Visit Flic en Flac: Top 21 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in Flic en Flac: The 21 Best Places to Visit and Highlights

Are you planning to visit Flic-en-Flac during your holiday in Mauritius?

Flic-en-Flac, located on the west coast of Mauritius, is one of the island’s most emblematic destinations.

This vibrant village with its memorable name is renowned for its extensive white sand beach, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Beaches, water sports, hiking, road trips… Flic-en-Flac has so much to offer that it deserves a dedicated spotlight!

To help you plan your journey, I’ve curated a list of all the best activities in and around Flic-en-Flac.

So, what are the top things to do in Flic-en-Flac?

Let’s dive in!

1. The Beaches

The Beach of Flic-en-Flac

Visiting Mauritius without seeing the famous and gorgeous beach of Flic-en-Flac is unthinkable.

Spanning nearly 10km, it is uniquely fringed with filaos — iconic Mauritian pines providing ample shady spots to relax under.

Sunday gatherings here with family are a bit of a local tradition for Mauritian folks.

Apart from sunbathing and swimming, it’s also an excellent location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Lounging in the pine tree shade is, of course, another delightful choice!

Wolmar Beach

Minutes away from Flic en Flac lies the enchanting Wolmar Beach.

It shares the allure of Flic-en-Flac’s shoreline but is less crowded due to its distance from the tourist hub.

It’s a tranquil haven for some undisturbed sunbathing or a peaceful picnic.

This spot is also famous for offering amazing sunsets—perhaps the best on the island!

Tamarin Beach

The nearby village of Tamarin also boasts a beautiful beach, just a 15-minute drive from the heart of Flic-en-Flac.

A beloved spot for surfers and divers due to its greater depths and stronger waves, as there’s no protective coral reef.

You might even spot dolphins in the pristine Tamarin Bay!

I’ll share more about organized sea excursions to visit these playful creatures a bit later.

2. Go Diving in Flic-en-Flac

The lagoon of Flic en Flac is a haven for underwater enthusiasts. Regardless of your experience level, you’ll be mesmerized.

If you want to simply observe the abundant fish and coral species without venturing too far, Flic en Flac beach is superb for snorkeling.

The waters are crystal clear, offering a feast for the eyes with the marine flora and fauna’s rich tapestry of colors.

For those wishing to delve deeper, consider scuba diving, certainly one of Flic-en-Flac’s premier activities.

The waters of Mauritius are filled with wonders, and there are numerous diving centers dotting the west coast, both in Flic-en-Flac and Tamarin Bay.

Eager to try scuba diving in Mauritius? Check out Tamarin Ocean Pro Diving.

You’ll be in the capable hands of a friendly team, starting with a quick pool session before joining a diving expedition among coral reefs accompanied by your instructor, surrounded by myriad colorful fish.

To book your beginner’s diving session, simply click the button below:

For the experienced divers (level 1 or above), you can book your exploration dive by clicking right here: I book my diving session in Tamarin Bay

3. Cruise to Île aux Bénitiers

A boat trip you mustn’t miss near Flic-en-Flac is the cruise to Île aux Bénitiers, which sets sail from Black River (a 30-minute journey from Flic-en-Flac).

Île aux Bénitiers is a charming uninhabited islet near Le Morne Brabant, known for its shape that resembles a bénitier, an elongated seashell!

Looking for a relaxed day on the water, soaking up the sun? This cruise hits the mark wonderfully.

The outing includes various swimming and snorkeling breaks, a stop on the islet, and a visit to the iconic “Crystal Rock,” a striking rock formation set against Île aux Bénitiers.

To secure your place on this cruise, simply click below:

4. Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Excursion

As I mentioned earlier, the Mauritian waters on the West side are frequented by numerous marine mammals. Dolphins and sperm whales can be encountered all year round, and humpback whales visit seasonally.

If you find yourself in Mauritius between May and October, you’ll have the opportunity to take a sea excursion to watch the migrating whales.

During the rest of the year, the same speedboat excursion offers the chance to see dolphins and sperm whales—you can even swim with them!

With a team of specialists to teach you about these incredible marine creatures, you can sail for several hours to meet them, ensuring their natural habitat is respected. This is definitely an opportunity you shouldn’t miss!

You need to book this extraordinary boat excursion right now by clicking below:

5. Black River Gorges National Park

Looking for more activities in Flic-en-Flac beyond the beach and water sports?

