Sports are increasingly becoming part of the routine for the residents of Mauritius, who can now rely on natural tracks as well as numerous centers, gyms, and classes to stay active and fit throughout the year. We have compiled the most popular sports activities in Mauritius to help you make the most of your stay on the island.
Hiking in Mauritius
Mauritius does not lack hiking trails: in the mountains, in the Black River Gorges, around the reservoirs, or in the nature reserves.
If you love hiking or if you want to try it, mountains like Le Morne Brabant, Le Pouce, Lion, Corps de Garde, Signal Mountain or Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire are musts.
If you prefer flatter or easier trails, try the Black River Gorges, which are full of hiking trails suitable for all tastes. There are also trails around the reservoirs, including Mare Longue, La Nicolière, and Mare aux Vacoas.
Sports activities in Mauritius
Sports of all kinds are becoming more and more popular amongst Mauritians, who can now count on many gyms, sports centers, halls, and courses to discover activities and stay in shape all year round. The most popular ones are:
Yoga
There is no shortage of yoga studios on the island! A simple search on Google Maps will allow you to discover the addresses from the North to the South of Mauritius.
Combat sports
Very popular in Mauritius, combat sports are particularly well-represented throughout the island: mixed martial arts, jiu-jitsu, judo, karate, Okinawan Kobudo, krav maga, taekwondo, etc. You will find anything you're looking for or you can just try classes until you find a perfect fit!
Zumba
Like yoga, Zumba is popular among the inhabitants of Mauritius. Classes are held in small local gyms, outdoors, or by individual Zumba-certified instructors.
Horseback riding
There are several stud farms in Mauritius, including Domaine de L'Étoile, La Vieille Cheminée and Le Haras du Morne. As for courses, they are provided by Cavalia, Les Écuries de Mont Rocher, les étables de Forbach, as well as by the Club d'Équitation du Nord.
Archery
As surprising as it may seem, archery is a very popular sport in Mauritius. To get started, get in touch with the Rose Hill Archery Club, Azuri Archery Club, Archery CSSC Clubhouse (Curepipe Starlight Sporting Club), OPAC (Vacoas-Phœnix).
Golf
This sport has been practiced on the island since 1902. Mauritius is home to more than 10 golf courses:
- Gymkhana Golf Club - 18 holes (the very first club in Mauritius, created by officers of the British Royal Navy);
- Anahita Golf Club - 18 holes;
- Avalon Golf Estate - 18 holes;
- Heritage Golf Club - 18 holes;
- ÃŽle aux Cerfs Golf Club - 18 holes;
- Legend Golf Course - 18 holes;
- Links Golf Course - 18 holes;
- Mont Choisy Le Golf - 18 holes;
- Paradis Golf Club - 18 holes;
- Tamarina Golf Club - 18 holes;
- Dodo Club - 9 holes;
- Maritim Golf Club - 9 holes;
- Shandrani Golf Club - 9 holes.
Rugby
The best place to enquire about rugby in Mauritius is the Rugby Union Mauritius.
Water sports in Mauritius
Mauritius has several dozen well-equipped diving centers registered with the Mauritius Scuba Diving Association. Some of them are also PADI and CMAS certified. Most of these diving centers are associated with hotels or resorts, although you can find independent diving centers.
Kitesurfers can go to the "One Eye" spot at Le Morne, or to La Gaulette, La Prairie, Île aux Bénitiers and Bel Ombre. If you want to go through a specialized company, look for a provider certified by the IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization).
Surfing is practiced in Tamarin, on the West Coast, where there is a surf school.
For windsurfing, head to the east coast of Mauritius, where the South-East trade winds blow. You can approach the luxury hotels in the area, which offer equipment rental and lessons.
Stand-up paddling is gaining momentum in Mauritius, where it is now possible to take lessons and rent boards, especially in Tamarin.
For kayaking enthusiasts, many hotels offer this activity at sea.
If you are a complete beginner or simply prefer to be accompanied by a specialized company, try sea kayaking by Yemaya Adventures on Amber Island or river kayaking by Otentic and Nativ Lodge & Spa.
Fitness in Mauritius
More and more fitness clubs are opening across the island! To find them, just do some research on Facebook and the Internet by typing the keywords "fitness Mauritius". The most popular are:
- Synergy Sports & Wellness Institute - Moka;
- MYFIT 360 - Caudan - Trianon - Riche Terre;
- Enoia Sports & Fitness Club - Ébène - Grand Bay;
- Grand Bay Gym Hydro Spa - Grand Bay;
- Shape Sport Club - Grand Bay.
Of course, smaller gyms can be found in most towns as well as in villages.
As for the fees, it all depends on the club you choose. Admission fees usually start at Rs 1,000, and monthly fees vary depending on the club chosen.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
