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
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.
Visit the local market in Bel Air to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local crafts and fresh produce.
Enjoy a traditional Mauritian dinner at a local restaurant, trying dishes like curry and dholl puri.
Head to the nearby Blue Bay Beach for a relaxing morning by the sea, swimming and sunbathing.
Participate in snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours to explore the rich marine life.
Wrap up your trip with a sunset cruise, enjoying the breathtaking views of the coastline.
Prices
Item | Price |
---|---|
🍽️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.
A stunning marine park with crystal-clear waters, perfect for capturing underwater shots and vibrant coral reefs.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this mountain offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for landscape photographers.
The tallest waterfall in Mauritius, surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a dramatic backdrop for photography.
Food in Bel Air
Bel Air Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food made of unleavened flatbread filled with ground yellow split peas, often served with curry and chutney.
Must-Try!
A traditional Mauritian dish made with a tomato-based sauce, typically served with fish or meat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food, perfect for tasting local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone, and it's polite to greet people before starting a conversation.
While beachwear is acceptable at the beach, modest clothing is appreciated in villages and local markets.
Showing respect to elders is an important cultural norm; addressing them politely is expected.
Safety
Tipping in Bel Air
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for taxi drivers, usually around 10% of the bill.
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...
Expect warm and humid weather, perfect for beach activities, but also be prepared for occasional tropical storms.
This is a great time to visit with mild temperatures and less humidity; ideal for outdoor excursions.
Temperatures are cooler, especially in the evenings; it's the best season for hiking and exploring.
The weather is warm and dry, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and enjoying the natural beauty.
Bel Air at Night
Hiking in Bel Air
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This challenging hike leads to the summit of Le Morne Brabant, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline and is steeped in history.
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.
Located about 20 km from Bel Air, this is the main international airport serving Mauritius, offering numerous flights to and from various global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Creole population is significant in Mauritius, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry with their unique traditions and language.
The Indian community is another major demographic group, influencing Mauritian cuisine, festivals, and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely loved sport in Mauritius, with local teams and matches being a significant part of community life.
Cricket enjoys immense popularity in Mauritius, with many locals participating in matches and following international tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bel Air.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, with many vegetable curries and lentil dishes available.