Swim with wild dolphins in Mauritius for an unforgettable experience. Here’s what you need to know:
- Where: The west coast of Mauritius is the best spot, with Tamarin Bay, Flic en Flac, and Black River being top locations.
- When: The best time to go is May to September (calmer seas and pleasant weather). Tours run early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) when dolphins are most active.
- What to Expect: Two species – Bottlenose and Spinner dolphins – are common. Tours last 2–3 hours, and full-day options include snorkeling, island visits, and lunch.
- Cost: Half-day tours start at 3,000 MUR, while full-day tours cost around 4,000 MUR.
- Preparation: Pack swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Follow safety guidelines and respect the dolphins’ space.
- Responsible Tours: Choose operators who prioritize conservation and limit group sizes.
| Location | Best Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Tamarin Bay | 7:00–9:00 AM | Calm lagoon, frequent sightings |
| Flic en Flac | 7:00–9:00 AM | Clear waters, high sighting rate |
| Black River | Early morning | Year-round tours, multiple spots |
Swimming with dolphins in Mauritius offers a unique chance to connect with nature while respecting marine life. Book early and follow the rules for a safe and memorable adventure.
Dolphins in Mauritius 🐬, Swimming with dolphins on a kayak …
Where to Swim with Dolphins
Mauritius’ western coast is a top destination for dolphin encounters, offering several locations known for frequent sightings and ideal conditions. Each spot provides its own perks for an unforgettable experience.
Tamarin Bay
Tamarin Bay is a calm lagoon where dolphins often rest, hunt, and breed. Its sheltered waters make it a great choice for swimmers looking to get close to these amazing creatures.
Flic en Flac
Flic en Flac boasts crystal-clear waters and an impressive 90% dolphin sighting rate. Tours typically leave between 7:00–9:00 AM, with May to September being the best time due to calmer seas.
Black River and Nearby Areas
Black River, along with La Preneuse, serves as a popular starting point for dolphin tours. These tours operate year-round, making it a reliable option regardless of the season.
| Location | Best Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Tamarin Bay | 7:00–9:00 AM | Calm lagoon, frequent sightings |
| Flic en Flac | 7:00–9:00 AM | Clear waters, high sighting rate |
| Black River | Early morning | Year-round tours, multiple spots |
For even more options, consider visiting Le Morne Brabant or Bel Ombre. Keep in mind that tours during peak season can fill up quickly, so booking ahead is a smart move.
When to Go
Best Months to Visit
The best time to swim with dolphins in Mauritius is between May and September, which is the island’s winter season. During these months, the seas are calmer, and the weather is more comfortable, making for a better overall experience.
Winter temperatures hover around 72°F (22°C) for the air and between 73°F to 84°F (23°C–29°C) for the sea. This season usually brings stable weather, reducing the chances of tour cancellations caused by rough seas or storms.
Although dolphin swimming is available all year, the summer months (November to April) come with challenges like:
- Increased rain and humidity
- Rougher sea conditions
- Cyclone risks, especially in February
- Poorer visibility in the water
For the best experience, plan your visit during the recommended months and follow the daily schedule outlined below.
Daily Schedule
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6:30 AM | Check-in | Arrive at the departure point |
| 7:00-7:30 AM | Departure | Start of prime time |
| 7:30-9:00 AM | Peak activity | Best chance to see dolphins |
| 9:00-10:00 AM | Tour completion | Includes the return journey |
Most tours last about two to three hours. Starting early in the morning is crucial because dolphins tend to move to deeper waters as the day progresses, reducing the likelihood of encounters.
Keep in mind that weather can vary across the island. The central plateau is cooler compared to the coast, and the south and east are generally cooler and wetter than the north and west. Consider these factors when selecting your departure point.
Picking a Tour Company
What to Look For
When choosing a tour operator, check for options that offer different tour durations, like half-day or full-day trips. Also, look for services such as hotel pickup and drop-off. Considering these factors will help you assess whether the pricing aligns with the services provided.
Prices and Services
Tour prices typically range between 3,000 MUR for a half-day and 4,000 MUR for a full-day experience. Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually included:
| Package Type | Price (MUR) | Included Services |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Tour | 3,000 | • Hotel pickup/drop-off • Dolphin watching • Snorkeling equipment • Professional guide • 2–3 hour duration |
| Full-Day Tour | 4,000 | • Hotel pickup/drop-off • 2.5 hours dolphin swimming • Benitiers Island visit • Crystal Rock stop • Lunch and open bar • Professional guide |
Mauritius Travel and Tours (MUTT) offers packages that set a high standard in the industry. Their full-day option includes a 2.5-hour dolphin swimming session, visits to breathtaking spots like Benitiers Island and Crystal Rock, and a meal on the island with access to an open bar.
When comparing options, think about the extras provided. Half-day tours mainly focus on dolphin watching, while full-day trips offer a richer experience with more activities, scenic stops, and a meal.
