Discover Mauritius

Culture & Food

A taste of Mauritian heritage and cuisine

A colourful traditional Sega dance performance on a beach in Mauritius

Mauritian Culture

Mauritius is a great blend of cultures, shaped by its Indian, African, Chinese, French and British roots. This diversity is the pillar to the everyday life of the island. Mauritians speak languages such as Mauritian creole, English, and French. The island has alot of temples, churches and mosques, reflecting the heritage. The traditional dance, called sega, brings the culture to life, bringing rythm and the deep roots inside of the island's history.

A vibrant Diwali festival celebration with lanterns and decorations in Mauritius

Festivals and Traditions

The island comes to life with festivals that delves into the richness of culture. Diwali lights up homes with decorations, vibrant colours and food, while the Chinese Spring Festival, fills streets with beautiful dragon dances and laterns and Eid al-Fitr is celebrated in the muslim community, celebrated with prayers and feasting. For a visitor, these moments caputre an authentic glimpse into the culture and life.

A plate of dholl puri flatbread served with curry and chutney

Dholl Puri

Dholl puri, originally brought by Indian immigrants, is a staple dish. It is a thin flatbread, made from ground yellow peas, filled with flavourful sides like bean curry, rougaille and spicy chutneys. Food stalls and local eateries will often sell them across the island and is known to be a quick and affordable meal that is packed with taste.

A serving of fish vindaye with turmeric-coloured sauce and onions on a plate

Fish Vindaye

Fish vindaye is one of the locals favourite, known for savory, tangy flavour. It prepared by frying fish, then marinated in a mix of mustard seeds, tumeric, vinegar, galic, ginger and onions. It is served cold, it works as a starter or main alongside either rice or bread. Blending the islands French and Indian roots. A local dish you will often find at family gatherings and a great way to get a taste of authentic mauritian food.

A glass of alouda drink with basil seeds and colourful layers of milk and syrup

Alouda

Alouda, the perfect drink for cooling down in the mauritian heat, is a must-try favourite. Made with milk, basil seeds, jelly and a flavoured syrup, usually rose or vanilla, alouda, has a sweet and unique taste, the jelly bringing a unique texture. This is usually served cold by street vendors and is inspired by Indian falooda, but with its own twist.