Various legendary poets, writers, and artists have been driven to deliver sheafs of purple prose concerning Mauritius and its beauty. This volcanic island nation, comprising a number of small islets, sits like a pearl in the Indian Ocean, around 500 miles east of Madagascar. It is ringed by coral reefs, perfect white-sand beaches, and clear turquoise seas. Many come purely to sun-seek and spa, but there’s so much more to the country for those willing to explore.

This nation was once ruled by the French, Dutch, and British, and the influence of these nations is mixed with its African heritage. There are national parks to hike in and explore with uniquely biodiverse plants and animals, colonial mansions to visit, tiny mountain villages to discover, and sumptuous uninhabited islands to investigate.

You can fly directly to Mauritius from a number of European cities, arriving at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU). There’s also a small airport on the island of Rodrigues (RRG), with regular daily flights from the main island. The capital of Port Louis and the tourist hub of Grand Baie are on the opposite side of the island. Buses run from the airport — the 198 line runs to Port Louis — and there is an extensive bus system around the main island. Taxis are also cheap and plentiful. Many choose to hire a car to get around, which can be done at the airport, but remember Mauritians drive on the left. And if you really want to push the boat out, as it were, helicopter transfers and tours are available at the airport.

This is a tropical paradise we’re talking about, so you’ll probably find joyous sunshine at any time of the year. The only period you may wish to avoid staying in a villa here is from late December to March, when there’s a higher chance of a cyclone. Summer here runs from November to April, which are both the hottest and the wettest months. The period around Christmas gets especially busy, with Northern Hemispherians seeking some winter sun. The winter months of June to September are still pleasantly warm with less chance of a shower (and fewer mosquitos). The diverse cultural character of the island is reflected in its many festivals. The Tamil Thaipoosam Cavadee festival takes place in February, as does the Hindu Maha Shivaratri festival, while Mauritians of all faiths celebrate Pere Laval Day in September.

Natural History Museum

Sadly there’s not much chance of seeing a living dodo in the flesh anywhere at the moment. The closest you can come is a visit to this museum in Port Louis, which has a section dedicated to the extinct flightless bird that was once endemic to this part of the world until Dutch settlers decided they just tasted too good. There are further exhibits on the fascinating fauna and flora of the country.

Black River Gorges National Park

If you can drag yourself away from the beach, then be sure to head inland to the largest national park on the island. With acres of rainforest to explore, this is where you’re going to witness the most astonishing wildlife and terrain in the region. A great place for a hike, you might catch a glimpse of the famed rare pink pigeon! The waterfall at nearby Chamarel is also worth exploring.

Rodrigues

Just a short plane ride away from the main island, the stunningly beautiful Rodrigues features expansive coastal hiking trails, the Île aux Cocos nature reserve, the blissful Trou d’Argent cove, incredible food, some of the best diving on the planet, and wild tortoises.