Why explore Mauritius town by town
Mauritius is famous for its lagoons, but the island's towns are where its Creole, Indian, French and Chinese cultures truly mix. Here are six places worth building a trip around.
Port Louis
The capital is the island's energetic heart. Wander the Central Market for spices and street food, then relax at the Caudan Waterfront with its shops and harbour views.
- Highlight: Climb to Fort Adelaide (La Citadelle) for a sweeping panorama over the city and port.
Grand Baie
This northern resort town is the island's nightlife and watersports hub, lined with restaurants, bars and boutiques.
- Highlight: Take a catamaran cruise to the offshore islands of Coin de Mire and Île Plate.
Flic en Flac
The west coast's long sandy beach is one of the best on the island, with calm water for swimming and snorkelling.
- Highlight: Head to nearby Tamarin Bay at dawn to swim with wild dolphins.
Mahébourg
A laid-back fishing town in the southeast, steeped in history and home to a lively Monday market.
- Highlight: The National History Museum, set in an 18th-century mansion, tells the story of the 1810 naval battle of Grand Port.
Curepipe
Up in the cool central highlands, this town offers a break from the coastal heat and elegant colonial architecture.
- Highlight: Walk the rim of Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcanic crater with island-wide views.
Chamarel
A tiny village in the southwest with some of Mauritius's most surreal scenery.
- Highlight: The Seven Coloured Earths, dunes of naturally striped volcanic sand, plus the thundering Chamarel Waterfall nearby.
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