Tea Culture in Mauritius

Mauritius produces over 700 tonnes of tea per year, but only 25% of it’s for export purposes.

The island nation consumes the rest of its home-produced commodity, boasting enormous plantations of Camellia Sinensis.

Black tea is the favorite tea of Mauritians, while the locally-grown vanilla tea is quite popular as well.

History of Tea in Mauritius

Tea in Mauritius was introduced in 1760 during the French colonization era.

In the 19th century when the island became a British colony, tea cultivation increased even more, and the local population saw an excellent opportunity of creating a stable income by working on the numerous tea farms.

Tea cultivation in Mauritius is a centuries-old tradition, constantly increasing due to the global loose-leaf tea demand.

Tea Culture in Mauritius

Mauritians like their tea with a dash of powdered milk and sugar, while cassava biscuits are often present in the tea time ritual.

Guests and visitors are always welcomed with a cup of fresh tea, usually without even asking.

The tea culture on the island is much more than a regular tea time. It’s rather an inseparable part of everyday life and a perfect excuse to take a break whether alone or with coworkers and friends.

Mauritians even have a Tea Route where they take the island visitors for an extraordinary tea plantation journey.

Mauritian Black tea has a strong earthy flavor and nutty undertones perfect for a morning energy kick.

Lemon verbena, mint, vanilla, and chamomile are some of the most popular tea flavors besides the spectacular Black tea from Mauritius.