Exploring the Transformative Journey: Mauritius

Mauritius, an idyllic island nation in the Indian Ocean, has been a favored setting for filmmakers, authors, and television producers. Its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and cultural richness make for perfect backdrops. This guide takes you on a cinematic journey through Mauritius, exploring famous film locations, hidden gems, and more.

Mauritius Through the Lens: 10 Famous Films Shot in Mauritius

Mauritius, with its pristine beaches and tropical charm, has long been a desirable location for film shoots. Here are 10 famous films that have utilized the island’s beauty:

1. “Paul et Virginie” (1974) – This French film, based on the classic novel by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre, was shot in the verdant landscapes of Mauritius.
2. “The Wild Geese” (1978) – While the story is set in Africa, many scenes in this British adventure film were shot in Mauritius.
3. “Serena” (2014) – Starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper, this film used the beautiful Black River Gorges National Park in Mauritius as its backdrop.
4. “Jane Eyre” (2006) – The BBC mini-series adaptation of Charlotte Bronte’s novel shot several scenes in Mauritius.
5. “Rough Cut” (2008) – This British crime film was shot entirely in Mauritius, showcasing the island’s urban side.
6. “Breakout” (2010) – Mauritius doubles as Mexico in this action film featuring Brendan Fraser.
7. “Best” (2000) – This British biopic about footballer George Best used Mauritius to stand in for 1960s California.
8. “The Children” (2008) – This British horror film was shot entirely in Mauritius.
9. “The Forgotten Kingdom” (2013) – While the film is set in South Africa and Lesotho, many of its scenes were shot in Mauritius.
10. “Close Encounters with Vilmos Zsigmond” (2016) – This French documentary about the famous cinematographer was partly filmed in Mauritius.

These films offer different perspectives of Mauritius, showcasing both its scenic beauty and versatility as a film location.

Captivating Narratives: 5 TV Shows Set in Mauritius

The allure of Mauritius extends beyond the big screen. Here are five TV series that have used Mauritius as their setting:

1. “Death in Paradise” (2011-present) – Although the series is set in the Caribbean, much of it is filmed in Mauritius.
2. “The Grand Tour” (2016-present) – The Amazon Prime series shot one of their special episodes in Mauritius.
3. “The Amazing Race” (2001-present) – The popular reality show shot an episode in Mauritius during its 10th season.
4. “Indian Summers” (2015-2016) – This British drama used Mauritius to stand in for 1930s India.
5. “The X Factor: UK” (2004-present) – The popular reality singing competition filmed the ‘Judges’ Houses’ round in Mauritius in 2018.

These shows not only highlight the scenic beauty of Mauritius but also demonstrate its versatility as a filming location.

Animated Adventures: 5 Animated Films Set in Mauritius

Mauritius’s charm is not limited to live-action films and TV shows. The island has also captured the imagination of animators. Here are five animated films set in Mauritius:

1. “Robinson Crusoe” (2016) – This animated film focuses on the famous castaway’s life on a tropical island, created with the beauty of Mauritius in mind.
2. “Dodo” (2014) – This short film tells the story of the extinct Dodo bird that was endemic to Mauritius.
3. “The Return of the Dodo” (2018) – This animated film, set in Mauritius, imagines a world where Dodos are brought back to life.
4. “Island of Lemurs: Madagascar” (2014) – While primarily set in Madagascar, this documentary features the lemurs’ ancient roots in Mauritius.
5. “OceanWorld 3D” (2009) – This French documentary explores the marine life around Mauritius and other locations.

These films showcase the unique biodiversity and natural beauty of Mauritius, enchanting both young and adult audiences.

