Mauritius

Mauritius (Maurice, Mauritian Creole: Moris) is an island nation in the Indian Ocean about 2000 kilometers from the Africa|African continent. The country consists of the main island of Mauritius and the smaller islands of Rodrigues and the Agalegas and the Cargados Carajos shoals. Mauritius is mostly appreciated by visitors for its natural beauty and man-made attractions, multi-ethnic and cultural diversity, tropical climate, beautiful beaches and water sports.

Other Muslim Friendly Cities in Mauritius

• Port Louis GPS -20.1667,57.5 — capital of Mauritius

Towns

• Curepipe GPS -20.318775,57.526294 is the largest highland city in Mauritius.
• Quatre Bornes GPS -20.265,57.479
• Vacoas-Phoenix GPS -20.300047,57.474508

Villages

• Blue Bay GPS -20.4410,57.7191, bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see.
• Chamarel GPS -20.42463,57.3885
• Grand Bay GPS -20.018394,57.580172 Grand-Baie, a shopping and leisure paradise. With adjoining Pereybère beach resort.
• Flic en Flac GPS -20.282,57.370, a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats.
• Mahébourg GPS -20.4000,57.7000 is one of the main fishing villages on the island.
• Pamplemousses GPS -20.109, 57.576 village in the neighborhood of the same name
• Souillac -20.51901, 57.52230 A small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne neighborhood. Nearby La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes.
• Tamarin GPS -20.3356, 57.3724
• Triolet -20.0598, 57.5516The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple and the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha.
• Trou d'Eau Douce GPS -20.241,57.786 — Located in the east, visitors may easily visit L'Ile aux Cerf from there

Other Muslim Friendly Destinations in Mauritius

• Rodrigues GPS -19.717,63.417 — a separate island 500 kilometers east of the main island, but under the political control of Mauritius
• Le Morne cultural landscape - 20.453, 57.321 - A peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Domaine du Chasseur GPS -20.337688, 57.717555 ☎ +230 634-5011 +230 634-5261 Nestling in the Anse Jonchée hills and the Domaine des Grand Bois has splendid hunting grounds covering an area of 900 ha. Stags, monkeys and boars live amidst the luxuriant vegetation of the hillside. One can watch a few species of endangered birds, including the kestrel. The Domaine contains four thatched-roof bungalows and a restaurant with a panoramic sea view. Take an opportunity to enjoy a meal of venison. The view is great and well worth the visit, but the food can best be described as average. The venison is very chewy. There is a steep hike up the hill from the vehicle park to the restaurant. The restaurant offers a 4WD taxi service which is free if you eat one of their overpriced meals, but if you only want a cup of tea or desert they charge Rs230 per person for the 5-minutes ride.

• Macchabée - Bel Ombre Nature Preserve GPS

Mosques in Mauritius

Mauritius, a stunning island nation known for its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, is home to a vibrant Muslim community. This diversity is beautifully reflected in the island's mosques, which are not only places of worship but also architectural marvels and cultural landmarks. Here are some of the top mosques to visit in Mauritius.

Jummah Mosque

Located in the heart of Port Louis, the capital city, Jummah Mosque is one of the oldest and most prominent mosques in Mauritius. Established in the 1850s, this mosque is a blend of Indian, Creole, and Islamic architecture. Its white walls, intricate woodwork, and serene courtyard create a peaceful ambiance. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque outside prayer times, and guided tours are available to provide insights into its history and significance.

Al-Aqsa Mosque

Situated in the town of Phoenix, Al-Aqsa Mosque is known for its modern architectural style and welcoming community. The mosque features a spacious prayer hall, a library, and educational facilities. It's an excellent place for those interested in contemporary Islamic architecture and community activities.

Camp Des Lascars Mosque

Located in the town of Camp Des Lascars, this mosque is one of the significant religious landmarks in the area. It serves as a central place of worship for the local Muslim community and is known for its distinctive design and peaceful environment.

Rivière du Rempart Mosque

Situated in the northern part of the island, Rivière du Rempart Mosque is a beautiful and tranquil place of worship. The mosque is known for its community spirit and often hosts events and activities that bring together people from different backgrounds.

Rose Hill Mosque

In the bustling town of Rose Hill, this mosque is a focal point for the Muslim community. Its architectural style and central location make it an important place for both daily prayers and community gatherings.

Quatre Bornes Mosque

Located in the town of Quatre Bornes, this mosque is notable for its welcoming atmosphere and active role in the local community. It often hosts educational and religious programs, making it a hub for learning and worship.

