Sports in Mauritius

Trail running in Mauritius

Trail running is experiencing a remarkable boom in both Mauritius and Rodrigues. Thanks to its varied terrain, interspersed with mountains, forests, coastal paths, and sugarcane fields, the island offers an ideal setting for nature running, from simple trail jogging to high-level competitions.

Renowned events like the Dodo Trail, Moka Trail, CIEL Ferney Trail, Trail de la Liberté, and the Ultra Trail Raidlight Beachcomber (UTRB) draw local and international runners each year. In recent years, night trails have also been gaining popularity.

Rodrigues Island is also gaining popularity for its Trail de Rodrigues, known for its wild landscapes, challenging climbs, and friendly atmosphere.

Numerous clubs organize weekly outings, and the marked trails (Le Morne, Chamarel, Ferney, Black River Gorges) are perfect for training all year round, in a spectacular natural setting.

Cycling and mountain biking in Mauritius

Exploring Mauritius by bike means discovering the island differently: at the pace of the landscapes, villages, and sea breeze. The coastal roads offer breathtaking views, while the inland trails lead through sugarcane fields, hills, and tropical forests. Whether you prefer leisurely cycle touring or sporty mountain biking, Mauritius offers superb routes for all levels.

The best season to enjoy this is from April to November, the dry and sunny period. The summer months (from December to March) are hotter and often rainy; it's better to ride early in the morning or late in the day.

The best places for cycling

North

• Coastal road from Grand Baie to Cap Malheureux: pleasant and panoramic, ideal for road biking.
• Domaine de Labourdonnais: private circuit in the north, suitable for families and beginners.

West

• From Tamarin to Le Morne: spectacular route along beaches and mountains.
• Flic-en-Flac and surroundings: flat roads and seafront, perfect for beginners.

East and Center

• Domaine de l'Étoile: marked trails for mountain biking in a preserved natural setting.
• La Nicolière: mountainous area offering a great sporting challenge and views of lakes and forests.
• MonVert Nature Walk: public circuit located around Curepipe, in the heart of a lush forest.

South and South-East

• Plaine Champagne and Chamarel: for more seasoned cyclists, winding roads and grandiose panoramas.
• Macchabée Forest: part of the Black River Gorges, with many trails suitable for all levels.
• Bel Ombre to Souillac: coastal roads lined with cliffs, perfect for landscape lovers.
• Le Bouchon to La Cambuse: a circuit bordered by wild beaches, crossing forests and rivers.

Yoga in Mauritius

There is no shortage of yoga studios on the island! A simple search on Google Maps will help you find addresses from the North to the South of Mauritius. You can also turn to individuals offering yoga sessions in nature or by the beach.

Combat Sports in Mauritius

Highly popular in Mauritius, combat sports are particularly well represented across the island. Mixed martial arts, ju-jitsu, judo, karate, Okinawa kobudo, krav maga, taekwondo, the list of combat sports is extensive in Mauritius!

Zumba in Mauritius

Just like yoga, zumba is a hit among the residents of Mauritius. Classes are offered by both small neighborhood gyms and chains established in the country.

Horse Riding in Mauritius

There are several stables in Mauritius, including those at Domaine de l'Étoile and La Vieille Cheminée, at Le Morne. Lessons are notably offered by Cavalia, the Riambel Equestrian Center, Les Écuries de Mont Rocher, the Forbach stables, and the Northern Riding Club.

Read also What to do and see in Mauritius?

Archery in Mauritius

Surprisingly, archery is a well-appreciated sport with many enthusiasts in Mauritius. To get started, contact Rose-Hill Archery Club, Azuri Archery Club, Archery CSSC Clubhouse (Curepipe Starlight Sporting Club), and OPAC (Vacoas-Phoenix).

Golf in Mauritius

Practiced on the island since 1902, Mauritius now boasts over a dozen golf courses:

• Gymkhana Golf Club - 18 holes (Mauritius' very first club, created by British Royal Navy officers);
• Anahita Golf Club - 18 holes;
• Avalon Golf Estate - 18 holes;
• Heritage Golf Club - 18 holes;
• Île aux Cerfs Golf Club - 18 holes;
• Legend Golf Course - 18 holes;
• Links Golf Course - 18 holes;
• Mont Choisy Le Golf - 18 holes;
• Paradis Golf Club - 18 holes;
• Tamarina Golf Club - 18 holes;
• Dodo Club - 9 holes;
• Maritim Golf Club - 9 holes;
• Shandrani Golf - 9 holes.

