If you’ve ever dreamed of crystal-clear lagoons, soft white beaches, lush green mountains and a mix of cultures unlike anywhere else — Mauritius is that dream come true.

This small island nation in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar, is often described as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. But there’s much more to it than just beaches.

Mauritius has a fascinating history shaped by Dutch, French, British and Indian influences, a vibrant Creole culture, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything worth seeing and doing — from Le Morne Brabant and the Seven Colored Earths of Chamarel, to local food, Hindu temples, and the best beaches to relax on.

In this travel guide to Mauritius, we’ll also share our personal experiences from traveling across the island — where we stayed, what to eat, and tips to make your visit unforgettable.

If you are looking to combine your trip with even more dramatic volcanic landscapes and world-class hiking, we highly recommend island hopping to nearby La Réunion, which we visited right after Mauritius