Mauritius All-Inclusive Holidays: Island Experts Share Their Indian Ocean Paradise Secrets

Known as the “Star of the Indian Ocean,” Mauritius combines pristine beaches with lush tropical landscapes, diverse cultural heritage, and world-class luxury all inclusive resorts. We’ve gathered insights from five Mauritian tourism experts to create the ultimate guide to all-inclusive holidays on this beautiful island, complete with regional insights, transport tips, and a comprehensive hotel guide.

Regional Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Location

Raj Ramdin, a Mauritian tourism veteran with 25 years of experience, breaks down the island’s main holiday regions: “Mauritius offers distinct experiences depending on where you stay. The north delivers vibrant atmosphere and nightlife, the east coast provides pristine beaches and luxury resorts, while the west offers dramatic sunsets and more sheltered beaches.”

His recommendations by region:

• North Coast (Grand Baie/Mont Choisy/Trou aux Biches): “Ideal for those seeking a balance of beautiful beaches with restaurants, nightlife, and shopping options – the most developed area of the island”
• East Coast (Belle Mare/Trou d’Eau Douce/Poste Lafayette): “Perfect for luxury seekers with some of the island’s most spectacular beaches, striking lagoons, and exclusive resorts”
• West Coast (Flic en Flac/Tamarin/Le Morne): “Great for stunning sunsets, dolphin watching, and water sports with a more relaxed atmosphere and dramatic mountain backdrops”
• South Coast (Bel Ombre/St. Felix): “The least developed region offering wild beauty, nature reserves, and an authentic Mauritian experience alongside newer luxury resorts”

The Complete Mauritius Transport Guide

Sanjay Gopal, a local transport specialist, shares essential information for exploring the island:

Public Transport

• Local Buses: Connect major towns (Rs 20-50 per journey)
• Taxi Services: Available throughout the island (metered or fixed rates)
• Airport Transfers: Usually included in all-inclusive packages

Car Hire

• Economy: Rs 1,200-1,800 per day
• Mid-range: Rs 2,000-3,000 per day
• Luxury vehicles: Rs 4,000+ per day

Taxi Approximate Costs

• Airport to Northern Resorts: Rs 1,800-2,500
• Airport to Eastern Resorts: Rs 2,000-2,800
• Hotel to nearby attractions: Rs 800-1,500
• Full-day island tour: Rs 4,000-6,000

Transport Tips:

• Negotiate taxi fares in advance if the vehicle has no meter
• Consider hiring a private driver for a day rather than multiple taxis
• Roads can be narrow and winding in some areas
• Left-side driving (UK style) can be challenging for some visitors

All-Inclusive Hotels in Mauritius: Luxury Redefined

Priya Desai, a Mauritian hospitality expert with 18 years of experience, explains the island’s distinctive all-inclusive approach:

“Mauritius has redefined the all-inclusive concept, elevating it to a luxury experience that goes far beyond typical resort offerings. Our best resorts combine exceptional cuisine, premium beverages, and extensive activities with the warm hospitality that Mauritius is famous for.”

Premium All-Inclusive Resorts (5-star)

• Typical Features: Multiple gourmet restaurants, premium branded spirits, water sports, spa treatments, exclusive excursions
• Popular Options: Constance Belle Mare Plage, LUX* Grand Gaube, Heritage Awali, Shandrani Beachcomber
• Special Appeal: Exceptional service levels, world-class dining, extensive land and water activities
• Price Range: Rs 25,000-45,000 per night for two people (peak season)

Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive (5-star+)

• Typical Features: Butler service, fine dining experiences, premium champagnes and spirits, exclusive access, personalized service
• Popular Options: One&Only Le Saint Géran, Four Seasons Resort, The Oberoi Beach Resort
• Special Appeal: Sophisticated luxury, private beach areas, bespoke experiences, celebrity chef restaurants
• Price Range: Rs 45,000-90,000+ per night for two people (peak season)