I recommend heading slightly inland to explore the lush natural environment of the island’s West.

A mere 15km from Flic-en-Flac, you’ll find the country’s largest nature reserve: the Black River Gorges National Park.

This expansive forest reserve of 6.5 hectares is a must-see destination near Flic-en-Flac.

There, you’ll traverse forest trails featuring waterfalls, small rivers, and breathtaking viewpoints over the mountains and lagoon.

Housing over 300 plant species and 9 endemic bird species, the park offers a true natural escapade.

You’re very likely to spot black flying foxes, large fruit-eating bats native to the area, and perhaps even monkeys. It’s a totally different world!

The park offers a range of trails, including:

• Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, the easiest trek at 9km round trip. But be prepared for a steep ending.
• Mare Longue Loop, which is 12 km and of intermediate difficulty.
• Macchabée Trail, spanning 10 km for the more seasoned hikers up for a climb.

In any case, the best way to experience it is to hike with a guide. The park’s sheer size can be daunting if you’re new to the area, plus a guide will help ensure your safety and provide valuable insights into the local wildlife and vegetation. A guided hike is a must!

You’ll want to book your guide in advance, as slots fill up quickly. To do that, just click the button below:

6. The 7 Cascades Hike (Tamarind Falls)

Another must-do hike near Flic-en-Flac is the 7 Cascades trail.

Also known as Tamarind Falls hike (or Tamarind Falls for our English-speaking friends), it’s named after the waterfalls you’ll encounter along the way.

For me, and many others, it ranks among the most stunning hikes in Mauritius.

The hike takes you past a sequence of waterfalls, offering rejuvenation and quite a workout.

You can tackle 7 Cascades from either direction, going up or down, and you have the option between:

• the full hike, spanning a full day and taking in all 7 waterfalls,
• or half the hike, showing you 4 waterfalls in just half a day.

Since the trail isn’t marked, I strongly recommend you hike with a guide. It’s a sure way to avoid getting lost and to guarantee the highest level of safety.

The guided hike to 7 Cascades can be booked for:

• the full journey, right here
• and for the half-day trek, right here.

7. Via Ferrata in Flic-en-Flac

Are you a fan of climbing and adventure?

Then you need to try the Via Ferrata at Cascavelle, close to Flic-en-Flac.

The course is set on the hill named Mamzel Zabeth and features a variety of challenges like a monkey bridge, a Nepalese bridge, and a short zip line—all without any technical difficulty.

You’ll be in the capable hands of the super-friendly team of professional instructors from Lokal Adventure.

The excursion also affords magnificent views over Flic-en-Flac, Le Morne, and the West Coast.

With a duration of about 5 hours, the adventure ends with a picnic next to a pool with a waterfall.

The via ferrata is appropriate for children ages 8 and up, making it an excellent family activity in Mauritius!

Booking is easy, simply click on this button:

8. Canyoning

In search of a thrilling activity? Try canyoning at the 7 waterfalls of Tamarin.

A professional instructor will guide you up close to the different waterfalls, where you can perform direct traverses, abseiling descents, and enjoy viewpoints from the top of the falls.

This beginner-friendly activity can be booked right now by clicking below:

9. Shopping at Cascavelle

A short drive from Flic en Flac, the Cascavelle Shopping Center is a charming spot for shopping and leisurely walks.

You’ll find a supermarket, various fashion, beauty, and craft stores, as well as cafes for relaxing breaks.

It’s delightful to shop or have a drink on a terrace during the day since the center is open-air.

Evenings often feature outdoor concerts, and for those looking to party, there’s the “Lakaz” club.

10. A Road-Trip Day in the Southwest

Staying in Flic en Flac also means easy access to exploring the Southwest of Mauritius.

For a complete experience in a single day, a road trip is an ideal choice.

The route I recommend includes four stops and can be completed in one day, but feel free to adjust it as needed.

Kick off your journey at Grand Bassin, or Ganga Talao, approximately a 40-minute drive from Flic en Flac.

As a sacred lake and Hindu pilgrimage site, it impresses with its giant statues of the gods Shiva and Durga.

Take a moment to stroll around the lake and explore the temples.

Drive south to Plaine Champagne, and don’t miss the “Gorges View Point” for a stunning view over part of the Black River Gorges reserve, with the sea as a backdrop.

A little further, another highlight is the “Alexandra Waterfall”, clearly signposted.

