The Maldives or Mauritius: How do they compare?

The Maldives and Mauritius are two destinations that often spring to mind when it comes to dream holidays.

Both destinations have white sandy beaches, world-class resorts, luxury spas, and amazing scuba diving. Plus, you're guaranteed sunshine. But our Travel Specialists often get asked about the differences, and which of these beautiful Indian Ocean destinations to choose.

Holidays to the Maldives and Mauritius both offer a slice of paradise. But how do these two premier destinations compare for family holidays, cultural experiences, cost and luxury? Read on to find out.

Holidays to the Maldives – what to expect

The Maldives is one of the world’s most exclusive gems. Floating southwest of Sri Lanka, these tiny Indian Ocean islands are awash with four- and five-star resorts and serene beaches, where you can sit back and look out to an infinite azure horizon.

Life in the Maldives is laidback. You won’t find busy crowds and overcrowded resorts in this magnificent island hideaway, making it perfect if you’re looking to escape the grind for a week or more. If you want to switch up the pace, a visit to the capital city of Malé is highly recommended for traditional markets and cultural areas of importance. Otherwise, you can expect a relaxing holiday.

Holidays to Mauritius – what to expect

Mauritius is an island filled with wonder. Holidays to this stunning retreat offer experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. Fabulous beaches, verdant jungles, and clear turquoise waters make up the landscape of this truly sublime destination.

Geographically, the island occupies the Indian Ocean where both Asia and Africa meet. This isn’t the only mix of cultures to influence Mauritius. The island’s colonial heritage also includes European influences, with islanders speaking both French and English.

As for activities, you’ll be able to enjoy watersports, scuba diving, golf, luxury-laden spas, numerous cultural attractions and tours of the island’s incredible natural landscape, where you’ll find rare wildlife and numerous exotic birds.

Contemplating a family holiday to the Maldives or Mauritius? There’s an endless list of activities for travellers in both.

The Maldives boasts a wide selection of family-friendly beaches and resorts, where kids can play and enjoy a wealth of fun activities. Elsewhere, you’ll find scuba diving, watersports and dive centres for a fun family day out.

Mauritius also boasts its share of fun family pursuits, offering a similar set of activities for you to enjoy in the sun. You could also check out its nature reserves like Black River Gorges National Park, where you’ll be able to get up close and personal with amazing wildlife.

Both are worth considering for a family getaway. But the slightly shorter flight time may make the Maldives more appealing, especially to those travelling with young children.

Maldives or Mauritius – which is best for culture?

When it comes to culture, the Maldives’ capital is bursting with must-see sites and attractions. Malé is the island’s most densely populated city; it’s also the perfect place to get a feel for this brilliant nation’s captivating heritage.

Traditional markets, palaces, the Malé Friday Mosque, the Islamic Centre and the National Museum are among the city’s most famous sites.

And, over in Mauritius, the village of Grand-Baie is a bit of a hotspot for culture. Along with incredible scenery, here you'll see impressive architecture and lots of colourful, ocean-side Hindu temples.

Maldives or Mauritius – where's easiest to get to?

Most UK airports operate flights to and from the Maldives, but you might find that many flights involve a change in Turkey or the Middle East. It’s worth knowing that British Airways runs a number of direct flights from London Gatwick to the Maldives. The average flight time from the UK to the Maldives is 12-14 hours, depending on which airport you depart from.

As for Mauritius, you’ll find flights from most major UK airports, including Manchester, London Gatwick, Birmingham and Edinburgh. Direct flights from Gatwick are available, but most airlines make one stop in Paris or Abu Dhabi, or another international airport. The average flight time from the UK to Mauritius is 12-16 hours, depending on where you fly from. Believe us, this spectacular island is worth the lengthy journey.