TRAVEL NEWS – January 8, 2024: Mauritius, famous for its colorful landscapes, culture-rich villages and spectacular lagoon, is committed to improving sustainable tourism. There are various parties and initiatives on the island to help everyone consciously interact with the environment. In addition, the Indian Ocean island also offers many options for travelers who want to be environmentally conscious. We list some of these initiatives that Mauritius has put in place for a better and more sustainable future for tourism.
Away with that woolen sweater, hello swimming trunks: this year you will escape winter – or our wet summers – on one of the most beautiful islands in the world: Mauritius! This beach destination is located east of Africa in the Indian Ocean and is a real paradise.
Think of the whitest beaches, a clear blue sea, flora and fauna that are found nowhere else and a sun that almost always shines. Reason enough to travel to Mauritius!
Discover nature in a responsible way
Several tourism organizations have taken steps to preserve and protect the island's wildlife. An example is Ebony Forest, a protected area of 50 hectares with unique flora and fauna. Anyone who books an excursion here will, in addition to extensive knowledge about the native species, receive a tour of the area without harming nature. Demarcated walking paths have been constructed that are well maintained, allowing visitors to visit the area in a responsible manner. In addition, the proceeds from the excursions are used to preserve the area and to support new research programs.
The Ecolodges surrounded by greenery such as Otentic Eco Tent, located in the village of Deux Frères, offer eco-friendly accommodations and activities for tourists. There are e-bikes, among others DunienZil and other electric means of transport available. This way you can go on holiday with peace of mind.
Mauritius: where greenery and culture come together
Traveling to Mauritius means connecting with the locals and discovering their diverse culture. The island has many traditions and for this reason initiatives have been set up to preserve them. The “Nou Artizan” route organized by The Friendly Dodo, allows travelers and local artists and craftsmen to meet. They won the Sustainability Awards in 2022 for this unique experience.
Another special excursion is Mautourcos: “vis ma vie de Mauricien” (live my life as a Mauritian), which gives a glimpse into the daily life of Mauritians. By catching fish in a traditional way and gaining culinary experiences at the market, you learn what it is like to live like a real local. The Taste Buddies' Food Tours takes you through the historic districts of Port Louis, China Town and the picturesque villages of Mahébourgh and Grand Baie, where you can taste the history of the dishes.
Tourism and locals go arm in arm
The tourism sector has a number of obligations to support the local economy and population. The Mauritian community is encouraged to use local products through courses. The label 'Made in Morris’ ensures that hotels like Hotels Attitude, are in close contact with companies and Mauritians who can supply products from traditional cuisine. In addition, a number of hotels are also improving internally by producing their own honey, which contributes to agrotourism.
There are also various initiatives for the local population. For example, DMC sponsors summertime the Crèche Coeur Immaculée de Marie orphanage with supplies for the children and Hertiage Hotels develops study programs for social and responsible entrepreneurship, especially in regions with a high illiteracy rate.
An environmentally conscious island
Mauritian tourism is working towards a better future through the use of renewable energy sources and waste reduction. Many hotels have solar panels, such as LUX* Grand Gaube hotel and windmills as in Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel. In addition, many hotel chains, such as Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels, are replacing plastic bottles with glass varieties and using composting programs to reduce plastic and food waste. Tour operator Mauritius Conscious Travel invests in a solar park on the island to offset the CO2 emissions of every trip it organizes.
Various parties are committed to this, not only on land, but also for the beaches and the sea. Tour operator Solis Indian Ocean is engaged in a beach cleaning project to stimulate awareness among tourism and the population. Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness has established a seawater desalination project to reduce freshwater consumption.
The many projects and other initiatives make Mauritius a destination for travelers who value sustainability. For more information about the island, visit the website www.mauritiusnow.com.
Away with that woolen sweater, hello swimming trunks: this year you will escape winter – or our wet summers – on one of the most beautiful islands in the world: Mauritius! This beach destination is located east of Africa in the Indian Ocean and is a real paradise.
Think of the whitest beaches, a clear blue sea, flora and fauna that are found nowhere else and a sun that almost always shines. Reason enough to travel to Mauritius!
