Looking to create unforgettable memories with your family? Look no further than Mauritius – the ultimate family-friendly destination. With its pristine beaches, tropical climate, a wealth of activities for all ages and resorts geared to give parents a well-deserved break while their kids are entertained, it's no surprise Mauritius is a firm favourite for families.
As an added bonus: Mauritius’ low-season coincides with South African schools’ June/July and September school holidays, so SA family travellers can benefit hugely from low-season specials, like Beachcomber's current 30-40% discount on packages that are valid for travel over these school holiday periods (book early to avoid disappointment!).
Mauritius is filled with attractions and activities that will keep the whole family entertained. One of the must-visit places is the Casela World of Adventures, a wildlife park where you can interact with various animal species. Another popular attraction is the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, home to an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plants.
Or take the kids to see the rainbow hills of Terres des Sept Couleurs (translated as the “Seven-coloured earths”) at Chamarel, a natural phenomenon that will leave everyone in awe.
And then there are the mountains that form a ring around the island. Cascade 500 Pieds near Alexandra Falls and Lion Mountain are great to climb, while hikers of all abilities will love the varying levels of trails at Black River Gorges National Park, home to rare bird species and breathtaking waterfalls.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly activities and attractions in Mauritius. Ask your Sure Travel Agent for more details, or pre-book your activities here.
For some water-based fun, head to the Blue Bay Marine Park. This protected marine area offers excellent snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours, allowing you and your family to observe the vibrant coral reefs and marine life up close.
Or you can don a special dive helmet for an undersea walk that does not require any swimming or diving experience and is ideal for the whole family (age 7 and above). For a truly immersive experience, book a swim-with-the-dolphins tour, where you and your family can dive in and try keep up with the hundreds-strong pod of dolphins that cruise the island’s waters daily.
But, if you’re staying in one of Mauritius’ top-rated resorts, you don’t need to even venture out for water sports and marine adventures. Shandrani Beachcomber and Victoria Beachcomber resorts both offer access to protected marine parks from their shorelines, providing guests with world-class snorkelling as part of the experience.
And while many resorts offer basic free watersports such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and snorkelling as part of the package, Beachcomber resorts go the extra nautical mile by including free unlimited waterskiing, wakeboarding, and guided snorkelling trips.
Immersing yourself in the local customs and cultural experiences is a great way to create lasting memories for your family. Mauritius has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its mix of Indian, African, Chinese, and European traditions.
Visit one of the local markets, such as the Central Market in Port Louis, where you can browse through a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.
Consider attending a cultural show or festival, where you can witness traditional dances, music performances, and vibrant costumes. The Sega dance, a traditional Mauritian dance accompanied by the rhythmic beats of African drums, is a must-see cultural experience that will captivate both young and old.
Finding suitable accommodations for your family is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable holiday. Fortunately, Mauritius offers a wide range of family-friendly options to choose from. Many resorts provide accommodation with interconnecting rooms and/or family suites, ensuring that everyone has their own space while still being close together.
Top Tip: To get even more bang for your buck, look out for seasonal specials, like Beachcomber’s current flash sale that offers between 30 and 40% off for adults, plus up to two children under 18 share and eat free* during the mid-year period (*hotel and room category dependent).
This special deal, valid for bookings made by 15 February and valid for travel from 23 April to 30 September 2024*, reduces the price of a stay at select Beachcomber resorts. For example, a five-night stay will only cost you R23,210 pps at Shandrani Beachcomber; R22,240 pps at Mauricia Beachcomber; R22,420 pps at Canonnier Beachcomber; R29,870 pps at Trou aux Biches Beachcomber; R31,190 pps at Paradis Beachcomber; and R31,980 pps at Dinarobin Beachcomber (*block out period applies).
All these packages include return flights from Johannesburg, approximate airport taxes, hotel transfers/private transfers for five-star hotels, accommodation, breakfast and dinner daily and all free land and sea activities. And don’t forget that when you book select room categories, kid/s share and eat for free during certain travel times! Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency to book / get more details
Now for the best part: Mauritius is so geared for families with kids that the top family-friendly resorts offer clubs and designated play areas, where your children can socialise and engage in supervised activities while you take some time for yourself.
At all Beachcomber’s family-friendly resorts, professional and experienced staff at kids’ clubs organise a range of activities, including arts and crafts, treasure hunts, sports, and even cooking classes. Plus all resorts offer multiple swimming pools, including dedicated children's pools with water slides and splash areas. Kids can spend hours of endless fun while parents relax poolside, enjoying some well-deserved relaxation.
In addition to swimming pools, Beachcomber resorts offer a variety of recreational activities for the whole family. From beach volleyball and tennis courts to mini-golf and table tennis, there's something for everyone.
