Il est possible de passer toutes sortes de vacances sur l'île, comme par exemple découvrir l'île Maurice hors des sentiers battus, promener dans les parcs et jardin, partir en randonnée, Il est aussi possible d'observer les dauphins dans la Baie du tamarin. Laisser vous guidez sur les traces de l'histoire, Il y a tant de choses à découvrir sur lîle.
LE NORD
Le marché central de Port Louis reste le point de ralliement des Mauriciens. On y trouve tout ce qui fait le charme de lîle Maurice, artisanat, fruits et légumes, dholl pouri, farata, ainsi que l'incontournable marchand de tisanes.
Le quartier chinois est pittoresque et intéressant, avec ses mine et ses Boulettes .
Le Front de mer du Caudan : Cet endroit de Port-louis associe shopping, détente et restauration dans un cadre des plus modernes. Restauration rapide ou gastronomie, bijouterie, mode et artisanat.
Le village de Cap Malheureux avec sa chapelle a toit rouge.
Le Jardin de Pamplemousses est connu des botanistes du monde entier pour limportante collection de plantes indigènes et exotiques qui y poussent, y compris les nénuphars géants et les nombreuses espèces de palmiers.
L'aventure du sucre : Une ancienne usine sucrière, reconvertie en une extraordinaire exposition moderne (découvrir les secrets de fabrication du sucre de canne).
Le Shivala de Triolet : Le shivala a été construit en l'honneur des dieux Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma et ganeshna entre autres.
L'EST
Le Waterpark & Leisure Village : Des glissades inoubliables sur le toboggan géant, des moments fantastiques en famille. Instants de détente et plaisirs garantis.
L'île aux Cerfs (en bateau pirate) : Véritable bateau de bois, avec à son bord une équipage de pirates avec animation durant la traversée et sans oublié le petit café a la mauricienne.
Domaine de l'étoile : Lieu dexcursions privilégies et exclusives pour découvrir le cur vert de l'île, a travers une nature merveilleusement protégée. Pour admirer les oiseau, cerfs et autres animaux qui évoluent au milieu de ces terres étendues, un éventail de possibilités est offert au visiteurs : un parcours tir a l'arc, des balades a pied, avec ou guide et des circuits motorises en Quad ou en 4x4.
La plage de Belle Mare : Belle Mare dispose dune magnifique plage.
LE SUD
Le village de Mahebourg l'un des principaux centres de pêche de lîle, Mahebourg est construite sur une splendide baie de Grand Port.
Le Parc Marin de Blue Bay : Un jardin de corail exceptionnel. De multiples poissons sont visibles dont les poissons-perroquets, poissons trompettes et des petits barracudas entre autres.
La vanille crocodiles park. : En parcourant les sentiers plantés d'arbres vous observerez des iguanes, des singes, des tortues géantes et évidemment beaucoup de crocodiles.
L'OUEST
La route du thé : Découvrez une île Maurice traditionnelle en visitant l'usine et le musée du thé a Bois Chéri.
Casela parc aux oiseaux : 1500 oiseaux, divers mammifères et une ferme interactive dans 14 hectares de jardin magnifique. Que vous choisissiez dy venir en famille ou en amoureux, Casela saura vous charmer.
Chamarel terres de couleurs : Il sagit dune colline et dondulations de terrain de couleurs contrastées, les parcelles de bleu, vert, rouge et jaune étant, pense- t-on, le résultat de l'érosion.
Les chutes de chamarel émergent de la lande et la végétation naturelle est d'une beauté surprenante.
Le lac sacre de Grand Bassin : Il occupe le cratère d'un volcan eteint. Il s'agit dun lieu de pèlerinage pour la majorité des mauriciens de foi hindoue.
Mauritius glass gallery : observez cet art ancien, quest le soufflage du verre en transformant 100% le verre recycle fondu en objets de grande beauté.
Si vous pensez venir à Maurice, bientôt et que vous avez besoin d'aide, écrivez-moi et je ferais un plaisir de vous aider. Au plaisir de vous aider,
A bientôt,
La Mauricienne.
Bonjour à tous
je reviens de l'île RODRIGUES qui est réellement un bijou entre le lagon, les côtes et le centre.
Si vous avez besoin de renseignements je peux vous en donner.
Pour une chambre d'hôte je vous conseille d'aller chez SANTOS
adresse tipavillon@intnet.mu
c'est à anse aux anglais à 15 minutes de la gare routière de Port Mathurin.
Les studio sont spacieux, les chambres viennent d'être terminées et la cuisine y est excellente le soir.
Mon adresse mail :
annebaum@wanadoo.fr
Au plaisir de vous parler de cette île où il fait bon vivre (rien à voir avec MAURICE trop touristique...)
Nous venons en famille à Grand Baie début novembre.
Ma fille de 14 ans rêve de nager avec les dauphins. Avez-vous des infos à me communiquer dans le secteur de Grand Baie. Pour ma part, j'aimerai beaucoup voir les tortues de mer.
Je prends également toutes infos concernant les visites aux alentours de Grand Baie.
