Mauritius Staycation – 5‑Day Itinerary (Dec 21‑31)

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation

Morning: Arrive at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and transfer to your beachfront resort in Grand Baie. Settle in, enjoy a welcome drink, and take a stroll along the golden sand.

Afternoon: Unwind by the pool or the sea while sampling fresh tropical fruits at the resort’s lounge. Optional: a gentle walk to the nearby Grand Baie Market for local handicrafts.

Evening: Dine at the resort’s seaside restaurant, tasting the island’s famous grilled fish and a glass of Mauritian rum.

Day 2: Northern Exploration

Morning: Head to Port Louis to explore the bustling Central Market, where you can sample street foods like dholl puri and pick up spices.

Afternoon: Visit the historic Aapravasi Ghat UNESCO site, then relax at the nearby Caudan Waterfront for shopping and coffee.

Evening: Return to Grand Baie for a sunset catamaran cruise, sipping cocktails while watching dolphins play.

Day 3: Nature & Adventure

Morning: Drive to the southwest to hike the scenic trails of Black River Gorges National Park, spotting endemic birds and waterfalls.

Afternoon: Descend to the iconic Le Morne Brabant for a short trek to the viewpoint, then cool off at the nearby Flic en Flac Beach.

Evening: Enjoy a beachside BBQ dinner at Flic en Flac, featuring fresh seafood and local music.

Day 4: Cultural Highlights

Morning: Tour the beautifully landscaped Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden in Pamplemousses, famous for giant water lilies and exotic palms.

Afternoon: Continue to the colorful Chamarel Colored Earth and the nearby Chamarel Waterfall, perfect for photo opportunities.

Evening: Return to the resort for a traditional Mauritian sega dance performance and dinner.

Day 5: Island Leisure & Departure

Morning: Take a half‑day trip to Île aux Cerfs for snorkeling in crystal‑clear waters and relaxing on its pristine beach.

Afternoon: Indulge in a spa treatment at your resort, followed by a leisurely lunch overlooking the lagoon.

Evening: Pack up, enjoy a final sunset walk on the beach, and transfer to the airport for departure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Grand Baie Beach – 2 hours – $0 (free)
• Grand Baie Market – 1 hour – $5 (snacks & souvenirs)
• Port Louis Central Market – 2 hours – $10 (food tasting)
• Aapravasi Ghat – 1 hour – $3 (entry)
Caudan Waterfront – 1.5 hours – $0 (free browsing)
• Catamaran Sunset Cruise – 3 hours – $45 (incl. drinks)
• Black River Gorges NP – 3 hours – $0 (free)
• Le Morne Brabant – 2 hours – $5 (park fee)
• Flic en Flac Beach – 2 hours – $0 (free)
• Beachside BBQ Dinner – 2 hours – $30 (per person)
• Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden – 2 hours – $4
• Chamarel Colored Earth & Waterfall – 2 hours – $6
• Sega Dance Show & Dinner – 2 hours – $35
• Île aux Cerfs Excursion – 4 hours – $55 (boat & snorkel gear)
• Spa Treatment – 1.5 hours – $80
• Airport Transfer (round‑trip) – 1 hour – $25
• Total Estimated Cost – $361 per person (excluding accommodation and flights)

Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a day to explore the east coast’s Île aux Aigrettes nature reserve or a dolphin‑watching tour from Tamarin. To shorten the itinerary, combine Day 2 and Day 3 by visiting Port Louis in the morning and heading straight to Black River Gorges in the afternoon, reducing one full day of travel.