Mauritius with Kids: Top 10 Family-Friendly Activities

In Mauritius, family memories are made on warm sand, in a pirogue, wandering through a lively market or a quiet, peaceful garden – far from screens. Here, it’s often the simplest moments that become the most precious: freshly cut pineapple juice, sticky syrupy fingers, pockets full of sand, kayaking in crystal-clear waters, and endless bursts of laughter…

Here are 10 family-friendly activities to enjoy in Mauritius – to marvel, learn, move, and laugh together.

1. Visit Flacq and Mahébourg Markets

Stroll through Mauritius’ bustling markets to soak up vibrant colors, exotic scents, and authentic island life.

Tropical fruits, spicy Mauritian snacks, handmade crafts, and friendly vendors make it an exciting adventure for kids. Let little ones taste samosas fresh from the fryer and help you pick out vanilla pods or local spices to take home.

📅Best day to visit: Mondays

2. Snorkel in Blue Bay or Pointe d’Esny

Recommended age: 6+ (with a life jacket and fitted mask)

Introduce your kids to the magical underwater world.

Swim together among coral gardens and colorful tropical fish in warm, shallow waters – perfect for beginners.

🌿 Tip: After snorkeling, enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Karay Mario for delicious Mauritian seafood dishes.

3. Family Kayaking Adventures

Recommended age: 6+ (with an adult)

Why not head out for a family kayaking trip? Grab your hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and set off on an adventure that’s as active as it is relaxing.

🌅 Paddle along the Tamarin River at sunrise with Lokal Adventure – and you might just spot dolphins swimming nearby! Or, if you’re more into the “transparent kayak” experience to admire the marine life beneath you, head to The Ravenala Attitude for an unforgettable outing.

Float gently with the current, observe the surrounding nature, enjoy the quiet… or burst into laughter together. That’s what family adventure feels like.

4. Hike the Black River Gorges National Park

Recommended age: 5+

A family, a forest trail, a soft breeze, and birdsong… sometimes, that’s all you need to enjoy the moment.

In the Black River Gorges National Park, walk at your own pace and simply savour the joy of being together. Children turn into little explorers, collecting leaves, sticks, and stones, keeping an eye out for wildlife. Both kids and adults will be amazed by the breathtaking view over the canopy from the viewpoints.

⏱️ Plan around 2.5 hours to fully enjoy the scenery, with trails suitable for families and casual walkers. The park is open daily from 6am to 6pm. Don’t forget to bring water, a hat… and a dose of curiosity!

5. Discover Hidden Gems with the

Otentik Discovery App

Recommended age: 6+ (with an adult)

What if your child became the guide? With an interactive map in hand, set off on a walking trail off the beaten path. Discover secret spots, places steeped in history, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes along the way.

🌟 Our favourite route: the delicious “Port Louis Street Food” trail.

Une aventure locale, ludique et 100% gratuite à vivre via l’appli Otentik Discovery pour vous faire découvrir l’île autrement.

Lien de l’application: Apple – Androïd 

6. Play with Illusions at Curious Corner

of Chamarel

Recommended age: 4+

Step into a playful world of optical illusions, quirky rooms, and fun photo opportunities. Kids and parents alike will love this interactive attraction – perfect for a rainy afternoon.

🌿 Combine with a visit to the Seven Coloured Earths nearby.

7. Explore the Ocean at

Odysseo Ocenarium

Recommended age: 2+

Odysseo Ocenarium in Port Louis is much more than just an aquarium – it’s a place of wonder and awareness for all ages.

Through its giant tanks, underwater tunnel, and fascinating sharks, corals, and colourful fish, Odysseo invites visitors young and old to discover the richness of the Indian Ocean… and to reflect on its fragility.

On an island like Mauritius, surrounded by lagoons and coral reefs, Odysseo is deeply committed to educating, raising awareness, and actively contributing to the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems. A visit that inspires awe, sparks questions, and encourages everyone to take action on their own scale.

8. Learn and Play at L’Aventure du Sucre

Recommended age: 3+

A former sugar factory turned into a fascinating eco-museum, L’Aventure du Sucre takes you on an interactive journey through the island’s history, sugarcane, and its many transformations.

The kids’ trail is perfectly designed for little ones, with games, surprises, and sweet tastings – all in an immersive setting. Teenagers will love trying their hand at cane cutting and exploring the temporary exhibitions. And parents? They can enjoy a mixology workshop for a grown-up treat!

9. Picnic at Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

Recommended age: All ages

Relax under towering palms and casuarina trees with a family picnic. Kids can run through the gardens, marvel at giant water lilies, and spot exotic plants in this iconic spot.

10. Go on a Catamaran Cruise

Recommended age: 3+ (half-day trip)

Set sail on a family catamaran trip and enjoy stunning views of Mauritius from the sea.

Swim in turquoise waters, snack on fresh fruit, and watch the kids jump off the deck for endless fun.

Family Fun at Your Hotel

There are those rainy days or the first day of your trip when all you want to do is slow down… But who says “slowing down” has to mean “getting bored”? These quieter moments can also turn into some of your best holiday memories:

•  Family treasure hunts
• Parent-child duo massages (from age 3)
• Board games shared on the terrace
•  Local treats at tea time
• Creative workshops at the kids club

You don’t need to go far to enjoy Mauritius as a family. In the end, it’s not just the big adventures you take home with you – it’s also those small moments shared at the hotel, filled with laughter, games, and rest.