Mauritius

Situated in the south-west of the Indian Ocean and east of Madagascar, the national territory around the main island of Mauritius also includes the Agalega Islands, which are over 1000 kilometres away, the Cargados-Carajos Islands and Rodriguez to the east.

While the landscape in the north of Mauritius is characterised by huge sugar cane fields and numerous temples, the national parks in the south with their primeval forests and high plateaus are home to unique flora and fauna. Lagoons and beaches cover the entire island.

Mauritius is almost an insider tip for active holidaymakers. Trails in the Black River Gorges National Park lead through primeval forests and volcanic craters up to the summit of the Petite Riviére Noire, which at 828 metres is the highest mountain on the island. Climbing Le Pouce is also a challenge in the exotic climate over volcanic rock scree and sugar cane fields.

The islanders' favourite sport is (racing) cycling. The winding and hilly roads offer the ideal routes for this. Water sports such as sailing, diving and surfing are a must in the tourist region. Passionate climbers will also get their money's worth when climbing the Morne Brabant.

The interior of the island of Mauritius paints a picture of vast sugar cane fields, primeval forests, high plateaus and waterfalls. The almost unspoilt landscape is home to an abundance of flora and fauna. The Black River Gorges National Park is best explored via the hiking trails.

If you're lucky, you might spot the endangered rose doves in the Casela Animal and National Park or in Le Val National Park. Monkeys, flying foxes, flamingos and deer also live here in the wild. Dodo trees, guava trees and orchids form a varied contrast to the beach and sea.

Mauritius is of volcanic origin, which can still be seen on this exotic island today. Volcanic craters and volcanic rock characterise the island's landscape just as much as sandy beaches and palm trees.

The Troux aux Cerf crater is a remnant of the long-extinct volcano. Dense vegetation with a swamp-like lake and forest has spread inside the volcanic crater. The crater of the Grand Bassin is also a popular excursion destination due to its Hindu significance.

Almost the entire island is surrounded by coral reefs that break the surf just off the coast, creating the gentle lagoon-like beach. The fascinating underwater paradise of coral can be admired particularly well when diving and snorkelling.

The warm, crystal-clear water makes Baie aux Tortues on the west coast one of the most popular beaches in Mauritius. Nowhere else is the coral reef as colourful and diverse as here. The beach at Ile aux Cerf is also well worth a visit for its beauty.