Mauritius is historically recognized for its vanilla and cutting-edge cultivation process that’s replicated throughout the Mascerene Islands.

Vanilla is one of my favorite spices, and I was excited to explore the organic and locally grown options here on the Ile of Maurice.

I’m happy to report that locating the perfect vanilla was close to the feeling of discovering gold!

Qwirki & Co. / Pexels

The History of Vanilla in Mauritius

Sugar, rhum, and vanilla are all commodities on the Ile of Maurice due to its tropical climate and proximity to the equator.

The French first learned about vanilla from the Spaniards, who were introduced to it through Central and South America. The French desperately wanted this highly coveted spice to grow in Maurice, so they imported the seeds. However, they eventually learned that they didn’t have the right insects to help with the pollination process.

In 1841, a 12-year-old slave from Reunion named Edmund Albius became the first to discover a way to pollinate the vanilla orchids by hand.

Edmund’s creative intervention and pollination technique is still used throughout the Mascarene Islands and even neighboring Madagascar to this day.

Kristin O Karlsen / Unsplash

Plantation Vanille

Plantation Vanille is a small and family-owned business that perfectly embodies the notion that big things come in small packages.

The plantation has existed for 30 years and is located in Saint Julien d’ Hotman.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable guide who understood much about vanilla and the intricate cultivation process. Moreover, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the plantation was also home to various homegrown spices, fruits, and vegetables.

Throughout the tour, I was guided through various types of familiar and foreign vegetation and herbs that delighted all of my senses.

The vanilla cultivation process was an exciting and enjoyable experience that helped me learn more about the delicate nature of the spice, from the planting phase to the nine months it takes for the fruit to ripen.

My highlight of the trip was sitting down to sample some of the local ingredients from the plantation. Moreover, I was able to enjoy various cassava dishes, spices, jams, and even an aromatic cup of cardamon-infused coffee!

Visiting the on-site shop was my final opportunity to grab many of the organic and local ingredients I had sampled throughout the trip.

I was very excited to see the organic vanilla products that were for sale and was blown away by their mouthwatering aromas.

Have you ever purchased vanilla extract that smells like a vanilla pastry? This one took the cake!

Sheri Silver / Unsplash

Conclusion

I recommend visiting Plantation Vanille for its kind hospitality and invigorating natural ingredients, which embody the warmth of Mauritian culture.

Be sure to check out my recent video tour of Plantation Vanille and all of my exciting findings.

Thanks for reading!