The north of Mauritius is awash with history, culture and nature – this trip dips into all three in the photogenic north of the island.
The morning begins with a photo stop at the pretty village of Cap Malheureux, home to the iconic, red-roofed church, a bright contrast to the colours of the Indian Ocean beyond.
Next head on to Aventure du sucre, where this factory won't just see you fed, it's also the place to be schooled in the sugar trade, its history and to sample some sugarcane. There's some special Mauritian rum to wash it all down with too.
Then drive to Pamplemousse village to savor a full lunch in one of the local restaurant. Afterwards, continue to the capital city Port Louis to visit the Fort Adelaide which offers vast panoramic views of Port-Louis and its harbour
Rounding off, we'll head to the city of Port Louis for free time to shop the modern boutiques down at Caudan Waterfront or hit the historic quarter's old craft bazaar and the Port Louis Central Market.
Pickup included
First of all, the driver will come for the hotel pick up and set off to visit the Red Roof Church at Cap Malheureux.
One of the most renowned churches in Mauritius is the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel, a Roman Catholic Church famous for its vivid red roof against the bright turquoise sea and azure sky.
The Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Church is famous for its lovely red roof, which attracts many curious passers-by and offers a picturesque background for worthy snapshots. This simple chapel was founded in 1938 and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is situated ideally at the very northern point of Mauritius, offering breathtaking views of the five northern islets, including Coin de Mire (Gunner’s Quoin).
Mont Choisy Beach, located in the north-west of Mauritius, is one of the most popular beaches in Mauritius. It exudes perfect harmony between the sparkling water and the whitish sand. Dotted with Casuarina trees, the beach of Mont Choisy attracts Mauritians and tourists. It is not only one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius but also the longest one,it provides comfort to each and everyone. Vast, with shady areas under the Casuarina trees, family picnics prove to be an excellent idea. Thanks to its clear and warm water, it is absolutely awesome for swimming, sunbathing and diving.
Then, head to Aventure du sucre to relive the history of Mauritius’ Sugar industry through ‘the trail of the Sugar’ and visit the sugar museum.
The Sugar Museum is the place where you can trace the history of the whole country through the main events narrated through artefacts and key sites on the sugar trail.
Mauritius’ rich cultural and historical heritage has always been linked to its sugar industry. The second part of the museum delves into the secrets of how the island’s famous sugars are manufactured.
By following the trail of the Sugar Adventure with over 250 years of history, you can trace the history of the whole country. The tour of the old sugar mill, which has been transformed into a modern museum, lasts about 1.5 hours. At the end of the tour, delightful sugar and rum tastings await the visitor.
After the visit, you will head to a local restaurant to savor a 3-course Mauritian lunch. You will have a choice and the chef will explain to you and ask you about your preferred choice.
Then drive to the capital, Port Louis, to visit the Caudan Waterfront, which is a shopping and leisure hub located on the waterfront. The craft market in particular is a hive of activity with wonderful ambiance where you are sure to find a lot of souvenirs for the family back home.
Another place to visit is the Port Louis central market – the market is a fun place to visit and the ideal place to find many locally made products, textiles, Mauritian spices, fruits and many souvenirs for very cheap prices. In your free time you can stroll the city streets and see several sightseeing attractions.
You must have worked up an appetite with the shopping! Head to the next section of the Central Market where all the street food stalls are found. You will have a wide variety of choices here for the street food and you will surely find something to your taste. We do recommend tasting the dhall puri, made with split chickpea and flour and the famous alouda, almost like a milkshake with basil seeds, grated jelly and sometimes a scoop of ice. If you wish to try some of the local snacks, you will find a large choice of samoussas (fritters filled with potatoes), bajas (fritters made with chickpea flour) or gato piment (fritters made with yellow split pea and chilli).
Finally, the driver will make you enjoy a visit to Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius. Port Louis is Mauritius' largest city and the economic and administrative center of the island. Right off the main square you can stroll beside the palm-lined Place d'Armes. You can see some wonderful French colonial buildings, especially the Government House and the Municipal Theater.
Then drive to Fort Adelaide (also known as La Citadelle) which was built in a very strategic location on higher lands of Port Louis at 240 feet above sea level. The construction of Fort Adelaide started in 1832 and completed after almost ten years. Fort Adelaide offers a vast panoramic views of Port-Louis and its harbour. The British built this fortress in fear of a civil war from the remaining French settlers on the island and also for the purpose of guarding the harbor against enemy attacks. A ride uphill to Fort Adelaide, guarantees breathtaking views of Port Louis and of the mountain range surrounding Port Louis.
Port Louis is the vibrant capital of Mauritius, blending colonial history with modern urban life. The city offers a mix of bustling markets, historic sites, and scenic coastal views, making it a unique destination in the Indian Ocean.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Aapravasi Ghat is a historic immigration depot that served as the arrival point for indentured laborers from India and other countries.
A unique natural phenomenon featuring sand dunes in seven distinct colors.
A historic fort offering panoramic views of Port Louis and the surrounding area.
A beautiful mosque with stunning architecture and intricate designs.
A traditional Mauritian flatbread filled with split pigeon peas and served with various curries and chutneys.
Spicy chili fritters made from flour, chili peppers, and other spices.
Banana fritters, a popular street food snack.
A tomato-based sauce with meat or fish, often served with rice.
This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and less rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
GMT+4
230VV, 50HzHz
Port Louis is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.
Available
Port Louis Central Bus Station
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Port Louis. They are affordable but can be crowded.
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Car, Bike, Scooter
A beautiful island known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and water sports.
A national park with lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
A popular beach destination with golden sand and clear waters.
Price varies by option