Mauritius is celebrated for its stunning beaches and rich biodiversity, drawing over a million tourists each year. This number is expected to grow year-on-year until at least 2028, and while this is great for the island’s economy that relies heavily on tourism, the influx of visitors could negatively impact the island’s natural resources. With that in mind, here’s how to stay, eat and experience the best of Mauritius sustainably:
Mauritius offers a range of eco-friendly activities that allow travellers to explore the island’s natural beauty while minimising their environmental impact. Here are just a few:
The crystal-clear waters of Mauritius are perfect for snorkelling, and eco-conscious travellers can join tours that prioritise reef conservation. Companies like Eco Holidays Mauritius offer snorkelling excursions that educate participants about coral preservation and responsible marine tourism. They use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid feeding fish and provide guests with information on how to snorkel without damaging the coral.
Black River Gorges National Park is Mauritius’ largest protected forest and a haven for biodiversity. The park offers numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty, allowing visitors to explore waterfalls, dense forests, and unique wildlife. The trails are well maintained to minimise environmental impact, and hikers are encouraged to stay on designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystem.
For a low-impact way to explore the Mauritian coastline, kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent choices. These activities offer a unique perspective of the island’s stunning lagoons and allow travellers to connect with nature without leaving a trace.
Cycling is an eco-friendly way to explore Mauritius, offering the freedom to discover hidden gems at your own pace. Several operators offer guided cycling tours that take you through scenic routes, including coastal paths, sugar cane fields and rural villages. These tours often include stops at local markets and cultural sites, providing an immersive experience that supports local communities and reduces the reliance on motorised transport.
Several top hotel and resort groups in Mauritius have made firm commitments to reduce the environmental footprint of guests. One of the leaders of the pack is the LUX Collective, a grouping of several diverse properties around the island.
The LUX Collective has embedded a robust sustainable travel policy across all properties, focusing on reducing their carbon footprint, conserving natural resources and supporting local communities. Their approach is holistic, addressing energy and water efficiency, waste management, biodiversity conservation and community engagement. The group’s initiatives also include eliminating single-use plastics, sourcing food locally, supporting reef conservation efforts and engaging guests in meaningful environmental practices.
In addition to sustainable practices, four of LUX Collective properties are now making a visit more affordable for South African travellers with limited-time reduced rates. Here’s a quick summary of the four properties, and how each is striving for sustainability:
Salt of Palmar is not just a hotel but also a sustainable lifestyle brand that embraces the philosophy of minimalism and responsible tourism. The first thing you’ll notice is that the hotel has eliminated all single-use plastics and uses refillable, locally made amenities in guest rooms.
The next is that the culinary experience at Salt of Palmar is rooted in the farm-to-table concept, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced, organic produce. The hotel also works closely with local farmers and fishermen, ensuring that the food served is fresh, seasonal, and sustainably sourced.
Salt of Palmar also offers guests the chance to engage with the local culture through workshops and experiences that connect them with the island’s traditions and sustainable practices, such as cooking classes using Mauritian spices and visits to local artisan markets.
Go Here with Sure: Experience 5 nights of eco-friendly luxury at Salt of Palmar, now priced from R29,150 pps. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Garden View room, and breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive package. Full details and Ts and C s here.
Nestled in the southern part of the island, Tamassa Bel Ombre is designed for families and couples who seek relaxation without compromising on environmental responsibility. The hotel operates with a strong focus on energy efficiency, utilising solar power for water heating and energy-saving technologies throughout the property.
Tamassa has also implemented extensive waste management systems, including composting organic waste and recycling initiatives, and has significantly reduced water consumption through the use of smart irrigation systems and water-saving fixtures. Importantly, their “No Plastic” policy extends to every corner of the hotel, from the bar to the beach, ensuring a minimal environmental impact.
Go Here with Sure: Enjoy a 5 night stay at Tamassa Bel Ombre, now priced from R23,480 p/p sharing. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Tamassa room, and breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive and/or a 7-night stay. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
LUX Grand Gaube proves that luxury resorts can tread lightly on the planet. This resort has integrated sustainability into every aspect of its operations, from the use of eco-friendly building materials to the adoption of renewable energy sources. The hotel uses solar panels to generate electricity and has implemented water recycling systems that reduce overall water consumption. LUX Grand Gaube’s commitment to sustainability extends to its dining options as well, featuring menus that celebrate Mauritian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
The hotel also promotes marine conservation through coral planting initiatives, and guests are encouraged to participate in snorkelling excursions that educate on coral reef preservation and marine life protection. On land, the resort offers eco-tours that include guided nature walks and cycling tours, promoting exploration with minimal environmental impact.