Mauritius Halal Explorer

History

The island of Mauritius was first discovered by Arab sailors in the 9th century, though the exact date is unknown. At that time the island was uninhabited and covered in a dense forest. The Arab sailors were not interested in settling on the island which they named Dina Arobi or Dinarobin. Fernandez Pereira, a Portuguese sailor saw the island in 1505 and decided to give it the name of Cerne. However and the Portuguese did not settle permanently on the island either.

The first to colonise the island were the Dutch, who took possession of the island in 1598. The Dutch settlers landed on a bay in the southeastern part of the island which was named Warwyck Haven after the commander Van Warwijck; the bay is now known as Grand Port. Mauritius also got its modern name during this period; the island was named after the Stadtholder of Holland, Maurits van Nassau.

In 1710 and the Dutch abandoned the island, leaving behind macaques and the java deer, sugarcane, fugitive slaves and, also, irreversible damage to the endemic and indigenous flora and fauna of the island. The dodo was, by then, extinct due to extensive hunting and the bird being extremely simple to capture, while the once abundant black ebony tree population was almost completely depleted due to its timber being overexploited.

The French settled on the island in 1712, also landing at the bay in the southeast. They renamed the bay Port Bourbon and renamed the island Ile de France. They settled and established their main harbour on the northwestern side of the island, which was to become Port Louis and the present day capital of the nation. The French colonial period led to the economic development of Mauritius. Mahé de Labourdonnais, whose statue can be seen across from the harbour in Port Louis, is known as the founder of the capital city and the island prospered under his governance from 1735 to 1746.

In August 1810 and the British tried to take over the island but lost after a fierce battle against the French in the famous Battle of Grand Port – the only naval victory of the French over the British during the Napoleonic period. However and the British came back in December 1810 and defeated the French. From then on and the island was renamed Mauritius and remained under British rule until it attained independence, although the British agreed to allow the local residents to continue using the French language.

In 1835, slavery was officially abolished and, as most of the African slaves chose to abandon the agricultural fields and move to small coastal villages, indentured labourers ("coolies") were brought in from India to work in the growing sugarcane industry. To this day, ethnic Indians form the majority in Mauritius, and Mauritius is the only country outside South Asia to have a Hinduism|Hindu majority.

On 12 March 1968 Mauritius became an independent nation within the Commonwealth. Three years before though and the British separated the administration of the Chagos Archipelago from the rest of Mauritius and formed the British Indian Ocean Territory. The government of Mauritius has claimed these islands now used as a joint American and British military base ever since, making the archipelago a disputed territory.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam commonly called the "Father of the Nation" led the island to independence and did a lot to develop the nation. During his reign however, Mauritius faced economic difficulties and political turmoil following the postponement of elections for more than 9 years. On 12 March 1992, Mauritius became a republic under the leadership of the then Prime Minister Sir Aneerood Jugnauth.

How is the Climate in Mauritius

Tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May); Natural hazards : Tropical cyclones can occur between November and April, however are most likely from late December until March. Mauritius has only two seasons, winter and summer. Temperatures do not differ greatly over the seasons. The climate on the central plateau is cooler than on the coastal areas.

• The hottest and driest part is the west coast
• The windiest and wettest part is the East coast
• December to February are the hottest months of the year
• The driest month of the year is October
• The coolest months are from June to August
• Mauritius Weather - Current weather report from the Mauritius region.

Travel to Mauritius

Visa requirements

Muslims visitors of many countries, including Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, New Zealand and most other OECD countries do not need a visa in advance.

If you require a visa to enter Mauritius, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the nation where you legally reside if there is no diplomatic post of Mauritius. For example and the British embassies in Al Khobar, Belgrade, Guatemala City, Jakarta, Jeddah, Pristina, Rabat, Riyadh, Rome and Sofia accept Mauritius visa applications (this list is not exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge GBP50 to process a Mauritius visa application and an extra GBP70 if the authorities in Mauritius require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Mauritius can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly.

Visitors are required to provide accommodation details to the immigration service on arrival.

If you arrive in Mauritius from a country where malaria is endemic, you may receive a visit from the government health service and be required to give a blood sample for malaria screening.

By plane

Air Mauritius is the home carrier and operates a network of routes to the local islands and international destinations in Africa, Australia, Europe and Asia.

Regional airlines: Air Austral, Air Madagascar and Air Seychelles connect Mauritius with the surrounding islands.

International airlines such as Air France, Emirates, Austrian Airlines], British Airways, Condor, South African Airways, AirIndia https://, Meridiana, Kenya Airways, Egypt Air, Malaysia Airlines, and Corsairfly serve Mauritius from their home bases.

• Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport IATA Flight Code: MRU -20.430028, 57.683022 at Plaisance in the southeast of the island ☎ +230 603 6000 - Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport Mauritius 23.08.2009 11-29-57 It is the major gateway for international Visitors.

The arrivals hall can get congested in the morning when most of the Flights from Europe arrive. Immigration officers tend to be quite slow and the whole immigration process can be a frustrating experience.

By sea

Vessels that arrive at the seaport are mainly cargo ships. The Mauritius Pride and the Trochetia are the Mauritian vessels that usually sail to and from Reunion Island, Rodrigues Island and Madagascar. Costa Cruises ships have started an Indian Ocean cruise including a visit to Mauritius.

As of April 2008, one-way passage prices from Tamatave in Madagascar to Mauritius by boat were €275 first class or €255 second class, compared to €212 to fly from Antananarivo on Air Madagascar. The journey takes at least four days, more if transiting through Reunion. A boat leaves every other Wednesday.

If you are going directly to the port in Tamatave you can negotiate with a boat captain for a non-cabin berth. Visiting the Nautical Club in Tamatave to enquire about yachts that might be heading to Mauritius rarely yields positive results.

How to get around in Mauritius

Bus and taxi services are best used in urban areas. Bicycles and motorbikes are also available for hire.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Mauritius

• Air Mauritius operates daily flights connecting Plaisance Airport and Rodrigues (flight time - 1 hour 15 minutes).

By helicopter

Helicopters are available for transfers and al-tours/ sightseeing tours]

• Air Mauritius Helicopter ☎ +230 603 3754

By car

One major highway runs north to south, otherwise a good network of paved, if sometimes narrow, roads cover the island. Traffic drives on the left.

Numerous vehicle hire firms include major international and local vehicle rental agency. Prices vary widely starting from Rs800 per day. To be on the safe side, with full insurance, visitors should rent cars from companies holding a tourism enterprise licence. These cars are identifiable by their yellow number plates, while private cars have black plates. If you hire a vehicle at the airport keep in mind that you will need to pay a Rs20 charge when you are leaving the vehicle park, and this has to be paid in cash.

Regulations: drivers are required to be over 18 years old. Speed limits are 110 km/h (68 mph) on the motorway and 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas. Seatbelts are compulsory. Foreign licences are accepted.

Approximate travel durations from Port Louis to other major cities, towns, and resorts in Mauritius:

• Curepipe 20 min
• Grand Baie, North 30 min
• Mahebourg, Southeast 45 min
• Flic-en-Flac, West 30 min

Travel on a Bus in Mauritius

Several fairly good bus services ply the island. Taking the bus is the most economical way of travelling. Air-conditioned buses have been introduced on some routes.

The major bus companies are:

• National Transport Corporation - NTC - ☎ +230 426 2938
• United Bus Service - UBS - ☎ +230 212 2026
• Mauritius Bus Transport - MTB - Long mountain ☎ +230 245 2539
• Triolet Bus Service - TBS - ☎ +230 261 6725
• Others - Other smaller companies have amusing names such as Apollo and Turbo. In late 2014 local buses were available in the parking area of SSR airport.

They are affordable and follow more interesting routes than the luxury ones, but are slower.

Buses are manned by a driver and a conductor who walks around collecting fares and issuing tickets after passengers have boarded. Most conductors are helpful in providing directions to tourists. In the local Creole dialect and the conductors are called con-tro-lair (literally controller).

Bus routes and schedules are available from the Ministry of Land Transport and Mauritius Buses who list all the main operators and their schedules.

Try to pay with small denominations or the conductor may not have enough change. Intentional over-charging of tourists is not common.

Best way to travel in Mauritius by a Taxi

Taxis are the best way to visit the island. Various tours are available as from Rs2,500: The holy lake, Chamarel 7 coloured earth, Le Morne, dolphin tours in Tamarin and Ile aux cerfs are among the most appreciated by visitors.

Taxis in Mauritius do not use meters. Negotiate the price of your trip before you enter a taxi; otherwise, you may be overcharged.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Mauritius

• Coraline - ☎ +230 208 5900 +230 210 5176 - Sails once a week to Rodrigues Island and to Reunion island from Port Louis Harbour. Mauritius Pride, launched in 1991, and Mauritius Trochetia, in service since 2001, are the two ships operating on the Reunion route, and also have Madagascar as a destination. Both vessels are used as passenger and container ships.

