South African Airways (SAA) has announced plans to initiate its first-ever direct flights between Cape Town and Mauritius.
Flights are set to start on December 9, with flights scheduled to operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
“Connecting Cape Town with Mauritius is a fascinating achievement that our team has been aspiring towards for quite some time. The introduction of this route demonstrates SAA’s role in promoting leisure travel across the region and supports the broader tourism objectives for both South Africa and Mauritius,” said SAA chief executive officer, Professor John Lamola.
In light of evolving travel demands, a temporary adjustment will occur between mid-January and mid-March 2026.
“This convenience of the flight schedule was carefully developed through rigorous engagement with our South African tour operator partners to ensure it aligns with traveler preferences and peak holiday planning,” added Tebogo Tsimane, chief commercial officer.
For travellers venturing to the tropical paradise of Mauritius, there is no shortage of activities to explore beyond the sandy beaches.
Here are three off-the-beaten-track attractions for visitors:
Eau Bleue
Escape the typical tourist trails and discover Eau Bleue, a captivating series of azure waterfalls and tranquil swimming holes in the village of Cluny, just a 15-minute drive from Mahébourg.
This hidden gem offers an idyllic setting for a refreshing dip and Instagrammable photographs.
Black River Gorges National Park
Immerse yourself in a stunning natural landscape at this park, which features lush forests, uncharted waterfalls and unique wildlife, including the rare pink pigeon.
Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, the park offers an variety of hiking trails that reveal the island’s natural beauty.
The Pyramids of Mauritius
Witness the intriguing stone structures known as the Pyramids of Mauritius, located near Plaine Magnien, just 5kms from the airport.
These symmetrical mounds, reminiscent of the Guimar pyramids in Tenerife, offer a glimpse into the island’s enigmatic history.
They are a fascinating sight to behold amidst the picturesque sugar cane fields.