For decades, Mauritius has held a special place in the hearts of South African travellers. This Indian Ocean gem continues to draw visitors back year after year, and it's easy to see why.
Here are just five compelling reasons Mauritius remains a timeless favourite:
1. No extra paperwork
One of the biggest perks for South Africans is that no visa is required when travelling to Mauritius. Plus, there are direct flights from Johannesburg, meaning you’ll be dipping your toes in warm Mauritian waters in as few as four hours after boarding. Getting to this island paradise is a breeze!
2. Self-catering, all-inclusive, and adults-only
There’s somewhere for everyone in Mauritius. Luxury seekers can find bliss at the 5-star InterContinental Mauritius or Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel, while families often opt for the flexibility of self-catering options like the Be Cosy Apart Hotel or for an easy, all-inclusive family getaway at the Riu Turquoise.
For those seeking adult-only retreats, Mauritius has various options, such as the Solana Beach Mauritius, the Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette, the Riu Palace Mauritius, and the luxe Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel.
3. World-Class Resorts and Service
Renowned hotel groups like Beachcomber and LUX* have perfected the art of Mauritian hospitality. The 4-star Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa, for instance, offers spacious family suites, complimentary kids' clubs and a range of dining options to suit all palates. Beachcomber is a favourite with generations of South African families for good reason – not only do they promise royal treatment, but there are also eight hotels to choose from. For luxury lovers, there are four LUX* resorts on the island, each offering a distinctive experience but that same luxuriously playful LUX* approach. The staff at the resorts pride themselves on surprising their guests with prizes hidden in bottles on the beach or a sneaky pop-up ice cream cart that’s there one day and gone the next.
4. Year-round appeal
While Mauritius is beautiful all year round, savvy travellers know to choose their location based on the season.
Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa, explains: “The east coast is ideal for its calm seas and cooling breezes during the summer months. The west coast offers spectacular sunsets and is perfect for winter stays, which is when the east experiences stronger winds. For an action-packed holiday, choose the north-west near Grand Baie, and for a quieter, ‘do nothing’ holiday, opt for the quieter south coast.”
5. Activities for everyone
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy snorkelling, diving, and kayaking in crystal-clear lagoons, while culture buffs can explore the island's history and diverse culinary scene.
It's no wonder Mauritius remains South Africa's top international destination. According to Flight Centre's 'Year in Travel 2023' report, Mauritius was not only the most popular international destination overall, but it also ranked as the top choice for both solo travellers and couples.
Ready to experience Mauritius for yourself? Contact Flight Centre today to book your perfect island getaway.
