Destination Mauritius
Luxury yacht rental: 12 days discovering the beauty of Mauritius
Do you dream of exploring Mauritius in a unique way, away from crowded tourist spots and well-trodden paths? Imagine gliding over turquoise waters, anchoring in serene bays, and discovering paradise-like corners where nature reigns supreme. In this article, we offer you a one-of-a-kind 12-day itinerary to explore Mauritius aboard a luxury yacht.
From pristine beaches and exceptional dive sites to charming villages and authentic culinary experiences, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Join us on a journey where each day brings a new discovery!
12 Days Exploring Mauritius
day 1
Grand Baie
Start your adventure in Grand Baie, a lively resort town located in the north of the island. This is the perfect starting point to explore Mauritius' waters. You can anchor your yacht in this tranquil bay and enjoy its white sandy beaches. Nestled in a turquoise lagoon, this small cove is surrounded by villas and features several little shops where you can purchase snacks, fresh pineapples, and coconuts.
Additionally, about 3 km from Grand Baie, the charming village of Pereybère offers a must-visit beach during your stay in Mauritius. Its warm atmosphere and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families. In the evening, explore the local restaurants and shops, and if you enjoy nightlife, visit the lively bars, such as the famous Banana Beach Club, for an unforgettable night out.
day 2
Île aux Cerfs
Sail to Île aux Cerfs, renowned for its dreamlike beaches and turquoise lagoon. Here, you can enjoy water sports such as parasailing, snorkeling, and water skiing. Spend a day exploring this small paradise island and savor fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant.
For hiking enthusiasts, Île aux Cerfs is an excellent destination. Its trails wind through dense forests, along white sandy beaches, and around crystal-clear lagoons. The well-marked paths offer hikers the chance to spot local wildlife, including exotic birds. We recommend following the eastern coastline towards the north from the dock. You’ll reach a sandbar that separates two islets. Walk along this sandbank and then turn left to find a pleasant trail that will lead you through the island’s interior.
day 3
Blue Bay Marine Park
Head to Blue Bay Marine Park, a protected area known for its vibrant coral reefs and rich biodiversity. Spend the morning snorkeling or using the Seabob provided by your yacht to explore the local marine life. You can also get active with paddleboarding or jet skiing.
After immersing yourself in the clear waters, make a stop in Mahébourg to explore its local market and sample Mauritian specialties like spicy cakes (gâteaux piments) or dholl puri. Back on your yacht, unwind on the flybridge and take in the stunning hues of the sunset while enjoying a glass of wine and high-quality local delicacies prepared by our exceptional chef.
day 4
Île aux Aigrettes et Mahébourg
Visit Île aux Aigrettes, a nature reserve that is home to endemic species such as the giant tortoise and the pink pigeon. This small coral island, covering 26 hectares, is located just 1 km off the coast of Mahébourg on the east of Mauritius. Since 1965, it has been designated as a "Nature Reserve" and is protected by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF), which works to preserve the island's endemic species.
The island's name comes from a colony of egrets that inhabited it in the 1600s. Egrets are wading birds known for their long legs.
Continue on to Mahébourg, a charming port village where you can visit the Naval Museum, dedicated to the region's maritime history. This former fishing village offers a peaceful and authentic setting, ideal for a tranquil experience. Its colonial past is still evident, adding to the area's picturesque charm. Nearby, you’ll also find stunning beaches such as Pointe d’Esny and Blue Bay.
day 5
Le Morne Brabant
Sail to Le Morne Brabant, an iconic mountain classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated on a small peninsula, it offers breathtaking views of a stunning lagoon, idyllic beaches, and lush nature. Spend the day exploring this area, hiking up the mountain for a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean.
Don’t miss a visit to Chamarel, just a 20-minute drive away. In this picturesque village, you can discover the island’s most famous geological wonder: the Seven Colored Earths. This area features volcanic sand dunes with astonishing rainbow-colored hues. Alternatively, relax on Le Morne’s beach and try kitesurfing, a popular activity in the area. Conclude your day with a beachside picnic dinner.
day 6
Parc National des Gorges de la Rivière Noire
Make a stop at Black River Gorges National Park, where you can explore hiking trails through lush forests. As the largest nature reserve in the country, it offers a chance to experience the splendor of Mauritius' tropical rainforest, with its unique wildlife, flora, rivers, waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas.
