Mauritius is a small piece of land of volcanic origin with a surface area of 1,865km², stretching over 65km long and 45km wide. Officially known as the Republic of Mauritius, the country also includes the autonomous island of Rodrigues and the remote islands of St-Brandon and Agalega.
This island paradise par excellence off the eastern coast of Africa is a pure slice of natural beauty, in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Located at longitude 20° South and latitude 57° East, about 2,000km from the southeastern coast of Africa and approximately 870km from Madagascar, Mauritius is characterised by a relatively flat landscape. Its highest point, the Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, rises to 828m above sea level and there are no active volcanoes anymore on the island.
Sense of welcome and hospitality
Mauritius is almost entirely surrounded by a coral reef that protects its turquoise blue lagoon and fine sandy beaches. The interior of the island is has an abundance of tropical vegetation; the majestic and diverse landscape is only equalled by the sense of welcome and hospitality that is extended to visitors from the moment they arrive on the island.
For over two centuries, sugar cane plantations covered the greater part of the coastal plains of the island. This tall grass was introduced from Java by the Dutch in the 17th century and has long been the main pillar of the development and prosperity of the country. The cooler climate of the highlands is more favourable to the cultivation of tea.
Undeniable natural beauty
The undeniable natural beauty as well as an outstanding cultural and historical heritage also contributed to the development of tourism as a pillar of the economy, alongside sectors such as the textile industry, financial services and more recently, outsourcing.
Whatever your holiday preferences – sports, nature, culture and discovery, wedding, or simply to relax – the destination has a wealth of experiences for couples, families (including young children) and groups of friends alike.