Local Language in Mauritius

See also: French phrasebook

Although the official language of Mauritius is English, in training French is by far the most commonly spoken language, and is widely used in professional and formal settings. English language television programms are usually dubbed into French. Most subjects are taught in and examined in the Commonwealth variety of English in the education system, meaning that you will be able to communicate with local residents in English with varying levels of difficulty.

Mauritian Creole is a French-based creole which has incorporated some words from diverse sources including English, Dutch and Portuguese, and has slight pronunciation differences from French. Although local residents generally converse with each other in Creole, standard French is also universally spoken and understood. Virtually everyone working in the tourism industry will be able to speak fairly decent, albeit heavily accented English, and all government departments will have English-speaking staff on duty. Other languages spoken by much smaller numbers include: Hindi, Urdu, Hakka, Bhojpuri and Mandarin.

Tamils constitute around 10% of the population and speak Tamil.

What to see in Mauritius

Northern tourist zone

Grand Bay was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand Bay is also where Mauritians go when they want a fun-filled night out (restaurants, bars and discos). La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit as well as the wonderful Pereybere public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs.

The SSR botanical garden, Pamplemousses, is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. It was established by Pierre Poivre (1719 – 1786) in 1770, contains some flora unique to Mauritius and covers an area of around 37 ha. It also has several animals, being especially famous for its fish, deer and tortoises, as well as an old replica of a sugar mill.

East

The eastern part of the island is known for its long sand bank beaches and famous hotels such as "The Coco Beach Hotel" and the 5-star "Le Touessrok".

Centre de Flacq is one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the nation’s largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a large number of people.

Ile aux Cerfs is a paradise for water sports and has one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. You cannot afford to miss this tiny island, delicately poised on the ocean, a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape. Price conscious visitors would be well advised to take ample food, as the only restaurant on the island primarily targets well-heeled tourists. Boats depart regularly from Trou d'Eau Douce village in the East (which has some of the best seafood restaurants on the island). There is a variety of vessels that serve the route including catamarans, yachts and "pirate-ships". Some serve food (usually barbecue, especially seafood) on board included in the price and tend to take a detour to the Grand River South East waterfalls for a visit. The island also has a 5-star hotel (Le Touessrok) and a golf course.

South east

Mahebourg is one of the main fishing villages on the island. Built on the magnificent Grand Port Bay, it was founded in 1804 by the French Governor Charles Decaën. The Monday markets are among the biggest and best on the island and are held right next to the main bus station. Just of the coast, as a result of the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, Ile aux Aigrettes has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. A few of the world’s rarest birds, including the kestrel, can be seen there. You can also see the extremely rare Pink Pigeon and the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise. Also nearby at Vieux Grand Port and the oldest settlement in Mauritius, you can see the ruins of the first Dutch fortifications.

Souillac, a small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne neighborhood. A notable feature is the garden overlooking the sea and named after Dr Charles Telfair. A popular viewpoint at the southern end of the village, right on the cliff top: Gris Gris.

Blue Bay, bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. Take the trip across the island from Port Louis and see what this quiet place has to offer. Very busy with the local residents on weekends. Try to go during the week. Glass bottom boats are an excellent outing. Part of Blue Bay has been designated a Marine Park, and the snorkelling trips by boat to this area, offered for sale on the main public beach, are well worth trying.

West

The west coast has some of the best and longest white sandy beaches on the island. These include Trou aux Biches, winner of the World's Best Beach in the 2011 World Travel Awards; and Le Morne Beach which is shared by a number of 5-star resorts including Paradis Hotel & Golf Club (2012 World Travel Award winner 'Mauritius Leading Golf Resort') and the all-suite Dinarobin Golf & Spa, and Lux Le Morne. There is also a dedicated public beach between Dinarobin and Lux Le Morne. (All beaches in Mauritius are public.) Flic en flac m - Flic en Flac beach Flic en Flac, a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. Flic en Flac has a very long white sandy beach stretching down the west coast to Tamarin which is enjoyed by local residents and tourists. Scuba Diving is the main attraction with excellent diving just a few minutes from the beach. There is a reasonable supermarket and a variety of accommodations and restaurants to suit all budgets.

At Tamarin (Mauritius) | Tamarin's beach of white sands and crystal clear waters both novice and expert surfers visit for some of the best waves on the island. The bay also has its own dolphin pod and dramatic views across to the Montage du Rempart, an extinct volcano. Owing to the exceptional high level of sunshine the neighborhood receives, Tamarin is the heart of salt production in Mauritius. Just south in La Preneuse are the Martello Towers, a milestone in the island’s history symbolising the end of slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration.

