Mauritius, which is located about 2000 miles off the southeastern coast of Africa, is known as the jewel of the Indian ocean. The dazzling beaches, diverse wildlife, and nature along with the hospitality of the local people make it an ideal destination for a road trip.

Anyone who loves nature and adventure would definitely know that road trips are not about reaching the destination but enjoying the time spent on the journey. Though there are different transportations available for tourists to travel around Mauritius, nothing can beat driving around and exploring a place at one’s own pace.

Things to Know Before Renting a Car

Before planning a road trip, the first thing to decide would be to research the best car rentals in Mauritius. Among the various options, the best car hire service should not only be safe but also cheaper in comparison. There are a few things one needs to keep in mind such as:

• A domestic driver’s license is necessary for those planning a road trip. If one plans to travel for over a month, one needs to get an international license.
• It is best to do the renting online beforehand since it is less time-consuming. All one has to do is get the keys and necessary documents once they reach the airport.
• One needs to provide all the important documents like a passport, driving license, and hotel address which would make the process faster. Instead of depending on the GPS which is not updated, it is better to download the offline map in advance. 
• Always test-drive a car to get a hang of it.
• One must be aware that people drive on the left in Mauritius.
• There are no toll taxes in Mauritius
• There is only a single motorway in Mauritius which starts from the airport in the South East and ends in the North.

Places to Visit on a Road Trip in Mauritius

Road trips give people the freedom of enjoying themselves at their own pace while stopping anywhere they wish to which would not be easy in the case of public transport. Some such places on this island that would create unforgettable memories are as follows:

Port Louis city Mauritius

There are various beautiful and cultural spots Port Louis has to offer to travelers. It is one of the main cities one must explore if one visits Mauritius. It is known for its historical sites. There is also delicious local food for tourists to enjoy.

The people here are known for their hospitability and how they welcome all those who visit this place. In case one wished to remember the experience one can also purchase souvenirs such as traditional clothes or wood carvings. 

Grand Baie Mauritius

The city of Grand Baie is a wonderful place to explore on this paradisical island. The streets here are famous among tourists. One can simply have a nice walk while enjoying the sea breeze or go shopping in the local shops. 

Tourists can also enjoy cultural dishes in restaurants. In case one is tired from all the driving they can simply relax on the beach and get a nice tan or go for a swim.

Ile aux Cerfs

The Deer Islands also known as Ile aux Cerfs on the east coast is known for its marvelous natural landscapes. Not only can tourists get fresh seafood from the local market but also exotic fruits seasoned with local spices. 

In case someone visits with friends or family they can also have a barbeque on the beach. There are also tube rides available for adrenaline-loving travelers. 

Black River Gorge

There are vast landscapes and breathtaking waterfalls in the Black River Gorge where tourists can experience the natural views instead of beaches. The greenery here is a welcome sight for nature lovers.

Casela Adventure Park

The Casela Adventure park is a popular attraction among tourists. There are plenty of activities one gets to enjoy all day round. Besides enjoying the safari tourists can also interact with animals. This is mostly loved by kids who make fun and unforgettable memories with their families among the exotic animals.

Chamarel

A trip to Mauritius is incomplete without vising the Chamarel. Known for the extraordinary beauty it is located in Riviere Noire District. What makes tourists from all over the world visit this place is the natural phenomenon of the seven-colored earth.

There are sand dunes of seven distinct colors that evolved due to the conversion of clay minerals from basaltic lava. There are also several beautiful waterfalls one can find in the forest here.

Conclusion

To plan a road trip, it is essential to gather all the information in advance of the particular destination. Tourists who plan to make a road trip to Mauritius are advised to have an itinerary that would be more efficient.

This article provides the top tourist destinations ideal for a road trip along with the necessary knowledge regarding car rentals in Mauritius. But there are so many less popular but equally marvelous places one can discover on a road trip to this island.