Continue to the village of Chamarel to visit the Ebony Forest nature reserve and the Seven Colored Earths.

Wrap up your road trip with a visit to the Chamarel Rum Distillery, where you can learn all about Mauritian rum production.

11. More Ideas for Things to Do Around Flic-en-Flac

There’s more to discover in and around Flic en Flac.

Based in Flic-en-Flac, you’re in the perfect spot to explore the entire Southwest over a few days.

Here are my top picks for the best things to see and do in the area:

Climbing Morne Brabant

Still wondering what to do in West Mauritius and love hiking? Morne Brabant is the answer.

This famous mountain, overlooking the southwest coast, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008.

Its importance to Mauritius is rooted in the era of slavery, providing refuge to escaped slaves at its high altitudes.

At the mountain’s base, near the beach parking area, stands the memorial dedicated to them.

Not only historically significant, Morne Brabant also offers remarkable landscapes.

A hike up Morne Brabant is an absolute must on your Mauritian holiday, typically taking 3 to 4 hours for the round trip.

Just a heads-up, it’s not an easy stroll; expect a bit of a climb, especially the last stretch to the summit.

Although not technically challenging, it does require caution for those with vertigo.

The stunning panoramic views from the top are a fantastic reward for your efforts.

Hiring a professional guide is advisable, ensuring your safety and enriching your experience with historical insights.

You can book your guided climb at Morne right here by clicking the button below—don’t delay, as it’s a popular excursion:

Plaine Sophie Nature Walk

Let’s continue our journey with the Plaine Sophie Botanical Reserve, around 20 km from Flic en Flac.

This intimate nature reserve is the perfect place for a serene walk in the tropical forest, offering a peaceful getaway.

If you’re with family, it’s an ideal location for a tranquil outing.

Nature enthusiasts can discover many endemic plant species, along with protected birds and monkeys.

Stepping into the reserve, the natural symphony of wind-rustled leaves, bird calls, and monkey chatter greets you—it’s nature’s true sanctuary.

A small museum located inside the reserve displays a collection of tools historically used for forest maintenance.

Hiking at Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire

Looking for another activity near Flic-en-Flac? You should consider hiking to the Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire.

At 828m, it’s the highest peak in Mauritius and sits less than 25km from Flic-en-Flac.

The mountain is easily recognizable from afar by its unique shape.

While it’s the tallest summit in the country, climbing to the top is not overly difficult, and the view is simply stunning.

There are three different trails, catering to various fitness levels: easy, intermediate, and athletic.

The path via Plaine Champagne is the least challenging as its starting point is already at an elevated altitude. You only have 150m left to climb to the summit. The route is approximately 3.5km long.

The intermediate-level route begins at Planteau track in Chamarel, starting 250m above sea level and is about 5.2km long.

Lastly, the via Grand Piton path is the most demanding and stretches over 5.5km.

An incredible reward awaits you at the summit, where a magnificent panorama unfolds before you. There’s even a bench to sit and relax while admiring the view.

To fully enjoy this fabulous hike, why not hire a guide who is intimately familiar with the mountain?

Booking your guided hike to Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire is very easy, just click below:

The Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel

During your stay in Flic-en-Flac, you need to see the unique Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel.

This spectacle is one of the famous attractions in Mauritius.

It consists of volcanic soil naturally showcasing a rainbow of colors, from red and purple to blue and ochre—a true wonder to behold!

It’s just under an hour’s drive from Flic-en-Flac to reach this natural marvel.

The Seven Coloured Earths are situated within Chamarel’s Geopark, which is privately owned and requires an entrance fee. To save time and money, you can already buy your discounted entrance ticket by clicking below:

Ebony Forest Reserve

A stone’s throw from the Seven Coloured Earths, you can visit the Ebony Forest Reserve.

While it’s on the same site, it’s not included in the Geopark, so your entrance ticket does not cover this area.

Ebony Forest is a forest reserve engaged in a crucial biodiversity restoration program.

The mission is to revive the original tropical forest that was once stripped away for the ebony wood trade. The restoration encompasses around fifty hectares.

Since 2017, the site has been accessible to the public, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and frequently welcomes school groups.

It’s a fascinating and delightful visit to include during your Mauritius vacation.

At the reserve’s entrance, there’s a compact museum providing an excellent overview of Mauritius’ history.

