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15 Most Instagrammable Places in Mauritius for 2025: A Local’s Photography Guide

Discover the 15 most Instagrammable places in Mauritius for 2025, from hidden beaches to mountain viewpoints. Includes photography tips, best times to visit, and local insider advice from multiple visits to this African paradise.

A Paradise Through My Lens: My Journey with Mauritius

The first time I stepped foot on Mauritian soil back in 2016, I didn’t expect this island nation would become my recurring photography playground. Five visits later—each revealing new hidden corners—I’ve compiled what I believe are truly the most spectacular spots for your Instagram in 2025. That initial sunrise at Le Morne, watching golden light paint the mountain while my camera struggled to capture the full spectrum of blues in the lagoon, quite literally brought tears to my eyes. Some places just hit differently, and Mauritius has that effect.

What makes Mauritius particularly special for photography is the incredible diversity packed into this 2,040 km² island. One morning you’re shooting tropical beaches that rival the Maldives, by afternoon you’re capturing tea plantations that could be mistaken for parts of Sri Lanka, and at sunset you’re perched on volcanic formations unlike anything else on the planet.

This guide isn’t just a list of pretty places—it’s the result of countless sunrise wake-up calls, occasional disappointments, unexpected discoveries, and the kind of trial and error that only comes from multiple visits. I’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to!

South Coast: Nature’s Masterpieces

1. Le Morne Brabant Peninsula

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Le Morne isn’t just historically significant—it’s also home to what I consider the most dramatic landscape in Mauritius. The iconic mountain peninsula creates a perfect backdrop whether you’re shooting from the beach, from out in the water, or climbing the mountain itself.

Best Photo Spots:

  • The underwater waterfall illusion (aerial view from helicopter tours starting at Rs 16,500)
  • Le Morne public beach with the mountain as backdrop (free)
  • Halfway up the hiking trail for panoramic lagoon views (Rs 500-800 with a guide)

Photography Tips: For the best light on the mountain face, shoot between 2-4pm when shadows create dramatic textures. The beach shots work best at golden hour (around 5:30-6:30pm depending on the season).

“Mo kontan sa landrwa la” (I love this place) is what a local guide told me when I asked why he climbs Le Morne weekly—after experiencing the summit view, I completely understand why.

2. Chamarel Seven Colored Earth

The surreal multi-colored sand dunes of Chamarel look like they belong on another planet. These natural geological formations maintain their distinct colors even when it rains—a phenomenon I initially didn’t believe until I visited during a light shower.

Entrance fee: Rs 400 for tourists (Rs 200 for locals)

Photography Tips: Arrive right when they open at 8:30am to avoid both crowds and harsh midday light. Bring a polarizing filter to enhance the color contrasts. The viewing platform on the far right offers the best composition that captures all the color variations.

I made the mistake of visiting at noon during my first trip—the colors were washed out in the harsh light and there were so many tourists it was nearly impossible to get a clean shot. Learn from my error!

3. Chamarel Waterfall

Located just a short walk from the Seven Colored Earth (and included in the same entrance ticket), this 100-meter waterfall is the tallest in Mauritius. What makes it Instagram-worthy is the way it dramatically plunges into a verdant gorge.

Insider Tip: Most visitors view the falls from the main platform, but there’s a lesser-known viewpoint that provides a more dramatic side angle. Ask the staff about the “forest path” that leads to the alternative viewing deck.

Photography Challenge: The spray from the falls can damage your equipment, so bring a microfiber cloth to keep your lens clean. A neutral density filter helps to create that silky water effect even in daylight.

East Coast: Hidden Gems and Pristine Beaches

4. Ile aux Cerfs

This small island off the east coast is what tropical dreams are made of. The impossibly turquoise water against white sand creates photographs that barely need editing.

Getting There: Public boats from Trou d’Eau Douce cost around Rs 700-900 round trip. Private speedboat tours start at Rs 2,500 but allow you to visit secluded areas.

Best Photo Spots:

  • The northern tip sandbanks during low tide
  • The GRSE waterfall on the nearby mainland (accessible via boat tour)
  • Aerial drone shots capturing the full island (get permission first)

Insider Money-Saving Tip: Instead of buying overpriced food on the island (Rs 600+ for basic meals), I bring a picnic packed with local snacks from the market in Trou d’Eau Douce. A fresh coconut (Rs 60), some samosas (Rs 15 each), and gateaux piments (chili cakes, Rs 5 each) make for an authentic and affordable lunch.