Accompanied by a passionate and expert guide, you'll delve into the park while gaining deep insights into the local ecosystem, wildlife, and plant life. Your guide will lead you to the park's most remarkable sites, allowing you to discover stunning panoramas, impressive waterfalls, and other natural wonders. Take a break at Alexandra Falls, a perfect spot for a refreshing swim.
day 7
Flic en Flac
Sail to Flic en Flac, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Enjoy a day of complete relaxation: swim in the crystal-clear waters, snorkel around the coral reefs, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Located on the west coast of Mauritius, Flic en Flac is a true gem that offers an authentic immersion in Mauritian culture. Once a peaceful fishing village, this coastal town has managed to retain its old-world charm despite the influx of international visitors.
For lunch, savor fresh fish at one of the family-run restaurants or street stalls. You’ll have the chance to sample a delightful mix of Mauritian, Indian, Creole, and Chinese flavors. Don’t miss local specialties like fish curry, rougaille, fried noodles (mine frit), or spicy cakes (gâteaux piments), each dish providing an explosion of flavors and spices that will immerse you in Mauritian cuisine.
day 8
Baie de Tamarin
Head to Tamarin Bay, renowned for its dolphin sightings. Wake up early for a morning boat excursion and enjoy swimming with these magnificent creatures. Situated across from Flic en Flac, on the other side of the Black River, the village of Tamarin is predominantly frequented by locals, who gather on the beach in the evenings.
Tamarin is a quaint, peaceful village, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of tourist spots. It’s a favorite among surfers, where local fishermen and adventurous vacationers mix. The atmosphere is laid-back, with lively evenings and pleasant weather. The bay is sheltered, and without a coral reef barrier, the water is deeper, allowing for swimming at any time of day, regardless of the tide. After an unforgettable day, you can either ride the waves of Tamarin or explore the nearby waterfalls surrounded by tropical vegetation. In the evening, return to your yacht for a seaside dinner, enjoying the serene view of the ocean.
day 9
Îlot Gabriel
Set sail for Îlot Gabriel, a pristine island located off the northern coast of Mauritius. Îlot Gabriel remains untouched by mass tourism, offering a true sanctuary of tranquility and natural beauty. This paradise, still wild and unspoiled, provides visitors with a rare opportunity to reconnect with nature and escape the daily hustle.
It’s the perfect place to reconnect with yourself, meditate, and find inner peace. In addition to its natural landscapes, Îlot Gabriel offers a glimpse into Mauritian culture. Guided excursions often include the chance to taste local cuisine, which blends savory influences from African, Indian, and European traditions, providing an enriching cultural experience through food. In the evening, enjoy a meal prepared aboard your yacht while taking in the serene ambiance of this unique location.
day 10
Trou aux Biches
Sail to Trou aux Biches, a beach renowned for its calm waters and coral reefs easily accessible from the shore. The day is perfect for diving or stand-up paddleboarding. The area also offers numerous opportunities for coastal or inland walks.
Away from major tourist crowds, this beach allows you to fully enjoy relaxation and swimming in a paradisiacal setting. It features a 3 km stretch of fine sand lined with coconut trees, where travelers can unwind under the radiant sun. Trou aux Biches is also known for its excellent restaurants, where you can savor authentic Creole dishes paired with Mauritian vanilla punch.
day 11
Mont Choisy et Cap Malheureux
Spend the morning at Mont Choisy, a long beach bordered by filaos trees. It's the perfect spot for a day of lounging under the tropical sun. With its idyllic setting, Mont Choisy is ideal for combining relaxation with aquatic adventures. The beach features a vast stretch of white sand and a lagoon with turquoise waters, inviting immediate relaxation. Mont Choisy is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking to explore the rich marine life. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent conditions year-round for underwater exploration.
In the afternoon, sail to Cap Malheureux, a charming village known for its iconic red-roofed church. Cap Malheureux is believed to have gotten its name from numerous shipwrecks along its coast, including the famous Saint-Géran near Amber Island. Some believe the name was given by the French in 1810, during the British takeover of the island. This picturesque spot offers stunning views of the northern islands, making it a perfect place for a sunset stroll.
day 12
Retour à Grand Baie
To conclude this maritime adventure, return to Grand Baie. Enjoy a final day on land by shopping for local souvenirs in the boutiques, or explore the small islands around the bay. In the evening, celebrate the end of your journey with a dinner at a high-end restaurant before preparing for your departure.