Family-Focused Premium All-Inclusives

• Typical Features: Kids’ and teens’ clubs, family rooms and villas, child-friendly dining options, specialized family activities
• Popular Options: Beachcomber Resorts, Attitude Hotels, Sun Resorts
• Special Appeal: Safe beach areas, family-oriented entertainment, interconnecting rooms
• Price Range: Rs 20,000-40,000 per night for a family of four (peak season)

Boutique All-Inclusive Experiences

• Typical Features: Smaller, intimate properties, personalized service, unique character
• Popular Options: Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel, Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge
• Special Appeal: Adult-only options, distinctive atmosphere, more personal experience
• Price Range: Rs 15,000-30,000 per night for two people (peak season)

Mauritian All-Inclusive Inclusions

Priya notes: “Mauritian all-inclusive packages typically go far beyond the basics, often including:

• Water sports (water-skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat trips)
• Land activities (tennis, volleyball, yoga, gym access, mountain biking)
• Spa credits or selected treatments
• Themed dining events and cooking classes
• Selected premium beverages and fine wines
• Room service at no extra charge (in premium resorts)
• Guided nature walks and cultural experiences”

Seasonal Price Variations

Michel Laurent, a Mauritian pricing specialist, provides a breakdown of typical costs:

Peak Season (December-January, school holiday periods)

• Luxury 5-star All-Inclusive: Rs 25,000-45,000 per night for two people
• Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive: Rs 45,000-90,000+ per night for two people

High Season (October-November, February-April)

• Luxury 5-star All-Inclusive: Rs 18,000-35,000 per night for two people
• Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive: Rs 35,000-70,000 per night for two people

Shoulder Season (May, September)

• Luxury 5-star All-Inclusive: Rs 15,000-28,000 per night for two people
• Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive: Rs 28,000-55,000 per night for two people

Low Season (June-August)

• Luxury 5-star All-Inclusive: Rs 12,000-25,000 per night for two people
• Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive: Rs 25,000-45,000 per night for two people

“Mauritius offers excellent value even for luxury experiences during our winter months (June-August),” notes Michel. “While this is technically our ‘low season’, temperatures remain pleasant at 20-26°C, perfect for European visitors escaping their summer heat or seeking winter sun.”

Local Excursions and Activity Price Guide

Activities and Excursions (If not included in your package)

• Ile aux Cerfs island trip: Rs 1,500-2,500
• Catamaran cruise with lunch: Rs 3,500-5,500
• Swimming with dolphins: Rs 2,500-4,000
• Black River Gorges National Park tour: Rs 2,000-3,500
• Chamarel Seven Colored Earth and waterfalls: Rs 2,000-3,000
• Underwater submarine experience: Rs 4,500-6,000
• Deep sea fishing (half day): Rs 12,000-18,000

Hidden Culinary Treasures of Mauritius

Chef Vikash Mungroo, a Mauritian culinary expert, shares his insights: “Mauritian cuisine is a fascinating fusion of Indian, Creole, Chinese, and French influences. The best all-inclusive resorts showcase this diversity through multiple restaurant concepts and authentic local dishes.”

His recommended local restaurants for a night away from your all-inclusive:

• La Varangue sur Morne (Le Morne): Creole cuisine with mountain views
• Chez Tante Marie (Grand Baie): Authentic local dishes in a charming setting
• Le Fangourin (Pamplemousses): Refined Mauritian cuisine in a historic sugar estate

Cultural Experiences and Authentic Mauritius

Dr. Sharda Patel, a specialist in Mauritian heritage, emphasizes the importance of experiencing the real Mauritius: “Our island’s unique blend of cultures creates a fascinating mosaic that goes far beyond beautiful beaches. The best resorts incorporate cultural experiences into their programs, from sega dancing to cooking classes and village visits.”

