Step away from the Mauritian coastline and you’ll find a mountainous interior where nature reserves are filled with incredible waterfalls and exotic animals. Here you can swim in rock pools or go hiking high into the hills, getting close to incredible local wildlife in their natural habitat.
This island nation is brimming with wildlife. Indeed, local efforts have saved more bird species from the brink of extinction than any other country including the rare pink pigeon and the Mauritius kestrel.
You’ll also find dolphins jumping in the ocean, fruit bats soaring through the skies and giant tortoises ambling slowly on the ground.
What wildlife is Mauritius known for?
Crab-eating macaque
The crab-eating macaque, also known as long-tailed macaque monkeys, are native to Southeast Asia but have lived in Mauritius for more than 400 years after being brought over by sailors. These monkeys tend to live in groups of around 30 and can be seen swinging through trees and paddling by the coast. They are most often found in mangrove forests where much of their favourite food, delicious crabs, reside.
Mauritius flying fox
A unique fruit bat with a fox-like face, these large bats have long, narrow wings and golden brown fur. They can be found flying through forests at night, but you don’t want to get too close as they are said to have a very distinct odour. This is the only fruit bat that can still be found on the island.
Mauritius kestrel
Once the rarest bird in the world with just a handful of the species in both captivity and the wild, the Mauritius kestrel can now be found on the west coast in the Black River Gorges National Park and on the east coast in the Bambous Mountain range, thanks to an intense recovery programme. It’s the only falcon species on the island and is relatively small, with black markings on a white chest and brown back.
Mauritius pink pigeon
Another previously endangered bird that is now flourishing in Mauritius is the pink pigeon. In 1990 there were only nine of these birds on the island. Following a conservation programme, there are now upwards of 470 in the wild. These can be found in the Black River Gorges National Park, Ile aux Aigrettes, Ferney and Chamarel Ebony Forest.
Mauritius gecko
There are several species of the endemic day-gecko on the island. These include the ornate and Gunther’s gecko as well as upland, lowland and blue-tailed day-gecko. The blue-tailed can be found on trees including the Ravenala palms, the upland in Black River Gorges National Park while the lowland can be found across the island. All species are incredibly brightly coloured with splashes of green, blue and orange.
Marine life in Mauritius
The Indian Ocean that surrounds Mauritius is bursting with vibrant marine life, both large and small.
Head beneath the surface to explore a whole new world of vivid colours and see some unforgettable sea creatures.
Under the water, you’ll find hundreds of brightly coloured fish, from clownfish to moray eels. These underwater worlds are also frequented by larger visitors including rare sea turtles, playful pods of dolphins and several shark species.
Where to dive to see marine life in Mauritius
If you want to see brightly coloured fish swimming among the coral reefs, then you’ll want to head for the island's best diving sites which are found to the north and east.
- Coin de Mire: This is one of the best places to dive in Mauritius. Here, as well as marine life, you can see the pink coral-covered Djabeda wreck. As you explore, look out for dolphins, barracuda and lionfish, to name just a few.
- Tamarin Bay: See schools of dolphins playing in the water at this wonderful wildlife spot.
- The Shark Pit: A stunning diving spot, this is the place to head if you want to see a variety of shark species. While the strong currents mean this is not a dive location for beginners, if you’re experienced – and brave – enough to head out here then you may see grey reef shark, silvertip reef shark and bull shark.
Where to stay in Mauritius for nature
Many of our favourite resorts are set right on the beach, meaning you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the warm waves and clear waters. Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or an underwater novice, you’ll find guided tours and diving classes located across the islands.
Your resort can even help you book one. Some of our recommended places to stay are:
- Sugar Beach – this stunning five-star resort overlooks a pristine, white sand beach and colourful coral reef. You can snorkel in the shallower areas of the reef yourself, or book onto one of the resort’s exciting diving classes for a guided tour
- Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort – explore a vibrant underwater world from the unique position of a glass-bottom boat at this beachfront resort. There’s also the opportunity to hire windsurfing boards and paddleboards if you’re feeling more adventurous
Want to see this wonderful wildlife for yourself? Then check out our flights and hotels and book your next trip to Mauritius.