During my second visit, I made the rookie error of arriving at 11am—the island was packed with tour groups. Now I either arrive first thing (8:30am boats) or come after 3pm when day-trippers start heading back.

5. Belle Mare Beach

Stretching over 10 kilometers, Belle Mare is easily one of the most photogenic beaches on the island, with powder-white sand and crystal clear waters that display every shade of blue imaginable.

Photography Tips: The stretch of beach near the Constance Belle Mare Plage resort has the best sand quality. For an epic shot, capture the contrast between the filao trees (casuarina) and the turquoise water.

I’ve noticed that early mornings (6-8am) work best for photography here as the east coast gets the sunrise, and the first light creates a magical golden glow on the sand. This is also when you’ll likely have the beach almost to yourself, save for a few joggers and fishermen.

Unexpected Tip: The sea urchins near the coral areas caught me off guard during my first swim. Now I always bring water shoes—you can buy them at the Super U supermarket in Flacq for around Rs 300-400, much cheaper than the Rs 1,200 tourist shops charge.

North: Cultural Hotspots & Vibrant Scenes

6. Grand Baie

While the most developed tourist area in Mauritius might not scream “Instagram-worthy” at first glance, Grand Baie offers vibrant urban tropical scenes that contrast beautifully with the natural landscapes elsewhere on the island.

Best Photo Opportunities:

  • The colorful fishing boats in the bay at sunrise
  • Sunset cocktails at Royal Palm’s jetty bar
  • The bustling Friday night market with its colorful displays of street food

Sustainability & Money-Saving Tip: Instead of taking private taxis between northern beaches (often Rs 500-800 one-way), use the public coastal buses that run every 20-30 minutes for just Rs 35. They’re not only cheaper but reduce your carbon footprint and offer a glimpse into local life. Listen for the conductor shouting “Gran Bay! Gran Bay!” as the bus approaches.

7. Château de Labourdonnais

This restored colonial mansion surrounded by tropical gardens and orchards offers a completely different aesthetic from the beaches and mountains. The symmetrical architecture, manicured gardens, and vintage details provide endless photo opportunities.

Entrance fee: Rs 425 for overseas visitors

The rum tasting at the end of the tour makes for great detail shots—I love capturing the amber liquid in crystal glasses against the antique furniture. Ask for “enn ti gute” (a little taste) of their special vanilla-infused rum.

Photography Tip: The light filtering through the mansion’s windows creates beautiful patterns around 2-3pm. Bring a fast lens (f/1.8 or wider) to capture the atmospheric interior without flash.

Central Highlands: Lush Interiors

8. Black River Gorges National Park

The dramatic landscapes of Black River Gorges offer a completely different side of Mauritius away from the beaches. The lush rainforest, waterfalls, and sweeping valleys make for epic landscape photography.

Best Viewpoints:

  1. Alexandra Falls lookout (easily accessible by car)
  2. Macchabée Viewpoint (spectacular valley views)
  3. Gorges Viewpoint near Black River Peak (requires a short hike)

Photography Challenge: The central highlands often become shrouded in mist by mid-morning. While this can create atmospheric shots, it can also completely obscure the views. I learned this the hard way on my second visit, hiking for 2 hours only to see nothing but white fog at the viewpoint.

Now I check the weather meticulously and aim to visit between 7-9am for the clearest views and best light. The park officially opens at 7am, but I’ve found that during weekdays the gates are often open earlier.

Wildlife Tip: Keep your camera ready for the endemic Mauritius kestrel and pink pigeons. I spotted both near the Black River Peak trail but wasn’t prepared to switch lenses quickly enough!

9. Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)

This sacred Hindu lake set in the crater of an extinct volcano is surrounded by colorful temples and an impressive 108-foot statue of Lord Shiva. The combination of spiritual elements with the natural setting creates uniquely compelling photographs.

Photography Tips: The golden hour before sunset adds a magical quality to the temples reflected in the lake. During February/March, the site transforms during Maha Shivaratri festival with thousands of pilgrims in procession—a photographer’s dream for cultural documentation.

Cultural Respect: As this is a sacred site, dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and always ask permission before photographing worshippers. Remove shoes before entering temples.

During one visit, I was invited to participate in a small puja (prayer ritual) by a local family. The priest marked my forehead with kumkum powder, creating an unexpected but cherished memory that taught me more about Mauritian Hindu traditions than any guidebook could.

