Best time to visit Mauritius!

The best way to get around Mauritius is by renting a car since you’ll get the freedom to go anywhere you want and explore off the beaten path. 

Taxis are also available but unfortunately can quickly eat up your budget. You also have the option to hire a private driver for the day and customize your own travel itinerary.

If you’re planning a backpacking trip to Mauritius, you can get to most of the popular attractions by bus.

Best Areas to Stay in Mauritius

In this blog post, I’ve divided the island into four main areas – North, South, East and West. I didn’t include the central region since there aren’t many options for places to stay, plus it isn’t that tourist-friendly. It would be best to stay near the beach and do a day trip if you want to visit the attractions in this area.

The north and west coasts are the sunniest and boast many beautiful beaches, so great for a beach vacation. They are also well-developed with a huge selection of luxury to budget accommodations.

The east coast is quieter and features mainly all-inclusive resorts, making it ideal for couples and honeymooners. The only downside is that it does get windy during the winter months (mainly between July and September) but the temperature still hovers between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius.

Finally, the south coast feels more secluded and features lots of unique natural attractions and is great for hikers and nature lovers. It’s also great for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic vacation.

Where to Stay in Mauritius?

Solana Beach Hotel  

If you’re wondering where to stay in Mauritius, you should consider Solana Beach Hotel, an adult-only hotel, located in Belle Mare on the east coast. The hotel is affordable and the great thing about it is that each room faces the ocean! The rooms are nicely decorated, each with a private bathroom and a huge bed! Solana Beach hotel is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation right on the beach! 

La Mariposa Mauritius

If you thought that staying on a beachfront property would be crazy expensive, La Mariposa Mauritius will prove you wrong. Set on a little private beach on the west coast of Mauritius, La Mariposa almost rivals high-end accommodations.

With 34 comfortable rooms to choose from (14 of which are equipped with a full kitchen), an infinity pool overlooking the ocean and Le Morne Brabant and lots of activities do in the area, it’s no doubt one of the best places to stay in Mauritius on a budget. For more details, make sure to read my detailed review of La Mariposa Mauritius.

Green Cottage Chamarel

If you would like to stay slightly off the beaten path while still being close to all the top attractions in Chamarel, I highly recommend Green Cottage Chamarel, perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, or those who simply crave tranquility. The view alone makes it the best place to stay in Chamarel as it overlooks the lush green valley and mountains.

The house can accommodate up to six people and features two ensuite bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a living room with two single beds. There’s also a cozy fireplace and a small fire pit outside to keep you warm on a cold night. For more information, make sure to read my detailed review of Green Cottage Chamarel here.

Radisson Blu Poste La Fayette 

Radisson Blu Poste LaFayette is an adult-only hotel also located along the east coast of Mauritius. Each room features a double bed, air-conditioning, TV, and a coffee station and you have the choice between rooms with an ocean or garden view. 

Breakfast and dinner are also included in the price and I can’t forget to mention that their dessert selection is A-MA-ZING! 

Otentic Eco Tent Experience

If you want to experience something a bit different during your trip to Mauritius, I highly recommend staying at Otentic Eco Tent Experience.

Situated on the east coast, Otentic is definitely the best place to go glamping in Mauritius! Each tent can fit up to 5 guests and features both double and single beds, a private bathroom, electricity, and running water.

Activities like mountain biking, kayaking, and boat trips to Ile aux Cerfs are also included for free, plus there are lots of attractions to visit and hiking trails to explore nearby. For more details, make sure to read this review of Otentic Eco Tent.

Vanilla House 

If you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Mauritius, look no further than Vanilla House. Located on the west coast of Mauritius, the guesthouse offers nine spacious suites tucked in the middle of a lush green garden.

Each room comes with either a double bed or two twin beds, a private bathroom, kitchenette, free Wi-Fi and the most delicious breakfast you could ever wish for! Read my detailed review about my stay at Vanilla House or click here to book a stay.

Week-end trip to Rodrigues Island

If you want a little extra vacation within your Mauritius vacation, why not spend a weekend in Rodrigues Island? This little island is sometimes referred to as the Mauritius of yesteryears, making it perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life.

Most people travel to Rodrigues mainly to relax but the island also boasts an incredibly raw landscape with lots of opportunities for adventurous activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and cave exploration. 

Some of the best places to visit in Rodrigues include Trou D’Argent, Ile aux Cocos, Mont Limon viewpoint, François Leguat Reserve, Port Mathurin and more.

Since Rodrigues is much smaller than Mauritius, you can easily visit the most popular attractions during a weekend trip but if you really want to uncover some hidden gems, I highly recommend spending at least one week on the island.