Diving Trip to Mauritius • Colorful reefs, culture, and tropical beaches

Explore the colorful underwater world of Mauritius on 8 wonderful dives. You’ll also discover the island’s nature, culture, and most beautiful beaches.

Travel period

All year round

Features

Boatdiving

Starting from

12 days from £ 3.503 p.p.

Diving Trip to Mauritius: Colorful Reefs, Culture, and Tropical Beaches

Mauritius is known to many travelers for its snow-white beaches and turquoise lagoons, but this diverse island has much more to offer. On this trip, you’ll not only discover the laid-back atmosphere of the tropics, but you’ll also experience the impressive natural beauty, rich culture, and colorful underwater world that Mauritius is so beloved for.

You’ll be staying in the northern part of the island, an ideal base for exploring both above and below the water. An important part of this trip is the diving days, during which you’ll have the chance to explore the most beautiful dive sites along the north coast and around Coin de Mire. From colorful coral reefs and caves to shipwrecks and steep walls: every dive reveals a different side of Mauritius.

In addition to diving, you’ll discover the island’s diversity through various excursions. You’ll visit the lush south, home to the sacred Ganga Talao, the impressive Black River Gorges National Park, the Chamarel Waterfalls, and the famous Seven Colored Earth. You’ll also explore the lively capital, Port Louis, the charming north coast, and the iconic little church at Cap Malheureux.

Another must-do is the luxury catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs. As you sail across the crystal-clear lagoons, you’ll enjoy the sun, the sea, and a delicious barbecue on board. On the island itself, white-sand beaches and tropical views that look like they’re straight out of a postcard await you.

Best time to visit Mauritius for a diving vacation

Mauritius is an attractive diving destination all year round, but the best conditions are from October through December and from March through April. During these months, the water is pleasantly warm, visibility is excellent, and the chance of bad weather is low.

Mauritius also has a lot to offer whale enthusiasts. Sperm whales are present year-round in the waters around the island, especially along the west and south coasts. Humpback whales can be seen between June and early November, when they come to Mauritius to mate and raise their calves.

Average temperatures

Wetsuit Recommendations for Diving in Mauritius

The water temperature in Mauritius is pleasant year-round, but varies enough that you’ll want to adjust your wetsuit choice according to the season. From January through April, a shorty or a 3 mm full suit is sufficient. Between May and October, a 5 mm full wetsuit is recommended. Between November and December, a 3–5 mm wetsuit is recommended, depending on personal preference.

What will you experience on this diving vacation?

View itinerary here

Days 1 & 2 | Trip to Mauritius

Today marks the start of your journey to Mauritius, a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, located east of Madagascar. Mauritius is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and lush mountain landscapes, but the island also has a lot to offer underwater. Surrounding the island, you’ll find colorful coral reefs, volcanic formations, and a surprisingly diverse array of marine life.

You’ll depart on Day 1 and, depending on your flight and layover, arrive in Mauritius on Day 2. The total travel time is approximately 15 to 19 hours.

After arriving at the airport and picking up your luggage, you’ll be greeted by a driver who will take you to your hotel. During the approximately 1-hour-and-15-minute drive, you’ll get a first glimpse of the island and see how tropical nature, colorful villages, and vast sugarcane fields alternate along the way.

You’ll be staying at the Zilwa Attitude Hotel for the entire trip, a charming resort right on the beach on the north coast of Mauritius. From the hotel, you’ll have a view of the lagoon and the surrounding islets. It’s a wonderful place to unwind after your trip and get ready for the adventures that await you in the coming days.

Day 3 | First Day on the Island

Today you’ll have plenty of time to explore Mauritius at your own pace. After the journey of the past few days, this is a great opportunity to relax on the beach or by the hotel pool and start enjoying the island’s tropical atmosphere.

Those who prefer to get out and about can explore the surrounding area. For example, take a walk along the coast or visit one of the nearby villages. Water sports enthusiasts can also enjoy activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or a boat tour of the lagoon.

For divers, this is also an opportunity to take an early dive if you’d like to dive more than what’s included in the program. There are various coral reefs and volcanic formations around the island that offer varied and colorful diving experiences.

No matter how you choose to spend the day, it’s above all a time to relax and enjoy everything Mauritius has to offer.

