Mauritius is renowned for its sandy beaches and its turquoise seas. But do you know that there are some other attractions that might be interesting for tourists? Follow this short guide to find out more on places that you should not miss during your stay in this tropical island.

Grand Bassin

This is a sacred place for the Hindu community of the island where each year a pilgrimage is held. Located in the center of the island not far from the Mare Aux Vacoas reservoir, this is a volcanic crater that offers breathtaking scenery. This is definitely a place that you should not miss if you are staying on the island.

Black River Gorges

This is a natural park that offers some great landscape for all those that are fond of hiking and outdoors. This is actually the bank of the Black River that has been made from the mountain of Riviere Noire. A guide might be necessary if you want to go in the most difficult part of the Gorge but there are some other tracks that are much easier to accomplish.

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

The garden is also known as the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens and is located a mere 15 minutes from the capital, Port Louis. There are some endemic plants that are present there and you can also find some rare plants in there. Among the major attractions you have the water lilies in the numerous ponds located in the garden and that should really allow you to make some really outstanding photos.

Caudan Waterfront

The Caudan Waterfront is located in the capital Port Louis and provides the only night-life in the capital besides some individual restaurants. You will have the choice between a cinema, casino and different restaurants to help you enjoy your night in the capital.

Tamarin

If you are looking for a place for windsurfing then Tamarin is definitely the place to be in. Do not get fooled by the relative calmness of the place during the week as you could be overwhelmed during the weekend. Tamarin also offers some really good beaches for those that are looking to relax peacefully with their family. Children will definitely love this place.

Ile aux Cerfs

This is a small island that is located off the east coast of Mauritius and should provide great excursion possibilities. There are some small boats that will take you across the sea to Iles aux Cerfs. Once on the island you will be amazed at the tranquility of the sea and the immaculate scenery. You can also choose to take your lunch on the island itself where you will have the choice among a wide variety of menus.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GbHqujLBjE[/youtube]

Mauritius does offer some great opportunities when it comes to excursion and place of interest. You are not limited to the ones that are offered by the hotels and moving inland should indeed open up a world of opportunities to you. Whatever your taste might be you are sure going to find something that will suit your particular lifestyle.