Reading Between The Lines: Famous Books Set in Mauritius

The rich culture and stunning scenery of Mauritius have inspired numerous authors. Here are six notable books set in Mauritius:

Classic:

1. “Paul et Virginie” by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre – This classic novel, set in colonial Mauritius, is a tragic love story between two childhood friends.
2. “The Mauritius Command” by Patrick O’Brian – This naval novel, part of the Aubrey-Maturin series, is set in Mauritius during the Napoleonic Wars.
3. “River of Smoke” by Amitav Ghosh – Although not entirely set in Mauritius, significant parts of this historical novel take place on the island.

Contemporary:

1. “The Last Brother” by Nathacha Appanah – This novel explores a little-known chapter of Mauritian history through the eyes of a young boy.
2. “Mutiny on the Bounty” by John Boyne – This retelling of the famous mutiny features scenes in Mauritius.
3. “Serena” by Ron Rash – While the book is primarily set in North Carolina, key scenes take place in Mauritius, where the timber barons hope to expand their empire.

These books offer readers a chance to explore Mauritius’s rich history and diverse culture.

Exploring Mauritius’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

Mauritius, with its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, has been a favorite location for filmmakers. Here are some must-visit filming locations in Mauritius:

1. Black River Gorges National Park – Featured in “Serena,” this park offers breathtaking views of Mauritius’s rainforest.
2. Flic en Flac Beach – This popular beach has been used in numerous film shoots, including scenes from “The Wild Geese.”
3. Le Morne Brabant – This UNESCO World Heritage site has featured in several documentaries due to its historical significance and natural beauty.
4. Port Louis – Mauritius’s vibrant capital city, used in films like “Breakout,” offers a mix of modern and colonial architecture.
5. Chamarel Coloured Earths – Featured in various travel and nature documentaries, this natural phenomenon is a must-see.

These locations offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making them worth a visit.

Where to Sleep in Mauritius: From Budget to Luxury

Mauritius offers a myriad of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Luxury:

1. One&Only Le Saint Géran – This luxury resort offers private beaches and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
2. Constance Prince Maurice – This luxurious hotel is renowned for its unique floating restaurant and wine cellar.
3. The Oberoi Beach Resort – With its villas, pavilions, and lush subtropical gardens, this resort offers the ultimate luxury experience.

Budget:

1. Casa Florida Hotel & Spa – This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and is located just a short walk from Pereybere Beach.
2. Tyvabro Guesthouse – Located in Mahebourg, this guesthouse offers affordable accommodation with a friendly atmosphere.
3. Villa Narmada – Situated near Grand Baie Beach, this budget-friendly apartment hotel offers well-equipped rooms and a swimming pool.

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or budget-friendly options, Mauritius has something to suit every traveler.

A Taste of Mauritius: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Mauritius is renowned for its diverse cuisine, which reflects the island’s multicultural history. Here are some places where you can savor Mauritian gastronomy:

Budget:

1. Chez Rosy – Located in the south of the island, this restaurant offers authentic Mauritian cuisine at affordable prices.
2. Dholl Puri Stall – Located in Port Louis, this street food stall is famous for its dholl puri, a traditional Mauritian dish.
3. Boulettes Stalls at Port Louis Central Market – The market offers a variety of Mauritian dumplings or ‘boulettes’ at affordable prices.

Luxury:

1. Chí¢teau Mon Désir – Overlooking the historic ruins of Balaclava and the Citron River, this restaurant offers gourmet cuisine in a colonial mansion.
2. La Table du Chí¢teau – This restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with dishes inspired by local produce.
3. The Test Kitchen Mauritius – A pop-up restaurant by famed South African chef Luke Dale Roberts, offering a unique fine dining experience.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet enthusiast, Mauritius has a range of dining options to satisfy your palate.

Experience Mauritius’s Cinematic Locations: A Detailed Itinerary

Embark on a five-day journey through Mauritius’s cinematic landscapes with this detailed itinerary:

Day 1: Port Louis and Surroundings

Start your trip in Port Louis, Mauritius’s capital city. Visit the Caudan Waterfront and the Central Market, both featured in several films. End your day with a visit to the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, a popular location for nature documentaries.