From there, you can either walk or take a 4×4 shuttle to the reserve’s heart, depending on what you chose at the entrance.

Various visit options are available:

• the self-guide tour
• the guided tour
• a tour with an emphasis on endemic bird spotting
• a special opportunity to plant a tree

You can also choose a 3 to 4-hour guided hike through the reserve.

At the end of your excursion, be sure to visit “Sublime Point”—and it truly earns its name!

Here, you can enjoy a drink paired with a spectacular view of the bay and Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire.

For more information, visit the official Ebony Forest website.

Chamarel Rhumerie Tour

Among the excursions available from Flic en Flac, a trip to Chamarel Rhumerie should definitely be on your list!

It’s a must-visit for rum lovers, but even if you’re not into spirits (like me), the tour is incredibly intriguing!

You’ll discover all about the Mauritian rum-making process and taste some of the finest rums Mauritius has to offer.

Just remember to spit if you plan on driving afterwards 😀

Le Morne Beach

Le Morne Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches to see during your Mauritius holiday.

It’s a 40-minute car journey from Flic-en-Flac, positioned at the base of Morne Brabant, a mountain that is an integral part of the natural and cultural heritage of Mauritius.

More private than the larger Flic en Flac beach, Le Morne Beach is a real piece of paradise.

The landscape there is serene and awe-inspiring, perfect for relaxation and meditation.

Kitesurfing on the West Coast of Mauritius

Adventure enthusiasts staying near Flic en Flac can get their adrenaline fix with a kitesurfing session.

If it’s your first time, you can try a beginner’s lesson and who knows—you might find a new passion.

And honestly, is there a more stunning location to give it a shot? I certainly don’t think so.

To book your kitesurfing lesson on the West Coast of Mauritius, just click on the button below:

The Optical Illusion Museum

For a fun family outing in the West of Mauritius, you should definitely visit the Curious Corner. This optical illusion museum can be found in Chamarel and promises a super fun experience with plenty of amazing photo opportunities to capture unique memories. Kids are sure to love it!

The Bois Chéri Tea Factory

Close to Flic-en-Flac, make sure to take the time to visit the Bois Chéri Tea Factory, only about 45 minutes away by car.

At Bois Chéri, you will see Mauritian tea production in full swing, from the lush tea fields to the final packaging process.

The tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the tea factory and includes a visit to the tea museum.

And of course, you can indulge in a delicious cup of the iconic vanilla flavored Mauritian tea while gazing out over the expansive tea plantations.

A Seaplane Flight to Admire Mauritius from the Sky

Interested in an extraordinary activity while in Mauritius?

You’ll be thrilled to know that from La Prairie beach (just a 45-minute drive from Flic-en-Flac), you can take a seaplane trip over the Western coastline and the lagoon!

The highlights include flying over Le Morne Brabant and Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire.

But what really steals the show is the surreal sight of the “Underwater Waterfalls”—an optical illusion creating the appearance of waterfalls beneath the sea surface. This is definitely a sight you won’t want to miss!

Don’t hesitate to book your seaplane adventure in Mauritius, perfect for solo travelers or couples. Just click on the links below:

• Seaplane Flight Over Mauritius – Solo
• Seaplane Flight Over Mauritius – Couple

Where to Eat in Flic-en-Flac?

Searching for great places to eat in Flic-en-Flac? Here are my top 3 picks for restaurants and snack bars:

• Sunset Garden: A charming restaurant nestled within verdant gardens close to the beach, often featuring live music in the evenings.
• Roti Aka Vinoda: the ultimate food truck situated on the public beach, ideal for a quick, genuine Mauritian meal at lunch.
• Jeanno Burger: Another beachside food truck famous for its scrumptious homemade burgers.
• Zub Express: A restaurant across from the beach where you can enjoy mouthwatering Indian/Asian dishes.

How Long to Stay in Flic-en-Flac?

Flic-en-Flac, and generally the West coast, rank among my favorite spots in Mauritius.

The village of Flic-en-Flac is essentially centered around the beach and water sports, which can be thoroughly enjoyed in about 1 or 2 days.

But if you want to immerse yourself in everything the Western region of Mauritius has to offer, you could easily fill a whole week with activities and exploration.

Flic-en-Flac makes a great home base for your explorations, with each of the must-see locations I’ve mentioned in this guide being a half to a full day trip away.

How to Get to Flic-en-Flac?