Getting Ready
Packing List
Make sure to pack these essentials for a safe and enjoyable dolphin swim:
| Essential Items | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Swimwear | Quick-drying swim attire |
| UV-protective rash guard | Long-sleeved sun protection |
| Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) | Water-resistant sunblock |
| Wide-brimmed hat | Extra sun protection |
| Water shoes | Foot protection on the boat and in water |
| Quick-dry towel | To dry off quickly after swimming |
| Waterproof bag | Keeps electronics safe from water |
| Reusable water bottle | Stay hydrated throughout the activity |
Some tour operators may provide snorkeling gear, but bringing your own mask and snorkel can offer extra comfort and hygiene. If you want to capture the moment, consider a waterproof phone case or camera. Just don’t let photography distract you from enjoying the experience.
Once your bag is packed, it’s time to review the safety rules for a secure and respectful adventure.
Safety Rules
Swimming with wild dolphins comes with responsibilities. Following these safety guidelines ensures both your safety and the protection of the dolphins:
- Be a confident swimmer who can handle open water conditions.
- Inform your tour operator if you have any health concerns, such as:
- Respiratory problems
- Recent surgeries
- Pregnancy
- Motion sickness
- Prepare properly before the swim:
- Avoid heavy meals beforehand
- Stay hydrated
- Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before entering the water
- Pay close attention during the safety briefing
Responsible Swimming
Rules to Follow
When swimming near dolphins, it’s important to respect their space and keep their habitat undisturbed. Follow these guidelines to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:
-
Distance & Approach
- Stay at least 50 meters away from dolphin pods.
- Approach them from a parallel direction, not head-on.
- Avoid blocking their travel paths to ensure they can move freely.
-
Interaction Guidelines
- Never touch or feed the dolphins.
- Keep swimming groups small, with no more than 8 people.
-
Environmental Considerations
- Enter the water calmly and follow the skipper’s instructions to avoid overcrowding.
- Turn off boat engines when close to dolphin pods to minimize disturbance.
Once you’re in the water, stay calm and avoid sudden movements that might scare the dolphins. Let them decide if they want to approach you. Choosing a tour guide who follows these practices is just as important.
"Seeing dolphins in their environment makes each day different, and it is the dolphin who leads the dance." – Dolphins encounter Mauritius
Picking Good Tour Guides
After understanding the rules for swimming with dolphins, it’s time to choose a tour guide who prioritizes conservation. The right operator ensures your safety while protecting the dolphins’ well-being. Here’s what to look for:
-
Professional Expertise
- Tours led by marine biologists or guides with a deep understanding of dolphin behavior.
- Skilled skippers who can navigate responsibly.
- Pre-swim briefings that include detailed information about dolphins and their environment.
-
Tour Structure
- Opt for early morning tours when dolphins are most active and the waters are calm.
Two operators known for their responsible practices include:
-
Le Morne Eco-Friendly Tours
- Offers small group experiences with marine biologist guides.
- Includes safety briefings and educational sessions about marine life.
- Provides snorkeling opportunities as part of the tour.
-
Grande Riviere Noire Excursions
- Focuses on small group outings with expert naturalist guides.
- Schedules tours to avoid peak hours for a quieter experience.
- Emphasizes respectful observation of wildlife.
During Your Swim
Local Dolphin Species
Off the west coast of Mauritius, you’ll find two incredible dolphin species in their natural environment. Bottlenose dolphins are known for their gray color and elongated snout. These sociable animals usually travel in pods of 10–30 members, making them a common sight during morning trips.
Spinner dolphins are just as captivating. They have dark gray coloring with distinct patches on their tail stock, back, and throat. Their long, thin beak often has a dark tip, and their creamy-white belly adds to their unique appearance. True to their name, these dolphins are famous for their energetic spinning leaps above the water’s surface.
Learning about these species helps prepare you for a respectful and memorable experience.
How to Approach Dolphins
Once you’ve identified the species, it’s important to approach them with care. Enter the water calmly, keeping in mind that you are a visitor in their world. Your guide will position the boat to allow observation while maintaining a respectful 50-meter distance.
To ensure a positive interaction:
- Enter the water slowly – slide in without splashing.
- Stay near your guide, remain quiet, and let the dolphins approach on their own.
Keep in mind that the following actions are strictly forbidden:
- Touching or grabbing onto dolphins
- Making artificial noises to get their attention
- Throwing objects into the water
- Feeding the dolphins
"Seeing dolphins in their environment makes each day different, and it is the dolphin who leads the dance." – Dolphins encounter Mauritius
Final Tips
Now that safety, respect, and preparation are covered, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your dolphin swim.
Timing
Plan to arrive early, as morning trips often provide the best chance to see dolphins in action under ideal conditions.
Safety Essentials
Always follow the skipper’s instructions when getting in and out of the water. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on other swimmers nearby.
Respectful Interaction
When approaching dolphin pods, swim parallel to them, stay at least 50 meters away, keep noise to a minimum, and avoid large groups. Remember, wild dolphins are not there to perform – let them decide how the interaction unfolds.
Protecting the Habitat
The waters off Mauritius’s west coast are home to native dolphin species. Help preserve this natural habitat by strictly following your guide’s instructions. This approach ensures your experience aligns with the earlier principles of respect and care.
Choosing the Right Group
Smaller tour groups not only offer better guidance but also lessen the impact on the environment. Opt for operators who limit group sizes for a more personal and eco-conscious experience.
"Seeing dolphins in their environment makes each day different, and it is the dolphin who leads the dance." – Dolphins encounter Mauritius