Comment se déplacer ? taxi ? voiture de location ? je crois que la conduite est à gauche comme en Angleterre ...
Merci pour vos infos
Merci de tous ces bons tuyaux, je cherche quelqu'un qui peut nous guider du 28 janvier au 15 fevrierpour nous faire découvrir la région avec des ballades en mer, en voiture, a pied, en quad, etc...
Si vous connaissez quelqu'un qui parle Francais et de sympha a des prix doux, merci de de me contacter au 06 08 22 19 83 OU par mail michel.revenu@wanadoo.fr
A plus salutations
Merci de noter que pour les dauphins, vous devez aller dans l'ouest a Tamarin. C'est a 1h30 de route de grand baie. La nage avec les dauphins est permise par certains bateaux seulement question securité.
A noter que ce n'est jamais garanti de voir les dauphins car ils sont dans leur univers naturel et pas en captivité.
Je connais pas mal de gens qui proposent cet excursion avec picnic sur l'ile aux beniters. Merci de m'ecrire chezvaco@gmail.com et je vous donnerai les coordonées - pour ne pas faire de la pub sur le forum.
Nous venons en famille à Grand Baie début novembre.
Ma fille de 14 ans rêve de nager avec les dauphins. Avez-vous des infos à me communiquer dans le secteur de Grand Baie. Pour ma part, j'aimerai beaucoup voir les tortues de mer.
Je prends également toutes infos concernant les visites aux alentours de Grand Baie.
Comment se déplacer ? taxi ? voiture de location ? je crois que la conduite est à gauche comme en Angleterre ...
Merci pour vos infos
Bonjour Mimidu13,
Il est possible de voir les Dauphins uniquement à la Baie de Tamarin, il faut le faire très tôt le matin. Il est encore possible de nager avec eux mais avec les professionnels accompagnateur car ils sont « sauvage » mais pas dangereux. J’ai personnellement des très bons contact mais je vais pas faire de la pub sur le forum si tu peut me faire avoir ton adresse je le ferais avec plaisir.
Louer une voiture, je te déconseille.. La conduite est à gauche (comme en Angletere). En plus de ça, c'est vraiment mal indiqué...
Si vous avez besoin d'autres infos, n'hésitez pas, ça sera avec plaisir.
Amicalement,
La Mauricienne
😎 coucou,
merci pour toutes ces précisions, tres utiles....
nous partons à 2 nanas le 11 janvier, nous préparons ce voyage depuis cet été et je dois dire que je commence à m'y pencher serieusement....nous allons a pereybere, comment tu trouves ?
d'apres les photos c'est pas mal du tout...
bref nous sommes heureuses de découvrir cette petite ile qui d'apres ce que je lis, nous feras passer 15 jours de bonheur !! un peu de moments cools dans cette vie chaotique parfois...
nous sommes ouvertes a tes conseils, de plus tu es une femme donc nous parlons le meme langage...
on prend tout!
enchantée de faire ta connaissance, itou pour les autres membres voyageurs..
a bientot..
Caro.
😎 coucou,
merci pour toutes ces précisions, tres utiles....
nous partons à 2 nanas le 11 janvier, nous préparons ce voyage depuis cet été et je dois dire que je commence à m'y pencher serieusement....nous allons a pereybere, comment tu trouves ?
d'apres les photos c'est pas mal du tout...
bref nous sommes heureuses de découvrir cette petite ile qui d'apres ce que je lis, nous feras passer 15 jours de bonheur !! un peu de moments cools dans cette vie chaotique parfois...
nous sommes ouvertes a tes conseils, de plus tu es une femme donc nous parlons le meme langage...
on prend tout!
enchantée de faire ta connaissance, itou pour les autres membres voyageurs..
a bientot..
Caro.
Salut Caro😎,
Le but de mon posting était justement d'aider les futurs vacanciers à découvrir cette autre facette dans mon île. Enchantée aussi c un plaisir partagé !!! Mon email perso :monilemaurice@hotmail.com
Au plaisir de vous aidez d’avantage,
Bien a vous,
La Mauricienne.
merci pour ta réponse.😏 nous allons donc au petit Prince à Perebeyre, connais -tu ? si oui, tes impressions ? sinon nous avions l' intention de venir les valises vides, enfin presque, j' ai dans l' idée qu' au lieu de vides, elles seraient remplies de choses utiles, comme qq's cahiers, vêtements bébés ect ect.... qu'en penses tu ? j'ai cru comprendre que cela pourrait être utile, dis moi ce qui est le mieux..... sinon j' ai hâte d'être dans ton île, la vie en France n' est pas folichonne, de plus il y fait froid, même si je suis dans le sud ( Nimes ) et toi tu es d' ou ? en attendant ta réponse, bon week end.. Caro.😛
je compte sejourner a maurice au mois d'avril
nous venons avec nos deux filles(9ans et 2 ans)
nous passerons 5 nuits a l hotel puis irons dans ma famille sur place
j envisage de me marier sur place et j aimerai entreprendre seule les démarches administratives car par le biais de l'hotel cela reste cher(il y a les à cotés en plus)
jai du mal a joindre le bureau d etat civil mauricien (j'appelle de france)
seriez vous me renseigner?
pour ceux qui est de la visite de l ile je suis tres intéréssée
etes vous toujour a maurice?
comment nous organiser?