Popular Cultural Experiences:

• Sega dance performances (traditional Creole dance)
• Visit to Port Louis Central Market and Chinatown
• Hindu temples and sacred lake of Grand Bassin
• L’Aventure du Sucre museum (sugar history)
• Creole mansion houses (Eureka, Maison Eureka)
• Tea plantations and rum distilleries

Expert Tips for All-Inclusive Resort Selection in Mauritius

• Consider the prevailing winds in different seasons – east coast can be breezy June-August
• Check what water sports are truly included without supplementary charges
• Verify meal arrangements – some resorts offer dine-around concepts between their properties
• Look for resorts with house reefs for convenient snorkeling
• Review the activity program – better resorts include cultural experiences and nature excursions

Hidden Gems Near Popular Resort Areas

North Coast

• Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens: Historic gardens with giant water lilies
• Mont Choisy Beach: Long stretch of public beach with local atmosphere
• Cap Malheureux Church: Iconic red-roofed church with spectacular views

East Coast

• GRSE Waterfall: Accessible natural waterfall and swimming area
• Ile aux Cerfs: Beautiful island with beaches and golf course
• Flacq Market (Wednesdays): Largest open-air market in Mauritius

West Coast

• Tamarin Bay: Dolphin watching and surfing spot
• Black River Gorges National Park: Hiking trails and wildlife
• Chamarel Village: Rum distillery and seven-colored earth geological formation

Cultural Notes and Local Customs

• Mauritius is a multicultural society with Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Chinese communities
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
• Formal beach attire is required in resort restaurants even during daytime
• Sega is the traditional dance of Mauritius, often performed at resorts
• Mauritian Creole phrases are appreciated though English and French are widely spoken

Seasonal Considerations for Mauritius

• Summer (November-April): Warmer, more humid, occasional tropical showers
• Winter (May-October): Cooler, less humidity, ideal for activities beyond the beach
• Cyclone Season (January-February): Rare but possible tropical storms
• Ideal Wedding Season (April-June, September-October): Perfect weather conditions

Making the Most of Your All-Inclusive Package in Mauritius

According to Raj Ramdin, “Mauritius offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Use your all-inclusive package to enjoy the exceptional resort facilities, but be sure to explore our island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Most luxury resorts now include select island experiences within their all-inclusive concept.”

Money-Saving Tips for Mauritius Holidays

• Travel during June-September for excellent value and pleasant weather
• Book well in advance (9-12 months) for the best rates and free night offers
• Look for packages including premium activities or spa treatments
• Consider resorts offering credit systems that provide flexibility
• Watch for honeymoon and anniversary special offers with significant upgrades

Tipping Guide: The Essentials

While most all-inclusive resorts include service charges, additional gratuities for exceptional service are appreciated:

• Butler/Villa staff: Rs 500-1,000 per day or Rs 3,000-5,000 at end of stay
• Exceptional service: Rs 200-500 per instance
• Spa treatments: Rs 200-500 if truly exceptional
• Private excursions: Rs 500-1,000 for a full day

Planning Your Perfect Mauritius Holiday

Priya Desai provides this final advice: “Mauritius has perfected the art of luxury all-inclusive holidays. The best experiences combine the exceptional service and facilities of your chosen resort with exploration of our island’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. Allow at least 7-10 days to truly appreciate all that Mauritius has to offer, and consider combining regions for a more diverse experience.”

Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Mauritius

1. Snorkel or dive in our crystal-clear lagoons to discover vibrant marine life
2. Visit the seven-colored earths of Chamarel and nearby waterfall
3. Experience a catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs or along the coast
4. Explore the Black River Gorges National Park for stunning landscapes and wildlife
5. Immerse yourself in Mauritian culture through markets, temples, and cuisine

Note: All expert recommendations and prices are based on 2025 rates and professional experience in Mauritian tourism and hospitality. Contact specific travel agents for current offerings and availability. Prices may vary by season and availability.