A winding road leads from Case Noyale village to the Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel, an undulating landscape of different and contrasting shades of colours. The different shades of blue, green, red and yellow are apparently the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash. The neighbouring waterfalls of Chamarel rise from the moors and the native plant life. The site possesses a rare beauty. An adventure park has also been opened at Chamarel.

• Casela - 20.30836, 57.42350 ☎ +230 452-2828 - Situated in the Rivière Noire neighborhood and the Casela Nature & Leisure Park stretches over 25 ha. It contains more than 140 bird species from five continents and is home to many other animals including giant tortoises, zebras, a tiger and ostriches. Activities include walking with lions, Rando Fun (ziplines & hanging bridges), quad, buggy & Segway and a petting farm.

• Yemen -20.333908, 57.417597 - Yemen Reserve may not be the largest game reserve on the island, but there is still lots to see. You will be able to get close to the herds of deer, and admire some splendid species of Mauritian fauna. A few rustic kiosks available in the reserve provide an unobstructed view of the sea. There you can sip a local punch while watching the sun going down.

Le Morne is a peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The interior

• Eureka - ☎ +230 326-4775 +230 326-9732 - Is an old Creole residence built in 1830, Eureka is an crucial place to visit during your stay in Mauritius if you wish to immerse yourself in tropical sweetness. Includes a tour of the colonial house with the opportunity to purchase overpriced textile products, and a tour of the gardens and a visit to the waterfalls below.

• Ganga Talao - Grand Bassin - 20.418056, 57.491944 - Ganga Talao GangaTalaoLake Beyond La Marie and Mare-aux-Vacoas is found one of the two natural lakes of Mauritius. It rests within the crater of an extinct volcano. Ganga Talao is an important pilgrimage site and many Mauritians of the Hindu faith walk there during the Maha Shivaratri festival or the night fasting dedicated to Shiva. Gigantic eels live in the lake and are fed by the pilgrims. A walk to the top of the mount beside the lake is recommended for stunning vistas over the area known as "Plaine Champagne".

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Mauritius

• Views — For a spectacular 360⁰ view of Port Louis and the north, climb Le Pouce or ‘the thumb', at 812 m (2,664 ft). It is an easy 2-hour climb from the village of Petit Verger (near St. Pierre), and takes another 2 hour to walk into Port Louis ( map). The top of Signal Mountain also offers a spectacular view of Port Louis and the North. It is much easier to climb Signal Mountain from Labourdonnais Street as there is a tarred jogging track and it takes around 45 minutes to walk to the top. Starting from Saint Louis is also feasible.
• Tour the Moka mountains — by quad bike, horse or 4-wheel drive at the accessible 1,500-hectare (3,700-acre) nature park of Domaine Les Pailles. Travel to the sugar mill and distillery by train or horse-drawn carriage before dining in one of four restaurants.
• Deep sea fishing — Mauritius is ideally positioned for game-fishing. Depending on the time of year it is feasible to catch blue or black marlin, sailfish, wahoo, yellow fin tuna, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, bonito, dolphinfish, sharks and many more. The majority of the big game fishing boats are well equipped with VHF radio, mobile telephone, GPS navigation system, radar, radio telephone, safety equipment, Penn International reels, life jackets, medical kits, fire extinguishers, flares, and all related fishing equipment such as fighting chairs and rods (usually 9). You can choose between half day and full day fishing trips . Big game fishing is best on the west coast of Mauritius because the currents swirl around the foot of Le Morne, creating a marine environment attractive to bait fish, which in turn attracts the larger fish. Boats usually accommodate up to 5 anglers and full day trips typically include breakfast and lunch in the price.
• Head to Grand Baie — For watersports such as parasailing, an underwater walk, submarine and semi-submersible scooters, or to La Cuvette, a long beach with clear water between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux, for sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing.
• Safari jeep trips — The Safari Jeep trip takes place in Yemen natural reserve park on the West Coast of Mauritius. It hosts two of the longest rivers on the island – Rivière Rempart and Tamarin River – and is a haven for all sorts of native and exotic wildlife. The actual size of this natural reserve is of around 4,500 hectares. The Yemen Park is the setting for Safari trips where you will have a thrilling ride and will be able to see many beautiful animals such as Zebras, ostriches, African antelopes, Java deer, monkeys, ducks and geese, and will see extraordinary panoramic views of this breathtaking part of the island.
• Safari quad biking trips — Experience an adventurous Quad biking activity in the most amazing natural setting quad-biking activity in the 4,500 ha of Yemen natural reserve park. More than a quad bike outing as it includes a safari. During the trip it is feasible to see deers, zebras, ostriches, African antelopes and wild boars.
• Swim — At the northern beaches such as Trou aux Biches, shaded by casuarinas, Mont Choisy, a 2-km (1.2 mi) narrow white stretch of sand curving north from there, and Péreybère, a little cove between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux.