Rugby in Mauritius

There is one main contact for more information on playing rugby in Mauritius: Rugby Union Mauritius.

Water sports in Mauritius

Mauritius has several dozen well-equipped diving centers registered with the Mauritius Scuba Diving Association. Some are also PADI and CMAS certified. Most of these diving centers are associated with hotels or resorts.

Kitesurfing enthusiasts can head to the "One Eye" spot at Le Morne, or to La Gaulette, La Prairie, Île aux Bénitiers, and Bel Ombre. If you wish to go through a specialized company, look for a provider certified by the IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization).

Surfing is mainly practiced in Tamarin, on the west coast, where there is a surf school.

For windsurfing, head to the East coast of Mauritius, where the South-East trade winds blow. You can contact luxury hotels in the area, which offer equipment rentals and lessons.

Stand-up paddleboarding is gaining popularity in Mauritius, where it is now possible to take lessons and rent boards.

For kayaking enthusiasts, many hotels offer this activity from the beach. If you are a complete beginner or simply prefer to be accompanied by a specialized company, try sea kayaking with Yemaya Adventures at Île d'Ambre or river kayaking with Otentic and Nativ Lodge & Spa.

Fitness in Mauritius

Good news: more and more fitness clubs are opening their doors across the island! To find them, just do some internet research, generally by typing the keywords "fitness Mauritius".

Of course, there are also more small gyms in most towns and villages.

As for the rates, it will all depend on the club chosen. Admission fees generally do not go below Rs 1,000 and monthly fees vary depending on the selected establishment.

Football in Mauritius

Playing football as an expat in Mauritius can be an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture, make friends, and stay active. The island has several public sports fields where you can play football. It's a practical option for organizing friendly matches or simply practicing your skills individually or with friends. Also, keep an eye out for community events or sports festivals where football is often featured. It's an opportunity to play for fun and immerse yourself in Mauritian culture. You could also join social media groups dedicated to expatriates in Mauritius. These platforms can help you find information on where and when to play, and connect you with other expatriates interested in football. If you find enough interested people, you can organize your own game sessions. This could be a flexible way to practice regularly, according to your own schedule.

Diving and snorkeling in Mauritius

Surrounded by a turquoise lagoon protected by a 150 km coral reef, Mauritius is a little paradise for underwater world lovers. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, the warm and clear waters offer exceptional visibility all year round and a rich biodiversity: colorful corals, turtles, tropical fish, and sometimes, dolphins.

PADI or SSI-accredited diving centers are spread along the entire coastline, particularly in the northwest, west, and southeast of the island. Clubs offer introductory dives, training, and explorations for all levels.

As a guide, depending on the centers and seasons, the "Discover Scuba Diving" baptism (1 dive + equipment) can cost around Rs 4,000 (~ €90). For a full "Open Water Diver" course (3 days, 4 dives), expect around Rs 27,000. Additionally, for certified diving, expect an average of Rs 2,000 for one dive and Rs 11,000 for six dives.

As for snorkeling (fins, mask, snorkel), plan between Rs 1,300 and Rs 1,500 depending on the excursions offered.

Among the must-see spots, we can mention:

• Blue Bay Marine Park (South-East): protected marine reserve, ideal for snorkeling.
• Trou aux Biches and Flic-en-Flac (North-West): easy dives and presence of many schools.
• Coin de Mire: preserved coral reefs and superb marine life, accessible by speedboat or catamaran.
• The wrecks of the North-West (Stella Maru, Emily & Waterlily): popular sites for experienced divers.

If you prefer heights, aerial sports like helicopter flights, skydiving, paragliding, and bungee jumping offer thrilling experiences.

Where to buy sports or outdoor gear in Mauritius

To equip yourself with sports or outdoor gear, several options are available. Decathlon, in Bagatelle and Beau Plan, offers a wide range of hiking, cycling, or running. City Sport and Sport 2000, for example, offer a wide range of shoes, jerseys, and sportswear from all brands.

You can also turn to specialized stores like Go Sport, Emcar, or small shops in different towns, or in Grand Baie, to find more technical equipment.

And good news: for specific equipment like GPS, high-end mountain bikes, or technical shoes, the island is well-equipped with specialized stores, making it easy to gear up.