Days 4 & 5 | Diving

After breakfast, you’ll head to the dive center, where your gear will be prepared for a morning of two boat dives. Depending on the weather conditions and the schedule, you’ll sail to the reefs along the north coast or to the dive sites around Coin de Mire, a small island off the coast known for its spectacular underwater landscapes.

During your dives, you’ll discover colorful coral reefs, impressive rock formations, caves, and steep walls teeming with marine life. The north coast of Mauritius is known for its clear waters and wide variety of dive sites. Along the way, you may encounter schools of reef fish, moray eels, pufferfish, scorpionfish, and various species of triggerfish. With a little luck, you might also spot sea turtles, eagle rays, or larger pelagic species passing by the reef.

Some dive sites consist of soft coral gardens teeming with anemones and tropical fish, while others are known for their caves, passageways, and spectacular walls that descend into deeper waters. There are also several shipwrecks in the area that have now become fully integrated into the underwater landscape and serve as a home for countless fish and other marine creatures.

After the two dives, you’ll return to shore around noon. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore the island further, or reflect on your diving experiences.

Day 6 | Day trip to the south of Mauritius

At 9:00 a.m., you’ll set off for a relaxing yet impressive day in southern Mauritius. From the coast, you’ll soon drive inland, where the landscape transforms into green hills, tropical rainforest, and winding mountain roads. The route itself is an experience, with ever-changing views that immediately immerse you in the atmosphere of the day.

The first stop is at the sacred Ganga Talao, also known as the Sacred Lake. This spiritual site is deeply connected to Hinduism and is surrounded by temples and statues. You’ll have time here to walk around and soak up the serene atmosphere.

Next, you’ll drive on to a panoramic viewpoint in Black River Gorges National Park. Here, you’ll look out over a vast landscape of forests and valleys—a brief but impressive photo opportunity.

The next stop is the village of Chamarel, known for its colorful natural scenery and strong Creole identity. Nearby, you’ll visit the famous Seven Colored Earth, where dunes in various shades create an almost surreal landscape. Not far from there are the Chamarel Waterfalls, where the water plunges powerfully downward in a lush, tropical setting.

In between, you’ll stop for a homemade lunch at the village chef’s in Chamarel. In a local and welcoming setting, you’ll sample traditional dishes and experience the island in a personal way. The final stop is at the Takamaka Boutique Winery, where you’ll be introduced to Mauritius’s distinctive lychee wine. The winemaker will tell you more about this unique product and let you taste different varieties.

Days 7–9 | Diving

Today’s itinerary also includes two boat dives. The northern waters of Mauritius offer enough variety to make every dive unique. Depending on the dive sites you choose, you’ll explore colorful reefs, underwater canyons, caves, or impressive rock formations that originated from the island’s volcanic past.

There’s a good chance you’ll encounter a wide variety of reef fish once again, while the healthy corals provide a colorful backdrop. In deeper areas, larger species such as tuna, barracuda, and rays can be spotted. Around Coin de Mire, the steep walls and caves also create spectacular light effects and unique underwater landscapes.

After your second dive, you’ll sail back to the harbor, and your diving adventure in Mauritius will come to an end. Over the course of four days and a total of eight dives, you’ll have gained a wonderful impression of the diverse underwater world for which northern Mauritius is known.

Day 10 | Luxury catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs

You’ll set off for a day of luxury and relaxation from the east coast of Mauritius, where you’ll board a comfortable catamaran. As soon as the lines are cast off, you’ll sail into the lagoon and slowly leave the coast behind you. The water is calm and clear, and you’ll quickly get into the relaxed mood of the day.

The first special stop is at the mouth of the Grande Rivière Sud Est. Here, the water flows into the sea over small waterfalls, creating a beautiful natural spectacle in the heart of the tropical landscape. As the catamaran glides quietly along, you can enjoy the view and the tranquility on the water.

Then you’ll set course through the lagoon, where you’ll have plenty of time to swim and snorkel. Dive into the warm, clear water and discover the colorful underwater world teeming with tropical fish and coral. Meanwhile, the catamaran stays nearby, so you can return at any time for a drink or a moment of relaxation on board.

Around lunchtime, a lavish BBQ is served on board. As you enjoy freshly prepared dishes, you’ll drift peacefully on the sea, surrounded by endless shades of blue and a gentle breeze.

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at Île aux Cerfs, an island known for its white beaches and turquoise waters. Here, you’ll go ashore and have time to relax on the beach, go for a swim, or simply enjoy the tropical surroundings.

