Scuba Diving in Mauritius
Diving the Turquoise Jewel of the Indian Ocean
Mauritius, a volcanic island jewel in the Indian Ocean, offers a diverse and accessible diving experience that appeals to both beginners and seasoned explorers. Almost entirely encircled by a protective coral reef, the island features expansive, shallow lagoons teeming with life, as well as dramatic outer-reef drop-offs, caverns, and historical shipwrecks. The northern coast is the most popular for diving, with numerous sites around Grand Baie and the offshore islands like Coin de Mire, known for their stunning rock formations and abundance of parrotfish and snappers. On the west coast, the Flic en Flac area is famous for 'The Cathedral,' a spectacular underwater cavern system. Mauritius is also a premier destination for seeing megafauna; resident pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen, and the island is one of the few places in the world where sperm whales can be sighted year-round. The marine environment is characterized by a mix of hard and soft corals, providing a home to moray eels, turtles, and several species of reef sharks. With warm tropical waters, generally excellent visibility, and highly professional dive centers, Mauritius provides a safe and rewarding environment for underwater adventures. Beyond the diving, the island's rich cultural tapestry, lush interior, and world-class hospitality make it a perfect destination for a comprehensive tropical holiday.
Diving Highlights
- ✓The Cathedral: A breathtaking underwater cavern and vault on the west coast with incredible light play.
- ✓Year-round sightings of Sperm Whales and frequent encounters with pods of Dolphins.
- ✓Exploring the wreck of the 'Stella Maru,' a well-preserved trawler teeming with marine life.
- ✓Scenic diving around Coin de Mire island, featuring dramatic walls and large schools of reef fish.
- ✓Incredible macro life, including various nudibranchs, leaf fish, and the rare Mauritian anemonefish.
Travel Essentials
Entry & Visa
Most tourists receive a free 60-day or 90-day visa on arrival. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and you have a return ticket.
Currency
Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are easily found.
Language
English and French are both widely spoken. Mauritian Creole is the national language of daily interaction.
Safety
Tap water is generally safe in major resorts but bottled water is recommended for sensitive travelers.
Regions
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Where to Stay
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Country Travel Guide
History
Mauritius remained uninhabited until the early 16th century, though it was known to Arab and Malay sailors as early as the 10th century. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to visit, but they did not settle. The Dutch established a colony in 1598, naming the island after Prince Maurice of Nassau, but they eventually abandoned it in 1710. During their stay, the Dutch famously oversaw the extinction of the dodo. The French took control in 1715, renaming it 'Isle de France' and developing a thriving plantation economy based on sugar and slave labor. The British captured the island during the Napoleonic Wars in 1810 and held it until independence in 1968. Following the abolition of slavery in 1835, the British brought in over half a million indentured laborers from India, profoundly changing the island's demographics. Today, Mauritius is a stable democracy and one of Africa's most prosperous nations, with a history that is reflected in its diverse population, colonial architecture, and the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Le Morne Brabant and Aapravasi Ghat.
Geography
Mauritius is a volcanic island situated in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000 kilometers off the southeast coast of Africa. It is part of the Mascarene Islands, along with Réunion and Rodrigues. The island is almost entirely surrounded by a protective coral reef, which has created large, calm lagoons with white sandy beaches. The interior of the island is characterized by a central plateau that rises to about 600 meters, surrounded by dramatic, jagged mountain peaks such as Pieter Both and Le Pouce. The highest point is Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire at 828 meters. Geologically, the island is relatively young, formed by volcanic activity around 8 million years ago. While the volcanoes are now extinct, their legacy is visible in the basaltic rock formations and the famous 'Seven Coloured Earths' of Chamarel. The island's geography has created a variety of microclimates and habitats, from the lush rainforests of the Black River Gorges National Park to the arid plains of the north and west.
Climate
Mauritius enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons: a warm, humid summer from November to April and a relatively cool, dry winter from June to September. October and May are transition months. Summer temperatures average around 30°C on the coast, while winter temperatures are a pleasant 23-25°C. The central plateau is typically 3-5°C cooler and receives more rainfall than the coastal regions. The summer months also bring the risk of tropical cyclones, which can cause heavy rain and strong winds. For divers, the summer months offer the warmest water (26-29°C) and generally calmest seas, especially on the west and north coasts. The winter months, while cooler (water 22-24°C), often provide exceptional underwater visibility. The east coast is more exposed to the southeast trade winds, making it cooler and windier, particularly during the winter months, while the west coast remains sheltered and calm for most of the year.
People & Culture
The people of Mauritius are a harmonious blend of Indian, African, Chinese, and European ancestry, creating a unique and vibrant multi-cultural society. This diversity is the result of the island's colonial history and the subsequent arrival of slaves, indentured laborers, and traders. There is no indigenous population. The majority of the population is Hindu, followed by significant Christian and Muslim minorities. Mauritians are known for their tolerance and for celebrating the festivals of all major religions with equal enthusiasm. Social life is centered around family and community, and the island's culture is expressed through a rich tradition of music, dance (particularly the Sega), and literature. Mauritians are famously hospitable and take great pride in their island's reputation as a peaceful and welcoming destination. This 'living together' (vivre ensemble) is a core part of the national identity, and visitors will find a people who are warm, friendly, and deeply proud of their diverse heritage.
Languages
The Constitution of Mauritius does not mention an official language, but English is used in the National Assembly, for government administration, and in the judicial system. It is also the primary language of education. However, French is the dominant language in the media, business, and daily social life of many Mauritians. The true national language is Mauritian Creole, a French-based Creole spoken by almost the entire population in daily interaction. Many Mauritians are also fluent in ancestral languages such as Hindi, Bhojpuri, Tamil, or Mandarin. For travelers, English and French are spoken by almost everyone in the tourist industry and in general society. Learning a few words of Creole, like 'Bonzour' (Hello) and 'Ki manyer?' (How are you?), is a fantastic way to connect with the local population and shows a genuine interest in their culture.
Food & Cuisine
Mauritian cuisine is a spectacular fusion of flavors from India, China, Africa, and Europe, reflecting the island's diverse heritage. Spices, fresh seafood, and local vegetables are the stars of the menu. A staple is the 'Dholl Puri,' a thin flatbread stuffed with yellow split peas and served with bean curry and chutney. Another favorite is 'Biryani,' a fragrant rice dish of Indian origin, often prepared for special occasions. Chinese influences are seen in 'Mine Frire' (fried noodles) and 'Bol Renversé' (upside-down bowl). Seafood is abundant, with grilled fish, octopus salad, and 'Vindaye' (pickled fish) being very popular. The 'Samosa' and 'Gateau Piment' (chili cakes) are ubiquitous snacks sold at every street corner. Local tropical fruits like pineapples, mangoes, and lychees are exceptional. Mauritius also produces its own rum, often flavored with local spices or fruits. Dining in Mauritius is a true culinary journey, where you can experience the flavors of three continents in a single meal, often enjoyed in a beautiful tropical setting.
Hotels & Resorts in Mauritius
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