Top places to visit in the North of Mauritius island
If you spend your holiday in a hotel in Mauritius, you may get bored staying at the hotel and you would be missing out on a lot if you did not explore the rest of the island. You’ll find here some interesting things to see and places to visit in the North of Mauritius. Many of the places listed below are included in our private North Tour Mauritius itinerary.
1. PORT LOUIS
In addition to being the capital city of Mauritius, Port-Louis is the busiest town on the island. The town is also the main administrative and business center of the island. In addition to colorful markets, a historic equestrian racetrack, churches & festivals, colonial houses, museums, malls, and amazing street food, you’ll also find a number of museums and shopping malls.
2. Trou Aux Biches
Known as one of Mauritius’ most beautiful beaches, Trou Aux Biches is a popular tourist destination. Swimming and snorkeling are popular adventure activities here. Picnicking on the beach with your family, friends, or significant other is a wonderful way to enjoy the clear waters and peaceful surroundings. Enjoy mouth-watering cuisine at a wide variety of street food stands and cafes.
3. CITADEL FORT
Named after Queen Adelaide, Citadel fort has been built between 1834 and 1840. At 240 ft. above sea level, Fort Adelaide also known as the citadel has fulfilled the strategic purpose of guarding the harbor. Situated in a very strategic point offering splendid views over the city and its harbor. The old barracks have been restored and transformed into a row of intriguing boutiques.
4. China Town & Port Louis Bazaar
The central market (also known as Port Louis bazaar) is at the core of Port Louis famousness. You will be amazed by the variety of products you will find. Fruits, vegetables, scent sticks, spices, pashmina, linen are amongst the most sold products. For those who want to discover the island’s cultural values. There is no better place for this than the central market of Port Louis. Likewise the Chinatown has a fascinating atmosphere and where the Chinese culture had been kept alive.
5. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
Mauritius botanical garden is home to the most beautiful tropical botanical species in the world. It can be easily reached from almost anywhere on the island. We strongly recommend that you hire one of the knowledgeable guides who wait just inside the entrance for the best experience. Make sure not to miss the famous giant Waterlilies.
6. Grand Bay Village
Grand Bay owes its popularity to the enchanting quality of its emerald waters and to its liveliness by day and by night. You can find in Grand Bay traditional local shops, some operating for almost 50 years, alongside modern shopping centers and worldwide brand shops. Grand Bay is definitely a top shopping destination for clothes, jewelry, textiles, and for souvenirs. Grand Bay is also known for its night-life as it hosts most of the island’s best bars and night-clubs. For the night owls, the Grand Bay night clubs are the place to be.
7. Notre Dame (Red Church on Beach)
Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel, a Roman Catholic Church is one of the most renowned churches in Mauritius. It is well known for its bright red roof facing the lagoon offering picturesque views. This church was built in memory of the shipwrecks which happened there in the past and this is where its name comes from Cap Malheureux which means the cape of misfortune. And make sure you bring your camera.
8. L’Aventure du Sucre Sugar Museum
Located in Pamplemousses, the Beau Plan Sugar Estate ceased its operation in 1998 after 177 years of raw sugar production and converted into a popular museum. Most of the machinery is still in place, and former workers are on hand to answer questions about the factory and the complicated process of turning sugar cane into crystals. At the end of the visit you can taste some of the 15 varieties of unrefined sugar, two of which were invented in Mauritius.
9. Chateau De Labourdonnais
If you wish to get a glimpse of what colonial life was like in Mauritius then the Chateau De Labourdonnais is the place to during the holidays. Beautifully restored, this grand mansion, built-in 1859, has regained all of its original splendor and promises a tour full of surprises through the island’s history. The museum provides an overview of the island nation and the family that owned the property. The tour ends delightfully with the fantastic opportunity to taste the products from the distillery or the orchards at the Tasting Bar.
8. Odysseo Oceanarium
This is the first Oceanarium of its kind in Mauritius and the biggest in the Mascarene Islands. Odysseo Oceanarium is found in Port Louis & is a place where you can learn and have fun at the same time. In addition to offering you miracles, we want you to be more environmentally aware. As you pass through the tunnel, you will see stingrays, sharks, eels, and lots of fish. Mauritius’ largest aquarium is here.