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to drinks and snacks on board, so you’ll want for nothing. At the end of the afternoon, the catamaran sets course back toward the east coast, as the sun slowly sinks lower in the sky and you look back on a day filled with the sea, sunshine, and pure relaxation.

Day 11 | Day trip to northern Mauritius

After breakfast, you’ll set out for a varied and culturally rich day in northern Mauritius. You’ll get your first impression during the drive to Port Louis, where the hustle and bustle of the capital gradually comes into view and the landscape gives way to a vibrant mix of city, harbor, and mountains.

You’ll start with a visit to Fort Adelaide, also known as La Citadelle. From this 19th-century fort, you’ll enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Port Louis and the harbor. As you walk around, you’ll immediately get a sense of the colonial history that’s still evident here.

You’ll then drive through the city itself, past the colorful Chinatown neighborhood and the historic Jumma Mosque. Along the way, you’ll see how different cultures come together in everyday city life, which is what makes Port Louis so distinctive.

Next, stop at the Caudan Waterfront, a lively waterfront area with market stalls, shops, and cafés. Here, you’ll have time to stroll around, grab a bite to eat at your own pace, or simply enjoy the atmosphere at the harbor.

In the afternoon, the journey continues toward the north coast. You’ll drive along the coast to Grand Baie, a popular beach resort with clear blue water and a laid-back beach vibe. It’s a lovely spot for a short stop and some photo opportunities.

The last stop of the day is Cap Malheureux, a quiet fishing village known for its iconic little red church by the sea. With a view of the lagoon and the surrounding islands, you’ll end the day here in a charming and peaceful spot before heading back.

Day 12 | Return home

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Mauritius. Depending on your departure time, you may still have some time to relax at the hotel or take one last walk. You’ll then be picked up for your transfer to the airport. As you enjoy the tropical surroundings one last time on the way, a journey filled with special encounters, beautiful landscapes, and impressive diving experiences comes to an end. With wonderful memories and undoubtedly plenty of photos in your luggage, you’ll fly back home.

Highlights of this trip

What can you expect from the island of Mauritius?

Catamaran Cruise

During a relaxing day at sea, you’ll sail along the east coast of Mauritius to the idyllic Île aux Cerfs. Along the way, you’ll visit the waterfalls of Grande Rivière Sud Est and have the opportunity to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear lagoon. On the island, white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a relaxed atmosphere await you. The combination of sailing, tropical nature, and a barbecue on board makes this excursion one of the island’s most beautiful day trips.

Diving around Coin de Mire

Off the northern coast of Mauritius lie some of the island’s most beautiful dive sites. Around Coin de Mire, you’ll find impressive walls, caves, and passages, while the coastal reefs are known for their wide variety of tropical fish and healthy coral. The combination of clear water, varied underwater landscapes, and the chance to spot sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of reef fish makes this area appealing to both novice and experienced divers.

The island’s versatility

Mauritius offers much more than just beaches. On this trip, you’ll discover the lush highlands, the sacred Ganga Talao, the Chamarel Waterfalls, and the famous Seven Colored Earth. You’ll also visit the vibrant capital, Port Louis, and the northern fishing village of Cap Malheureux. The mix of nature, culture, local traditions, and tropical coastal landscapes ensures that you’ll quickly get a complete picture of what makes Mauritius so special.

The accommodation

The accommodation and facilities

Zilwa Attitude

Zilwa Attitude is a charming four-star resort on the north coast of Mauritius, near the quiet fishing village of Grand Gaube. The resort is situated directly on a sheltered lagoon with views of several small islets off the coast. Thanks to this beautiful location, you can enjoy peace, space, and an authentic Mauritian atmosphere here. At the same time, the hotel serves as an excellent base for exploring the island’s north coast.

Zilwa’s architecture and interior design are inspired by the local culture, giving the resort a unique character that clearly sets it apart from the larger international hotel chains. Throughout the grounds, you’ll find tropical gardens, cozy seating areas, and stunning views of the lagoon.

The resort features several swimming pools, direct access to the beach, and a wide range of activities. For example, you can use kayaks, snorkeling gear, a fitness center, and various water sports facilities. There is also a wellness center where you can enjoy relaxing massages and treatments.