Southwest: Dramatic Landscapes

10. La Roche Qui Pleure (The Crying Rock)

This lesser-known spot near Gris Gris in the south has become increasingly popular on Instagram, yet it still feels wild and untamed compared to the northern beaches. The natural rock formation appears to be “crying” as waves crash against it, creating dramatic sprays of water.

Photography Challenge: Capturing the perfect wave crash requires patience and a fast shutter speed (at least 1/1000s). I typically spend about an hour here, taking dozens of shots to get one where the spray forms a photogenic pattern.

Safety Warning: Never stand too close to the edge here. During my last visit in 2023, I watched in horror as a tourist nearly got swept away trying to get a selfie too close to the edge. The waves are unpredictable and much stronger than they appear.

Insider Tip: After photographing La Roche Qui Pleure, head to nearby Rochester Falls. The unique rectangular rock formations created by columnar basalt make for distinctive waterfall shots unlike the typical tropical cascades seen elsewhere.

11. Macondé Viewpoint

This hairpin bend on the southern coastal road offers spectacular views of the coastline in both directions. The road curves so dramatically that it seems to hang over the ocean, creating a perfect composition for road trip photography.

Photography Tip: A wide-angle lens (16-24mm) works best to capture the curve of the road against the ocean backdrop. For safety, I recommend parking at the designated viewpoint rather than stopping on the road itself.

I discovered this spot entirely by accident during my first visit when our rental car’s GPS took us on the scenic route rather than the highway—sometimes getting lost leads to the best discoveries!

Urban Mauritius: Cultural Captures

12. Port Louis Central Market

The vibrant colors, fascinating faces, and exotic products of the Port Louis market create an authentic slice of Mauritian life. The sensory overload here translates brilliantly to photography—especially the spice and fruit sections with their organized displays of color.

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings (7-9am) on weekdays offer the most activity with the fewest tourists. Saturday mornings are bustling but very crowded.

Photography Approach: Rather than just taking quick snapshots, I try to engage with vendors first, often buying something small. The phrase “Mo kapav pran u foto?” (Can I take your picture?) usually receives a friendly response, especially if you show genuine interest in their products.

The market has undergone some renovation since the pandemic, with better organization and cleanliness in 2023-2024, though it retains its authentic character. Prices at the market are significantly lower than tourist areas—I routinely pay Rs 30-50 for a fresh fruit juice here compared to Rs 150-200at beachside cafes.

13. Le Caudan Waterfront

While primarily a shopping district, Le Caudan offers several Instagram-worthy spots, particularly the famous umbrella street with colorful umbrellas suspended overhead. The blue penny museum and craft market also provide interesting cultural photo opportunities.

The umbrella displays change periodically—during my 2022 visit they were rainbow-colored, but in 2023 they had a blue and yellow theme. This makes for unique photos even on repeat visits.

Photography Tip: The area is particularly photogenic in the early evening when the harbor lights begin to reflect on the water and the umbrella installation is illuminated.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures

14. Tamarind Falls (7 Cascades)

Located in the southwest interior, this series of seven waterfalls flowing through a canyon offers both adventure and incredible photo opportunities. What makes these falls special is that you can capture multiple waterfalls in the same frame, creating depth and scale.

Access Options:

  • Guided hike (recommended): Rs 1,000-1,500 per person
  • Self-guided hike (for experienced hikers only): Free

Photography Gear Tips: Bring a dry bag for your equipment as you’ll likely get wet crossing streams. A polarizing filter is essential to cut glare on the water and enhance the lush greens surrounding the falls.

I learned a valuable lesson here in 2021 when I slipped on wet rocks and nearly dropped my camera into the water. Now I always use a camera strap and wear proper hiking shoes with grip rather than sandals.

Insider Money-Saving Tip: Instead of booking through your hotel (where tours often cost Rs 2,500+), contact Yan Nature directly. He’s a local guide who knows the falls intimately and charges about 40% less than the major tour operators while providing a more authentic experience.

15. Post-Pandemic Addition: Ebony Forest Reserve

One of the newer attractions that’s rapidly gaining Instagram fame is the Ebony Forest Reserve near Chamarel. The elevated wooden walkways through the restored native forest create perfect framing opportunities, especially at the viewpoint overlooking the west coast.

