Best Mauritius Tours & Activities for Families with Kids

Traveling as a family with children can be an experience in itself. While Mauritius has traditionally been seen as a couples destination, it's increasingly a becoming more family-friendly destination, with activities for children of all ages. If you're traveling to Mauritius with children, this page is for you!

At first glance, it may be difficult to determine which activities and excursions are suitable for children of varying ages. Let Bonjour Mauritius help! Here are some tours, activities and excursions that we'd recommend for families traveling to Mauritius with kids.

Private South Day Tour Including Blue Bay Glass Bottom Boat, Snorkelling & La Vanille Nature Reserve

Our South Tour with a Glass Bottom Boat ride is perfect for children of all ages. Children aged 3 years and older will get more out of the glass bottom boat ride than younger children, but since the glass bottom boat ride takes place on a relatively calm lagoon in Blue Bay Marine Park, it's safe for children of any age. Snorkeling is also included, which is a great option for the little ones. This tour also includes a stop a La Vanille Nature Park, which contains crocodiles, giant tortises and an insectarium. La Vanille Park is great for children any age, but children who are 5 years and older will likely get the most out of the experience. The tour also includes a stop at Saint Aubin Rhumerie & Vanille Plantation where parents can enjoy rum tasting!

Private North Day Tour: Pamplemousses Garden, Sugar Museum, Château de Labourdonnais, Port Louis

Our North Day Tour is another great option for children. The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden contains a variety of flora, including giant water lilies, which are sure to impress! The Sugar Museum has a plethora of information about the history of Mauritius. While children 8 and older will likely get more out of the museum experience, the sugar tasting (part of the museum tour) is sure to appeal to younger children (sorry parents!). Port Louis can be a little chaotic, but gives guests an insight into Mauritian life (it's ideal for children 5 years and older, but is possible which children of any age).

The North Tour is also available as an all-inclusive option, with Lunch and Entrance Fees included. With the all-inclusive option, Château de Labourdonnais is replaced with a visit to the picturesque Red Church (Notre-Dame-Auxiliatrice). In addition to entrance fees being covered, a 3-course Mauritian Lunch is included. The food is quite mild, (it's possible to add crushed green chili for those who like it spicy) so most children shouldn't have a problem!

Swimming with Wild Dolphins

A trip to Mauritius wouldn't be complete without a wild dolphin swim! Since swimming with wild dolphins take place in the usually calm waters, inside of the lagoon, it's possible for children of all ages. Children 5 years and older will likely get the most of the experience, however, it ultimately depends on your child's comfort level in the water (life jackets are provided). While the ability to swim is not necessary, the experience involves jumping in and getting out of the water several times, and may not be ideal for very young children. However, it is possible to children of any age to join the experience and stay on the boat instead of getting in the water. TIP: We'd recommend brining a life jacket if your child is under 5, as the ones we have may be too large.

Bonjour Mauritius offers several options for swimming with wild dolphins. Our most popular options are our Dolphins & Volcanic Wonders Tour and ourSwimming With Wild Dolphins Including Hotel Pickup & Dropoff.

Whale Watching

Whale Watching is another great family activity, and is suitable for children aged 3 and older. Since Whale Watching takes place in the open sea, outside of the lagoon, the minimum age of this activity is 3. Nothing quite compares to seeing a majestic Humpback or Sperm Whale surface right in front of you, and children are sure to build lasting memories with this experience. TIP: If your child gets seasick we'd recommend taking an anti-nauseant since the sea can be a little rougher than the calmer beaches. Whale Watching can also be combined with a Wild Dolphin Swim!

Traveling to Mauritius with children can be a unique and rewarding experience that builds lasting memories. While there are always additional considerations when traveling with children, and especially young children, Mauritius, as a whole, is quite family friendly. Here are a few tips for parents:

TIP: Whether you're on a tour, or walking outside of your hotel with a stroller, understand that sidewalks may not be as readily available, or as well-maintained, as you're used to.

TIP: If your child needs a car seat, we'd recommend bringing one with you.

TIP: For young children (less than 5 years of age), it's always a good idea to bring life jackets and snorkel gear, if your child plans or snorkeling or swimming.

TIP: Many attractions have child rates for entrance fees, so make sure you ask!