Thanks to its popularity among tourists, Flic-en-Flac is easily accessible by car via the main roads.

You should plan for about 1 hour’s drive from the airport, and the same from Grand Baie on the North coast.

Traveling from the East coast around Belle Mare will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

To make the most of your time in Mauritius, renting a car is the best choice.

Public transportation is available, but the bus system is slow compared to self-driving.

For car rentals in Mauritius, I suggest Booking Cars for their excellent service and value for money.

Click below to compare car rental prices in Mauritius:

Where to Stay in Flic-en-Flac?

Hunting for the perfect hotel in Flic-en-Flac that fits both your needs and budget?

To assist you, I have handpicked some of the best accommodations in Flic-en-Flac. Just click on the orange links to get more details and secure your booking:

• Lariad BnB: A lovely property just a 5-minute walk from the beach in Flic-en-Flac. Comfortable double rooms start at 50€, breakfast included. Guests enjoy free access to the tropical garden, two swimming pools, and the breakfast terrace. I recommend it for a budget-friendly stay in Mauritius!
• Shanti Ghar Guest House: A welcoming guest house with appealing decor, situated less than 2km from Black River Tamarin beach. Enjoy a comfortable double room with a balcony starting at 95€ per night. Facilities include an outdoor pool, shared lounge, garden, and bar.
• La Mariposa Mauritius: A hotel in Rivière Noire boasting stunning views of Le Morne and located 10km from the seven-colored earth of Chamarel. Double rooms are available from 120€/night, breakfast included, with access to a private beach, pool, and beautiful garden.
• Veranda Tamarin Hotel & Spa: A delightful boutique hotel located in Tamarin Bay. You can book a double room with balcony offering sea or mountain views from 150€/night. Features include 2 restaurants, 2 swimming pools, and a spa. This place is my top recommendation in the Western region of Mauritius!
• Sugar Beach A Sun Resort: A luxury hotel situated right on Flic-en-Flac beach. Stay in a private, comfortable, and well-appointed villa starting at a minimum of 390€/night, with a view of the sea. For a luxury experience in Mauritius, this is definitely the place I recommend!

Travel Insurance for Mauritius: My Advice

That wraps up this guide on the best things to do in Flic-en-Flac. I hope it has provided you with lots of ideas for organizing a dream vacation in Mauritius!

Feel free to leave a comment to share your thoughts or ask questions 🙂

With that, I wish you a fabulous stay!

And you, what do you plan on doing in Flic-en-Flac? 🙂

You’re traveling to Mauritius? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mauritius: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mauritius are listed there.

• The 21 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

• The 11 Most Beautiful Beaches in Mauritius

• Best Time to go to Mauritius? – Seasons, weather, activities, prices

The best itineraries for your trip

• Itinerary: 5 days in Mauritius – An amazing itinerary for a short stay in Mauritius
• Itinerary: One week in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit the island in 7 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit Mauritius in 10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mauritius – The ultimate guide to Mauritius in 15 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mauritius – Plan your 20-21 day stay in Mauritius easily!

• Road-trip in Mauritius – The 6 best itineraries for your trip!

Places to Visit

• Bellemare: Top 11 places and activities
• Underwater waterfall in Mauritius – How to get there + Tips
• Chamarel: 11 Epic Things to Do
• Flic-en-Flac: Top 10 places to visit and things to do
• Grand Baie: The Ultimate Guide
• Grand Bassin: All the Best Things to Do
• Île aux Bénitiers: How to Visit Benitiers Island?
• Île aux Cerfs: The Definitive Guide to Plan Your Visit
• Mahébourg: Best Places to Visit + Tips
• Morne Brabant: How to Visit Morne Brabant?
• Black River Gorges National Park: What to See and Do?

• 9 Natural curiosities to see in Mauritius

Activities

• The Best Activities in Mauritius – Water sports, cruises, day trips, guided tours…

• The Best Boat Trips in Mauritius – Top 5 + Rates and booking
• Scuba diving in Mauritius: The Definitve Guide

Organize your stay

• Where to Stay in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide – All types of accommodation for all budgets

• 4-Star Hotels in Mauritius: My selection of the best!
• 5-Star Hotels in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide

• The 11 Most Beautiful Hotels in Mauritius – Guide + Tips

• Guesthouses and B&B in Mauritius: My Selection of a perfect stay

• Renting a Car in Mauritius: Guide + My Best Tips

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