🌊 1. Swim with Wild Dolphins
Why go: Swimming with wild dolphins is one of the most popular things to do in Mauritius, offering a rare chance to see spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Taking place in the warm, clear waters off the island’s west coast, early-morning outings provide calm conditions and good visibility, allowing you to observe dolphins swimming, gliding, and interacting nearby.
The experience is exciting, and an ideal activity for travelers who enjoy nature and adventure and want to experience one of Mauritius’s most well-known marine attractions in an authentic way.
Best for: Wildlife lovers, sea adventurers, families.
👉 Book this experience with Bonjour Mauritius:
Swimming With Wild Dolphins & Lunch On Benitiers Island — includes a dolphin swim, snorkeling and a BBQ lunch on beautiful Benitiers Island.
Swimming With Wild Dolphins & Whale Watching — combine dolphins and whales on the same trip.
Private Swimming with Wild Dolphins — a more intimate experience for your group.
🏝️ 2. Island Day Trip: Île aux Cerfs
Why go: Visiting this picturesque island off the east coast is one of the most popular things to do in Mauritius for travelers seeking a classic tropical beach experience. Often described as the island’s ultimate escape, it is known for its powdery white sand, clear turquoise lagoons, and calm, shallow waters that are ideal for swimming and wading. The scenery alone makes it a must-visit, with postcard-perfect views in every direction.
Best for: Beach lovers, snorkelers, nature photographers.
👉 Bonjour Mauritius offers several ways to experience Île aux Cerfs:
Full Day Ile aux Cerfs Speedboat Trip — hotel pickup and dropoff, lunch, drinks, and of course time to enjoy the paradise island of Ile aux Cerfs
Ile Aux Cerfs Catamaran Cruise, BBQ Lunch & Hotel Pickup/Dropoff — a scenic sail with a barbecue onboard.
5 Islands Trip, Including Ile aux Cerfs — the beaches of Ile aux Cerfs, snorkelling near Ile aux Aigrettes, the Grand River Southeast Waterfall, and the history of Ile de la Passe & Ile au Phare (Lighthouse Island)
🥾 3. Nature & Hiking Adventures
Hiking is one of the most rewarding things to do in Mauritius, and two of the island’s standout locations are Tamarind Falls and Le Morne Brabant. Tamarind Falls, also known as the Seven Cascades, is located in the southwest and is known for its lush greenery, rivers, and series of waterfalls. The trails range from moderate to more challenging, making the area suitable for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Along the way, hikers can enjoy scenic viewpoints, natural pools, and refreshing swim spots, all set within dense forest and volcanic landscapes.
Le Morne Brabant is another must-experience option among the top things to do in Mauritius, offering a hike that combines natural beauty with cultural significance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a steep, rocky trail that leads to breathtaking panoramic views over the island’s turquoise lagoons and coral reefs. Often completed with a guide for safety, the hike rewards visitors with sweeping coastal scenery and a deeper understanding of Mauritius’s history, making it an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
👉 Book this experience with Bonjour Mauritius:
🌿 Black River Gorges National Park (Tamarind Falls) — One of the island’s largest nature reserves, with trails through rainforest, waterfalls, and endemic wildlife.
🏔️ Le Morne Brabant A UNESCO World Heritage Site — a rewarding hike with sweeping views of the ocean and a unique cultural story.
🌿 4. Explore Wildlife & Conservation on Ile aux Aigrettes
Why go: Île aux Aigrettes is a small protected nature reserve located just off the southeast coast of Mauritius and is considered one of the most meaningful things to do in Mauritius for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Managed by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, the island focuses on conserving rare and endangered native species that have disappeared from much of mainland Mauritius. Guided tours lead visitors through restored ebony forest, where you can learn about conservation efforts and see giant Aldabra tortoises, rare birds, and endemic plants in a carefully protected environment.
Visiting Île aux Aigrettes offers a calm, educational experience that stands out from more typical beach activities and ranks among the most enriching things to do in Mauritius. The emphasis on sustainability and preservation makes it ideal for travelers interested in the island’s natural heritage. With knowledgeable guides, a peaceful setting, and close-up encounters with native species, the island provides valuable insight into Mauritius’s original ecosystem and the importance of protecting it for future generations.
👉 Book a history & eco tour with Bonjour Mauritius:
Mauritius History And Eco Tour Including Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve — a mix of nature, culture and beach time at Blue Bay.
🚗 5. Full-Day Island Discovery Tours
A 3-day tour covering the north, south, and southwest of the island is one of the most efficient and rewarding things to do in Mauritius, especially for first-time visitors. The journey typically begins in the north, where you can explore the vibrant capital of Port Louis, visit local markets and discover historical sites. This part of the tour offers a great introduction to Mauritius’s culture, cuisine, and coastal lifestyle, blending sightseeing with leisure.
The south and southwest reveal a more rugged and scenic side of the island and are often highlights of the tour. Visitors can experience natural landmarks such as Chamarel’s Seven Colored Earth, Black River Gorges National Park, and dramatic coastal viewpoints along the southwest shore. Stops also include waterfalls, viewpoints, and culturally significant sites, providing a balance of nature, history, and local insight. Altogether, this 3-day experience showcases the island’s diversity and stands out as one of the most comprehensive things to do in Mauritius for travelers wanting to see beyond the beaches.
👉 Bonjour Mauritius offers a comprehensive:
North, South & Southwest Tours With Optional Wild Dolphin Swim — this flexible 3-day package covers historic botanical gardens, volcano craters, sacred lakes, gorges, waterfalls, and optional dolphin swims.
