Things to do in Port Louis: must-sees and where to stay

In short: Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is mostly explored by day: most travellers stay on the coast and come here on a day trip. Taste the street food at the central market, stroll around Caudan Waterfront, visit Aapravasi Ghat, wander through Chinatown, climb to Fort Adelaide, and head to the Pamplemousses garden.

The central market

Tropical fruit, spices, vanilla and street-food stalls: the central market is the lively heart of the city. Try dholl puri, the island’s typical stuffed flatbreads.

Caudan Waterfront

On the seafront, Caudan Waterfront brings together shops, restaurants, a cinema and the Blue Penny Museum, home to Mauritius’s famous stamps.

Aapravasi Ghat

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aapravasi Ghat is where indentured labourers from India landed in the 19th century. An essential place of remembrance for understanding the island’s history.

Chinatown and the city

Small restaurants, grocery shops and temples: Chinatown reflects the mix of Indian, African, Chinese and European cultures. Nearby is the Champ de Mars, one of the oldest racecourses in the world.

Fort Adelaide

On Citadel hill, Fort Adelaide offers the best view over the city, the port and the mountains.

Day trips from Port Louis

• The Pamplemousses garden, in the north, with its giant water lilies.
• Chamarel and its Seven Coloured Earth, in the south-west.
• Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO site, and Black River Gorges National Park.
• Grand Baie and the northern beaches.

Getting around

• On foot in the compact centre.
• The Metro Express tram links Port Louis to the towns in the centre of the island.
• From the airport, in the south-east, allow about an hour by road depending on traffic, which is very heavy at rush hour.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Mauritius.

Where to stay in Port Louis?

• Caudan Waterfront. The renovated waterfront: shops, restaurants and hotels by the harbour. Ideal for: first visit, couples.
• City centre and market. The central market, Chinatown and colonial buildings, best seen by day. Ideal for: culture, local life.

The areas and useful services are on our Port Louis page.