Exploring Mauritius: A Personal Travel Diary

Planning a trip to Mauritius was exciting but also a little overwhelming—there’s just so much to see! One thing we knew for sure was that we didn’t want to be tied down by bus schedules or group tours. After browsing through several car rental options, Crystal Car Rental seemed to tick all the boxes for us. Their positive reviews, reasonable prices, and well-maintained fleet made them stand out. Honestly, it felt like the best choice after reading about other travelers’ experiences.

Why We Chose Car Hire in Mauritius

Exploring Mauritius with the freedom of your own car opens up endless possibilities. Whether you refer to it as “car hire Mauritius” or “car rental Mauritius,” the benefits are undeniable. Buses and taxis limit your schedule, but having your own vehicle lets you explore hidden gems and follow your own itinerary. Crystal Car Rental offered us just that—a seamless, hassle-free experience.

Day 1: Touching Down and Settling In

We landed at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in the late afternoon. It was warm and humid, a nice change from home. I was relieved to see that our car was ready to go, exactly as Crystal Car Rental had promised. Their representative was friendly and even gave us a few tips about driving in Mauritius, which was reassuring since we weren’t used to left-hand driving.

Our drive to Flic-en-Flac, where our hotel was located, was smooth and scenic. The coastal views were so stunning that we pulled over a couple of times to take photos. I could already tell that having a car was going to make this trip extra special.

Day 2: Beach Bliss and Chamarel Adventures

The next day, we kicked things off with a morning visit to Le Morne Beach. It wasn’t too crowded, and the clear, turquoise water was even more beautiful in person. Having the car nearby was such a convenience—we could bring all our beach gear without worrying about carrying it far. Plus, it gave us the freedom to leave when we felt like it.

After lunch, we headed toward the Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark. I can’t describe how beautiful the drive was—rolling hills, lush greenery, and little villages along the way. The colorful dunes and the Chamarel Waterfall lived up to the hype. We even treated ourselves to some freshly sliced pineapple from a roadside vendor.

Day 3: City Vibes in Port Louis

Port Louis was on the agenda for our third day. Parking wasn’t as tricky as I’d expected—our car was small enough to fit into the tighter spots. The Central Market was alive with energy. The smells of spices and fresh fruit hit you the moment you step inside. We bought a few souvenirs and snacks (not sure if I’ll ever find dried mango this good again!).

Later, we visited the Caudan Waterfront. It’s a lovely spot for shopping and people-watching. By evening, we were tired but happy. Having the car meant we didn’t have to wait for a taxi or figure out bus routes. We could just head back to our hotel at our own pace.

Day 4: Tea Trails and Rugged Cliffs

I’ve always loved tea, so visiting the Bois Chéri Tea Plantation was a dream come true. Driving through the tea fields felt so serene. The plantation tour was informative without being boring, and the tea-tasting session at the end was a real treat. If you’re a tea lover, don’t miss it.

Later, we drove to Gris Gris, a dramatic cliffside area in the south. The waves were wild, crashing against the rocks, and the view was unforgettable. It’s one of those places that reminds you of nature’s power and beauty.

Day 5: Serendipitous Discoveries

Our last full day was completely unplanned. We simply drove along the east coast and stopped whenever something caught our eye. One of my favorite moments was finding a little café in the middle of nowhere. It didn’t look like much, but the food was incredible—spicy curries served with freshly baked bread. That’s the kind of experience you miss out on if you’re stuck on a tour bus.

Benefits of Car Hire in Mauritius

Opting for car hire in Mauritius offered us so much flexibility. The island’s attractions are scattered, and public transport often doesn’t reach the most scenic or remote spots. For instance, our drive to Gris Gris would have been nearly impossible without our rental car. Similarly, discovering hidden gems like roadside fruit vendors and unmarked scenic spots became an integral part of our trip.

Here’s why renting a car in Mauritius stands out:

Cost-Effective: While taxis add up quickly, hiring a car offers great value, especially for longer trips.

Convenience: Stop when you want, explore at your pace, and keep your luggage safe.

Privacy: Enjoy your journey without sharing space with strangers.

What to Pack for Your Mauritius Road Trip

If you’re planning to rent a car and explore Mauritius via road trip, packing smart is essential. Here are a few things we found helpful:

Snacks and Water: While you’ll find plenty of roadside vendors, having some snacks on hand is always a good idea.

A Physical Map: Though Google Maps worked well for us, having a backup is never a bad idea.

Comfortable Shoes: Many attractions, like the tea plantations and Chamarel, involve a bit of walking.

Sunscreen and Hats: The tropical sun can be intense, especially during long drives.

Local Currency: For parking fees, roadside snacks, or tips, keep some Mauritian Rupees handy.

Driving Tips for Mauritius

Driving in Mauritius was easier than I expected, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

Drive on the Left: This might take a little getting used to if you’re from a country that drives on the right.

Watch for Speed Limits: They can vary, especially in villages.

Be Cautious at Roundabouts: These are common, and giving way to the right is the rule.

Fuel Stations Are Scarce in Rural Areas: Make sure to fill up when you’re near a town.

Alternatives to Car Rentals

While renting a car was perfect for us, it might not suit everyone. Here’s a quick look at other options:

Public Buses: Affordable but limited in terms of routes and schedules.

Taxis: Convenient but can get expensive for long distances.

Bicycle Rentals: Great for short distances, but not practical for cross-island trips.

How Renting a Car Changed Our Trip

Looking back, renting a car in Mauritius was the best decision we made. It gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace, discover hidden spots, and avoid the stress of public transport. Crystal Car Rental delivered exactly what we needed: a reliable car and great service.

If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius, I can’t recommend renting a car enough. Whether you’re heading to famous attractions or just wandering off the beaten path, having your own vehicle makes all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Mauritius is a paradise waiting to be discovered, and renting a car is, in my opinion, the best way to experience it fully. From the bustling streets of Port Louis to the serene tea plantations and the rugged cliffs of Gris Gris, this island offers something for everyone. Take your time, explore at your own pace, and make memories that will last a lifetime.