Port Louis - Discovering Mauritius

Travelling to Port Louis

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Port Louis, a pretty good destination in Mauritius (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Port Louis and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Port Louis, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mauritius, here's everything to know about Port Louis for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Port Louis

Port Louis is the capital and largest city of Mauritius. It is located on the northwest coast of the island and is home to around 150,000 people. The city is known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and historical landmarks such as the Aapravasi Ghat and Fort Adelaide. Port Louis is also a hub for business, finance, and government, making it an important center of activity in Mauritius. Visitors to the city can explore its many museums, markets, and street food stalls, or take in views of the harbor from the Caudan Waterfront.

What to visit in Port Louis

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Port Louis, Mauritius: 1. Aapravasi Ghat - A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a landing point for indentured laborers brought to the island from India.
2. Central Market - A bustling market selling local produce, spices, crafts, and souvenirs.
3. Caudan Waterfront - A popular shopping and entertainment complex with restaurants, shops, cinemas, and a craft market.
4. Fort Adelaide - A colonial fortress built in the 1830s by the British to protect the city from potential uprisings.
5. Port Louis Cathedral - A Catholic Church built in the 19th century in French colonial architecture.
6. Blue Penny Museum - A museum dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of Mauritius, with a focus on the island's colonial past.
7. Champ de Mars Racecourse - A horse-racing course that is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to 1812.
8. Jummah Mosque - A historic mosque built in the late 19th century in Islamic architecture.
9. Port Louis Harbour - An important commercial harbor that dates back to the 17th century and serves as the main port of the island.
10. Le Pouce Mountain - A popular hiking destination near Port Louis with scenic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
I hope this information is helpful!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mauritius, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Port Louis.

When to go on holiday to Port Louis

The best time to visit Port Louis, Mauritius, is during the low season, which runs from May to November. During this time, the weather is cooler, and there is less rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as exploring the beaches, hiking, or visiting the sights. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak season for surfing and kiteboarding, which can make some of the beaches more crowded. The high season, which runs from December to April, is Mauritius' summer season, and during this time, the weather is hot and humid, with more rainfall. It is also the busiest time of the year, with more tourists visiting the island.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Port Louis

There are several ways to get to Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius.
1. By plane: Mauritius has an international airport, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), which is located about an hour's drive from Port Louis. Many airlines offer flights to Mauritius from major international airports.
2. By boat: There are several cruise ships that dock in Port Louis. You can also take a ferry from nearby islands such as Réunion or Madagascar.
3. By car/taxi: You can hire a car or taxi from the airport to get to Port Louis. The drive takes about an hour.
4. By bus: There are several bus services that operate between the airport and Port Louis. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and is an affordable option.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Port Louis!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Port Louis, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Port Louis

Certainly! Here are some typical dishes from Port Louis, Mauritius: 1. Dholl Puri - A popular street food snack made of a thin, flatbread-like dough filled with yellow split peas, served with a variety of chutneys and pickles.
2. Gateaux Piment - Spiced lentil fritters that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are typically served as a snack or appetizer.
3. Rougaille - A spicy tomato-based sauce typically made with fish or meat (such as chicken, beef, or lamb), and served with rice or bread.
4. Ti'Jacque - A dish made with jackfruit (a large, green fruit with yellow flesh), typically cooked with onions, garlic, spices, and either meat or seafood.
5. Boulettes - Steamed dumplings filled with either chicken, beef, or vegetables, and served in a clear broth.
6. Samosas - Triangular pastries filled with spiced vegetables or meat, typically served as an appetizer or snack. 7. Masala Tea - A spiced tea made with cinnamon, ginger, clove, and cardamom, sweetened with sugar or condensed milk. It is typically served hot. I hope this helps you plan your trip to Port Louis, Mauritius!
You can find general info about typical foods in Mauritius here.

Is Port Louis an expensive destination for tourists?

