In Mauritius, if there is one place where time seems to have stood still, it is the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden . More famous as the Pamplemousses Garden , this green sanctuary located in the northwest of the island is much more than a simple stroll: it is an open-air history book, written with the sap and scent of distant lands.

The legacy of a botanical adventurer

The history of the garden dates back to the 18th century under the impetus of Governor Mahé de La Bourdonnais, before becoming the life's work of the naturalist Pierre Poivre . A veritable open-air laboratory, the park once served as an experimental ground for acclimatizing spices (pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg) and rare species from Asia and Africa.

The name "Pamplemousses" is itself a nod to the citrus fruits introduced by the Dutch in the 16th century, which flourished so well in this region that they ended up naming the entire district.

A "living Atlas" between land and sea

Strolling through the paths of Pamplemousses is like following the ancient maritime routes of the Indian Ocean. The garden displays a fascinating collection:

1. Talipot Palms: Spectacular, they only flower once after several decades before dying out.
2. Giant bamboos: True plant skyscrapers that filter tropical light.
3. Endemic species: A precious testimony to the original flora of Mauritius.

Each path exudes a scent of eucalyptus or camphor tree, a reminder that this garden was the crossroads where continents met.

The Water Lily Pond: An absolute icon

This is the highlight of the visit, the spectacle that every traveler comes to capture: the Victoria amazonica pool. These giant water lilies, native to the Amazon, unfurl their circular leaves like immense floating platforms. Their perfect geometry, a vibrant green, offers a striking contrast with the dark water of the pool, creating a natural tableau of rare poetry.

Did you know? The Pamplemousses Garden is considered one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, rivaling in prestige the Kew Gardens in London or those of Peredeniya in Sri Lanka.

Plan your Mauritian getaway

To extend your exploration of the Isle of Beauty, don't miss our other guides:

1. An exceptional village: This Mauritian location has been voted among the world's best destinations.
2. Crystal clear waters: Top 7 secret beaches to escape the crowds.
3. Adventure: The 5 must-do hikes to gain some altitude.