View_from_the_bottom_of_the_boat_Grand_Baie - |Glass bottomed boat in Grand Bay

• Scuba diving — When you dive in Mauritius you can explore coral reefs, multi-coloured marine life, ship wrecks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, or some ships sunk more recently which create beautiful artificial reefs. There are numerous dive sites strewn all around the island, as well as some near the offshore island of Rodrigues. One of the well-known and popular dive sites in Mauritius is the Gothic Church, which is located off the Flic en Flac on the western coast of Mauritius. Other dive sites in Mauritius include the Whale Rock and Roche Zozo that is an underwater rock pinnacle, and the submerged crater near Ile Ronde. Mauritius is almost completely encircled by a barrier coral reef which is home to many sponges, sea anemones and a variety of brightly coloured fish such as Damselfish, Trumpet fish, Boxfish and clown fish, as well as the orange Mauritian scorpionfish. Most of the dive sites are located on the west coast around Flic-en-Flac or in the north, at Trou aux Biches or at the Northern Islands. The best time to go diving is from November to April with very good visibility underwater. The Mauritius Scuba Diving Association (MSDA) can provide further information.
• Speedboat — Rides are available from Trou d'eau Douce to the popular island playground of Ile aux Cerfs for beaches, golf and watersports. Or, for a quieter day, a catamaran to the Northern Islands - Gabriel Island, Flat Island and Gunner's Quoin.
• Hiking and trekking — In Mauritius with breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and forests. Enjoy a hiking trip through the fields, trekking on a zip line or on a bike, and discover this magnificent nature paradise Mauritius being a volcanic island has several breathtaking summits and valleys to explore on foot. You can visit the Black River Gorges National Park, a 6,794-ha (16,788-acre) forest, to see indigenous plants, birds and wildlife. Black River Peak trail goes to Mauritius' highest mountain, while the Maccabee Trail starts nearby and plunges into the gorge to Black River.
• Tandem skydiving — Experience a ft 10,000 skydive in Mauritius. Enjoy a spectacular scenic flight and a tandem skydive. Tandem skydiving refers to a type of skydiving where a student skydiver is connected via a harness to a tandem instructor. The instructor guides the student through the whole jump from exit through freefall, piloting the canopy, and landing. The student needs only minimal instruction before making a tandem jump.
• Horse racing — The Mauritius horse racing club commonly called the Champ de Mars was founded in 1812, making it the oldest horse-racing club in the Southern Hemisphere. Horse racing is the most popular sport in Mauritius, and attracts about 30,000 visitors on each race day. The horse racing season usually starts in April and ends in late November. There are an average of 9 and a maximum of 12 horses per race. On average some 60 horses participate on each racing day. It is highly recommended to go and experience the electric atmosphere of horse racing in Mauritius. For those interested it is also feasible have a VIP treatment in one of the VIP suites while enjoying Snacks and none-alcoholic drinks and a clear view of the race from your private balcony
• Parasailing — For those looking for a fun sea-air activity, you can try parasailing. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the beautiful lagoon and beaches. The parasailing begins with a short safety briefing. Then you will be taken by boat to the launch pod where you will take off and start the parasailing. No steering is necessary as the sail follows the course of the boat
• Water ski — Water-skiing is one of the most popular water sports in Mauritius. You can enjoy water skiing along several of Mauritius’ coasts or in a few of the lakes. The best area for water skiing is considered to be the north area of the island, along the coasts, where the lagoon provides full protection from the big waves of the open sea and offers ideal water skiing conditions of very calm sea
• Watch dolphins — Go on a speed boat trip and watch dolphins in the open sea. You can choose between 2-hr trip, half-day and full-day trips where you will get to watch with the bottlenose dolphin and the spinner dolphin, which have made of the West Coast of Mauritius a place for them to rest before going to the deep sea for their fishing.
• Walk with lions & cheetahs — Experience a one-on-one encounter with lions and cheetahs. Viewing the lions from very close, see them playing and hopping on the rocks of the river banks and scaling the trees. The lions roam freely amongst the participants giving visitors a rare opportunity of being in close contact with them.
• Blue safari submarine — See the wonderful underwater tropical fish without even getting your feet wet. Going underwater to 35 m depth on board of a real submarine. You will get to visit a shipwreck, explore the rich coral reefs, and observe and encounter various species of fish. The submarine is air-conditioned with transparent-glassed cabin so you will enjoy exceptionally clear panoramic views of the extraordinary underwater world.
• Underwater submarine scooter adventure — Pilot your own underwater scooter, or as a couple, to 3-4 m depth. Comfortably seated one behind the other, you breath freely and naturally in a transparent and panoramic cupola which allow you to enjoy the view of the reef and marine life. In advance you will receive a briefing about the control of the underwater scooter, and will be equipped with a diving suit.
• Sea kayaking — A great way to explore the fine greenery of the lagoons, or the open waters of the Indian Ocean. It is feasible to find wide range of sea kayaking trips and packages from breezy, calmer routes, to a few days trip surrounding the island in the deep ocean waters. This is also feasible to have a kayak trip to any of the small islets surrounding the main island such as Ile D'Ambre Island.
• Rock climbing — Rock climbing on the South West coast of Mauritius. You will get to experience rock climbing in a beautiful setting Of the Belle Vue Cliffs, where the caves of "La Pointe aux Caves" are nestled and in close proximity from the famous lighthouse of Albion. This a great outdoor sport where you will learn the basic techniques of knots, safe climbing and rock progression from Mauritius’ top professional guides.
• Canyoning — For those seeking more of an adrenalin rush and thrill, canyoning is abseiling down the steep walls of the canyons using nature watercourses and canyoning gear. The canyoning is offered in few locations in Mauritius. The canyoning (known also as canyoneering) in Mauritius consists of travelling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include walking, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming

Rodrigues EasternSlopesOfGrandeMontagne - Eastern slopes of Grande Montagne, Rodrigues

• Rodrigues island — Tiny, rugged, volcanic it lies 550 kilometers (340 mi) northeast of Mauritius and is known as the ‘anti-stress' island. The capital, Port Mathurin, is only seven streets wide, with a Creole population. Rodrigues offers walking, diving, kitesurfing and deep sea fishing.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Mauritius

Money Matters & ATM's in Mauritius

The Mauritian rupee (roupie mauricienne) is denoted by the symbol "Rs" or "₨" with or without a full stop and placed before or after the amount (ISO international currency: MUR).

Banknotes come in Rs25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 denominations and you may find Rs1, 5 and 10 coins in circulation.

Shop

Mauritius is not at all like Bali or Thailand. Don't expect the local merchants to be interested in prolonged bargaining. Many shops will not reduce prices, and even at the markets don't expect more than a 10-20% reduction. There are some bargains however as many large brand names clothing companies manufacture in Mauritius, and you can often find over runs or slightly flawed items at a fraction of the European prices. It is also a good place to find unusual jewellery and handicrafts such as artificial flowers, model boats and wooden art. It is feasible to reach the main shopping centres by public transport, or to take a full day shopping tour which includes a driver to take you to the main centres and handicraft workshops.

The Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis offers an variety of shops (including designer shops) and is an ideal place for shopping by tourists. For traditional crafts, a good the place is Port Louis Central Market (Bazaar Port Louis).

Halal Restaurants in Mauritius

Don't hesitate to go to the various restaurants around the island. Although many of them advertise a specific ethnic cuisine, like everywhere around the world they have their own mix of traditional and local. You might discover that 'fried rice' can obtain more than one flavour.

Bengali Rasgulla - Bengali rasagulas are very popular in Mauritius.

Gastronomes will find a variety of flavours and aromas inherited from the different migrations through its history. Culinary traditions from France, India, China and Eastern Africa have been passed on through generations.

Depending on the region, Rice or a variety of flat bread called chapattis or roti, called farata (paratha) by the local people, is eaten with curries. The extensive use of spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves and herbs such as thyme, basil, and Curries leaves are the common ingredients that provide some powerful, yet subtle, flavour. Dal, a variety of lentil soup, are many and varied according to the type of lentil used; vegetables, beans, and pickles accompany the dishes. Dholl puri, originally an Indian delicacy, has become the fish and chips for Mauritians.

Biryani from Mughal origins is a dish prepared by the Muslim community, where Meat is mixed with spiced Rice and potatoes.

You can buy many Snacks on the streets of Mauritius including the famous gateaux piments (a variant of the Indian vadai; literally, chilli cakes), and vegetable or Meat samosas (puffs), along with octopus Curries in bread. The tomato and onion based dish called Rougaille (pronounced rooh-guy) is a variation of the French ragoût. The dish usually consists of Meat or seafood (corned beef and salted snoek fish rougaille are very popular with the local residents). Mauritians eat this dish often if not daily.

