Mauritius is a small tropical island located in the Indian Ocean. Mauritius is well known for its white sandy beaches and its calm lagoons. However, visitors coming to Mauritius have a list of other places of interest that worth visiting namely:

Port-Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is the most densely populated district. During the colonial period, Port-Louis was considered as `the star and the key of the Indian Ocean`. It is the place where you will learn more about the history of Mauritius through many of its historical buildings that have been left since the French and British occupations and through several of its museums namely; Mauritius postal museum, natural history museum, windmill museum and blue penny museum. It is also the best place to learn more about the locals` lifestyle and traditions.

Pamplemousses Botanical garden is located some 10 kilometers north of Port-Louis. Pamplemousses garden was first built by Pierre Poivre and covers some 60 acres of land. Here you will see waterlilies from the Amazon, tortoise from other tropical islands, stags from Indonesia, and many other plants and trees from several other countries.

Casela Bird and Nature park is located in the west of Mauritius in Black River. The Casela consists of many birds species from several countries including the Mauritius Pink Pigeon. The Casela also has a zoo with animals such as swans and duck, peacocks, tortoise, monkeys, tigers, donkeys and rabbits. You will also have the opportunity to fish tilapia from ponds in the park and explore the rest of the park on quad bike or bicycle.

La Vanille Crocodile Park is located at Rivière des Anguilles. The crocodile park consists of Nile crocodiles, tortoise strolling freely, monkeys, wild boars, lizards, and bats.

La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park is located at Chamouny. Here you will be enthralled by its fantastic waterfalls and the 24 coloured earth. From its viewpoint you have a picturesque view of its landscape.

Bois Cheri tea factory is the place where you will learn more about the history of tea production in Mauritius. It has a museum that displays equipments used in the tea factory during the colonial period. Normally there is a guide that will accompany you throughout your visit to throw lights on the several phases of tea production, from tea leaves to finish product in tea bags. At the end of your visit you will be invited to have a cup of tea.

By: Zubeyr Kureemun