At Le Morne, the history of Mauritius becomes tangible in a specific place. The cultural landscape is located at the southwestern tip of the island and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on 10 July 2008. It illustrates the history of slavery in Mauritius and the pursuit of freedom in the 17th and 18th centuries. The mountain served as a fortress and refuge for escaped enslaved people; physical and oral evidence documents this use.
History Between Freedom and Arrival
Aapravasi Ghat offers another historical perspective. Between 1834 and 1920, almost half a million indentured workers from India arrived there. They came to work on Mauritius’s sugar plantations or to be transported onwards to Réunion, Australia, southern and eastern Africa, or the Caribbean. The site’s history therefore encompasses both work on the island and onward transportation beyond Mauritius.
The historic site of Vieux Grand Port is considered the place where Mauritius was first settled by humans. The Frederik Hendrik Museum opened on 27 May 1999. These places represent different historical reference points: the first settlement, resistance to slavery, and the arrival of indentured workers.
Forest, Mangroves and Coral
Bras d’Eau National Park covers 497.2 hectares and is planted mainly with mahogany, araucarias, tecoma and eucalyptus. Mare Sarcelle is part of the park and is home to mangroves, native plant species and some migratory bird species. The Coq des Bois Trail leads through the forest and ends at Mares Chevrettes. This brings together named tree species, a mangrove area and a specific route through the park.
The Blue Bay Marine Park offers a different natural highlight. It is home to a species-rich marine ecosystem with diverse marine fauna and flora, particularly a diverse coral community. The corals form a distinct focus within this marine diversity.
Cuisine and Market Life
Dhollpuri and roti are among Mauritians’ favourite dishes. Anyone interested in local cuisine will find both names offer a specific connection to the country’s food culture. The market on Farquhar Street has sections for fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, as well as souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing and spices. The market’s listed sections may change; check what is currently available before visiting.
Getting Around the Island
Port Louis is the only port on the island of Mauritius. Bus services operate in various regions and make it possible to travel to almost every place on the island. If you plan to use buses, check the current routes and schedules.
Discover more destinations: Port Louis, Pamplemousses, Plaines Wilhems, Black River, Flacq, Grand Port, Riviere Du Rempart, Savanne, Rodrigues, Moka.
