Mauritius: Grand Baie and Roches Noires among UN’s “Best Tourist Villages” for 2024
Grand Baie, located in northern Mauritius, is a former fishing village turned top tourist destination, known for its scenic landscapes, beaches, and entertainment. The area promotes eco-friendly marine tourism with sustainable diving and snorkeling practices to protect coral reefs, featuring designated swimming zones and navigable passages for safety. The local community prioritizes environmental conservation and has formed a coastal protection cluster, including the Beach Authority, to address these issues.
Roches Noires, a picturesque village located in the northeast of Mauritius, provides a peaceful alternative to mass tourism with its unspoiled beaches, rich culture, and verdant landscapes. The region has developed a tourism infrastructure that respects the environment, making it attractive to eco-conscious travelers. Roches Noires boasts beautiful beaches and a coastal road lined with traditional shops, perfect for experiencing local life.
- Voluntary Marine Conservation Areas (VMCAs): An 8-hectare area has been designated to safeguard seagrass and coral ecosystems, fostering sustainable tourism and involving local fishermen as guides.
- Roches Noires Eco-Marine Organization: This group offers guided eco-tourism activities, such as exploring lava tubes and nature trails, which benefit both visitors and local entrepreneurs.