- Wreck diving
Lovers of underground adventures, wreck diving, is a way to add a little salt to a stay in Mauritius. More than 100 shipwrecks are recorded in the waters surrounding Mauritius to delight experienced divers looking for the historic maritime history of the Indian Ocean.
The three most popular wreck dive sites in Mauritius are the wrecks of Stella Maru, Djabeda and HMS Sirius. The first two sites, including the Japanese fishing vessel Djabeda and the trawler Stella Maru, are off the north coast. The first is raised on a sandy bottom at 34 meters’ depth, and the second squarely transformed into a real artificial reef, sunk at 23 meters’ depth.
Each exploration allows us observing exceptional giant morays, stingrays, lionfish, and other tropical fish.
HMS Sirius is located off Mahebourg, southeast of the island. This former 36-gun frigate, first launched in 1797, was destroyed during the Naval Battle of Grand Port in 1810. Its wreck is now 25 meters deep, with a huge number of archaeological objects kept intact for the pleasure of experienced divers.
- Canyoning
This is an activity that has a large following in Mauritius, and that is experiencing sustainable development. The island has mainly some beautiful cliffs and waterfalls, several sites of different levels arranged by professionals to satisfy the amateurs.
The ideal time to practice canyoning in Mauritius is from September to November, as the waterfalls flow is perfect. From December to April, the sun is at the Rendez-Vous so amateurs will have fun slipping under the falls, but canyoning is an activity that remains subject to climate change. Sometimes all events are canceled on a day-to-day basis because of a cyclone that causes strong winds and rain. From May to August, the climate is stable, but the breeze is cold as well as the water from the waterfalls that go down to 17°C, not very practical.
To start at canyoning, the blue water cascade is ideal, with a cliff only 16 meters high, vast forested banks and clear pools with slides and a possibility to swim in Rivers. Tamarin’s Falls at Henrietta also offers a succession of seven cascades leading to rich vegetation. Beginners can try themselves on the lowest altitude difference, which is 13 meters, and the bravest on the highest 55 meters. Alexandra’s Falls also offers a lovely waterfall of 55 meters, with a possibility to reach the waterfall at the river walk. The most experienced can also try the two falls of Mare aux Joncs, of a height of 60 and 80 meters respectively.
- Climbing
Ideal for those who want to test their strength, balance, flexibility, and stamina, climbing is also an excellent opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking view of a, particularly productive environment. In Mauritius, the most significant climbing site is on the cliffs of Belle Vue, near the village of Albion, on the southwest coast. It includes five routes that are equipped and meet the standards of the UIAA (International Union of mountaineering associations).
Other sites known for climbing in Mauritius are the Pieter Both and Corps Garde mountains. Its highest point is at about 720 meters, and it is the favorite place for lovers of the magnificent sunrise that one observes there in the mornings. Pieter Both is the second highest peak in Mauritius. To help the climbers in their ascent, iron peaks are fixed on the rock up to its top.