Book flights to Mauritius

Mauritius is a volcanic island in the Indian Ocean, known for its extensive lagoons and the coral reefs that encircle its coastline. As a primary destination for long-haul travel, the island has a central role in the maritime history of the region and is a major hub for visitors exploring the Mascarene Islands.

The capital, Port Louis, has colonial architecture like the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inland, the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden contains a vast collection of indigenous plants, while the Château de Labourdonnais provides insight into the island's 19th-century estate history. Natural landmarks like the Le Morne Brabant mountain and the Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel define the physical landscape.

The island is a place of discovery where diverse cultural influences from Africa, India, and Europe intersect. Visitors find a tranquil environment defined by white sand beaches and a distinct culinary tradition that uses local spices and seafood. This combination of natural beauty and historical depth makes Mauritius a destination suited for both cultural exploration and relaxation.

Mauritius in the high season

Mauritius experiences its peak from October to April, when the tropical summer brings warm temperatures averaging 30°C. Upon landing at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, visitors immediately feel the humid, fragrant air that defines this lively period. The coastal lagoons are at their most inviting, with clear, turquoise waters providing ideal conditions for snorkeling and sailing along the reefs.

The island buzzes with energy as locals and travellers celebrate major cultural events like Diwali or the colourful Holi festival. Outdoor life is the priority, with the long daylight hours encouraging extended stays on the white sands of Trou d'Eau Douce or Grand Baie. While the heat is intense, the lively atmosphere in the coastal villages and the lush, green canopy of the Black River Gorges National Park create a quintessential tropical experience.

Mauritius in the low season

Mauritius enters its cooler, drier winter between May and September, offering a more tranquil and refreshed perspective. Temperatures typically hover around 24°C, making the climate comfortable for hiking the volcanic peaks or exploring the botanical gardens in Pamplemousses. The arrival experience is often characterized by crisp, blue skies and a gentle breeze that replaces the heavy humidity of the summer months.

The pace of life slows down during this season, especially on the south and east coasts where the trade winds are more pronounced. This period is highly favoured by surfers and kitesurfers who flock to Le Morne Brabant to take advantage of the consistent Atlantic swells. Cultural life remains rich with the Father Laval pilgrimage in September, providing a more reflective and authentic glimpse into the island's heritage away from the summer crowds.

Acting as the primary gateway for those arriving by air, the aviation infrastructure here centres on a single international hub that facilitates travel across the Indian Ocean. Most visitors beginning their journey with a flight to Mauritius will arrive at the southeastern coast, where the island's modern facilities manage both long-haul international routes and regional connections.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU)

Located approximately 48 km southeast of the capital, Port Louis, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is the primary entry point for the island. It is the main hub for Air Mauritius and hosts numerous international carriers arriving from Europe, Asia, and Africa. The airport has a modern, integrated terminal designed to handle a high volume of passengers, with a layout that streamlines the transition from arrivals to ground transport.

Upon exiting the arrivals hall, travellers can reach Port Louis in about 45 to 60 minutes by taking a taxi, which is the most direct option for reaching specific hotels or central districts. For those heading to other major areas, the drive to Grand Baie in the north takes roughly 75 minutes, while the trip to Flic en Flac on the west coast lasts about 60 minutes. While public bus services operate from the airport to the Victoria Urban Terminal in Port Louis, these routes involve multiple stops and are best suited for those with light luggage and extra time. Many travellers who have booked flights to Mauritius as part of a package also utilize pre-arranged shuttles that depart directly from the terminal to various coastal resorts.

Descending through the clouds above Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, the lively landscape of Mauritius reveals a patchwork of emerald sugar cane fields and jagged volcanic peaks. This island destination greets travellers with a warm, salty breeze that immediately signals the start of a journey defined by tropical discovery and cultural depth.

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden contains a vast collection of indigenous and exotic plants, most notably the giant Victoria amazonica water lilies that float in tranquil ponds. Visitors wander through shaded paths where the scent of spice trees and the presence of century-old tortoises create a serene atmosphere.

Port Louis has a bustling energy where the history of the Indian Ocean comes to life through colonial architecture and a crowded central market. The city is a sensory hub where the aroma of street food like dholl puri mingles with the sight of colourful textiles and local crafts.

Le Morne Brabant is a dramatic basaltic mountain that is a symbol of freedom and resistance on the island's southwestern coast. Hiking its trails offers panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon and the famous "underwater waterfall" optical illusion visible from the air.

Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth includes a striking geological formation where sand dunes settle into distinct layers of purple, red, and violet. This natural phenomenon is surrounded by lush forests and the nearby Chamarel Waterfall, which plunges nearly 100 metres into a verdant canyon.

Grand Bassin is a sacred crater lake tucked away in the misty highlands, is a spiritual heart for the local Hindu community. The site is home to towering statues and quiet temples where the sound of bells and the smell of incense provide a peaceful contrast to the coastal heat.

Blue Bay Marine Park has crystal-clear waters that protect a thriving coral garden and a diverse array of tropical fish. Snorkelling here reveals a colourful underwater world just a short distance from the white sandy shores.

Few feelings compare to boarding a plane knowing Mauritius awaits at the end of your flight. To secure the best value for your journey, consider booking during off-peak windows and exploring the flexible dates available through eDreams. For those who travel often, eDreams Prime has additional benefits that make every discovery even more accessible.