Entrance fee: Rs 400 for foreigners

Photography Highlight: The raised canopy walkway provides unique eye-level shots of endemic birds like the Mauritius paradise flycatcher. Bring a zoom lens (at least 200mm) for wildlife opportunities.

What I love about this location is the conservation story—where you can actually document the restoration of Mauritius’s original forest through your photography. The contrast between restored sections (lush and diverse) and unrestored sections (dominated by invasive species) tells a powerful environmental story.

Since the pandemic, they’ve added a new viewing platform with spectacular sunset views over the ocean—this wasn’t there during my 2019 visit but has become one of my favorite photography spots during my 2023 return.

Photography Tips for Mauritius

Best Equipment for Mauritius Photography

After multiple trips and countless photo sessions across the island, here’s what I’ve found works best:

Scenario Recommended Gear Why It Works
Beach Landscapes Wide-angle lens (16-35mm), Polarizing filter Captures the expansive beaches while the polarizer enhances the blue water
Underwater GoPro or Waterproof housing The clear waters of Mauritius are perfect for split-level shots
Wildlife/Birds Telephoto zoom (70-300mm) For capturing endemic birds in the national park
Sunrise/Sunset ND Graduated filters, Tripod Balances exposure between bright sky and darker foreground
Markets/Street Fast prime lens (35mm or 50mm f/1.8) Low-light capability and unobtrusive size

Weather Protection: Mauritius can experience sudden tropical showers even during the dry season. I always carry a rain cover for my camera and silica gel packets in my bag to combat humidity.

Light Considerations Unique to Mauritius

The quality of light in Mauritius has some distinct characteristics worth noting:

  • The tropical sun is extremely harsh between 10am-3pm, creating deep shadows and blown-out highlights
  • East coast beaches get magnificent sunrise light but are often backlit in the afternoon
  • West coast beaches enjoy spectacular golden hour light at sunset
  • The central highlands often experience mist and rapidly changing light conditions

I’ve found that the “blue hour” (the 20-30 minutes after sunset) works particularly well for photographing Le Morne and other mountain silhouettes against the pastel sky.

Drone Photography in Mauritius

Aerial perspectives reveal Mauritius’s stunning reefs and landscapes in a completely new way. However, drone regulations have tightened significantly since 2022:

  • You must register your drone with the Civil Aviation Department if it weighs over 250g
  • Flying is prohibited in Port Louis, near the airport, and over several nature reserves
  • Maximum allowed altitude is 400 feet (120 meters)
  • Always maintain visual line of sight with your drone

I had my drone briefly confiscated at customs in 2022 until I completed the registration process (which took half a day). In 2023, I pre-registered online which made the entry process much smoother.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #3: Rather than paying for expensive helicopter tours (Rs 15,000+), consider a mid-range drone like the DJI Mini 3 Pro which weighs under 250g (avoiding registration requirements) yet captures stunning 4K footage. The investment pays for itself after just one trip if you’re photography-focused.

Planning Your Instagram-Focused Trip to Mauritius

When to Visit for the Best Photography

After visiting during different seasons, I can confidently say that the ideal photography months in Mauritius are:

  • May-June: Early winter brings lower humidity, clearer air, and fewer tourists
  • September-October: Spring offers lush landscapes after winter rains with comfortable temperatures

Avoid December-February (cyclone season) unless you specifically want to capture dramatic stormy skies and don’t mind the risk of flights being canceled. I learned this lesson in February 2020 when I spent three days confined to my hotel during Cyclone Herold.

Planning a Photography-Focused Itinerary

Based on my experiences, here’s how I’d structure a 10-day photography-focused itinerary:

  1. Days 1-3: Base yourself in the north (Grand Baie area) to cover northern attractions and Port Louis
  2. Days 4-6: Stay in the east (Belle Mare or Trou d’Eau Douce) for east coast beaches and Ile aux Cerfs
  3. Days 7-10: Base in the southwest (Le Morne area) to capture the most dramatic landscapes

This minimizes driving time while maximizing photo opportunities at optimal times of day. The island looks small on a map, but traffic and winding roads mean that crossing from north to south can take 1.5-2 hours.

Transportation for Photographers

After trying various options across multiple trips, I strongly recommend renting a car if you’re serious about photography. Public buses are cheap but infrequent and don’t reach many photogenic spots, while taxis become extremely expensive for a photo-focused itinerary with multiple stops.

Car rental costs approximately Rs 1,500-2,000 per day for a basic model. I typically use Pingouin Car Rental as their rates include comprehensive insurance and they don’t charge extra for dropping off at a different location than pickup.