Malheureusement je ne connais pas les démarches administratives pour le mariage étranger à Maurice…
Je suis toujours a Maurice voici mon email :monilemaurice@hotmail.com
Bonsoir Anne rose,
Suis navigant a air france, et habitue a voyager, quelquefois a maurice. Mais la je pars en vacance avec mon ami, et je pense contacter Alain pour alller voir les dauphins? Je me souviens avoir fait cette sortie il y a 4 ans avec un petit bateau, pas assez rapide pour suivre les bancs de dauphins, suis reste un peu frustré.
Merci pour tes conseils & contacts.
Si tu connais qqn qui loue un scooter pour plusieurs jours, ou des vtt, je suis preneur des coordonnées.
Merci encore pour ta passion de l ile
j'ai deja tenté l'ambassade de maurice a paris
on m'a dit d'appeler directement à maurice
je cherche des personnes comme moi qui veulent faire toutes les demarches administratives
du mariage seul...ou qui on des contacts sur maurice...
mais merci quand meme
Désolé, je ne savais pas que se soit aussi compliqué.
a l' ambassade, c' est a celui qui va en faire le moins
c' est vrai qu'ils sont ouverts trois heures par jour alors ils sont fatigués !!!!!!
personnellement je suis marié avec une mauricienne, mais je n' ai pas eu tous ces problémes, je me suis marié en france.
une autre solution c' est de se marier en france puis a maurice aprés.
Sauf si le mari est a maurice la c' est une autre histoire.
jacky
nous résidons tout les deux a nice pour répondre a votre question
nous souhaitons nous marier a maurice pour immortaliser notre union et
nous ne voulons pas nous marier en france car le mariage serait beaucoup plus onéreux!!!trop de famille
en tout cas j ai eu ce matin le bureau d etat civil a maurice enfin!!!
les formalitées a envoyer semblent simples c'est sur place que se sera un peu plus compliqué
Coucou, nous allons à Maurice en location Pointe aux Canonniers, et j'aimerai me renseigner pour me faire faire un massage. Quelqu'un aurait-il les prix à l'hôtel les Canonniers ou ailleurs. Merci
bonsoir,
ayant l'intention de séjourner à l'ile maurice fin février jusqu'au 18 mars env. j'aimerais avoir de tes conseils, en priorité logement. Nous sommes deux, mais aimons nos aises, nous aimerions un appart. directement en bord de plage - flic enb flac parex. tranquille mais près des centres d'animation, restaurants, etc.. pour le reste on peut voir sur place.
merci de tes prpositions
a bientot
L. Meyer
BONJOUR.NOUS COMPTONS SEJOURNER A L ILE MAURICE AU MOIS DE JANVIER POUR QUATRE JOURS.JE CHERCHE LES COORDONNEES DE LA LOCATION DES APPTS CHEZ DOOKEE QUI SE TROUVE PRES DE SUPER U SUR LA RUE PRINCIPALE.AURIEZ VOUS UN NUMERO OU JE POURRAIS LES JOINDRE SVP?MERCI DAVANCE
Je ne connais malheureusement pas les Dookee mais a cote du Super U je connais Monalysa Appartements. C'est tres bien aussi. Tu peux m'ecrire sur chezvaco@gmail.com et je te donnerai le numero de telephone.
bonsoir,
voilà le projet se concrétise, nous avons nos billets d'avion du 20 février au 20 mars. Il reste à organiser une partie du séjour, pour cela toute aide est bienvenue. Nous cherchons une location pour les 10 premiers jours, en bord de mer, près des resto, animation etc.. nous pesons à flic en flac, as-tu d'autres suggestions, tout avis nous sera utile.
merci
Comme tu as l air de savoir beaucoup de choses sur Maurice, peux tu me dire si on trouve du champagne et si oui a quel prix ???Je dois me rendre dans la famille et j aimerai leur en offrir comment faire ??
Par le biais de l'avion je ne sais pas si c'est possible ??
Alors si tu as de infos, je suis preneur !!
Merci
Karellis
J`ai lue que Vous allez a Pereybeyre au petit Prince a L ile Maurice pouvez vous s.v.p. apres votre voyage me dire comment etait les appartements, ainsi que la situation, et si les appartements sont a l`étage et quellle appart est préférables et ceux avec une chambre a coucher, et si possible avec des photos
bonjour,
nous serons à maurice du 12 au 31 janvier et pensons faire une escapade à Rodrigues.
Bateau ou avion? connais-tu des bons plans?
En te remerciant,
Bonnes fêtes de fin d'année
L.
