A jewel of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is renowned for its turquoise lagoons, palm-fringed beaches and sun-soaked days. More than just a luxury traveller’s dream, Mauritius is a land where food and culture are not mere side notes – they are the very heartbeat of the island.
Mauritius invites all visitors to look beyond its natural beauty to uncover the depth, history and heritage of the island, where every meal and local encounter promises a new discovery.
A taste of history: exploring Mauritius’ diverse food culture
Mauritian food culture is rich in variety and full of surprises, featuring a stunning blend of influences from India, Africa, China and France.
Skip the tourist traps and dive fork-first into the local culinary scene with a wander through sleepy fishing villages like Tamarin or Grand Gaube, where the food is as fresh as the sea breeze. Or, take a street food tour along the east coast with a stop at Blue Bay.
Indulge in a bowl of steaming boulettes (dumplings in broth) from a roadside vendor or bite into a flaky dholl puri – flatbread stuffed with split peas and served with tangy chutneys and spicy curries. Pair these with a glass of alouda, a sweet basil-seed milkshake, for an authentic Mauritian experience.
For lunch, choose from Mauritian Biryani or the island’s iconic cari, a fragrant curry featuring anything from chicken to seafood, served with rice and lentils. Alternatively, sample the freshest catch of the day – fish, tender octopus or buttery lobster, cooked with island spices and local herbs.
For an interactive twist, join a local cooking class to master the art of preparing traditional dishes such as vindaye, a turmeric-laced speciality as tangy as it is tempting.
The markets of Port Louis and Mahébourg offer edible adventures. Arrive hungry at Port Louis Central Market to experience the chatter of traders mingling with the scent of fried gateaux piments (spicy chilli cakes), gateaux patates (sweet potato cakes) and sizzling bol renversé (Chinese-style fried rice).
For a more tranquil setting, dine at La Table du Château in Mapou. Set on the lush grounds of Château de Labourdonnais, a heritage Victorian-era plantation mansion, this restaurant elevates Mauritian cuisine to new heights. Try rougaille, a flavourful tomato-based curry, while experiencing a taste of the island’s colonial past and agricultural heritage.
An introduction to Mauritian rum is the perfect way to wash everything down. Visit heritage distilleries like Rhumerie de Chamarel to explore the craftsmanship behind the drink and enjoy generous tastings.
Cultural immersion: celebrating Mauritius’ traditions
Mauritians of all religions and ethnicities live harmoniously. Across the island, diverse religious and cultural sites sit side by side, from the Maheswarnath Mandir Hindu temple in Triolet to the Kwan Tee Pagoda in Port Louis, as well as the picturesque Cap Malheureux Church on the northern headlands.
To celebrate the diversity of Mauritian culture, plan your trip to coincide with one of Mauritius’ many traditional and religious festivals. In February, the lively Tamil Cavadee festival sees Indo-Mauritians taking part in colourful processions and food offerings. Around the same time, parades for Chinese Spring Festival (New Year) enliven the streets with red dragons and fire crackers.
In autumn, the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali, illuminates the island with performances and food-sharing events celebrating Mauritius’ Indian heritage. Eid-Ul-Fitr, an Islamic festival marking the end of Ramadan, brings feasts and gift-giving.
Whatever the time of year, music and dance are at the heart of Mauritian culture. Music and dance are integral to Mauritian culture. Nothing exemplifies this better than séga – a rhythmic dance rooted in African traditions. Visit a local séga club to immerse yourself in its infectious energy or catch an intimate performance at one of the island’s luxury resorts.
Historical understanding: remembering Mauritius’ colonial past
During the 19th and early 20th century, half a million indentured Indians arrived in Mauritius, their descendants now making up some 70 per cent of the population. The remaining 30 per cent are largely descendents of Chinese traders, African slaves, and Dutch, French and British colonists.
The Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as the sole surviving example of how Mauritius’ unique Indian diaspora began.
The island’s colonial history stretches back as far as 400 years to Vieux Grand Port, where the Frederik Hendrik Museum preserves the ruins of a Dutch fort from 1698. The UNESCO-listed Slave Route Monument at Le Morne Brabant symbolises resistance and freedom.
Over the centuries, Mauritius became a significant producer of sugar, tea and other goods for imperial markets. At the Musée de l’Aventure du Sucre in Pamplemousses, visitors can trace this legacy while learning about sugar’s lasting economic, social and cultural impact – particularly how it shaped local cuisine.
Where to experience the soul of Mauritius
More than its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, Mauritius offers a deeper connection.
Modern arts hubs like Le Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis showcase the island’s contemporary culture, while peaceful seaside villages like Cap Malheureux reflect an older, quieter Mauritius. Wherever you go, explore local markets for handicrafts, fresh produce and friendly conversation before relaxing under the afternoon sun.
Mauritius isn’t just a destination – it’s an invitation
An invitation to savour a fusion of global flavours, experience vibrant festivals and embrace rich traditions. Mauritius will inspire your senses, leaving you with not just memories but a renewed appreciation for the stories behind every dish and dance.
Plan your next meaningful adventure on the Mauritius Now website.
