The beautiful volcanic island of Mauritius is a great choice for a family destination. This island nation annually attracts millions of visitors who wanted to have a unique and unforgettable holiday.

For those who are not aware, tourism is actually a major component of Mauritian economy, which obviously explains why the service and experience is unparalleled.

Mauritius is easily accessible from various countries. For instance, travel time is approximately 11 hours from Europe, 6 hours from South Africa and 14 hours from Australia. Additionally, don’t worry about any language barriers as there are three official languages – French, English and Creole (though it is doubtful if any tourist would be able to speak Creole as fluent as a local).

The beach of Ile aux Cerf – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

There are tons of things to do in Mauritius with children. For one thing, a great family holiday couldn’t be complete without spotless white sandy beaches. Kids may also explore reefs, since it is not far from shore – it is only about 100 meters away. Therefore one won’t have high waves.

But of course, one cannot spend all day in these enticing waters since there are other (but equally) exciting things that the island nation offers.

Itemized below are “11 things to do witch children in Mauritius” – be sure not to miss any of the recommended activities to ensure a distinctive holiday.

1. The Botanical Garden in Pamplemousse

Every vacationing family should strongly consider going to this botanical garden for a morning stroll. If you have little ones or someone who tires easily in the group it would be advisable to bring a stroller for the former and a small bike for the latter (this should give you an idea on how huge and fascinating the garden is).

I would also personally recommend getting a guided tour. It will only cost 1€ per person yet it’s much more fun to have tour guide. He will tell the interesting story of the garden as well as detailed info about the variety of plants.

Lastly, there are no cafés within the botanical garden so be sure to bring along bottled water and snacks.

2. Blue Safari Submarine

After exploring the exotic flora above, it is now time to be impressed with underwater aquatic life. One of the best things we did in Mauritius with our children is underwater exploration inside areal submarine. Yes, you read that right – a real submarine.

Blue safari submarine – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

This is a great activity to see moraines, coral reed, and different variety of fishes. The submarine will take you underwater up to 30 meters deep and is truly a memorable and remarkable activity (our children actually can’t stop talking about it for days).

3. Vanilla Crocodile Park

Vanilla Crocodile Park is situated in the south of Mauritius. Don’t let the name fool you – this green and lush jungle does not only contain crocodiles. It is in fact home to monkeys, giant turtles, bats, and of course – crocodiles.

Be sure to bring some bananas to make new turtle friends.

4. Zipline Tour

Also located in southern Mauritius is the 500-meter zipline tour of Domaine des Couleurs and the half day tour at Domaine de Chazal.

Don’t be afraid of the height and length of the zipline – apparently, even a 3 month old baby can do it.

Zipline at Domaine des Couleurs – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

The activity can be done individually or with another person. Although doing it alone can surely boost one’s self-esteem and confidence, we opted to strap our 3 year old daughter onto my harness so we could do it together.

5. Sunday Brunch at C Beach Club

Activities 1 to 4 are exciting but tiring so let’s take a break and we’ll introduce you to the C Beach Club. Located next to the Heritage Hotel in Bel Ombre, this club is situated directly on a beautiful beach – complete with playground and a huge pool.

One of our favorites for Sundays – Copyright by CBeach Club

During Sundays, they offer an “all you can eat brunch” which is perfect for dining, relaxing, and chatting with your love ones. And on some special Sundays, there’s a DJ invited for Beach Party. Partying with your kids or having a great time on a lazy Sunday – the choice is yours.

6. Aquarium

Who says one wouldn’t learn anything while on vacation. Education is a lifelong process and even I learned a lot while visiting the Aquarium in the north of Mauritius.

The Aquarium in the North – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

It’s one of the things to do in Mauritius with children when it’s a rainy day or you want to avoid the sun. Make sure to come during feeding times. It’s great to see sea turtles, sharks and moraines having lunch.

7. Solar Under Sea Walk

If you want to experience the thrill of being closer to the fishes (and your children are older than 5), then gear up – put the special helmet on your head and walk underwater. Feeding all the zebra fishes is something worth remembering (located in Grand Baie so don’t miss the chance to see hundreds of fishes)

Solar Underseawalk, a fantastic experience – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

8. Indoor playgrounds

Speaking of Grand Baie, it has the Funky Monkey indoor playground and the Bagatelle Shopping Mall. When it’s raining (though not often), visiting these places are suggested things to do with children in Mauritius.

Kids up to age 10 can enjoy Funny Monkey while you and your partner can have coffee or pizza (or use the free WiFi).

If the kids think they are too old for Funny Monkey, next to it is the Fit Club where they can join courses like Karate, Gymnastics or Drama.

Our kids loved Funky Monkey – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

9. Port Louis

The buzzing capital Port Louis shows the cultural mix of Chinese, Hindus, Franko-Mauritian and Creole like no other part at Mauritius. Wandering through the vegetable and fruit market, buying best quality and enjoying the colourful and friendly locals is a good thing to do in Mauritius with children as it exposes them to cultural diversity.

Chinatown and the shopping mall waterfront is a great place to spend some rupees on souvenirs, clothes, and other useful things.

The fruit and vegetable market – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

10. Dolphin watching

Every morning dolphins meet at the west coast to go hunting together. They are in a playful mood and can be observed from boats which depart at La Preneuse (be sure to book the boat in advance as this is a popular Mauritius activity with children)

Since the boat leaves at 7:30 am, we recommend eating breakfast or to take some with you (kids might get hungry while en route).

It is also possible to snorkel with the dolphins. Kids are always welcome to try this fascinating experience with wild but friendly animals.

Exciting! – Copyright by www.ants-in-our-pants.com

11. Biscuiterie at Mahebourg

The Biscuiterie is a tiny factory known for producing the international famous biscuits in a historic procedure. Made of manioc, one can follow the process and get a lovely tour to know what really goes behind the scenes when making the popular biscuit. At the end of the tour, everyone is invited to have a cup of tea or coffee and taste the yummy biscuits made of manioc.

Our kids love to dip them in hot chocolate or tea

How about you? Which adventure would your kids love to do?