Lindsay Morvan, Director, talks us through the Mauritius Tourism Authority (MTA), whose primary mission is to regulate and promote sustainable tourism whilst balancing development with the preservation of the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Can you talk us through the purpose and mission of MTA?
Lindsay Morvan, Director (LM): As the regulatory and licensing body of the tourism industry in Mauritius, MTA sets high standards across the sector, promoting eco-friendly initiatives and green certifications to position Mauritius as a world-leading, environmentally-conscious destination by 2030.
It plays a key role in licensing, regulating, and supervising tourism activities, ensuring quality control, fostering corporate governance, and supporting stakeholder coordination to maintain Mauritius as a safe, clean, and customer-oriented destination.
Additionally, the authority focuses on enhancing the business climate, promoting sustainability through its Sustainable Tourism Unit, and implementing projects aimed at reducing environmental impact, such as the Green Destination Status project.
Through initiatives like these, MTA ensures the long-term viability and growth of Mauritius’ tourism sector while aligning with global sustainability goals.
How do you promote Mauritius and everything it has to offer as a destination?
LM: Whilst the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) is primarily responsible for promoting the destination, MTA plays a vital role in supporting these efforts through a collaborative, multifaceted approach.
Our marketing strategy leverages digital platforms, collaborations with international travel agencies, and participation in global tourism events to highlight the best Mauritius has to offer. We emphasise the island’s natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and ecotourism opportunities.
As part of our sustainability commitment, we partner with organisations like the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) to promote sustainable travel initiatives and highlight our efforts towards becoming a green-certified destination by 2030.
Additionally, our marketing campaigns focus on authentic, meaningful experiences, such as connecting with local communities, enjoying the island’s unique cultural heritage, and participating in eco-friendly activities. For instance, we promote sustainable itineraries that showcase local champions like Mauritian artists, freedivers, and nature enthusiasts, offering travellers a more immersive and responsible tourism experience.
We also engage with airlines and cruise lines to ensure seamless access for travellers, making it easy for them to explore Mauritius’ diverse attractions. Through initiatives like the Feel Our Island Energy campaign, which has gained international recognition, we invite visitors to experience the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming spirit of Mauritius.
How can travellers best experience the rich diversity of Mauritius?
LM: Travellers can fully appreciate the rich diversity of Mauritius by immersing themselves in its vibrant festivals, local cuisine, and diverse communities that reflect the island’s unique blend of Creole, Indian, African, Chinese, and European influences.
We recommend visiting towns such as Port Louis, Mahebourg, and Triolet to witness the daily life and traditions of these various cultures. Attending key cultural festivals like Cavadee, Diwali, Chinese New Year, and the Festival International Kreol (FIK) offer a wonderful opportunity to experience Mauritius’ multi-ethnic traditions through music, dance, and food.
For a deeper connection with the island’s heritage, travellers can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape, together with the Intercontinental Slavery Museum.
To make the experience even more authentic, we encourage the use of public transport, including the metro, which not only offers a convenient way to explore the island but also allows visitors to interact with locals and see the island from a resident’s perspective.
Additionally, exploring local markets and engaging in activities such as a table d’hôte meal or Sega dance sessions will enrich travellers’ understanding of Mauritius’ vibrant cultural scene.
Similarly, where should visitors go to truly immerse themselves in the island’s vast flora and fauna?
LM: Visitors should explore some of the island’s remarkable nature reserves and parks, which form part of the vast flora and fauna of Mauritius.
A top destination is Black River Gorges National Park, which covers two percent of Mauritius’ land and is home to over 300 species of flowering plants, several endemic bird species, and wildlife such as the giant fruit bat and macaque monkeys.
The park offers more than 50 kilometres (km) of scenic hiking trails, including paths like the Machabee Trail and Black River Peak Trail, which provide opportunities to birdwatch and enjoy nature.
Another must-visit site is Île aux Aigrettes, a nature reserve off the southeast coast where visitors can see endangered species like the pink pigeon and rare ebony forests. La Vallée de Ferney is also ideal for those interested in conservation efforts, as it is dedicated to preserving endemic species such as the Mauritius kestrel.
For marine life enthusiasts, Blue Bay Marine Park offers an underwater experience with coral reefs and vibrant marine biodiversity. Visitors can explore the park through snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours, making it one of the best places to witness Mauritius’ rich aquatic ecosystem.
What, in your opinion, is one of Mauritius’ most underrated landmarks?
LM: It is quite unfortunate that historical sites like the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage site that highlights the island’s complex history of indentured labour and its profound influence on Mauritian identity, as well as the Intercontinental Slavery Museum, are among the most underrated landmarks in Mauritius.
While many visitors focus on the beaches and resorts, both offer a fascinating insight into the sociocultural evolution of Mauritius and its population and should not be missed.
However, Mauritius is much more than its historical landmarks and beautiful landscapes – it’s also about its people. To truly immerse in the island’s soul, tourists should engage with locals, renowned for their warmth and hospitality. This can be done by exploring vibrant street markets, trying local snacks like dholl puri, gateaux piments, and samosas from street vendors, or visiting small shops to purchase authentic souvenirs.
These experiences allow visitors to connect with the local culture and daily life, offering a more authentic and enriching experience.
What upcoming events are happening that tourists can look forward to?
LM: Tourists visiting Mauritius can look forward to a diverse range of exciting upcoming events throughout the year.
For those who love nature and adventure, there are ongoing trails, marathons, and mountain biking challenges like the Colin Mayer Tour, where participants navigate through scenic routes in Mauritius’ coastal and mountainous regions.
In addition, events like the Nandos Open Swim offer competitive open-water swimming at beautiful beaches like Mont Choisy and Pereybere.
Mauritius is also home to a variety of cultural celebrations, such as FIK, a week-long event celebrating the island’s rich Creole heritage through music, dance, art, and cuisine. Similarly, tourists can experience Diwali concerts, which feature captivating cultural performances that celebrate the Festival of Lights across the island.
What makes Mauritius the island to visit in 2025?
LM: Mauritius is evolving into the quintessential eco-friendly destination. In 2025, visitors will not only enjoy the island’s natural beauty but also partake in sustainable tourism initiatives that align with global environmental goals.
From eco-lodges and plastic-free beaches to our ambitious target of 60 percent renewable energy usage in the tourism sector, we offer a model of responsible travel.
Additionally, the diverse cultural landscape and new glamping experiences provide fresh and innovative ways for travellers to connect with nature and the local community.
Are you optimistic about the future of tourism in Mauritius?
LM: We are totally convinced that Mauritius has a promising future as we continue to work towards becoming a certified green destination by 2030.
By prioritising sustainability, increasing global partnerships, and creating new tourism experiences rooted in environmental stewardship, we believe Mauritius will remain a top choice for discerning travellers.
The shift towards responsible tourism is gaining momentum, and we are fully equipped to meet the demands of this emerging trend.
, whose primary mission is to regulate and promote sustainable tourism whilst balancing development with the preservation of the island’s natural and cultural heritage.){kind=link}