Tourism in Mauritius

Port Louis is the vibrant capital of Mauritius and a very important port city of the Indian Ocean. The city was founded by the French in 1735 as a supply halt for their ships travelling around the Cape of Good Hope. Named after King Louis XV, Port Louis is one of the busiest city of the country and also its financial capital.

The city is dominated by the Citadelle that is situated atop Port-Louis mountain range. Tourists can never get enough of Port Louis. Discovering the city can be an enriching cultural experience. The Chinatown has a fascinating atmosphere and where the Chinese culture had been kept alive. Spicy aromas waft out through the small restaurants, engulfing the whole area, thus lending it a mystic aura. Chinatown is also home to the Jummah Mosque that was built in 1853 and has intricate fabulous teak doors and decorations. Tourists also visit Chinatown to pay their respects to the Père Laval's shrine that is supposed to have healing powers.

Other places of tourist attractions in Mauritius include the Mauritius Natural History Museum that is known for its stuffed replicas of extinct species, especially the dodo. Also rare, exquisite stamps can be viewed at the Mauritius Postal Museum. The Place D'Armes is a good place to starting point for sightseeing and is dotted by original government houses, museums, churches and the most ancient theatre of the Indian Ocean along with the statue of Mahé de Labourdonnais. The hub of the city is undoubtedly the Caudan Waterfront with its swish shops, cinema halls, restaurants, bars and casinos.

Shopping in Port Louis is very much, especially since the country is totally duty-free. The shopping centres reflect the ethnic diversity of Mauritius and some good bargains can be made. The Port Louis Central Bazaar is a great place to shop for Mauritian handicrafts and other such things. Nature lovers can appreciate Port Louis' flora and fauna at the Mauritius Institute that is dedicated to the study of Mauritius's natural beauty.

Port Louis has plenty to offer for the adventurous tourist as well. Hiking through Mt. Limon and Mt. Malartic, spelunking through the Caverne Patate, surfing at Tamarin or diving at Rodrigues are just some of the options. Tourists can also view the splendid horse racing competitions at the Champ de Mars, also called the Hippodrome.