Flic-en-Flac holidays

How to reach Flic en Flac

Flight time: Direct flights to Mauritius from London take around 12 hours. From other UK airports, connecting flights extend the journey slightly.

Transfer time: Once you arrive at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (aka SSR), a taxi or private transfer to Flic en Flac takes roughly 1 hour.

Price:

• Taxis from the airport to Flic en Flac typically cost around R2,400 (£40).

• Many hotels offer shuttle services, which may be included in your holiday package.

• Alternatively, private transfers can be pre-booked online for around R2,400–R3,000 (£40–£50) per vehicle.

Best time to visit Flic en Flac

Mauritius has a warm tropical climate year-round but has different weather in each season. Here's a guide on what to expect through the year:

Summer:

• November to April has temperatures from 25 to 34°C, perfect for beach holidays.

• Humidity is high at this time of year, and rainfall is common, but showers tend to be brief.

• As with the rest of the year, the southeast trade winds can keep things breezy, especially along the coasts.

• December to April is cyclone season, which can bring heavy rains, winds and sometimes severe storms, although these are rare. Keep an eye on the weather forecast if you visit during this period, as they usually give good warnings in advance.

Winter:

• The island’s cooler winter season is between May and October.

• Daytime temperatures range between 20 and 25°C, and drier conditions and lower humidity make it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature reserves.

• The start and end of this period (May and October) offer sweet spots between the high and low seasons with fewer tourists – ideal for a quieter, relaxing experience.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: The official language is English, though French and Creole are more commonly spoken in everyday life. However, English is widely understood in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Creole phrases like “bonzur” (good morning) will earn you smiles. Indian and Chinese languages can also be heard.

• Local habits and customs: Mauritians are laid-back, but they appreciate politeness and respect for their diverse culture. Dress modestly when visiting temples or local villages, and always remove your shoes before entering a home or religious site.

• Currency: The Mauritian rupee (R) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in towns and tourist resorts, and debit or credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops.

• Getting around:

  • Taxis are the most popular way to get around Flic en Flac and beyond, but as they're not metered, you should always agree on the fare before starting a journey. Fares to nearby towns start from around R400 (£7).

  • Renting a car can offer more freedom, but hiring a taxi for a half/whole day might be cheaper and more convenient.

  • Buses are cheap, with fares ranging from R30–R100 (£0.50–£1.60) depending on the distance and type of service, but operate on limited schedules.

• Electricity and plug types: Electricity on Mauritius is 220V and uses a mix of European-style two-pin plugs and UK-style three-pin plugs. UK travellers can usually use their devices without needing an adaptor in most hotels, but it’s always worth taking a multi-travel adaptor just in case.

• Time zone: Mauritius is 4 hours ahead of GMT with no daylight saving time.

Best things to do in Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is a popular resort on the west coast of Mauritius with a range of hotels and self-catering accommodation, perfect for divers, beach lovers and watersports enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for adventure, fun activities or relaxation, here’s some of the best things to do on Flic en Flac holidays.

Historical monuments

• Martello Towers: Found along the coast, these British forts from the 19th century are part of the island's colonial history and offer a glimpse into how they helped defend Mauritius during that era. The best preserved is La Preneuse, now home to the Martello Tower Museum.

Day trips in the area

• Île aux Cerfs: A popular day trip from Flic en Flac, Île aux Cerfs is known for its watersports, pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear lagoons. The island offers plenty of activities, from snorkelling to parasailing, and is a great place to relax for the day.

• Tamarin Bay: Just a short drive from Flic en Flac, Tamarin Bay is one of the best places to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. Early morning boat trips are the best way to see these playful creatures, and the bay is also popular for surfing.

Activities for families in Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is a wonderful destination for families, with a variety of activities that cater to all ages. From adventure parks to wildlife encounters, there’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained.

• Casela Nature Parks: This park is a favourite for families. Younger children will love encounters with animals, while older kids can enjoy more adventurous activities like zip-lining and quad biking and the extensive playground.

• Beaches: Many of the stunning beaches on Mauritius have shallow, calm waters, particularly on the west coast near Flic en Flac, making them ideal for families to play, swim, enjoy watersports or beachcombing, or just relax in the shade of the palm trees.

• Watersports: For a fun family day out, try snorkelling or kayaking along the coral reefs in the lagoon. Equipment can easily be hired from local shops or hotels.

Free things to do in Flic en Flac

You don’t need to spend much to enjoy holidays to Flic en Flac. There are plenty of free activities that allow you to experience the beauty of the area without breaking the bank.