If we compare Port Louis with other cities in Mauritius, it can be considered an expensive destination for tourists. However, if we compare it with other tourist hotspots around the world, Port Louis is relatively affordable.
Accommodation and food in Port Louis can be expensive, especially in high-end hotels and restaurant areas. Transportation costs, including taxis and rental cars, are also relatively high. However, there are budget-friendly options available for both accommodations and food.
Overall, the cost of traveling to Port Louis will depend largely on your budget and how you choose to spend your money. With some research and planning, it is possible to visit Port Louis without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Port Louis

Port Louis is the capital city of Mauritius and it offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guest houses, and apartments. Depending on your preferences, budget, and travel plans, there are different areas of the city that would suit you best. Some popular areas to look for accommodation in Port Louis include: 1. Caudan Waterfront - This is a trendy area that offers a mix of upscale hotels, restaurants, and shopping opportunities. It is located in the heart of the city and provides easy access to many attractions.
2. La Louise - This is a residential area that is located slightly away from the city center, offering a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. It is known for its lush greenery and is ideal for those looking for a peaceful environment.
3. Beau Bassin - This is a vibrant area located close to Port Louis and offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options. It is also a popular shopping destination with a bustling market and many restaurants.
4. Grand Baie - This is a tourist hotspot that is located on the northern coast of Mauritius, about an hour's drive from Port Louis. It is known for its beautiful beaches, nightlife, and water sports activities.
You can check hotel prices at Port Louis here:
Booking.com

Is Port Louis a safe destination for tourists?

Port Louis, like any other city, has its share of crime and safety issues, but overall it is considered a relatively safe place for tourists to visit. It is advisable to take precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, not flashing valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and using trusted transport options such as licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps. It is also a good idea to research the areas you plan to visit and stay in reputable accommodations. Additionally, you can seek advice from locals or your hotel staff on the safest ways to move around in the city.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mauritius here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Port Louis.

What type of travelers will enjoy Port Louis the most?

Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, has something to offer for everyone. Families visiting Port Louis will enjoy the variety of cultural attractions and historical sites, such as the Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site and the Blue Penny Museum. The city also has beautiful gardens and parks, including the stunning Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, which is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Young people who are looking for fun can indulge in various adrenaline activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports on the famous beaches like Trou aux Biches or Mont Choisy.
Couples visiting Port Louis will appreciate the romantic ambience, along with the array of fine-dining restaurants and bar options available. They can also step away from all the adrenaline activities, and enjoy a relaxing and quiet time in one of the many luxurious spas in the area. Overall, Port Louis is a diverse and versatile destination that can cater to any type of traveler be it families, couples or young people looking for fun.

How to get around Port Louis

In Port Louis, you can use several types of transportation to move around, including buses, taxis, and car rentals. Buses are the most affordable option, and the public transport system is relatively well-developed, with frequent buses running throughout the city. Taxis are also widely available, but they can be more expensive than buses. Car rentals are a good choice if you want more flexibility in your travels, but keep in mind that traffic in Port Louis can be congested and parking can be a challenge.

What to see around Port Louis

Sure, here are some suggestions: 1. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: Located about 20 minutes north of Port Louis, this beautiful garden is home to a wide variety of exotic plants, including giant Amazon water lilies, spice trees, and fruit trees.
2. The Trou aux Cerfs: A dormant volcano located in Curepipe, about 30 minutes south of Port Louis. The crater is now covered in lush vegetation and provides a stunning view of the surrounding area.
3. Flic en Flac: A popular beach destination located about 45 minutes southwest of Port Louis. Known for its clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, it's an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling.
4. The Chamarel Coloured Earth: Located about an hour southwest of Port Louis, this area is known for its unique geological formations of multi-colored sand dunes that have been formed from volcanic activity.
5. Black River Gorges National Park: Located about an hour south of Port Louis, this park is known for its lush forest and scenic hiking trails. It's a great place to immerse yourself in nature and spot some of the local wildlife.
6. The Blue Penny Museum: Located in the heart of Port Louis, this museum houses a vast collection of art and historical artifacts that provide a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage.
For every travel information about Mauritius you can click here.

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