J'organise actuellement un voyage pour les 70 ans de mon papa en avril 2009
Nous serons adultes, ados et enfants alors j'ai tenté de trouver un hotel regroupant tous les envies de chacun
Mon agence de voyage me propose l hotel le Cannonnier à Grand Baie, le connaissez vous ? Les palges sont elles belles et grandes ?
que pourriez vous me dire à ce sujet,
j'organise un séjour à maurice pour l'anniversaire de mon papa (70 ans) avec toute la famille. Nous serons 13, adultes, ados et enfants de 8 ans.
j'ai donc cherché avec mon agence de voyage locale un hotel regroupant belles plages, choix dans les activités, discothèque dans l hotel club pour les enfants, celle ci
me propose l hotel le CANNONIER à Grand Baie
Que peux tu m'en dire ? je voudrais tellement que le voyage soit fabuleux pour toute la famille et je stresse un peu dans le choix de l'hotel
Les plages sur Grand Baie sont comment ?
Quelles sont les excursions très sympa à prévoir ?
J'envisage de voyager avec Air Mauritus, cette compagnie est elle aussi bien qu'AIr France ?
bonjour nous arrivons vendredi prochain à maurice en viyage de noce j'ai bien lu tous ce qu'il y a à faire ya t il des endroit "secret" à faire la ou les touristes ne vont pas?
merci davance
Hi,
I traveled to Madagascar from May 16 to June 3 with a group (10 people), accompanied by our guide/driver Adrien and his two sons (or "Adrien and Co," already mentioned in previous posts on this forum).
We were absolutely satisfied with the services provided. While other guides we contacted only offered ready-made itineraries with no flexibility, Adrien crafted a highly varied program for us, blending hikes, landscapes, crafts, and interactions with locals. It was an intense but well-optimized schedule that met all our wishes.
The accommodations—sometimes very rustic, sometimes very comfortable—were all very clean. We were on a half-board plan, and our lunches were at small, typical restaurants recommended by Adrien.
Adrien and his sons were super friendly, helpful, and always in a good mood (even when both vehicles got flat tires 10 minutes apart, for example!).
We had plenty of breaks every day, and every special request was accommodated!
We got a great rate: 1300 € per person. On top of that, we added tips for the drivers, pirogue guides, and cooks, as well as our lunches and any personal expenses.
We were lucky with the lemurs—we saw a lot of them!
At no point did we feel unsafe.
Day-by-day details on my Polarstep: https://www.polarsteps.com/moietlechatTraveller/25173082-madagascar-2027
Trip details:
Day 1: Flight from Réunion to Madagascar – night at IVATO HOTEL
Day 2: Antsirabe - Miandrivazo
220 km, about 7 hours
Day 3: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, village encounters, swim in the waterfall, bivouac. Lunch in the pirogue.
Day 4: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, visit to a village and school, bivouac; lunch in the pirogue.
Day 5: Tsarahotana - Bekopaka
End of the river descent. At 9 AM, 4x4, 45 km, 3 hours, ferry across the Tsiribihina.
Day 6: Visits to Parc Grand Tsingy de Benahara (sporty level) and Petit Tsingy (for all walkers)
Day 7: Bekopaka - Belo/Tsiribihina. Nighttime visit to Kirindy Reserve
135 km, 6 hours
Day 8: Kirindy Reserve, daytime visit in the morning – drive to Morondava
100 km, 5 hours on a sandy track; "Baobabs Amoureux" and sunset at the "Avenue of the Baobabs"
Day 9: Morondava - Belo sur Mer by motorized pirogue, 3 hours
Day 10: Belo sur Mer, visit to a fishing village, pirogue ride through the mangroves, meal on the beach
Day 11: Belo sur Mer - Morondava - Miandrivazo
3 hours by motorized pirogue, then 280 km, 7 hours by minibus
Day 12: Miandrivazo - Antsirabe – Ambositra; crafts
310 km, 9 hours by minibus
Day 13: Ambositra - Antoetra, 45 km, 3 hours / Arrival in the Zafimaniry region via a difficult track.
Start of hike to Sakaevo; 9 km; overnight with a local family.
Day 14: Loop hike: Sakaevo, Faliarivo, Ambohimiadana, Sakaevo, picnic at a waterfall, several possible routes. 2nd night with a local family.
Day 15: Return hike, then track from Sakaevo to Antoetra.
Day 16: Drive from Antsirabe to the outskirts of Antananarivo (about 4 hours) – nighttime visit to Andasibe National Park (mouse lemurs and more)
Day 17: Daytime visit to Andasibe National Park, observation hike, many lemur species including the indri indri
Day 18: Visit to the old town, return to the airport.
Don’t hesitate to give him a call.
hi, I didn’t find anything recent on this topic in the posts.
I’m looking for accommodation in Diego and possibly a short stay in Ramena.
something not too expensive: no need for AC, just a functional bathroom and a clean room.
I prioritize a warm welcome, good vibes, and great tips! :-)
thanks
Has anyone been to this base camp in the Diego area towards the west coast (Mozambique Channel)? The trip starts from Diego Suarez by 4x4 and boat,
with a visit to Nosy Hara and a few nearby islands.
Possible big-game fishing and diving.
Thanks in advance if anyone has info!
Hi everyone, I’m heading to Île aux Nattes in a few weeks and I’d like to know if euros are accepted in the island’s restaurants.
