Visiting Mauritius with your family: practical guide

• State: Republic of Mauritius
• Capital: Port Louis
• Political system: Parliamentary republic
• Languages: English, French and Mauritian Creole
• Currency: Mauritian Rupee (Rs 1 = €0.025)
• Time zone: UTC + 4

Mauritius, the jewel of the Indian Ocean, is a destination that seduces with its enchanting landscapes, its rich culture and its warm welcome. With its fine sandy beaches bordered by turquoise lagoons, its green mountains and its exceptional biodiversity, the island offers an idyllic setting to recharge your batteries and escape. But Mauritius is also a cultural melting pot where Creole, Indian, French and African influences mingle, reflected in tasty cuisine and living traditions. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or discovery, Mauritius has it all. In this article, we will explore the compelling reasons to choose this destination for your next vacation, so that you can have a memorable experience in the heart of this tropical paradise.

• Wisely choose your flight. Air France offers direct 11-hour flights from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Sir S. Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU). For your little ones, choose a night flight to make the trip more enjoyable, especially with young children. From Belgium, the easiest way will be to get to Paris by train. You should note that Thalys offers trips to the airport in 1hour and thirty minutes (from the Brussels Central Station). Good news: Air Belgium will lunch a direct flight from Zaventem from mid-December!

• For families wishing to take a trip to Dubai to explore the city of excess, Emirates offers flights in 2 x (6hours and 45minutes) with long stopovers from Paris, Brussels, Lyon, Geneva and Frankfurt. Convenient for a short visit and a rest break for the children. The airline also offers direct flights from Paris.

• At your destination, we strongly recommend that you opt for a luxury hotel for assured tranquility. For even more comfort, the all-inclusive package is the big favorite among families. The main objective here is to choose a hotel facility where the entire family can be catered for and go about their respective businesses. For this, Little Guest has gathered the best of the best luxury hotels in Mauritius.

Welcome to our guide to family vacations in Mauritius, an idyllic destination located in the Indian Ocean. Mauritius offers the perfect blend of white sandy beaches, lush tropical landscapes and vibrant culture, making it an ideal choice for a memorable family vacation. Whether you’re looking for exciting activities to keep the kids entertained, or simply want to relax on a heavenly beach, Mauritius has it all.

• In Mauritius, nature is ever-present, and this is good for children. It is in the North-west of the island that you will find the famous Pamplemousses Garden (today known as the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden) which was created in the 18th century. Being spread over 37 hectares, this botanical garden is made up of a multitude of floral species and exotic plants. The little ones will awaken their senses in this historic park where François Mitterrand, Nelson Mandela and Gandhi have planted their own trees. Things that can be done in a single day: Strolling in the Cap Malheureux village, wherein lies the famous red-roofed church, and visiting the Château de Labourdonnais and its estate. Price: Rs 200/adult; Free for children under 5, and for adults over 60 years old. Open daily from 8.30am to 5.30pm (free on Sundays and public holidays). Itinerary

• Deep sea explorers love Mauritius for her numerous water excursions. The best way to explore colored fish and coral reefs in their natural habitat: navigate through the crystal-clear waters aboard a glass-bottomed boat. Little Guest strongly recommends that you carry out this activity, coupled with diving. This is exactly what’s being offered by the Blue Bay Marine Park in the south-east of the island; named a Ramsar Site in recognition of its ecological and environmental efforts. There, you can visit Ile Des Deux Cocos and juggle between snorkeling and savoring cocktails… Price: Rs300/person (€7,50). Itinerary

Mauritius, much more than a seaside destination, is a true crossroads of cultures and traditions. Rich in fascinating history and ethnic diversity, the island offers a multitude of opportunities to delve into the heart of its living heritage. From colorful markets to historic temples, vibrant festivals and captivating museums, each cultural outing is an invitation to discover the many facets of this island. Whether you want to explore local crafts, taste traditional dishes or immerse yourself in ancestral rituals, Mauritius will awaken your senses and enrich your trip. In this article, we will guide you through the best cultural outings in Mauritius, for an authentic and memorable experience in the heart of this unique destination.

Mauritius, renowned for its heavenly beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, also conceals havens of peace where nature flourishes in all its splendor. For those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with what is essential, the island offers a multitude of natural corners ideal for relaxation and meditation. From rainforests to majestic waterfalls and hiking trails offering breathtaking panoramas, every corner is an invitation to slow down and appreciate wild beauty. In this article, we offer you a selection of the best natural spots to explore in Mauritius, to recharge your batteries and experience moments of serenity in the heart of this green setting.

Being a great lover of islands, Alexandre, a Travel Designer at Little Guest, knows Mauritius like the back of his hands. His best picks: The North of the island, especially the Grand-Baie Village. According to him, it’s “THE PLACE TO BE” for having fun and for going out with the family or with friends. The sun is at its peak, the beaches are vast and spread out, and the chic restaurants offer delicious menus.

For example, Le Capitaine was voted « The Island’s Best Seafood Restaurant » by our dear Alexander. With direct openings to the sea, the restaurant offers a solar atmosphere and dishes made with passion and creativity. Another hidden treasure in the village is Ti Kouloir. Warm and relaxed, the establishment is well known to locals, but much less to tourists. It is recommended that you reserve a seat in advance or order to take away because the place is very small. However, do not be fooled by appearances, it’s at Ti Kouloir that you’ll be eating the best fried noodles (mines frites) on the island!

After a gourmet break, a family excursion is essential. From Grand-Baie or Cap Malheureux, hop on a catamaran for a most relaxing mini cruise. Scuba diving sessions at the Coin de Mire, sun-bathing on the flat island, healthy and local barbecue, drinks at will … A daydream.

Alexandre’s best-pick address: « If I were to recommend a place on the island, it would be the Rituals Spa at Fond du Sac. The treatments and massages are prodigious, and the place is like a sanctuary of well-being. I’ve never been more relaxed than the day I came out of this spa! » Itinerary

• Prepare a travel checklist for the children with, a bonus: sunscreen, mosquito repellent and pretty sunglasses. Do not forget to consult your doctor for solutions against seasickness.

• Depending on your budget, we advise you to either rent a car or take a taxi for your travels on the island. Driving a rental car is more economical, but you must note that the roads are not always perfect and that Mauritians drive on the left side of the road.

• Before leaving, consult your doctor who will advise you on the precautions to take in the event of travel sickness (plane, car, boat…).