Mauritius: The Ultimate Guide to Dolphin Encounter, Trou aux Cerf and Grand Bassin

Welcome to Mauritius Island, known for its blue lagoons, white sand beaches, delicious cuisine, and crystal clear waters! Located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa, near Madagascar and Reunion Island, it is an idyllic paradise for lovers of aquatic adventures and breathtaking views. Not only does Mauritius boast of an array of tropical flora and fauna and unspoiled natural beauty, but it is also an ideal spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and more. In this ultimate guide to Dolphin Encounter, Trou aux Cerf and Grand Bassin in Mauritius Island, you’ll find yourself exploring magical lagoons, canyons, and even ancient volcanic craters on this breathtaking journey into the depths of Mauritian wonders!

Dolphin Encounter

For anyone looking to experience the close encounter of a personal nature with the majesty of dolphins, Mauritius offers an exhilarating experience not to be missed. Aquascope is one of the most popular attractions that let you swim with dolphins in Tamarin Bay. Nested on the western coast of the island, this spot is perfect for both experts and beginners. The tour starts with a briefing onsite before you jump right into the crystal clear water to refine your swimming skills. Undoubtedly, it is a wildlife experience of a kind where you will come away feeling spiritually connected with these extraordinary creatures – a must-do lifetime experience!

Trou aux Cerfs

The Trou aux Cerfs is one of the most renowned attractions in Mauritius. It is a volcanic crater situated in the town of Curepipe and is said to be created by some of the biggest eruptions in Mauritian volcanic history. From up there, you can experience an unparalleled view of the whole island. The best time to enjoy its panoramic sight is at daybreak when the sky lights up with breathtaking shades of oranges and pinks. We recommend that you take a significant amount of insect repellent with you as sometimes you can be disturbed by the presence of some persistent little bugs. To make your experience even more memorable, try going at night where you can be charmed by its twinkling starry sky!

Grand Bassin

An ancient lake in the middle of the island surrounded by forests, Grand Bassin is located on a mountain top in Mauritius. Grand Bassin is a very special place for Hindus as it is believed to be once filled with sacred river waters from the Ganges. At this lakeside temple, you will find shrines of Hindu gods and goddesses. One remarkable site includes a statue of Lord Shiva which stands tall at 108 feet in honor of its religious significance. Exploring its surroundings will reveal representations of Indian superstitions such as the sacred snake goddess Manasa Devi who can be seen conquering cobras in her many statues around the lake- making for some unique photo ops!

Summary

Mauritius is an island paradise filled with tranquil blue-lagoon waters, untouched marine life and diverse vegetation. From its picturesque beaches, dreaming-like sunsets and lush mountains, to its old-time temples, shrines and craters, it’s an adventure not to be missed! One way to get up close with Mauritius’ many wonders and memories is to book yourself into a Dolphin Encounter tour with Aquascope, or take a tour around Trou aux Cerfs right after daybreak. To further immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of this island is to take a journey at Grand Bassin, a serene lake surrounded by forests.

What are you waiting for? Book your ticket to Mauritius Island today on GetYourGuide for unforgettable experiences that will entice your curiosity and bring you closer to the wonders of this beautiful place!

Mauritius: An Insider’s Guide

Mauritius is a beautiful and diverse island that attracts tourists from all over the world. But if you want to experience the real essence of this spectacular destination, you must look beyond the usual tourist traps and explore the hidden gems that this island has to offer. As an insider, I’ll introduce you to some of the lesser-known but equally fascinating attractions and experiences that make Mauritius truly unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While the beaches are undoubtedly the biggest draw of Mauritius, there are plenty of other unique and exciting things to do. Head to Domaine Les Pailles, and you will feel like you’ve been transported back in time, with its historical buildings and picturesque surroundings. If you are on the lookout for some offbeat natural beauty, then take a trip to the Ebony Forest Reserve or the Black River Gorges National Park. The Tamarind Falls are another hidden treasure, offering stunning scenery and the opportunity to indulge in some adventure sports.

Dining Spots: A Glimpse of Local Cuisine

Mauritian cuisine has been influenced by a variety of cultures, including Indian, African, and Chinese, among others. For authentic and traditional Mauritian cuisine, visit Eureka La Maison Creole, which serves an array of mouth-watering dishes that will give you a glimpse of local flavors. If you are in the mood for seafood, the Fisherman’s Cove is a must-visit spot, which offers an exceptional seafood platter and a mesmerizing view of the ocean. For the best street food, explore the Port Louis central market and indulge in the local delicacies like ‘dhal puri’ or ‘gato pima.’

Cultural Experiences: Rich Traditions

Mauritius has a rich cultural history that celebrates the diversity of its people. Every year in February, the Chinese New Year is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fanfare, and the streets come alive with colorful parades and festivities. The Thaipoosam Cavadee Festival, which takes place in January and February, is another event worth experiencing. It’s an elaborate festival that celebrates Lord Muruga, and you’ll see devotees piercing their bodies with needles or hooks, carrying offerings and climbing on a bed of nails. The Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis is another important site that highlights the history of indentured labor and the cultural legacy of Mauritius.

Local History: Fascinating Stories

Mauritius has a complex and fascinating history dating back to the Dutch, French, and English colonization. Did you know that Mauritius was once home to the famous dodo bird, which became extinct in the late 17th century? Or that the island was once a hub for the slave trade? The Chateau de Labourdonnais is a great place to explore the colonial history of the island, and learn about the sugar and rum industries that shaped the Mauritian culture.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

If you want to experience something truly unique, then head to the petite village of Chamarel. Here you will find an enchanting seven-colored earth, which is truly a natural wonder. Take a walk through the preserved ‘biscuit’ or ‘papier mache’ houses of Mahebourg, which showcase the traditional way of Mauritian life. Or head over to the west coast and try your hand at kite-surfing in Le Morne, which is considered to be one of the best kite-surfing spots in the world.

In conclusion, Mauritius is a destination that offers a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. To get a real sense of what the island has to offer, step off the beaten path and explore these unique attractions and experiences. From hidden gems to historical sites, the island is full of surprises that will leave you captivated. Now go ahead and create lasting memories on this stunning island!