Day 2: South Mauritius

Head to the Black River Gorges National Park, where scenes from “Serena” were filmed. Later, visit the Chamarel Coloured Earths, featured in various travel documentaries.

Day 3: East Mauritius

Explore the historical district of Vieux Grand Port, where the Dutch first landed. Visit the Ile aux Aigrettes nature reserve, featured in several nature documentaries.

Day 4: West Mauritius

Visit Flic en Flac Beach, a popular filming location. Later, visit Casela World of Adventures, featured in “The Grand Tour.”

Day 5: North Mauritius

Spend your day in Grand Baie, a popular location for TV series and reality shows. Visit the public beach and the La Cuvette beach, both popular filming locations.

This itinerary offers a balance of natural beauty and cultural experiences, providing a comprehensive tour of Mauritius’s cinematic locations.

The Enigma of Mauritius: Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Mauritius is home to several legends and mysteries. The most famous is the Dodo, a flightless bird endemic to Mauritius and now extinct. The Dodo has become a symbol of the island and has been featured in several films and books.

The island is also known for its lore about ghosts and spirits, especially around the Ganga Talao, a sacred lake where many rituals and prayers are conducted.

These legends add a touch of mystery to the charm of Mauritius, inspiring storytellers and filmmakers.

Hidden Gems in Mauritius: Lesser-Known Filming Locations

Beyond the popular tourist spots, Mauritius has several hidden gems that have been used as filming locations:

1. Le Morne Brabant – This mountain has been featured in several local and international films due to its stunning views and historical significance.
2. Ganga Talao – This sacred lake, surrounded by temples, has been used as a location for several Bollywood films.
3. Eureka House – This colonial mansion, now a museum, has been used as a location for period films and documentaries.

Whether you’re a filmmaker seeking unique locations or a tourist looking for less crowded spots, these hidden gems offer unique views and experiences.

What to Pack for a Trip to Mauritius

When packing for a trip to Mauritius, consider the tropical climate and activities you plan to do:

1. Comfortable footwear – Whether exploring the city or hiking in the national park, comfortable shoes are essential.
2. Lightweight clothing – Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Include a mix of casual and smart-casual outfits.
3. Swimwear and beach essentials – Don’t forget your swimsuit, beach towel, sunglasses, and a good sunblock.
4. Camera – To capture the beautiful landscapes and your own cinematic moments.
5. Travel guide and map – To help you navigate and find those hidden gems.

With these packing tips, you’re ready for your cinematic journey through Mauritius.

Getting Around Mauritius: Transportation Tips

Mauritius has an extensive public transportation system, but there are also other options for getting around:

Bus – Buses are a cheap and efficient way to travel around Mauritius, and the extensive network covers much of the island.

Car Rental – Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road.

Taxis – Taxis are widely available, and they’re especially useful for short trips within towns and cities.

Bicycle Rental – In some areas, particularly around Flic en Flac and Grand Baie, it’s possible to rent bicycles.

With these transportation options, you can easily explore Mauritius’s cinematic locations.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Mauritius

When planning your trip to Mauritius, ensure you have the following travel documents:

1. Passport – Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay in Mauritius.
2. Visa – Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Mauritius. Check the Mauritius Embassy or Consulate website in your home country for information.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, you might need an International Driving Permit, along with your domestic driving license.

Having the right travel documents ensures a hassle-free journey to Mauritius.

Conclusion: Unravel the Cinematic Splendors of Mauritius

From the silver screen to the pages of bestselling books, Mauritius has been inspiring stories with its natural beauty and cultural richness. This guide has aimed to provide a comprehensive look at Mauritius’s cinematic landscape, offering film enthusiasts, avid readers, and globetrotters a unique way to explore the island. Whether you’re retracing the steps of famous movie characters, seeking out hidden gems, or simply soaking up the island’s unique atmosphere, Mauritius offers a cinematic journey like no other. Happy travels!