How to Spend 24 Hours in Mauritius

I often dream about Mauritius. My toes curled in warm, powdery sand with pristine waters lapping the coast. I dream about the gorgeous sights and food, and of rum and wine. While there are many is a lot you can do in Mauritius, here is how to spend a whole day on the island: 

Morning

At the northern tip of the Island, Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel or the Cap Malheureux Church is a bright spot amid the calming blue. Painted in red, this church makes for a great way to start your day. After this, head to the Botanic Garden. Formally known as Sir Seewoosagur Botanic Garden, it was initially private property for the French Governor. Now years later, this sprawling wonder has over 650 types of plants with medicinal varieties, a special spice gardens, water lilies and palm trees from all around the world. Here, I would recommend a guide to point out special species and secret spots for picturesque views. 

Afternoon 

Around noon, head to Rhumerie de Chamarel in the south. The food at the adjacent L’Alchimiste is just divine. After a hearty lunch, take a tour of the Rhumerie; sample the different types of rums while they take you through the process of the distillery. Head to the nearby La Vallee des Couleurs where one can indulge in quad biking, zip-lining and even brave the Nepalese bridge. The valley is ripe with waterfalls, rivers, lakes and the 23 coloured Earth. Guests can spend their afternoon indulging in various activities and roaming the supple gardens. 

Evening 

The Curious Corner of Chamarel is a fun, silly place and it will truly bring out the child in you. There are many optical illusions, science experiments and obstacle rooms. Visitors are encouraged to take plenty of photographs. There are mirror maze...and an upside-down room! Or perhaps, drive to Port Louis to see the Blue Penny Museum. One of the best museums on the island, it shows the life and history of the island. Truly remarkable is their postal collection, the most priceless of them being the two ‘Post Office’ stamps. Their art gallery on Paul and Virginie is absolutely breathtaking.  

Night

At night, Port Louis comes to life and Caudan Waterfront is full of exciting shops, restaurants and curio stalls. Their handicrafts collection, local food and cuisine, and the sheer number of places to shop to make it a perfect destination to end your day. Have a hearty meal, pick out your perfect souvenir and party till the sun comes up again!