At the hotel where I’ll be staying, they take card payments, but for activities, I can’t find any reliable info.
Could anyone tell me the approximate cost in euros and/or ariary for a week (food outside the hotel) on the island for two people?
Also, has anyone ever exchanged money at the Paris Magenta exchange bureau?
Thanks!
Hello,
After asking questions on the site, here’s a little feedback on our trip in March and April.
Marseille/Antananarivo flight with Ethiopian Airlines was great both ways. I’d recommend it.
Domestic flights with Madagascar Airlines were just as smooth.
We had to change our plans because I was the victim of a snatch-theft attempt at Ivato... patellar fracture... so I ended up with a brace and more rest than hikes.
This let us spend more time in the same areas and make some connections.
We loved Tulear. Stayed with Alain—excellent value for money.
Mangily, where we stayed for 15 days. Hotel Bella Dona due to my little handicap. The pool replaced sea swims.
Mangily gets a bad rap for being very touristy. True, you get approached a lot on the beach—you have to play along and buy some trinkets, but after that, you get royal peace and lots of exchanges with locals. The village and its lively street are nice too. Don’t hesitate to eat with fishermen or at local bars.
Anakao, a big favorite. Just the journey there is worth it. Watching dozens of pirogues set off between 5 and 6 AM is a magical moment.
Stayed at Peter Pan’s place. Lots of chats with Dario since we were the only guests.
Planned a 4-day Antananarivo–Soniara–Ivango road trip with a driver.
Cut to 2 days because the boat to Sainte Marie was moved up due to weather. I don’t remember the company’s name, but it wasn’t great for safety—plus, we brought back fleas.
Visited Andasibe Park along the way. Quick tip: go in the morning.
A little over 2 weeks on Sainte Marie at Hôtel Mantis Soanambo—total luxury negotiated at a price that defied all competition because it was low season.
Meals were at little local eateries nearby.
We chose not to sleep on Île aux Nattes but went there several times during the day (crossing: 4000 ariary for 2).
You have to take a pirogue tour—it’s like stepping into a postcard.
Sainte Marie is a special place. A tropical island that feels like the Caribbean ones we’ve lived on. No security issues at all. We rented a scooter because we found tuk-tuk prices a bit steep. You can leave the scooter with helmet and keys and come back 4 hours later.
More amazing encounters here too.
Last part of our trip in Ampefy, a beautiful volcanic region with a very welcoming population.
Stayed with a friend of our driver.
Hotels in Ivato are plentiful and vary a lot in quality.
Les 12 Collines is a bit out of the way but only 21 € per night.
La Chato... very expensive for what you get.
I tried to keep it short.
Madagascar is a wonderful island with so many facets. Always so many emotions when I think back on this trip.
The extreme poverty... don’t hesitate to buy food for the kids on the beach, for example. It doesn’t cost much, but it means a lot to them.
The kindness of the people and, above all, those SMILES.
We’re hooked—we’re going back in November for 6 months... because yes, you can buy a 3-month visa at the airport (a question I’d asked), and you can extend it for another 3 months... if you apply in time at a police station.
We didn’t take Malarone either. We’d brought some, but there were few mosquitoes, and "Insect Écran" worked really well.
Hi everyone, we’re planning a trip to Réunion for 6 nights and Mauritius for 7 nights in March 2027. I’m starting to look into it now. We’re not hikers, so I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Should we book flights and small hotels separately, or go for a flight-and-stay package? We don’t want to blow our budget (around 2800 € per person). Thanks!
Gigi
Hello,
We’ll be on vacation in the Seychelles in July and will visit La Digue, Praslin, and then Mahé in that order. Our 21-year-old daughter will have to leave earlier than us while we’re still on Praslin.
We’re hesitating between the following options for her return:
Option 1:
- July 9: ferry from Praslin at 2:00 PM – arrives in Mahé at 3:15 PM.
- International flight departing at 7:30 PM.
- The connection is very tight, leaving a 1- to 2-hour safety margin in case the ferry is delayed.
Option 2:
- July 9: ferry from Praslin at 8:00 AM – arrives in Mahé at 9:15 AM.
- International flight departing at 7:30 PM.
- This is safer than Option 1, but it means she’d lose the whole day, spending it alone. We’d pay for a day pass giving her access to a hotel pool to kill time.
From experience, what do you think? Are significant ferry delays (2 hours or more) common, especially in July with the swell, making Option 1 too risky?
Or is even Option 2 too risky, and should our daughter take a ferry the day before (though that would mean missing a lot of time with us)?
Or should she take an Air Seychelles flight the same day instead of the ferry? Is that safer than the ferry? But it’s much more expensive…
I know no one can give me certainty on this, but I’d just love to hear your gut feeling from those who have experience with inter-island transfers in the Seychelles.
Thanks so much in advance!
Christophe
Hello,
Our trip is taking shape.
We’re leaving on February 28th. We’ll start by flying to Tulear, then make our way up to Tana at a relaxed pace before catching another flight to Diego Suarez.
We’d love to end our stay on Sainte Marie Island.
Is there a way to make the trip by land? By sea?
