Mauritius is an island nation off the coast of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometres east of Madagascar.
The temperature on the coastal areas varies between 22 in winter and in summer. The sea temperature varies between 22 and 27. In the central part of the island, the maximum daytime temperature varies from about 19 in August to about 26 in February. The western and northern regions are warmer and relatively drier than the East and the South.
Mauritius is a paradise for deep sea fishing. Species include the blue or black marlin, all types of sharks, yellow tuna act. Huge fishes like the Blue Marlin roam our seas and hunt around the island from November to April, and very often until May.
The ocean is 70 metres deep one kilometre away from the coast. Mauritius holds several world fishing records, including that of the mako shark of 1115 pounds, the blue shark of 400 pounds, a bonito of 41.5 pounds, a white tuna of 224 pounds and a becune of 125 pounds. African records mention a yellow tuna of 212 pounds and a white tuna of 224 pounds. Other specimens recently caught include blue marlins of 1430 and 1355 pounds. Fishing boats can be hired from almost all hotels. The most prestigious deep sea fishing competition is the Marlin World Cup which is hosted in December by La Pirogue Hotel.
Grand Bay was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand Bay also happens to be the area where Mauritians head for when they want a fun filled night out with restaurants, bars and discos. Recently renovated, La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit.
The wonderful Pereybere public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs.
A few metres away from Baie aux Tortues, which 17th century sailors named after the many tortoises in the area, can be found the ruins of the old Balaclava estate. Visitors will be able to see the sea walls, whose initial foundations were laid down by Mahe de Labourdonnais.
The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple, the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha.
Discover a large variety of tropical fruit trees, colourful and perfumed exotic flowers. Trips on mountain bikes or hiking are possible.
