Balaclava - Discovering Mauritius

Travelling to Balaclava

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Balaclava, a pretty good destination in Mauritius (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Balaclava and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Balaclava, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mauritius, here's everything to know about Balaclava for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Balaclava

Balaclava is a small coastal town located in the north-western part of Mauritius, on the shores of the Indian Ocean. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for water sports and snorkeling. The town is also home to several luxury hotels and resorts, offering a wide range of facilities and activities for tourists, including spas, golf courses, and gourmet restaurants. Balaclava is steeped in history, with several colonial-era buildings and landmarks, such as the famous Balaclava Ruins, which date back to the 18th century. The town also boasts lush green forests and nature reserves, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

What to visit in Balaclava

Here are the top tourist attractions in Balaclava, Mauritius along with some information about each: 1. Balaclava Ruins - these are the remains of a 17th century French fortification, built during the time when Mauritius was a Dutch and French colony. It offers panoramic views of the sea and mountains.
2. Turtle Bay Marine Park - this is one of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in Mauritius. The park covers an extensive coral reef area where you can swim with colorful fish, rays and turtles. 3. Triolet Shivala - it is the largest Hindu temple in Mauritius. Its architecture boasts a unique blend of Tamil and Mauritian styles with intricate carvings of the Hindu deities.
4. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden- is one of the island's oldest botanical gardens which dates back to the French colonial era. It features a wide variety of exotic plants and trees such as the giant Victoria water lilies, medicinal herbs and spices, sugar cane etc.
5. L'Aventure du Sucre - the sugar museum of Mauritius provides a fascinating overview of the history of sugar industry which shaped the island's economy and the way of life of its inhabitants. 6. Martello Tower Museum - this is one of the 16th-century British colonial defense towers built to stop enemy naval attacks. The museum displays information and artifacts related to the historical significance of the tower.
7. Cap Malheureux - is a fishing village located on the northern tip of Mauritius. It is famous for its red-roofed church with a picturesque view of the sea.
8. Mont Choisy Beach - One of the longest beaches along the island's northern coast with its fine golden sand and turquoise waters.
I hope that helps you to plan your trip.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mauritius, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Balaclava

The best time to visit Balaclava (Mauritius) is from May to December when the weather is cooler and drier. Although temperatures will still be warm, the humidity will be more tolerable than during the hot and rainy summer months of January to April. Additionally, these months tend to be less crowded and offer lower prices compared to the peak season of December to January.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Balaclava

Balaclava is a small town located on the northwest coast of Mauritius. Here are some ways to get to Balaclava: 1. By Taxi or Private Transfer: Taxis and private transfers are readily available from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport or other parts of the island to Balaclava. The trip will take approximately one hour depending on traffic.
2. By Bus: Public buses also run to Balaclava from major towns and cities. Look for bus routes that go to "Baie aux Tortues". From there, you can take a short taxi ride to Balaclava.
3. By Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular option for touring Mauritius. Balaclava is easily accessible by rental car from anywhere on the island.
4. By Boat: If you're coming from nearby islands, such as Reunion Island, you can take a boat to Port-Louis and then a taxi or bus to Balaclava.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balaclava, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balaclava

Here are some typical foods from Balaclava, Mauritius: 1. Dholl puri - a type of flatbread made from ground yellow split peas, filled with cooked beans, vegetables, pickles, and chutneys.
2. Gateau piment - fried or baked chili cakes made from lentils, flour, and spices.
3. Roti - another type of flatbread, made with flour and filled with a variety of savory fillings, such as vegetables, meat, or seafood.
4. Fish vindaye - a traditional fish curry made with vinegar, mustard seeds, and various spices, usually served with rice or roti.
5. Boulettes - small steamed or fried dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables and served with a spicy sauce.
6. Samosas - deep-fried pastry triangles filled with spiced meat, potatoes, or vegetables.
7. Chicken kathi roll - chicken marinated in tikka masala, rolled up in a paratha (flatbread), and served with onions, chutney, and mint sauce.
8. Curry - a staple dish in Mauritius, made with a variety of meats or vegetables and a fragrant blend of spices, usually served with rice or roti.
9. Farata - a type of flaky, layered flatbread served with curry or chutney.
10. Gateau coco - a sweet coconut cake, often made with semolina or corn flour and flavored with cardamom and vanilla.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mauritius here.