Just to clarify, we’re not pressed for time.
Thanks!
Hello everyone,
Thanks for this amazing forum—I’ve spent hours browsing through it.
I’m reaching out to ask for your help as we’re looking for a destination for our honeymoon.
We never travel outside Europe, so we’re total newbies, but we want to treat ourselves for this special occasion.
Dates: June 23 → July 8 (possibly until July 12)
Duration: 2 to 3 weeks
Budget: Not really an issue for this trip
Our plan:
- A seaside destination first and foremost, with beautiful beaches
- We’d like to do some hiking or at least go on walks with scenic viewpoints
- A relaxing trip with sunshine, lush greenery, and stunning landscapes
- A safe destination
Our thoughts so far:
- New Zealand: our dream, but it seems like the wrong time of year weather-wise ++
- Azores: ruled out due to unpredictable weather—what do you think?
- Mauritius/Reunion combo: vetoed by my future wife ^^
- Seychelles: seems like it could work, but I’ve read about a few downsides (no shops to buy food, snorkeling not always amazing, occasional weather/tide issues making swimming tricky)
Other options:
- French Polynesia: we’re really dreaming of it, but is 2 weeks too short for such a long trip?
- Hawaii: same question—too far?
- Sardinia?
Thanks so much for your help, and have a great weekend!
Every year, we love escaping the autumn season—I really can’t stand it—by heading somewhere sunny during the All Saints' holiday.
This year, we were thinking of Mauritius... We’d found a place to stay, but after digging deeper, I realized it’s 40% cheaper in July. And the flights with Emirates aren’t more expensive in the summer, even though it’s peak season for them, compared to October.
Yet, after checking a bunch of sites, I don’t get the impression the weather is bad there in July—maybe just a *tiny* bit less hot than in October, but nothing major...
So we’re tempted to go this summer after all.
This big price jump for All Saints' compared to summer is a mystery to me... Did I miss something?
If you’ve got any firsthand experience traveling to Mauritius in July or early August, I’d love to hear about it.
Hi! Recently, the domestic-flight terminal at Ivato has been moved to the old "international" airport, complete with its own scanner. On October 13th, I checked my luggage (which I had inspected before leaving my hotel in Tana) for a flight to Sambava. It wasn’t until I arrived at my accommodation in Antalaha and opened it that I discovered it had been searched (normal before boarding a plane), but to my surprise, the case containing my GPS fishfinder had been opened—likely mistaken for a laptop due to the scanner’s open access to all kinds of theft—and three SD cards were stolen. Luckily, two of the SD cards had their micro SDs inserted into the device, so I still had the Navionics micro card (300 €) essential for fishing. Of course, I’m not asking for compensation, just urging caution with checked luggage on "domestic" flights. (This is a copy-paste of my post on *Le Routard*.)
Hello,
I’m continuing the Antalaha–Maroantsetra discussion but for some info in the other direction, specifically about hiking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha.
In mid-December, I plan to take it easy from Tamatave to Antalaha. I’m thinking of making a few stops, like Nosy Atafana—has anyone snorkeled there? Is it nice? Can you find bush taxis on the Soniera–Ivongo / Maroantsetra stretch?
After that, I’m considering walking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha and figuring things out as I go, since the path seems well-used, so I’m not planning on a guide. Good idea or totally foolish? Should I bring a tent and some camping gear, or, as I’ve read multiple times, are there several villages with lodging and food options along the way? Any spots worth stopping at or nothing special to see?
In Antalaha, I saw the recommendation for Villa Malaza in the previous discussion, so I’m keeping that in mind. If there’s space, I’ll plan to stay there. In Antalaha itself, are there any places to visit, things to see, or activities you’d recommend?
Thanks in advance to everyone for any tips—they’ll be really helpful!
Well, I still feel a bit lonely about this destination—no requests for info, no travel journals, or trip reports since I last posted over a year ago. A little disheartening.
That said, I did cross paths with slightly more tourists this time. Not a ton, but enough to notice compared to my last stay. Beyond that, not much has changed—the people are just as lovely, and every interaction, whether at the market, in the medinas, in town, or in the countryside, was positive. It was so pleasant; my "alert meter" stayed at zero the whole time (which is pretty different from some other places I visit now and then). The roads outside the cities remain dangerous, and the accident rate seems high. Best to drive during the day and take it easy (on some rough stretches, you don’t really have a choice anyway). The scattered plastic and metal waste hasn’t magically disappeared, and it’s still pretty discouraging to see the most beautiful beaches surrounded by empty bottles, straws, diapers, and rusted carcasses of an old Xantia or a skeletal Espace. When it’s not on the beach itself (since those are cleaned), it’s just a few meters away. Usually, there’s not much in the water or close to shore—the seabeds are gorgeous, with coral and a wide variety of scaly friends... But stepping back onto the hardened lava, you dodge a chip bag or a shriveled battery. Such a paradox. Honestly, it’s like this almost everywhere except on hotel beaches or those far from human settlements. But otherwise, in places like Chomoni, Bouni, Itsandra, Moya, and Domoni (on Anjouan), Nioumachoua (on Mohéli, and even on the nearby islets), it’s hard to ignore. And it unfortunately tarnishes the beauty of these otherwise stunning spots.