Driving Tip: Mauritians drive on the left, and while main roads are well-maintained, many of the most photogenic spots require driving on narrow, winding roads. The local driving style can be somewhat aggressive—I was initially intimidated but adapted quickly.

Conclusion: Capturing Your Own Mauritian Moments

After five visits and thousands of photographs later, I’ve come to realize that Mauritius offers an almost unfair advantage for creating stunning social media content. The diversity of landscapes, the quality of light, and the blend of cultures provide endless visual storytelling opportunities that go far beyond the typical tropical beach clichés.

What I cherish most about photographing Mauritius isn’t just the obvious beauty, but the unexpected moments—a fisherman at sunrise offering to show me his catch, the intense fragrance of frangipani blossoms after a brief rain shower that no photo can capture, or the sound of sega music drifting across a beach at sunset. These sensory experiences inform my photography even if they don’t directly appear in the frame.

5-Step Action Plan for Your Mauritius Photography Adventure

  1. Research seasonal lighting: Match your visit timing with your priority shot list (east coast for sunrise, west coast for sunset)
  2. Invest in the right filters: At minimum, pack polarizing filters for enhancing the tropical blues and cutting water glare
  3. Plan your accommodation strategically: Base yourself in 2-3 different regions rather than one central location
  4. Rise early, stay late: Commit to at least 3-4 sunrise sessions and several sunset shoots
  5. Connect with locals: Some of my best shots came from places recommended by Mauritians, not guidebooks

Whether you’re shooting with a professional camera setup or simply using your smartphone, Mauritius rewards those who look beyond the obvious. The island continues to evolve and surprise me, even after multiple visits—I’ve already started planning my return for 2025.

As they say in Mauritian Creole, “Nou va zwenn encore” (We’ll meet again), and I hope these photographic insights help you create your own visual love letter to this remarkable island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the absolute best Instagram spots that aren’t overrun with tourists?

Based on my recent 2023 visit, these spots still offer incredible photos without the crowds:

  • Macondé Viewpoint: Most tour buses don’t stop here despite the dramatic coastal vista
  • Bel Ombre Heritage Nature Reserve: The hiking trails here offer pristine forest views with very few visitors
  • Souillac Cliffs: The rugged southern coastline near Gris Gris offers dramatic seascapes that most tourists miss
  • Pont Naturel: This natural rock bridge near Souillac sees minimal visitors, especially on weekdays

Is it worth bringing a drone to Mauritius?

Absolutely, but be aware of the regulations I mentioned earlier. The aerial perspective reveals Mauritius’s stunning reef systems and mountain-to-ocean landscapes in ways that ground-based photography simply cannot. The underwater waterfall illusion near Le Morne and the reef patterns around Ile aux Cerfs are particularly spectacular from above.

How safe is photography equipment in Mauritius?

Mauritius is generally very safe for travelers with camera gear. However, I never leave equipment unattended on beaches or in vehicles. The greatest risks are environmental—salt spray, sand, and sudden rain showers. I always carry microfiber cloths for lens cleaning and store my gear in silica-equipped dry bags when not in use.

One practical tip: the humidity can cause lens fungus over time, so I’ve made it a habit to air out my equipment each evening in air-conditioned rooms.

What’s the best way to photograph wildlife in Mauritius?

Mauritius has some fascinating endemic species, but they can be elusive. For the best wildlife photography:

  • Visit the Ile aux Aigrettes nature reserve for pink pigeons and Aldabra giant tortoises
  • Book a specialized bird photography tour in Black River Gorges National Park
  • Try the Vallée de Ferney for kestrel photography
  • For marine life, Balaclava Marine Park offers excellent snorkeling photography

A telephoto lens (at least 200mm, ideally 300mm or longer) is essential for wildlife work.

How can I photograph cultural events in Mauritius?

Mauritius has fascinating cultural events throughout the year that make for compelling photography:

  • Cavadee (January/February): Tamil festival with body piercing and fire walking
  • Maha Shivaratri (February/March): Hindu pilgrimage to Grand Bassin
  • Diwali (October/November): Festival of lights with elaborate home decorations
  • Sega performances (year-round at various hotels and cultural centers)

Always ask permission before photographing religious ceremonies and be respectful of cultural sensitivities. I’ve found that learning a few phrases in Creole helps establish rapport before asking to take photos.

References

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