Is Balaclava an expensive destination for tourists?

Balaclava in Mauritius can be considered as a relatively expensive destination for tourists, especially when compared to other destinations in the region. However, the prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and dining options that you choose.
Luxury resorts and high-end hotels tend to be more expensive in Balaclava, while smaller hotels and guesthouses can be more affordable. Additionally, activities such as watersports and spa treatments can add to the overall cost.
However, it is still possible to travel to Balaclava on a budget by opting for more affordable accommodation and dining options and by choosing free or low-cost activities. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking to find the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Balaclava

Balaclava is a small town located on the northwest coast of Mauritius, and it's a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and natural attractions. There are several areas in and around Balaclava where visitors can find accommodation.
1. Coastal Road: This is a popular area to find accommodation in Balaclava. You can find luxury hotels, resorts, and villas along the coastal road with stunning views of the ocean.
2. Pointe aux Piments: This is another area where you can find great accommodation options. Pointe aux Piments is just a few kilometers away from Balaclava, and it's a quieter and less touristy area.
3. Trou aux Biches: This is a trendy and lively beach town located about 20 minutes away from Balaclava. You can find several hotels, guesthouses, and apartments in Trou aux Biches that cater to all budgets.
4. Grand Bay: Located just half an hour away from Balaclava, Grand Bay is a popular tourist destination with plenty of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses. It's an ideal place to stay if you're looking for a more vibrant atmosphere and nightlife.
Overall, there are plenty of options regarding areas to stay around Balaclava, so visitors can choose the place that best suits them depending on their budget, preferences, and interests.
You can check hotel prices at Balaclava here:
Booking.com

Is Balaclava a safe destination for tourists?

Balaclava is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. This includes avoiding displaying valuable items openly, not carrying large sums of cash, staying aware of your surroundings, and only using reputable transportation and accommodation options. It is also recommended to follow any local customs and laws to avoid any potential issues.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mauritius here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Balaclava.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balaclava the most?

Balaclava, Mauritius is a great destination for a wide range of travelers. It is a perfect destination for couples who are looking for a romantic getaway, as it offers great views, amazing beaches, and luxurious resorts. Young people looking for fun will also enjoy Balaclava's nightlife and exciting water sports such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving. Families will also enjoy Balaclava, as there are plenty of family-friendly activities such as exploring the nearby botanical gardens, taking a glass-bottom boat ride, and visiting the local wildlife parks. Overall, Balaclava is a diverse destination that will cater to the needs and interests of all types of travelers.

How to get around Balaclava

In Balaclava, you can use various means of transportation to get around such as taxis, rental cars, public buses, and bikes. Taxis are the most convenient option and can be easily found throughout the town. Rental cars are a good choice if you want to explore the area at your own pace. Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and infrequent at times. Bikes are a popular option for those who want to explore the area at a slower pace and enjoy the scenery.

What to see around Balaclava

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Balaclava in Mauritius: 1. Port Louis - the bustling capital of Mauritius, known for its vibrant markets and historic buildings.
2. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden - a stunning garden filled with exotic plants, fruits, and flowers.
3. Trou aux Cerfs - a dormant volcano with a beautiful panoramic view of the island.
4. Grand Baie - a lively coastal village, known for its beautiful beaches, water sports activities, restaurants, and nightlife.
5. Chamarel Coloured Earth - a natural phenomenon, where the earth’s surface is made up of seven different colours.
6. La Vanille Nature Park - a wildlife park that is home to giant tortoises, crocodiles, monkeys, and other animals, and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to interact with the animals.
7. Mahebourg - a charming fishing village, known for its relaxed atmosphere, beaches, and delicious seafood restaurants.
8. Black River Gorges National Park - a beautiful park that offers hiking trails and stunning views of the island’s valleys, waterfalls, and mountain peaks.
9. Flic en Flac - a nearby beach known for its white sand and clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or watching the sunset.
For every travel information about Mauritius you can click here.

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