That said, you can still find secluded micro-bays, protected and remote, where this isn’t an issue. And where there are hotels—like in Petite Itsandra in Moroni, in front of Laka Lodge in Nioumachoua, Trou du Prophète, or even Chomoni (though the surrounding areas are so littered...)—the beaches are cleaned, so...
So why go? Why still love it despite all this?
Well, first, the Comorians themselves—that’s already essential and probably the main reason.
Then there’s the breathtaking topography: the imposing Karthala, the dizzying peaks and cliffs of Anjouan, vast ravines, a tortured geology covered in lush nature, and Mohéli, much more serene and gentle, blanketed in spice plants and trees with names that make you dream, like an open-air spice market.
The flora across the islands—the fields, trees, scents: clove trees, cinnamon trees, lychee, mango, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, coconut palms, banana trees, coffee plants, cocoa... A profusion of green dotted with red, white, and yellow berries and flowers...
The seabeds are stunning in many places, and there are some beautiful beaches/oceanfront spots, especially near Trou du Prophète (but not only there).
The history and culture—between traditional festivals, but especially the medinas with their staircases, covered passages, palaces, and mosques that create Escher-like constructions. I love wandering through them for hours, stumbling upon an unlikely shop, a more or less philosophical saying like "pain is a warning," "a promise is a debt," or the less original "little by little, the bird makes its nest." A grocery store, women negotiating freshly caught fish (usually tuna, immediately cut and ready to sell), kids playing, old men playing checkers, a call to prayer... In Moroni, Mutsamudu, and Domoni, I spent most of my "urban" time.
If anyone’s interested—though given the hype about Comoros on the forum, I doubt it—but if you need info on accommodation across the three islands, some restaurants, or sites to visit, don’t hesitate to ask.
This message is another message in a bottle (one more, if I dare...) for the Comoros destination.
I’ll be in Antalaha in October and need to get to Maroantsetra.
I’ve heard it’s possible by boat, but I can’t find any info about it.
So I’m wondering if I’ll have to arrange something with local fishing boats or something else, and whether it’s a risky trip since the sea can get rough on Madagascar’s east coast.
Has anyone done this before, or just know anything about it?
What do you think?
Hello, we’re heading to Mauritius for two weeks at the end of October. We’ll be staying in Trou aux Biches. We’d like to explore the island by bus if possible, so if you have any tips, we’d love to hear them. We’re on half-board, so we’ll also be checking out some nice, typical little restaurants and snack spots. Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi, is it possible to find out? How can I stay for 3 consecutive months in Madagascar, based on a fixed-date flight ticket? In short, how do I get a visa stamped at the airport??
Does anyone know if there’s maritime transport from the southern tip of Africa to a port in MADAGASCAR?
CHEAPER THAN A FLIGHT, see you soon, fellow traveler!!
Hi there,
We’ve booked accommodation at Digwa Beach Chalet on La Digue. We’ll be arriving and leaving by ferry.
We’re only a 20-minute walk from our rental.
I was wondering if anyone has stayed at this place before and knows if they pick you up from the ferry? Is it free? How much does it cost?
My husband has reduced mobility and with the luggage, it’s not going to be easy. I’ve sent a message to the accommodation but haven’t heard back yet... Thanks so much for your help!
hi, does anyone have any recent info on the condition of this RN6 route? roadworks? maintenance?
and of course, about the two river crossings at Gué between Ambanja and Ambilobe on the Ifatsy and Mahavavy rivers (at the entrance to Ambilobe)
condition of the ferries, possible start of work on the bridges (with the addition of Bailey bridges)
any info after the rainy season, meaning after April 2025
thanks
Can you tell me how long (on average...) the Tana to Tamatave trip takes with local minibus transport?
Which reliable company do you recommend for booking?
Hi there,
We’re thinking of doing the train journey from Fianarantsoa to Manakara again. Is the train still running? After that, we’re planning to go from Manakara to Fort Dauphin by 4x4. Thanks for any tips you can share!
Hello,
After over 40 years of traveling, I’ve never used a driver-guide before.
Given my age, this time I’d like to avoid being squeezed into a bush taxi. I’ve never rented a 4x4 but usually go for sedans.
So, for my upcoming trip to Madagascar, I decided to hire a 4x4 with a driver. I contacted about ten agencies and guides listed in the GR, LP, and travel forums. The quotes I got for 20 days range from 6000 € to 1300 €, with or without fuel included. Most ask for either a full bank transfer upfront or a mobile wallet payment (30%, etc.) from France.
Personally, I’d prefer to see the vehicle and the driver before making any payment.
Also, I’d rather pay at the end of my trip.
Is it possible to find a provider in Tana upon arrival for around 50 or 60 € per day, including fuel, with short notice, some flexibility in my itinerary, and without being forced to accept the dictates of agencies or drivers recommended on certain forums?
Thanks for your replies.
