacoas-Phoenix (96,000), Curepipe (78,000), and Quatre Bornes (75,000).

Mauritius’ history has been one of colonization, of waves of population and of a pastiche of cultures overlaid and intermixed…blended with beauty, beaches and la bonne vie.

Primarily, Mauritius is a beach escape destination and a fine representative of the top quality of the Mauritian beach is located right at your hotel. Water activities abound, but there’s plenty to keep an active visitor engaged on land, as well.

Here’s a taste of what you can expect:

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Almost every hotel or resort has a dive center and snorkeling and scuba diving can be arranged at your hotel. Diving in Mauritius doesn’t compare with other Indian Ocean sites (Seychelles or Maldives) but there is a well-known site, the “Cathedral” off Flic en Flac on the island’s west coast. Other sites include Whale Rock and Roche Zozo, an underwater rock pinnacle (accessible by boat only in summer). Another popular site is the submerged crater near Ile Ronde, accessible from the north from Grand Baie, among others.

Snorkeling is more popular and all the major hotels can arrange boat snorkel trips to enjoy Mauritius’ reef and its colorful sea life. Many of the snorkeling spots are close to the beach, although the best spots are just off rocky shorelines. Most of the larger hotels on beaches have snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels and fins) available for rent or complimentary for guests and will be pleased to direct you to the best spots. Please do remember that spear fishing or the collection of shells and corals is strictly prohibited.

Fishing Record blue marlin catches have been landed during the October to April prime season, and besides marlin, sailfish, barracuda, wahoo, tuna and shark are common. One of the best fishing spots is just off Le Morne where the seabed plunges almost 2,300 feet and the currents pull in the feeder fish to attract the huge trophy animals. Your hotel will be able to make all the necessary arrangements and there are several Mauritian boat clubs.

Sailing
This is an all year round sailing location. Charter a power boat, cabin cruiser or yacht for fishing or leisurely exploration at your own pace.

And again, your hotel will be able to arrange a full yacht charter or a day sail, or whatever your preference might be. The day sails include lunch and is a wonderfully relaxing way to enjoy the water; there are also sunset cruises and starlight dinner cruises…these are very popular and advance reservation are required. In Grand Baie you can rent a catamaran by the hour if you prefer to handle the lines and rudder yourself.

Surfing
Surfing came to Mauritius some 30 years ago and some spots around Tamarin have been described as near perfect conditions with waves up to 6 feet…the season lasts from June to August. Expert surfers have rated Le Morne and One-Eye’s as excellent, plus other sites near Baie du Cap, south of Ilot Sancho and opposite the public gardens in Souillac.

Windsurfing
Excellent almost everywhere and equipment is available at all hotels and resorts.

Other Water Sports
Ocean kayaking and water-skiing are available at most of the larger hotels, and your hotel can also arrange for a glass-bottom boat tour of the island’s surrounding reef.

One unusual experience is the “Undersea Stroll” or a “helmet dive” and for many visitors this is the highlight of their stay. With weighted boots and dive helmet connected to a top-side air supply you descend and can actually take a walk along the seabed, observe the teeming life and even feed the fish. The location for this unique stroll is near Grand Baie and bookings can be made at your hotel.

If you would like to see the bottom of the sea, visit the reefs at depths of up to 35 meters aboard a Blue Safari Submarine.

Another unusual experience is the semi-submersible “Le Nesse” boat. This submarine-type craft takes you on an hour tour for an up close and personal look at marine life that’s a lot more up close and personal than the glass-bottom boat experience, without the physical requirements of the Undersea Stroll. Paragliding is also available and is a wonderful way to enjoy the view and the feeling of bird-like freedom as you’re pulled along at top speeds.

Beaching
Besides your own beautiful hotel beach the Pointe aux Roches is well-known for its magnificent surf views, Flic en Flac and Belle Mare are both excellent swimming beaches.

Windsurfers, canoes and sailing dinghies may be hired on the more popular beaches and water skiing and paragliding are offered at the main resort areas.

Holiday package

Day- 1 ARRIVE MAURITIUS
On arrival you will be met by our Representative and transferred from Airport to the hotel. Check into the hotel. Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.

Day- 2 ILE AUX CERF TOUR BY SPEED BOAT
After breakfast, Depart in a coach for a full day excursion to Ile Aux Cerfs, an emerald lagoon on the east coast. From the jetty take a Speed Boat to reach the island. Day Free to indulge in beach and water sports activities at own cost. Return to the hotel in the evening. Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.

Day- 3 DAY FREE AT LEISURE
After breakfast, today you can spend time on your own or take an Optional full day catamaran cruise. Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.

Day- 4 NORTH TOUR
After breakfast, Depart for a full day North Island tour: Visit the capital city - Port Louis, Place d' Arms with its French colonial buildings, the eventful Champ de Mars racecourse, the exotic Caudan Waterfront and the Pamplemousses Botanical garden. Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.

Day- 5 DAY FREE AT LEISURE
After breakfast, today you can spend time on your own or take an Optional tour of the Blue Safari Submarine. Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.

Day- 6 SOUTH TOUR
After breakfast, Depart for a full day South Island tour : Visit the Trou aux Cerfs, the crater of an extinct volcano. Also visit Grand Bassin, a natural lake at the base of volcanic crater and a pilgrimage place for Hindus and Chamarel (Colored Earth) with its vibrant hues and waterfall. Also included in the day's itinerary is the city of Curepipe where you can pick up some souvenirs. Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.

Day- 7 DEPART MAURITIUS
After breakfast, your tour ends and it time to say goodbye. Check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.