Things To Do
in Bel Air

Bel Air, Mauritius is a picturesque village located inland from the eastern coast of the island, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant local culture. The village is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including rivers, mountains, and lush greenery, making it a peaceful retreat for visitors. Its proximity to the famous Blue Bay Marine Park allows for easy access to beautiful beaches and marine activities.

Bel Air offers a unique blend of traditional Mauritian life with modern amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the island.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the nearby La Vallée de Ferney, a nature reserve known for its trails and endemic flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market in Bel Air to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local crafts and fresh produce.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Mauritian dinner at a local restaurant, trying dishes like curry and dholl puri.

day 2
Day 2: Beach and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the nearby Blue Bay Beach for a relaxing morning by the sea, swimming and sunbathing.

afternoon
:

Participate in snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours to explore the rich marine life.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a sunset cruise, enjoying the breathtaking views of the coastline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi fare (within the village)$5
🛍️Souvenir$15
🥥Fresh coconut$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and landscapes
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine
  • Access to beautiful beaches and marine activities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Some areas may require careful navigation due to uneven terrain
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est le marché?" - Where is the market?
  • "À bientôt" - See you soon

Places to Visit in Bel Air

Visit one of these nice places.

Blue Bay Marine Park

A stunning marine park with crystal-clear waters, perfect for capturing underwater shots and vibrant coral reefs.

Le Morne Brabant

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this mountain offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for landscape photographers.

The Waterfall at Chamarel

The tallest waterfall in Mauritius, surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a dramatic backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bel Air

Bel Air, Mauritius offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of Creole, Indian, French, and Chinese influences.

Bel Air Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dholl Puri

A popular street food made of unleavened flatbread filled with ground yellow split peas, often served with curry and chutney.

Must-Try!

Rougaille

A traditional Mauritian dish made with a tomato-based sauce, typically served with fish or meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bel Air Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food, perfect for tasting local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bel Air experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers (December to February) can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F). Winters (June to August) are cooler, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F), making it pleasant for outdoor activities. Rainfall is common during the summer months, while winters are generally drier.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone, and it's polite to greet people before starting a conversation.

Dress Modestly

While beachwear is acceptable at the beach, modest clothing is appreciated in villages and local markets.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is an important cultural norm; addressing them politely is expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bel Air is considered a safe destination for tourists, but it's always best to take common-sense precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public and stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are generally friendly and helpful.

Tipping in Bel Air

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for taxi drivers, usually around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept cash and cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm and humid weather, perfect for beach activities, but also be prepared for occasional tropical storms.

Autumn (March to May)

This is a great time to visit with mild temperatures and less humidity; ideal for outdoor excursions.

Winter (June to August)

Temperatures are cooler, especially in the evenings; it's the best season for hiking and exploring.

Spring (September to November)

The weather is warm and dry, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and enjoying the natural beauty.

Nightlife Guide

Bel Air at Night

Bel Air's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to other areas in Mauritius. However, you can find a few local bars and restaurants that offer live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoying a laid-back evening with some local rum and listening to live Sega music can be a delightful experience for travelers.

Hiking in Bel Air

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Le Morne Brabant Trail

This challenging hike leads to the summit of Le Morne Brabant, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline and is steeped in history.

Black River Gorges National Park Trails

Various trails within this national park provide opportunities for hiking through diverse ecosystems, with breathtaking scenery and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Bel Air by plane.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU)

Located about 20 km from Bel Air, this is the main international airport serving Mauritius, offering numerous flights to and from various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bel Air is a small village, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, local shops, and eateries are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the local atmosphere at a leisurely pace. However, some areas may have uneven paths, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Creole Community

The Creole population is significant in Mauritius, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry with their unique traditions and language.

Indian Community

The Indian community is another major demographic group, influencing Mauritian cuisine, festivals, and cultural events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a widely loved sport in Mauritius, with local teams and matches being a significant part of community life.

Cricket

Cricket enjoys immense popularity in Mauritius, with many locals participating in matches and following international tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bel Air is generally light, especially compared to larger urban areas. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns, but services may be less frequent. Renting a car or using taxis is a common way to get around for more convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bel Air.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, with many vegetable curries and lentil dishes available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mauritius is generally good, with both public and private hospitals available. In Bel Air, local clinics provide basic medical services. For more serious health concerns, larger hospitals in nearby cities like Curepipe offer comprehensive care. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Mauritius

Read more in our Mauritius 2025 Travel Guide.

Mauritius Travel Guide