Mahébourg boasts stunning beaches, but don't limit your stay to relaxation alone. Set aside time to meet its inhabitants, discover its history and traditions, and be sure to visit the central market to sample tropical produce. Don't miss the boat cruises and underwater hikes around the small islands of the Southeast either. Thrills guaranteed!

History

Mahébourg is located in the Southeast of Mauritius. It was once the former capital of the country, named after Mahé de La Bourdonnais, an illustrious captain of the French royal navy. It was the Dutch who, during their brief stay on the island, developed this small port town. Its proximity to their landing port and neighboring rivers ensuring a good supply of fresh water made it an ideal location. At one point, a violent hurricane devastated the colonial capital, after which the administrative center was transferred to Pointe de la Colonie and renamed Port Sud-Est. The old Dutch settlement became the village of Mahébourg. During this period, supervision of the work was entrusted to La Bourdonnais.

The name Bourg-Mahé first appears on Colonel de Richemont's map in 1804. From February 1804 to October 1806, the new town was officially called Mahébourg. General Decaen renamed it Port-Impérial during the Empire period, after adding barracks, fortifications and large warehouses. The city returned to its former name of Mahébourg once the island came under British rule.

Discovering Mahébourg

Mahébourg breathes tranquility, history and nature. This gentle atmosphere awaits you on the flower-lined roads leading there. Once you arrive, you'll quickly realize it's a city attached to its traditions, preserving the typical charm of an old coastal village.

Journey through time

Visiting Mahébourg means reliving entire chapters of Mauritian history. Let the time-worn houses tell you about the city's colonial past as you stroll down its straight streets. The city retains traces from the Dutch, French and British periods. Head to the National History Museum to discover Mahébourg's maritime heritage, including naval battles between the British and French. The Rault biscuit factory, founded in 1870, will then impress you with its famous cassava-based biscuits. Jealously guarded, the recipe has been passed down within the family for four generations. Be pleased—you'll get to taste the delicious delicacy, accompanied by a cup of local tea, in the shade of trees in the courtyard.

Enjoy local produce

On Mondays, make sure to visit the Grand Market of Mahébourg. Wander through the colorful, fragrant stalls of vegetables and fruits, textile displays, stands of traditional musical instruments, and more. It's a veritable treasure trove for finding gifts. Don't hesitate to treat yourself to a gourmet pleasure. Taste tropical fruits like pineapples, guavas and lychees, as well as local culinary specialties in nearby restaurants. Try a lobster dish—your palate will cherish the memory!

Reconnect with nature

On land and sea alike, prepare yourself for unforgettable adventures, closer to nature. South of Mahébourg, between the villages of Blue Bay and Pointe d'Esny, a small stretch of sandy coastline offers numerous beach activities. Blue Bay is an ideal base for your stay. The resort, closest to the airport, features beachfront bungalows, a few hotels and charming guesthouses with all the amenities for your comfort.

From here, you can easily access the public beach, the starting point for many thrilling excursions. Board a glass-bottomed boat and head to the Blue Bay Marine Park, or perhaps prefer a more rustic escape with local fishermen along the East coast, or venture to discover Île aux Deux Cocos. Need peace and privacy? Head to the private beach at Pointe d'Esny. During the British period, this stretch caressed by Southeast trade winds was a privileged spot for regattas. Nowadays, it's one of the most beautiful beaches in the Southeast of Mauritius. Sail across its wonderfully preserved lagoon, then unwind in splendid beachfront bungalows.

Visit Île aux Aigrettes

Don't hesitate to venture further for even more discoveries. Set sail for Île aux Aigrettes, which appears as a primeval forest floating on the ocean. It's home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, with many endemic species. Here, ebony trees grow in pairs, hundred-year-old tortoises roam, while small reptiles add a touch of thrills for tourists. It's also a base for exploring the Blue Bay Marine Park, a protected area of 353 hectares harboring magnificent corals and more than thirty fish species.

Practical Information

Climate in Mahébourg

Mahébourg enjoys a cooler climate, but windier than the rest of Mauritius.

Mahébourg is home to Mauritius's only international airport, the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport, which maintains regular connections with several European airlines. The city is connected to the capital Port-Louis by a highway. Naturally, it's an important hub for public transportation in the south of the island.

Mahébourg is pleasant to explore on foot, as well as by bicycle or scooter. Although a car isn't really necessary to explore the city, rental agencies offer vehicles for exploring the surroundings and traveling to other destinations on the island.

What to do in Mahébourg?

• Admire the colonial-era buildings scattered along the city's streets
• Shop at the Grand Market of Mahébourg
• Stay in the charming guesthouses of the Blue Bay beach resort
• Enjoy a snorkeling session to admire the corals and aquatic fauna of the Blue Bay Marine Park
• Head to Île aux Aigrettes to venture into pristine forest, etc.