Travel Planning

Family Travel in Mauritius: Top Tips and Destinations

Mauritius offers a perfect family vacation with its stunning beaches, diverse activities, and family-friendly accommodations for all budgets.

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Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a paradise for family vacations. With its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and a plethora of activities for all ages, Mauritius offers an unforgettable experience for families. This guide provides top tips and destinations for family travel in Mauritius, ensuring a memorable and stress-free trip.

1. Best Time to Visit

Mauritius has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best times to visit are:

  • May to December: Cooler and drier, perfect for outdoor activities and beach days.
  • January to April: Warmer with occasional rain, ideal for lush landscapes and lower travel costs.

2. Getting There

  • Flights: Most international flights land at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU). Major airlines like Emirates, British Airways, and Air Mauritius offer direct flights.
  • Cost: Round-trip flights from major cities in Europe or Asia range from $600 to $1,200 per person, depending on the season.

3. Accommodation

Mauritius offers a range of family-friendly accommodations to suit different budgets:

  • Luxury Resorts:
    • Shangri-La's Le Touessrok Resort & Spa: Offers family suites, kids' club, and activities. Costs range from $500 to $1,000 per night.
    • Sugar Beach Mauritius: Features spacious rooms, a kids' club, and family activities. Costs range from $400 to $800 per night.
  • Mid-Range Hotels:
    • Veranda Pointe Aux Biches Hotel: Family rooms and kids' activities, priced at $200 to $400 per night.
    • Le Victoria Hotel: Offers family-friendly facilities and activities, costing around $250 to $450 per night.
  • Budget Options:
    • Le Palmiste Resort & Spa: Family rooms and basic amenities, priced at $100 to $200 per night.
    • Hotel Coral Azur: Affordable family rooms with a pool, costing around $80 to $150 per night.

4. Top Family-Friendly Destinations

a. Grand Baie

  • Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides. Equipment rentals cost around $20 to $50.
  • La Cuvette Beach: A quieter spot ideal for families with young children.

b. Casela World of Adventures

  • Activities: Safari tours, zip-lining, and petting zoo.
  • Cost: Entrance fees are approximately $25 for adults and $15 for children.

c. Black River Gorges National Park

  • Hiking: Family-friendly trails with picnic spots.
  • Wildlife: Spot native birds and giant tortoises.
  • Cost: Free entrance, but guided tours range from $30 to $60.

d. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

  • Explore: Discover exotic plants, giant water lilies, and a spice garden.
  • Cost: Entrance fee is around $5 for adults and free for children under 5.

e. Ile aux Cerfs

  • Day Trips: Enjoy beaches, water sports, and an adventure park.
  • Cost: Boat transfers cost about $25 per person, and activities range from $20 to $100.

5. Family Activities and Excursions

a. Dolphin Watching Tours

  • Location: Tamarin Bay.
  • Cost: Tours start at $40 per person, including snorkeling equipment.

b. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours

  • Location: Blue Bay Marine Park.
  • Cost: Approximately $30 per person.

c. Underwater Sea Walk

  • Experience: Walk on the seabed and interact with marine life.
  • Cost: Around $50 per person.

d. Blue Safari Submarine

  • Adventure: Explore the underwater world without getting wet.
  • Cost: Submarine tours cost about $140 for adults and $70 for children.

6. Dining Options

Mauritius offers diverse dining options catering to families:

  • Local Cuisine: Try dholl puri, fried noodles, and fresh seafood at local markets and restaurants. Meals cost around $5 to $15 per person.
  • International Cuisine: Family-friendly restaurants offer pizza, pasta, and burgers. Meals range from $10 to $30 per person.

7. Transportation

  • Car Rentals: Convenient for exploring the island. Costs range from $30 to $50 per day.
  • Taxis: Widely available but ensure to agree on fares beforehand. Typical fares are $2 to $3 per kilometer.
  • Public Transport: Buses are affordable but less frequent. Fares are around $1 to $2 per trip.

8. Travel Tips

  • Health and Safety: Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date. Drink bottled water and use sunscreen.
  • Packing: Bring light clothing, swimsuits, sun hats, and comfortable shoes.
  • Local Customs: Respect local traditions and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Mauritius is a fantastic destination for family travel, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the island’s top family-friendly destinations and activities, ensuring a memorable vacation for all. Happy travels!

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