For parents who want some alone time, Beachcomber also offers babysitting services at an additional cost. Qualified and trusted babysitters are available to care for children of all ages, allowing parents to enjoy a romantic dinner or indulge in a spa treatment without any worries.
Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity. From local Creole dishes to international cuisines, you'll find a wide range of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Many restaurants in Mauritius offer kid-friendly menus and provide high chairs or booster seats for young children. Look for family-friendly establishments that have spacious seating arrangements and outdoor areas where your kids can run around while waiting for their meals.
At Beachcomber resorts, dining is an experience in itself. The resorts boast a variety of restaurants and bars, offering a wide range of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. From casual beachside cafes to elegant fine dining establishments, there's something for every occasion.
For families, Beachcomber resorts provide family-friendly restaurants that offer a range of kid-friendly options. The menus feature a selection of dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From familiar favourites like pizza and pasta to local specialties, children can explore new flavours while enjoying familiar comfort food.
In addition to the family-friendly options, Beachcomber resorts also offer special dining experiences for families. From beachfront barbecues to themed buffet nights, there's always something exciting happening. The best part is breakfast and dinner is included in Beachcomber's current special offer, so the whole family can feast without having to worry about running up that hotel bill during your stay.
Wherever you choose to dine in Mauritius, you should ensure you get a taste of local specialties. Indulge in a seafood feast, sampling fresh fish and shellfish prepared in the traditional Mauritian style. Let your taste buds explore the flavours of the island, from spicy curries to tropical fruits and refreshing sugarcane juice.
Mauritius enjoys a pleasant tropical climate throughout the year, making it a year-round destination for family holidays.
If Mauritius has a low season, it’s from May to June, and then again in September. During these months the weather is still pleasant, but the tourist crowds are thinner. The timing is perfect for South African June/July and September school holidays, and perfect for taking advantage of low-season specials, like Beachcomber’s current offer of 30-40% off sale.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable family holiday in Mauritius, it's vital to pack the right essentials. Here are some items you should consider bringing:
1. Lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Pack swimsuits, cover-ups, and comfortable walking shoes.
2. Sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your family's skin from the sun's harmful rays.
3. Insect repellent to keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay, especially during outdoor activities and in the evenings.
4. Snorkelling gear if you have your own, or you join a guided snorkelling excursion and/or borrow from the resort you're staying in (if this is an option). Don't forget to bring waterproof cameras or GoPros to capture the underwater adventures.
5. Medications and first aid supplies, including any necessary prescriptions and over-the-counter remedies for common ailments like allergies and motion sickness.
6. Beach towels, hats, and sunglasses to protect your family from the sun.
7. Travel adapters to ensure you can charge your electronic devices and stay connected throughout your trip.
8. A good book or games to keep your children entertained during travel or downtime.
When traveling with children, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and worry-free family holiday in Mauritius:
1. Always supervise your children, especially near water bodies. Even if your little ones are proficient swimmers, accidents can happen, so it's important to keep a close eye on them at all times.
2. Apply and reapply sunscreen regularly, as the sun in Mauritius can be intense. Make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and encourage your children to wear hats and protective clothing.
3. Stay hydrated by carrying water bottles with you and encouraging your family to drink plenty of fluids, especially during outdoor activities.
4. Familiarise yourself with the local emergency numbers and the location of the nearest medical facilities in case of any unforeseen circumstances (hotel/resort rooms will usually have these numbers handy, but come prepared just in case).
5. Be cautious when exploring nature reserves and hiking trails, ensuring that you follow the designated paths and stay away from any restricted areas. And if you want to explore more difficult trails, it’s advisable to hire an experienced and qualified guide.
Sure Travel’s partner Beachcomber Tours has extended it’s January Flash Sale till 15 February 2024, giving you more time to book your family’s dream holiday in Mauritius for 30-40% less! Plus up to two kids under 18 share and eat for free in certain room categories. All packages include return flights from Johannesburg, hotel transfers, accommodation, breakfast and dinner daily and all free land and sea activities. Choose between these six sensational resorts:
1 | Five Nights at Shandrani Beachcomber from R23,210 pps. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
2 | Five Nights at Mauricia Beachcomber from R22,240 pps. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
3 | Five Nights at Canonnier Beachcomber from R22,420 pps. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
4 | Five Nights at Trou aux Biches Beachcomber from R29,870 pps. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
5 | Five Nights at Paradis Beachcomber from R31,190 pps. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
6 | Five Nights at Dinarobin Beachcomber from R31,980 pps. Full details and Ts and Cs here.
Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency to book by 15 February 2024!