Go Here with Sure: Embrace nature with a 5-night stay at LUX Grand Gaube, now priced from R32,990 pps. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Superior room, breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive and/or a 7-night stay. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
LUX Grand Baie also combines luxury with a deep commitment to sustainability. Located on the northern coast of Mauritius, this resort utilises advanced technology to monitor and manage energy use, employs rainwater harvesting systems, and has a strong waste reduction programme.
The resort’s dining philosophy revolves around sustainable gastronomy, with a focus on reducing food miles by sourcing ingredients from local suppliers. LUX Grand Baie also offers a variety of wellness experiences that emphasise a connection with nature, such as yoga on the beach, eco-friendly spa treatments, and fitness activities that incorporate the natural landscape.
Go Here with Sure: Experience eco-friendly luxury with a 5-night stay at LUX Grand Baie, now priced from R47,290 pps. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Junior Suite, breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive and/or a 7-night stay. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
Mauritian cuisine is a delightful blend of Creole, Indian, Chinese and French influences, offering a diverse array of flavours that cater to all palates.
When you’re not dining in sustainability-inspired restaurants within your resort, try seeking out independent restaurants that embrace sustainability. Here are a few standouts:
Perched high in the hills, Le Chamarel Restaurant not only offers breath-taking views of the island’s southwest coast but also a commitment to sustainability. The restaurant uses solar power for its energy needs and has a dedicated organic garden from which it sources herbs and vegetables.
Les Copains d’Abord is a standout in the sustainable dining scene, prioritising farm-to-table dining with a strong focus on local and organic ingredients. The restaurant partners with nearby farms and fishermen, ensuring that the food is as fresh as possible and supports the local community.
This family-run restaurant in Moka serves traditional Creole dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. In addition, Escale Creole has eliminated single-use plastics and is dedicated to minimising waste, composting organic materials and recycling.
Why not skip the over-crowded mass tourism activities and support local, sustainable projects that enable travellers to fully experience the biodiversity of the island while making a positive impact on the environment and community? Mauritius is home to numerous such initiatives, like these renowned projects:
The Mauritius Wildlife Foundation (MWF) is a leading conservation organisation dedicated to protecting the island’s native flora and fauna. They have been instrumental in the recovery of critically endangered species such as the Mauritius Kestrel and the Pink Pigeon. Visitors can join guided tours at nature reserves like Ile aux Aigrettes, where you can learn about on-going conservation efforts and witness the island’s rare wildlife in their natural habitat.
Eco-Sud is a Mauritian NGO focused on promoting sustainable development through community engagement and environmental education. They run various programmes, including beach clean-ups, mangrove restoration and coral reef conservation projects. Tourists can participate in these activities, gaining hands-on experience in environmental conservation while helping to protect Mauritius’ natural resources.
Coral reefs are vital to the island’s marine ecosystem, and Reef Conservation Mauritius is at the forefront of preserving these underwater treasures. They work on various projects aimed at monitoring reef health, restoring coral populations and educating the public about the importance of coral reefs. Visitors can join their snorkelling and diving programmes, which are designed to minimise environmental impact and include educational components on marine conservation.
The Ebony Forest Reserve is a restoration project aimed at bringing back the native ebony trees that once dominated Mauritius. Visitors can take guided walks through the reserve, learn about the island’s deforestation history, and even participate in tree planting initiatives. The reserve also features an educational museum and a skywalk offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and coastline.
From hotels and resorts to activities and sustainable projects, Mauritius’ tourism industry is well set-up to enable travellers to make the most out of their holiday without leaving a footprint.
Ask your Sure Travel Agent to assist in choosing a package or a custom itinerary that follows the greener path.
TLC Vacations is offering discounted packages for four LUX Collective properties, all of which follow sustainable tourism practices. Choose from:
5 Nights at Tamassa Bel Ombre, now priced from R23,480 p/p sharing. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Tamassa room, and breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive and/or a 7-night stay. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
5 Nights at Salt of Palmar, now priced from R29,150 pps. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Garden View room, and breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive package. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
5 Nights at LUX Grand Gaube, now priced from R32,990 pps. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Superior room, breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive and/or a 7-night stay. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
5 Nights at LUX Grand Baie, now priced from R47,290 pps. Package includes return flights from Johannesburg, return airport transfers, approximate airport taxes and fuel levies, 5 nights accommodation in a Junior Suite, breakfast and dinner daily. Plus there’s the option to upgrade to all-inclusive and/or a 7-night stay. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
To book, contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent. Find yours here.
