For those looking for something a little more than our standard North Day Tour, why not add snorkeling with giant turtles to the itinerary? You will board a glass bottom boat on the northwest coast of the island and have the opportunity to snorkel with turtles in their natural environment. These Giant Green Sea Turtles can reach up to 1.2m in length and weight up to 200kg. After the adventure, take photos at the famous Red Church, set against the backdrop of a beautiful lagoon, and the famous island of Coin de Mire. Next, visit the famous Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, and finish the day by exploring the capital of Port Louis.
Note: Typically the swimming with wild turtles portion of the tour is done first, however this may change depending on the tides.
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Snorkeling with Giant Turtles & the North, Including the Red Church, Pamplemousses Garden & Port Louis
See the North of Mauritius in a unique way by starting your day snorkeling with giant turtles in the Indian Ocean! You will board a boat on the northwest coast of the island and have the opportunity to snorkel with turtles in their natural environment. These Giant Green Sea Turtles can reach up to 1.2m in length and weight up to 200kg. Apart from the turtles, you can see a variety of marine life, including different varieties of tropical fish and coral. Snorkeling gear is included!
After the adventure, take photos at the famous Red Church, set against the backdrop of a beautiful lagoon, and the famous island of Coin de Mire. Notre Dame Auxiliatrice, also known as "The Red Church" is a beloved landmark located in the picturesque town of Cap Malheureux, in the far northwest of the island. The church makes an excellent photo opportunity against the backdrop of the stunning Indian Ocean. Also visible from Cap Malheureux is the famous island of Coin de Mire, located almost due north of Mauritius.
Next, visit the famous Pamplemousses Botanical Garden where you'll discover a variety of plants native to the island. You will get to see the giant waterlilies and 85 varieties of palm trees from around the world. You will also discover the various spices and medicinal plants and learn about the various endemic and imported plants in the garden.
A tour of the North isn’t complete without a visit to Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius. The city is a blend of the old and the new. On one side you have the hustle and bustle of the city’s historical market (bazaar), built in 1828, where you can bargain for different spices and souvenirs and sample Mauritian street food. And on the other side you have the modern Caudan Waterfront, where there visitors can shop at brand name stores and eat at various restaurants. You can leisurely visit the areas of Port-Louis that interest you such as the Jummah Mosque, Blue Penny Museum, Aapravasi Ghat (UNESCO heritage site), and the smaller streets. For great views, your driver will take you for a stop at the Citadel and you will also get to see the Champs de Mars racecourse on the way.