Mauritius or Seychelles, how can you possibly choose? Both coastal escapes offer velvety sands, lyrical landscapes and vibrant marine life. Hike through Black River Gorges National Park and dine on a fresh catch at a seafront restaurant on a holiday in Mauritius. Or dig your toes into Anse Soleil’s soft sands and snorkel through Praslin’s pristine waters during a trip to the Seychelles. Still undecided? Read on as we put these two Indian Ocean islands head-to-head...
1
The beaches
Both Mauritius and the Seychelles conjure up images of sweeping, pearly white beaches. But which sandy escape is more idyllic? Le Morne Beach often nabs top spot as one of the best beaches in Mauritius; with its turquoise waters and coconut-white sand, it’s easy to see why. Located at the foot of the lofty UNESCO-listed Le Morne Brabant, the lush green hill is a beautiful backdrop. Flic en Flac’s shallow waters and colourful fish are your best bet for family-friendly fun, while Trou aux Biches offers two miles of palm-fringed shores.
Meanwhile, the Seychelles steals the show when it comes to secluded sands. Dotted with giant granite boulders and backed by dense tropical forests, these are some of the world’s best beaches. Unlike other tropical destinations, all the Seychelles beaches feature a footpath and are open to the public by law. Dig your toes into Anse Source d’Argent’s silky sands on laid-back La Digue or find the perfect sunbathing spot on Anse Soleil, perched on Mahe.
Winner: Seychelles
Image by Vanessa Martin
2
Landscape and scenery
Next up, which island takes top spot for lush landscapes: Mauritius or Seychelles? Beyond its beaches, Mauritius is home to rugged mountains, grassy plains and thriving forests. Venture through sprawling sugar cane fields and a canopy of dense trees to reach Tamarind Falls (also called the Seven Waterfalls), or stretch your legs on a hillside hike through Black River Gorges National Park. Too hot? Take a dip in the meandering rivers to cool off.
While Mauritius boasts more varied terrain, the Seychelles features its fair share of verdant landscapes. Take Mount Dauban, for example. This forested mountain is one of Silhouette Island’s five peaks measuring over 1,600ft. And then there’s Praslin. More than just coconut palms and sandy beaches, Praslin National Park features a variety of endemic plants – think screwpines, ferns and orchids.
Winner: Mauritius
Image by Vanessa Martin
3
Cuisine
Choosing whether Mauritius or Seychelles has better cuisine is a close call. Both have strong Creole influences, fusing African, Indian, Chinese and French flavours. Fresh seafood takes centre stage, often served with spices, vegetables and bananas in the Seychelles or with chilli, rice and vegetables in Mauritius.
Tuck into street food favourites like gateaux piments (split-pea cakes with chilli) and samosas served with cardamom and cloves in Mauritius. Or, in the Seychelles, brave kari sousouri (bat curry), a traditional delicacy. Prefer something more familiar? Opt for a bowl of Bouyon bred (fish soup), a popular local dish in the Seychelles.
Winner: Mauritius
Image by Pia Riverola
4
Diving and marine life
Both Indian Ocean nations offer excellent diving opportunities. Mauritius is a great place to start if you’re a novice diver, thanks to its calm, shallow waters. Surrounded by coral reefs, the island boasts over 100 dive sites waiting to be explored. Glide past vibrant corals, while keeping an eye out for angelfish, butterflyfish and damselfish.
However, we think the Seychelles takes the cake when it comes to scuba diving. With its pristine waters, diverse marine life and eco-friendly resorts, what’s not to love? Head to the famous Ennerdale Wreck, just off the shore of Mahe Island, to swim past eels and barracudas. Or venture to Desroches Island, where dramatic wall dives and underwater caves await. For myriad macro species, hop on a boat and travel 20 minutes to Airport Reef, where a soft coral-covered wall teems with life and sharks and turtles drift past.
Winner: Seychelles
Image by Vanessa Martin
5
Activities and adventure
Which destination offers the best activities? That depends on how you like to spend your free time. If you’re a watersports enthusiast, Mauritius is the place for you. Hop in a traditional canoe and enjoy a sunset boat ride around the idyllic Gabriel Island. Or, opt for a kayak and glide through the glassy lagoons of Amber Island. For a change of scenery, enjoy a private tour of Mauritius’ tea plantations and sugar cane farms as you learn about the history and process of rum distillation.
The Seychelles doesn’t disappoint either when it comes to activities. Lace up your hiking boots and enjoy a scenic walk to the secluded Anse Major beach on Mahe Island. Weave through open woodlands and small river valleys on a private hike. Or, for excellent snorkelling opportunities, delve beneath the water’s surface off the coast of Praslin, where you’re likely to encounter turtles and rays.
Winner: Mauritius
Image by paspas/stock.adobe.com
While Mauritius nabbed the win this time, whether you opt for Mauritius or Seychelles, we’re sure you’ll have a relaxed, sun-soaked trip. From blissful beaches to wonderful watersports, both destinations have plenty to keep you entertained.
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by Mickael Irles/stock.adobe.com
