Proudly stepping onto the global stage, Mauritius has once again proven that its charm extends far beyond its famous beaches. In the 2025 edition of the Best Tourism Villages list by UN Tourism, two Mauritian villages—Chamarel and Grand River South East—have earned prestigious recognition among 52 global rural destinations for their commitment to sustainable tourism and community-led development.
This is not just a badge of honour for these two beautiful locales—it’s a celebration for the entire island nation, showcasing that our villages are not only idyllic but also models of cultural preservation, environmental care, and responsible tourism.
A Global Celebration of Rural Tourism
The Best Tourism Villages initiative by UN Tourism highlights destinations that are leading the way in using tourism as a tool for rural development. In its fifth year, the 2025 list features 52 villages from across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Over 270 applications were submitted from 65 UN member states, and Chamarel and Grand River South East stood out as shining examples of what sustainable tourism can achieve.
In addition to these 52 recognized villages, another 20 have joined the Upgrade Programme, making a total of 72 new members of the growing Best Tourism Villages Network, which now includes 319 communities worldwide.
Why Chamarel and Grand River South East Deserve the Spotlight
Mauritians have always known the unique appeal of Chamarel, with its Seven Coloured Earths, cascading waterfalls, and winding mountain roads through forests rich in biodiversity. But what sets Chamarel apart is not just its natural beauty. It’s the way local families, artisans, and entrepreneurs have worked hand-in-hand to develop tourism initiatives that are rooted in culture and conservation.
From small eco-lodges to rum distilleries using locally grown sugar cane, Chamarel embodies a slow-paced, immersive kind of travel that today’s visitors crave.
Further east, Grand River South East—often overshadowed by the popular Île aux Cerfs nearby—has quietly become a model for community-driven tourism. With boat tours run by local guides, hidden waterfalls, fishing cooperatives, and ongoing mangrove restoration efforts, the village proves that tourism can flourish without compromising the environment or local identity.
Their inclusion in the Best Tourism Villages 2025 list highlights not only their achievements but also Mauritius’s evolving tourism narrative: one that values authenticity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
UN Tourism’s Vision for Rural Destinations
UN Tourism launched the Best Tourism Villages initiative in 2021 as part of its Tourism for Rural Development Programme. The aim is simple but powerful: to use tourism as a catalyst for economic opportunity, cultural preservation, and social inclusion in rural areas.
Villages are evaluated across nine criteria, including:
- Cultural and natural resources
- Economic and environmental sustainability
- Infrastructure and connectivity
- Health, safety, and governance
- Value chain integration and tourism development
The recognition isn’t just symbolic. Villages that qualify are invited to join a global network where they can exchange ideas, receive technical support, and collaborate with experts and other rural communities worldwide. Those that don’t quite meet the criteria can join the Upgrade Programme, gaining mentorship and resources to improve their strategies.
Mauritius Among Global Leaders
With Chamarel and Grand River South East now among the world’s Best Tourism Villages, Mauritius joins the ranks of global leaders in rural tourism innovation. Other destinations recognized this year include:
- Agaete, Spain
- Bled, Slovenia
- Maimará, Argentina
- Asuka, Japan
- Loriga, Portugal
- Neot Semadar, Israel
- Hosszúhetény, Hungary
These villages, like ours, are demonstrating that the future of tourism is not only in big cities and beach resorts—but in the heart of small communities that offer genuine experiences, meaningful connections, and sustainable practices.
The Importance of Rural Tourism for Mauritius
While Mauritius has long been synonymous with five-star resorts and postcard-perfect beaches, rural tourism offers a fresh dimension to our national identity.
It invites visitors to slow down, explore inland, meet the people behind the smiles, and support small-scale businesses that keep local traditions alive. Recognition from the Best Tourism Villages programme isn’t just good publicity—it’s a call to deepen our commitment to community-led tourism across the island.
In the context of climate change and shifting travel trends, promoting places like Chamarel and Grand River South East isn’t just smart—it’s essential. They represent resilience, cultural pride, and a more inclusive model of tourism that benefits everyone, not just big investors.
A Springboard for Local Development
With this new international spotlight, there’s an opportunity for even more progress. Funding and training from global partners, attention from eco-conscious travelers, and collaboration with other award-winning villages can all help these communities take their tourism offerings to the next level.
For example, Chamarel could expand its network of forest walks guided by locals trained in biodiversity preservation, while Grand River South East could further develop its sustainable fishing tourism experiences. The potential is immense—and now, the world is watching.
Looking Ahead
The sixth edition of the Best Tourism Villages programme will open for applications in early 2026. Perhaps more Mauritian villages—like Le Morne, Mahébourg, or Poudre d’Or—could join the list next year. With our island’s rich tapestry of languages, cuisines, landscapes, and stories, Mauritius is perfectly positioned to lead in this global movement toward responsible, rural tourism.
Let this achievement for Chamarel and Grand River South East inspire us all to travel deeper, support local, and protect what makes Mauritius truly special.
Where to Stay: A Peaceful Escape Near Chamarel
If you’re planning to explore the region and see what makes these villages so extraordinary, we recommend staying at Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge.
Tucked into the lush mountains of the Black River Gorges, this eco-conscious boutique hotel offers:
- Private garden suites with outdoor showers
- An organic garden-to-table dining experience
- Wellness facilities including a forest-view spa and yoga pavilion
- Easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints
It’s the perfect base for travelers who want to go beyond the beach and experience the real, rural soul of Mauritius—slowly, respectfully, and comfortably.
