Exploring the Treasures of Mauritius: A Day of Discovery with Mautourco

Welcome to the enchanting island of Mauritius, where crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage await. Let us guide you through the southern wonders of this tropical paradise.

The journey begins at the Maubon Banana Factory, situated at La Flora, a delightful spot that offers a unique insight into Mauritius’ efforts to diversify its type of tourism activities: agro tourism, that’s what this attraction is all about. First let’s look at the name itself. Maubon! It is a combination of two Mauritian words; ‘mau’ (mo in creole) meaning I am and ‘bon’ which means ‘good’ respectively. In fact, the name speaks for itself; tasty products made from banana! It’s bottom-line principle: To throw nothing away! From the fruit, through the trunk of the banana tree to the flower, everything is used. As you stroll through the vibrant factory, the knowledgeable staff of Maubon share fascinating knowledge about how all the components of the banana tree are used to create an incredible number of products. After discovering and participating in the process of making banana chips, time for the foodies to enjoy themselves! Taste the different flavours of banana chips, either cheese & onion, spicy, chicken or original; the choice is all yours! Afterwards get the chance to taste juice made from the banana tree stem, salad from the banana flowers and even pickles with crackers – a true treat for your taste buds!

The next stop is in the village of Mahebourg which holds a treasure trove of Mauritius maritime history dating back to the 18th century. The Naval Museum also known as Chateau De Robillard or Gheude castle is housed in a historic French colonial building. As you step through its doors, the museum brings you back to the island’s naval past, showcasing artefacts, interactive exhibits that highlight the importance of Mauritius as a strategic maritime hub and shipwrecks such as of Pieter Both. Immerse in Mauritius history as our passionate guides narrate tales of naval battles, the great Naval Battle of Vieux Grand Port, a significant naval engagement between the French and the British during the Napoleonic Wars. There are various sections of the museum dedicated to the different colonization periods of Mauritius and the cultural influences that have shaped the island. Some bones of an extinct species of Giant Tortoises and of the Dodo are also displayed at the museum to testify their existence few hundred years back. As you explore the museum, take a moment to appreciate its scenic location overlooking the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.

Next on the itinerary, the breathtaking nature reserve of Ile Aux Aigrettes, an ecological gem; haven for endemic flora and fauna, offering an immersive experience in Mauritius’ conservation efforts. As you embark on a boat ride from the mainland to Ile Aux Aigrettes, the anticipation builds for the natural wonders that await. Upon setting foot on the island, you are immediately enveloped in a serene atmosphere. The first thing that strikes you is the lush, green landscape, teeming with endemic plant species that have been carefully restored to their natural habitat while the panoramic views of the turquoise Indian Ocean from the island’s shores make it a picture-perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Keep your eyes peeled for the famed Pink Pigeon, once on the brink of extinction but now thriving thanks to dedicated conservation work. Giant Aldabra tortoises, unique to the Seychelles, also roam freely on the island, adding to the enchanting experience of being surrounded by wildlife. In fact, the island’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the visit.

After a morning of exploration, indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Falaise Rouge. As you arrive, your attention is captured by the panoramic view; perched on the edge of dramatic cliffs, the restaurant provides a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the ocean, creating a perfect setting for an incredible culinary journey through the diverse flavors of Mauritius. Every dish is a delightful fusion of local ingredients and international influences, creating a gastronomic experience that lingers in your memory. From aromatic spices to fresh seafood, every bite reflects the island’s rich culinary heritage. Local specialties, such as octopus salad or palm heart ceviche, introduce you to the rich flavors of Mauritian cuisine. The chefs take pride in sourcing ingredients locally, ensuring a farm-to-table experience that enhances the authenticity of every dish. In fact, no meal is complete without a sweet note, and Falaise Rouge excels in delivering memorable desserts. Savor the richness of homemade chocolate lava cake or indulge in tropical fruit-infused delights that add a sweet and refreshing touch to the culinary journey. After lunch, stop to admire the panoramic views from Pointe Canon which are breathtaking. The turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean extend to the horizon, providing a captivating contrast to the verdant coastal landscapes; a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts, offering an unspoiled vista that captures the essence of Mauritius.

As the day comes to an end, we hope to leave you with lots of memories to cherish but most importantly a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Mauritius. It is always a pleasure to accompany you to unlock the secrets of this tropical dreamland ensuring that your visit is nothing but extraordinary.

Anne-Sophie