In Mauritius, rain is rare, but it does make an occasional appearance. And no, these short showers won’t stop you from enjoying your holiday! When it rains, it’s the perfect chance to explore another side of Mauritius with activities you might not have considered, whether you’re with family, as a couple, or with friends.
But what exactly can you do? Here’s our list of activities to turn a grey day into colorful memories. Because bad weather doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy authentic and local experiences!
1. Explore the Island’s Cultural and Historical Riches
credit: Domaine de Labourdonnais
A rainy day? Dive into Mauritius’ fascinating history. Head to the l’ Aventure du Sucre Museum, where the island’s sugar history comes to life through captivating anecdotes and sweet tastings. This interactive 5000m² tour delights both young and old.
For full immersion into old Mauritius, visit colonial houses like the Château de Labourdonnais. Admire the period architecture and tropical gardens, and finish your visit with a tasting of local products, including rums that will surprise your palate.
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis is also a must-visit, rain or shine! Once a landing site, this was where the first indentured laborers from India arrived after the abolition of slavery. The visit retraces this crucial period in Mauritian history, complemented by informative panels and poignant narratives.
Three cultural and historical activities not to be missed when it rains in Mauritius!
2. Try Fun and Creative Indoor Activities
Rainy days are the perfect time to awaken your creativity and reconnect with your inner child. Sign up for an art workshop! Learn to paint on glass or ceramics, or try basket weaving—a traditional Mauritian craft.
For the artistically inclined, how about a pottery class? Pigment It is the perfect spot! Alternatively, check out local organizations that offer art or art therapy workshops, like New Born (make sure to book in advance!).
You can also ask your hotel—some Mauritian establishments offer creative activities for both kids and adults.
And if you love cooking (or just eating), why not take a local cooking class? Learn to make soft dholl puris, fragrant curry, or the famous chili cakes. These recipes will be a hit back home, letting you extend your holiday flavors.
Top spots for a fun cooking class: Traveling Spoon or Nafizah Bholah in Bel Air.
3. Tea or Coffee Break?
Why only lounge in the sun? When the sky turns grey, the best thing to do is enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Settle into a cozy café like Le Fangourin or Château Mon Désir. Sip a local tea while listening to the raindrops fall. Nothing more relaxing!
4. Relax and Have Fun at the Hotel
Hotels offer plenty of indoor activities:
- Padel/Tennis
- Gym
- Billiards
- Reading at Teabaz
- Board games & card games
- Afternoon tea with local coffee, tea, and treats (think chocolate crepes…)
For relaxation, indulge in a spa treatment. A massage with local oils is the perfect escape while the kids enjoy creative activities at the kid’s club. Or, enjoy a family spa experience—many family-friendly hotels offer treatments for children aged 3 to 12!
And finally, gather everyone for a cozy board game session at the end of the day.
5. Shopping and Handcrafted Discoveries
Rain or shine, bringing a piece of Mauritius home is always a great idea. And what better way to do it than with a shopping spree? But not just anywhere—explore covered markets to find fragrant spices, handmade jewelry, or woven baskets.
Prefer to stay dry? Stroll through malls like Bagatelle Mall, Caudan Waterfront, or La Croisette, where modern and artisanal boutiques blend together. Or seek out locally crafted clothing and products at My Pop Up Store, Le Rendez-Vous, or Double Life.
Finally, dive into the history of vanilla and its cultivation at the Spice and Vanilla Garden.
6. Visit the Classics
Feeling thirsty? Go for a rum tasting at the Chamarel Distillery. A guided tour will unveil the secrets of this local craft, followed by a flavorful tasting. And if you’re hungry, enjoy a 100% local menu at the restaurant.
Mauritius also caters to craft beer lovers. Visit the Flying Dodo Brewery in Bagatelle and enjoy a tasting of several local beers.
For a more family-friendly activity, Curious Corner in Chamarel is a must. Located right opposite the Seven Coloured Earth, this site offers a fun and immersive experience with optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and plenty of quirky photo opportunities.
7. For the Adventurous Ones
Still want to explore despite the rain? For thrill-seekers who won’t let a little drizzle stop them, try kayaking on the island’s rivers for a unique, immersive experience close to nature.
Or, why not take a spontaneous road trip along the island’s winding roads? Every corner could reveal a surprise, whether it’s a charming fishing village or a breathtaking panorama.
Rain in Mauritius isn’t a setback—it’s an opportunity to explore new activities. It invites you to discover the island differently and to experience authentic moments you might have missed under a blue sky.
So, are you ready to swap your sunscreen for an umbrella and embrace the weather as it is? Rain or shine, what matters most is creating unforgettable memories together! 🌧️
Written with love by Manon Antoine
@attitude_hotels
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