Mauritians have a sweet tooth and make many types of 'gateaux', as they are called. The cakes vary and you can find cakes very much like those in France and others similar to Indian sweets like Gulab Jamun and Rasgulla among many others.

When leaving Mauritius, don't wait until you go through passport control if you want to have a Snacks. The coffee shop after passport control is not value for money. You would be better off visiting the snack bar before check-in and taking your purchases through with you. However, remember that due to the liquids, aerosols and gels rules, you are limited to the amount of liquids you can take through the passport control. Mauritius produces a wide range of cane rum. It is very affordable and is a nice drink when mixed with cola and ice. A popular drink is coconut water with a dash of lime and a splash of local over ice.

The local Phoenix, costs around Rs30 for a pint. Usually served very cold. The local Black Eagle brewed in Nouvelle France is also good.

The Medine Estate Refinery shop at Bambous (4 kilometers from Flic en Flac), on the west of the Island, has a wide variety of locally produced rums and drinks.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Mauritius

Mauritius - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Mauritius, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Mauritius. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Mauritius and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Mauritius. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Mauritius. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inMauritius: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Mauritius.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Mauritius: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Mauritius, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Mauritius.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Mauritius, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Mauritius, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Mauritius and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Mauritius, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Mauritius, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Mauritius without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Mauritius is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Mauritius.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Mauritius is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Mauritius, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Mauritius Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Mauritius

eHalal Group Mauritius is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Mauritius. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Mauritius.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Mauritius ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Mauritius. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Mauritius, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Mauritius are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@halal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Mauritius

There are many international brand hotels in Mauritius but there are some luxurious hotels which are owned by Mauritian companies. An increasing trend is for tourists to choose self catered bungalows and apartments, many of them located directly on the beach.

Foreigners can buy villas, many of them in compounds located on the beach, through the IRS or RES Scheme.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Mauritius

The crime rate has fallen, and Mauritius is a much safer country for visitors than many other destinations. The Tourism Police and Coast Guards patrol regularly in areas frequented by tourists, and most cities, beaches and other major attractions are under camera surveillance. Nevertheless, you should exercise common sense and look out for suspicious behaviour, as you would anywhere in the world.

Telephone numbers

• Police - ☎ 999, 112
• Tourism Police - ☎ +230 213 1740,+230 210 3894
• Coast guards - ☎ +230 280 8317,+230 212 2747
• Anti Drug Unit (ADSU) - ☎ +230 208 1212
• Traffic Police - ☎ +230 211 8434,+230 211 8478
• Environment Police - ☎ +230 210 5151, +230 210 5252
• Fire - ☎ 115, 995
• SAMU Ambulance - ☎ 114
• National Directory - ☎ 150
• Airport of Mauritius - ☎ +230 603 6000
• Air Mauritius - ☎ +230 207 7575

Medical Issues in Mauritius

Mauritius is a risk area for infection with dengue fever, commonly called "breakbone fever" from the muscular paroxysms sometimes induced. No vaccine is available. However no cases of dengue fever have been recorded in the nation for several years now.

Since 2005 during the high season a certain type of mosquito called the Aedes albopictus causes the viral illness Chikungunya and the insect is more likely to be around in the daytime.

It is important to use anti-mosquito protection at all times. Mosquitoes are more prevalent in rural areas but they can also inhabit the beach in the tourist zone and may lead to swollen joints and/or rashes. Symptoms last from one week up to several months depending how seriously you are affected. Some people recover quickly but it can take several months to recover completely.

In 1991 86% of the population had antibodies indicating that they had been exposed to the hepatitis A virus, following an epidemic of the disease in 1989. Hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended for travel in East Africa (and most other places) by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

Depending on the time of the year, many of the beaches are infested with sea urchins, and it is not uncommon to see broken glass on the beach or in the water. It is a very good idea to either buy or bring plastic/wet shoes when venturing into the water. This is generally not a problem at the big hotels as the designated swimming areas on the beaches are regularly cleaned of urchins and debris. Use wet shoes nonetheless.

Reef fish in Mauritius have been found to contain a neurotoxin similar, but not identical, to that found in Caribbean reef fish.

It is important not to eat peanuts if you eat coral or reef fish like sea bass, snapper, mullet, and grouper. The fish eat the toxic algae that grows on the coral reefs. Don't eat intestines or testes of the fish as higher concentrations of the toxin collect here. The symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhoea and sometimes numb feelings of the arms and legs.

The tap water is considered potable and most Mauritians drink it, but for visitors who aren't used to it, bottled water is recommended.

Telecommunications in Mauritius

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