“First Mauritius was created and then paradise, inspired by the island,” wrote Mark Twain. This island country is the easternmost on the continent, located 550 km east of Madagascar, and is today known for its beautiful beaches, but was a crucial port of call for the slave trade before and for labourers after abolition, so much so that 70% of the population is of Indian origin and the Hindu religion shapes their daily life.

If you decide to take a trip to the country, you will certainly be attracted by its tropical beaches, and with good reason: here you will find secluded coves and arches of soft white sand that are among the most beautiful in the world.

But inland there are other treasures, such as the Black River Gorges park, a wild expanse of hills and primeval forests that are home to nine endemic species of birds and more than 4,000 Mauritian flying foxes, or the mountain resort of Chamarel, in whose surroundings unforgettable excursions can be made, visiting its waterfalls, the ‘lands of 7 colours’ and the distillery that produces excellent rum. There is also the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden with its gigantic water lilies, and the Aapravasi Ghat site, a gathering place for Indian immigrants during the period of British rule.