My wife and I (Quebecers, 63 years old, retired, celebrating our 45 years together this year, including 20 years of marriage) have chosen to mark the occasion with a trip to Dubai, Réunion, and Mauritius (4 days in Dubai, then 24 days on the islands).
We have a lot of experience planning road trips (scouting routes, visits, hotels, and restaurants of interest), but we travel without reservations to keep the freedom to follow our instincts and tips we get on the spot. We’re moderately active physically and prefer the countryside and beaches over big cities. Our only fixed dates: arrival in Réunion on October 5th and departure from Mauritius on October 29th.
After lots of reading and with the help of an AI (super useful for drafting a first outline!), here’s a possible itinerary framework. Nothing is set in stone—I’d love your suggestions, comments, and thoughts on what’s worth adding or avoiding. Are the proposed bases optimal? Also, if you have recommendations for hotels (mid-range budget of 100–200 euros per night), restaurants, etc., I’m all ears! ;-)
Thanks! 😊
🌴 Réunion (October 5–13, 9 days)
Base 1 – Saint-Gilles / L’Hermitage (October 5–8, 3 nights)
Oct 5 (Sun): Settle in, relax at L’Hermitage beach.
Oct 6 (Mon): Saint-Paul market (morning), beach + sunset at Boucan Canot.
Oct 7 (Tue): Excursion to Maïdo (view of Mafate), return via Saint-Leu (Stella Matutina).
Oct 8 (Wed): Beach + dolphin/whale-watching boat trip.
Base 2 – Cilaos (October 8–10, 2 nights)
Oct 9 (Thu): Route des 400 virages, stroll through the village and Roche Merveilleuse.
Oct 10 (Fri): Hike to Bras Rouge (3–4h) or the Chapelle canyon. Creole inn evening.
Base 3 – Plaine des Cafres / Bourg-Murat (October 10–13, 3 nights)
Oct 11 (Sat): Road to the volcano → Plaine des Sables → Piton de la Fournaise.
Oct 12 (Sun): Wild south coast at Cap Méchant, lava flows, Jardin Parfums, Grande Anse beach.
Oct 13 (Mon): Relaxed morning, flight from Réunion to Mauritius.
🏝️ Mauritius (October 13–29, 16 days)
Base 1 – Grand Baie / Pereybère (October 13–18, 5 nights)
Oct 13 (Mon): Settle in, swim at Mont Choisy.
Oct 14 (Tue): Boat excursion to Île Plate & Coin de Mire.
Oct 15 (Wed): Pamplemousses Garden + L’Aventure du Sucre. Evening in Grand Baie.
Oct 16 (Thu): Trou aux Biches beach, snorkeling.
Oct 17 (Fri): Free day, relaxation/shopping.
Base 2 – Flic-en-Flac / Tamarin (October 18–23, 5 nights)
Oct 18 (Sat): Drive to the west, settle in, beach.
Oct 19 (Sun): Dolphin excursion in Tamarin, relax in the afternoon.
Oct 20 (Mon): Chamarel: Terres 7 Couleurs + rum distillery.
Oct 21 (Tue): Black River Gorges (hike + waterfalls).
Oct 22 (Wed): Snorkeling + sunset.
Base 3 – Belle Mare / Trou d’Eau Douce (October 23–26, 3 nights)
Oct 23 (Thu): Settle in, Belle Mare beach.
Oct 24 (Fri): Catamaran excursion to Île aux Cerfs.
Oct 25 (Sat): Flacq market (morning), beach in the afternoon.
Base 4 – Mahébourg / Blue Bay (October 26–29, 3 nights)
Oct 26 (Sun): Settle in, snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park.
Oct 27 (Mon): Pointe d’Esny + Île aux Aigrettes.
Oct 28 (Tue): Free beach day + Mahébourg village.
Oct 29 (Wed): Morning swim, return flight at 4 PM (airport is 15 min away).
Hey there,
I’m moving to Réunion Island in September and I’d love to hear about your experiences there. What’s there to do and what should I avoid?
Do you have any great tips for budget-friendly accommodation or places to stay?
Any advice on how to save money while I’m there?
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
My friend and I are heading to Madagascar in March, and we were wondering if it’s possible to bring some cash and top up once we’re there (specifically in Tana).
Is it worth exchanging money if euros are accepted everywhere?
Thanks for your always super helpful tips on VF!
Hi there,
How do you get from Tamatave or Foulpointe to Sainte Marie Island? We’re heading to Madagascar from July 16 to 29, 2025.
How many days should we stay to explore the area?
What’s there to do in Tamatave, Foulpointe, or Sainte Marie Island?
What should we visit?
Thanks everyone!
Hi,
I’m taking the Cotisse bus soon to go to Antsohihy, so the route is Tana-Majunga with a stop at Antanambaza.
How long does it take to get to Antanambaza? Should I leave at 6:30 PM or 7:00 AM?
Considering I’ll probably need to find a hotel while waiting for a *taxi be* to Antsohihy, I’d rather not arrive in the middle of the night.
And since I’m asking—does anyone have a hotel recommendation in Antanambaza?
Also, can you find a seat on a *taxi be* mid-route?