• Black River Gorges National Park: With over 60km of trails, this nearby national park is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts. The numerous routes range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, deep gorges and the island's diverse flora and fauna.

• Free events and festivals: Depending on when you visit, Flic en Flac may be hosting one of its many local festivals, such as the Mauritian Independence Day celebrations, which often feature music, dance and parades.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Snorkelling and scuba diving: The coral reefs and wrecks just offshore from Flic en Flac are teeming with marine life, making it excellent for snorkelling and diving. With many dive centres on the west coast, it's easy to arrange trips to see a myriad of colourful fish and even giant moray eels.

• Quad biking and zip-lining: For thrill-seekers, Flic en Flac and the surrounding areas offer adrenaline-pumping activities such as quad biking and zip-lining. These activities provide a fun way to explore the island’s rugged interior and lush forests.

Beaches in Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is renowned for its stunning beaches, making it one of the most popular coastal destinations in Mauritius. With powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere, the beaches here offer the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Here’s a look at some of the top beaches to enjoy during your visit:

Flic en Flac Beach

The main attraction, Flic en Flac Beach, stretches for several kilometres along the coastline. Known for its soft sands and calm waters, this beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a variety of water sports. The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are numerous beachfront bars and restaurants where you can enjoy refreshments throughout the day.

• Highlights:

  • Family-friendly with lifeguards on duty

  • Perfect for water activities like snorkelling and diving

Tamarin Beach

Just a short distance from Flic en Flac, Tamarin Beach is known for its stunning sunsets and laid-back vibe. This beach is popular with surfers, especially when the waves are right. The picturesque scenery, with the backdrop of the Tamarin River, makes it a great spot for relaxation and enjoying nature.

• Features:

  • Excellent for surfing and other water sports

  • A more tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding

La Preneuse Beach

Located further south, La Preneuse Beach offers a quieter experience with breathtaking views of the historical Martello Tower. This beach is great for swimming and relaxing, and the shallow waters are perfect for families. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore or simply soak up the sun in this serene environment.

• Highlights:

  • Stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere

  • Great for picnics and family outings

Trou aux Biches

Although not in Flic en Flac, Trou aux Biches is worth a visit for its incredible beauty. This beach features soft sand and clear waters, making it one of the best beaches in Mauritius. It’s ideal for swimming and snorkelling, with vibrant coral reefs just off the shore.

• Activities:

  • Snorkelling and diving opportunities

  • Beachside dining and amenities

Flic en Flac and its surrounding areas offer a fantastic selection of beaches, ensuring that every visitor can find their perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun. Whether you’re swimming in the warm Indian Ocean, indulging in local cuisine at beachside restaurants, or simply soaking up the beautiful scenery, the beaches of Flic en Flac will enhance your holiday experience.

Local dishes in Flic en Flac

The diverse mix of cultures on the island and the influences of Indian, Creole, Chinese and French cuisine make eating out in Mauritius a delight. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries or Chinese-inspired noodle dishes or are just interested in exploring the amazing variety of fruit and vegetables, Mauritius has something to please every palate.

Some typical dishes

• Dholl Puri: This popular pancake is filled with lentils or split peas, a flavourful sauce, chutney and pickles and is a favourite at roadside stalls across the island.

• Curry: Mauritian curries are a blend of Indian, Creole and African flavours. They are typically light, with fish, chicken or vegetables, and served with rice or roti.

• Rougaille: A Creole dish made with tomatoes, garlic and spices, often served with fish, chicken or sausage.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Octopus curry: A local favourite, octopus cooked in a spiced sauce, often enjoyed with rice or bread.

• Grilled fish: Freshly caught fish, such as red snapper or parrotfish, simply grilled with herbs and served with salad and rice.

Street food

• Gajak: An assortment of tasty, hot snacks sold by street vendors that are perfect for a quick bite on the go. They include croquettes, croustillants (crispy balls) made from meat, fish, chicken or vegetables, or gateaux piments (chilli cakes).

• Boulettes: Similar to Chinese dim sum, these steamed dumplings made from fish, pork or chicken are served in a flavourful broth.

Desserts

Restaurants serve a mix of sweet pancakes, Indian-style kulfi, European-style pastries, fancy puddings and cakes. Depending on the season, the varieties of fresh fruit on offer can be mangos, lychees, passion fruit, pawpaw or pineapple.

Local drinks

• Alouda: A refreshing drink made from milk, basil seeds and agar-agar, often flavoured with rose or vanilla essence.

• Rum: Mauritius is famous for its rum, with local distilleries offering a variety of flavours, from classic dark rum to spiced and vanilla-infused varieties.