The rooms at Zilwa Attitude are decorated in a fresh, contemporary style with influences from Mauritian culture. Natural materials, light colors, and subtle local details create a warm and relaxing atmosphere. All rooms feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, coffee and tea-making facilities, and a private balcony or terrace.

During this trip, you’ll be staying on an all-inclusive basis. This means that breakfast, lunch, dinner, select beverages, and various snacks are included. So you won’t have to worry about a thing during your stay and can fully enjoy everything the resort has to offer.

When it comes to dining, there’s plenty to choose from. The resort features several restaurants serving both international and local cuisine. From extensive buffets to cozy à la carte restaurants, every meal offers something different. Mauritian cuisine is also prominently featured, allowing you to discover the island’s diverse flavors during your stay. Scattered throughout the resort, you’ll also find various bars where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a light snack.

The dive center

The diving school and facilities

Dodo Divers

During this trip, you’ll dive with Dodo Divers, one of the best-known dive schools on the north coast of Mauritius. The dive school has its own location at Zilwa Attitude, so you won’t have to travel far and can head straight to the dive school after breakfast.

Dodo Divers is a professional PADI 5-Star dive center with years of experience in the waters around Mauritius. The dive center has several boats, modern rental equipment, and extensive facilities for both recreational divers and students. Nitrox is also available for certified divers.

Travel costs

What is included

This diving vacation to Mauritius is available starting at per person, based on £ 3.503 two people sharing a room. The diving trip can be extended as desired. A number of items are included as standard in this travel package.

Prices are subject to price changes, increases or changing exchange rates. Flights are always based on the cheapest possible booking class.

Want to learn more about this diving vacation to Mauritius? Contact us!

Included in this trip, from £ 3.503 p.p.

10 nights in a Superior Room
Stay on an all-inclusive basis
Dive package consisting of 10 dives
Luxury catamaran cruise, including lunch
"Wonders of the South" Day Trip, including lunch
Wine Tasting at Takamaka Boutique Winery
Day Trip to the North (Day 11)
Return transfers
VZR & Administration fee

Excluding

✈︎ The quoted (international) flight prices are indicative prices and based on departures from Europe. However, we can arrange flights from any location worldwide. Booking your own flights is of course also possible.

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Frequently asked questions about this trip

Diving general

What kind of diving do you do here?

You’ll go on daily boat dives in the morning. Depending on conditions and the schedule, you’ll dive at the northern coastal reefs of Mauritius or around the dive sites of Coin de Mire, a small island off the coast known for its varied underwater landscapes featuring walls, caves, and colorful reefs.

During your first dive with the dive school, for safety reasons, you will not dive deeper than 20 meters, regardless of your certification level. This is a standard procedure to allow everyone to gradually get used to the local conditions and diving in this area. After that, any subsequent dives can be conducted within the limits of your certification.

If you have specific requests or would like to visit certain dive sites, please let us know before the trip or when you book. That way, we can take your preferences into account whenever possible to tailor your diving experience to your needs.

How far are the dive sites?

The dive sites are close: about a 20-minute boat ride away.

How many dives can I make per day?

The program includes two dives per day as standard. Would you like to go on more dives? This is possible, weather permitting. You’ll need to pay for these additional dives directly to the dive shop.

Can I do night diving here?

Yes, it is possible to make a night dive.

Is there a house reef?

No, there is no house reef. All dives are made by boat.

Can I take a diving course here?

Yes, PADI courses are offered here. The dive shop is a PADI 5* Dive Center and IDC. You can take various courses here.

Is the diving school close to the hotel?

Yes, the diving school is right next to the hotel.

Diving equipment

Are the tanks DIN or INT?

Both tanks are present.

Are there any 15L tanks?

Yes, there are five 15L tanks available. The additional cost to use a 15L tank is $5 per tank.

Can I do side-mount diving here?

Yes, you can. If you bring your own equipment, that’s no problem at all. You can even take a PADI Side-mount specialty course here!

Can I dive here with nitrox and what is the cost?

Yes, nitrox is available. It costs about € 7 per tank.

Can I rent diving equipment here and what is the cost?

The use of a mask, fins, and wetsuit is always included. There is an additional charge for the BCD, regulator, and dive computer. Prices are per day.

BCD: 250 MUR, approximately € 4
Regulator: 250 MUR, approximately € 4
Computer: 400 MUR, approximately € 7

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