Flic en Flac Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, places to visit, and food to try in Flic en Flac, Mauritius. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is a coastal town located on the western part of Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean. Known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and panoramic views, the town is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Despite being a small town, Flic en Flac offers a myriad of attractions, including natural wonders, historical landmarks, and cultural hotspots. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the town’s best spots, including insider tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Flic en Flac

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Casela World of Adventures

Casela World of Adventures is an amusement park and wildlife sanctuary rolled into one, housing over 140 species of animals and birds. Visitors can get up close and personal with rare animals, take part in activities like zip-lining, quad biking, and hiking, or simply relax and enjoy the views.

Martello Tower Museum

Built in 1838, the Martello Tower Museum is a historical landmark that tells the story of Mauritius’ colonial past. The tower, which was used as a military post during the 19th century, now serves as a museum that showcases weapons, artifacts, and documents from the colonial era.

Natural Attractions of Flic en Flac: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Seven Colored Earths

The Seven Colored Earths is a natural wonder located in Chamarel, a small village near Flic en Flac. The attraction features sand dunes that display an array of colors, ranging from red, brown, and purple to pink, blue, and green. Visitors can climb up the observation deck to get a panoramic view of the area.

Tamarin Falls

Tamarin Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls that are nestled amidst lush greenery. The falls are a popular spot for hiking and trekking, and visitors can swim in the natural pools at the base of the falls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is surrounded by scenic hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the coastline, mountains, and natural landscape. Some of the popular trails include the Tamarin Bay Trail, the Black River Gorges Trail, and the Le Morne Mountain Trail.

Best Things to Do in Flic en Flac: Activities and Tours

Island Boat Tours

Island boat tours are a great way to explore the clear waters and coral reefs around Flic en Flac. Visitors can take a trip on a glass-bottomed boat or a catamaran, enjoy a barbecue lunch on the beach, and go snorkeling or scuba diving.

Whale and Dolphin Watching

Flic en Flac is home to a diverse range of marine life, including whales and dolphins. Visitors can take a boat tour to see these majestic creatures up close, and learn about their behavior and habitat from experienced guides.

Week-Long Itinerary for Flic en Flac

Day 1: Visit Casela World of Adventures and go on a wildlife safari. Day 2: Take a trip to Tamarin Falls and go hiking or trekking. Day 3: Explore Le Morne Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Day 4: Go on a boat tour and enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving. Day 5: Visit the Seven Colored Earths and explore Chamarel village. Day 6: Visit the Martello Tower Museum and learn about Mauritius’ colonial history. Day 7: Spend a day relaxing on Flic en Flac beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Flic en Flac

Must-Try Dishes

Curry

Curry is a staple food in Mauritius, and Flic en Flac offers a variety of delicious and authentic dishes. Some of the popular options include chicken curry, seafood curry, and vegetable curry.

Gateau Patate

Gateau Patate is a sweet potato cake that is a favorite local dessert. The cake is made with sweet potatoes, flour, sugar, and coconut milk, and is usually served with tea or coffee.

Local Beverages

Rum

Mauritius rum is famous all over the world for its unique flavor and aroma. Visitors can tour local distilleries, such as Rhumerie de Chamarel, and sample a variety of rum-based cocktails and drinks.

Phoenix Beer

Phoenix Beer is a popular local beer that is brewed in Mauritius. The beer is light and refreshing, and is a great way to beat the heat on a sunny day.

Where to Stay in Flic en Flac: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Flic en Flac offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the popular hotels include the Hilton Mauritius Resort and Spa, the Sugar Beach A Sun Resort, and the Sofitel Mauritius L’Imperial Resort and Spa. There are also budget-friendly options, such as hostels and guesthouses.

What to Buy in Flic en Flac: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Flic en Flac has a vibrant shopping scene, with a variety of markets, shops, and boutiques. Some of the popular items to bring home include local handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Flic en Flac

Mauritian culture is a unique blend of African, Asian, and European influences. The people of Mauritius are friendly and welcoming, and hospitality is a core part of their culture. Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and should always ask for permission before taking photographs.

Best Time to Visit Flic en Flac

The best time to visit Flic en Flac is from November to April when the weather is warm and dry. The peak season is from December to February, so visitors should book their accommodation in advance. June to September is the off-season when the weather is cooler, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Flic en Flac

Do:

  • Try local cuisine, such as curry and gateau patate.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few words of the local language, such as Creole.
  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or in public places.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public.
  • Take photographs without asking for permission.
  • Drink tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take normal precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and avoiding dark or isolated areas at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur, so visitors should keep their valuables secure.

Health in Flic en Flac

There are no major health hazards in Flic en Flac, but visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever and chikungunya. Visitors should also ensure that they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Flic en Flac: Transportation Options and Logistics

Flic en Flac is located approximately 50 minutes away from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, and visitors can take a taxi or a rental car to get to the town. There are also bus services that run from major cities in Mauritius.

Airports Near Flic en Flac

The nearest airport to Flic en Flac is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, which is located in Plaisance, approximately 50 minutes away from the town.

Bus Stations Near Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac has a bus station that connects the town to major cities in Mauritius, such as Port Louis and Curepipe.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car or a taxi to get to Flic en Flac from other parts of Mauritius.

How to Get Around in Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is a small town that is easily navigable on foot, but visitors can also take taxis, bicycles, or rental cars to get around. There are also bus services that run from the town to other parts of Mauritius.

Where to Go Next from Flic en Flac: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Port Louis

Located approximately 30 kilometers away from Flic en Flac, Port Louis is the capital city of Mauritius and is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and lively shopping scene.

Chamarel

Chamarel is a small village located approximately 18 kilometers away from Flic en Flac and is known for its natural attractions, including the Seven Colored Earths and the Chamarel Waterfall.

Conclusion

Flic en Flac is a stunning coastal town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed vacation or a peaceful retreat, Flic en Flac has something to offer for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’re all set to explore the town’s best spots, experience its vibrant food and drink scene, and immerse yourself in the local culture and customs.

Bus on Coastal Road. Bus on Coastal Road.