Which are the best outdoor activities to do in Mauritius in pandemic times?

Expat news
  • views from the top of le Morne Brabant
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Published on 2021-12-01 at 12:03 by Rachel Maureen Silvio
Like everywhere else, Covid-19 is worrisome in Mauritius. Many health restrictions have been reintroduced, including the ban on picnics on the beach, public gatherings, and the closure of nightclubs. Summer is definitely going to be different both for Mauritians and expats this year. Still, there are many activities you can do in your free time to get the most of the pleasant weather.

Need a break from crowds and your daily routine? Grab your backpack and your health pass because we have got you a list of outdoor activities to do alone or with your family while respecting barrier gestures and health protocol during this pandemic period.

Enjoy the sun and the sea

Looking for a change of scenery? Embark on a boat or catamaran trip to explore the Mauritian lagoons. The azure blue of the tropical sea is simply amazing. A great way to relax is by being lulled by the gentle symphony of the ocean or listening to the waves crashing on the shore. Dive into the heart of the marine ecosystem to discover a surreal world you've never experienced! A breathtaking spectacle awaits you in the limpid waters of Le Morne or off the northern islands. Through all this, you will be able to discover various species of crustaceans, multicoloured fish, all kinds of corals of all kinds, and swim with dolphins if you feel like it. Is there anything better to break your daily routine?

Explore nature

Not everyone enjoys the sea, and that's alright. The island is full of natural treasures waiting to be explored. If there's one good thing about the pandemic is that it has suddenly revived the need for bonding with nature. The best part is that the island has a lot of nature and sightseeing spots and hiking trails. Nature lovers are going to be delighted. Exploring the heart of Mauritius' flora and fauna at the Black River Gorges National Park is a sensational adventure. Let yourself be hypnotized by the rustling of its endemic trees and the chirping of unique birds such as the famous Paille-en-queue and the big Cateau Verte.

Altitude activities

If you're looking for an escape from the bustling noise to a quiet place for a breath of fresh air, here are a couple of fabulous hiking ideas. Take a trip to the island's highest summits with your friends. For example, enjoy a 360 ° view at the top of Le Pouce Mountain, at an altitude of over 800 meters, and you will get an amazing view of Port-Louis, the capital. If you're lucky enough, you can even get to watch a magical sunset. From a 400 meters altitude, Le Morne Brabant offers a breathtaking surreal landscape on one of the most beautiful lagoons in the Indian Ocean. From Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, the highest point in Mauritius at over 820 meters, you can enjoy a dazzling view of the Black River Gorges and mountain range.

With family

If you are an expat family with children seeking calmer and more relaxed activities, take a stroll in one of the various gardens across the island. The SSR botanical garden of Pamplemousses is the perfect place to relax and have a good time. This tropical garden is full of lush vegetation from different parts of the world. You will be amazed by its fascinating essences and sumptuous colours. If you prefer cooler places, the Curepipe Botanical Garden will suit you best. Take the time to admire its majestic panorama while walking among palm and latan trees and other unique species. If you are looking for something more exotic, the Telfair garden in Souillac, in the south of the island, is an unusual place. This is one of the rare places in Mauritius where you can both enjoy the serene atmosphere of the garden while admiring the waves crashing on the reefs.

Mauritius is full of natural sites that will offer you incredible experiences while keeping you in shape and away from the crowd. However, do not forget about barrier gestures while indulging in these activities. Besides, exposure to sunlight can reduce the risks of catching Covid-19, so make sure to seize the opportunity to get full of vitamin D!