Port Louis Shopping and Districts

(Port Louis, Mauritius)

One of the reasons people love to shop on Mauritius is that the country is entirely duty free, so the prices are often as low as you are likely to find anywhere. Port Louis is the hub of the shopping scene on the island.

Tourists visiting Port Louis will find everything from modern shopping malls to street vendors and small independent shops, tucked down the side alleys. There are also bustling local markets that are sure to add some native authenticity to your shopping experience.

When to Shop and Where

The best place to start your shopping exploration in Port Louis is down at the Caudan Waterfront. This lovely, open-air district features some 170 boutique shops, offering a great selection of everything from fashion to electronics. You'll recognise plenty of global designer brand names from the realm of fashion, jewellery and other popular items. When you need a break from the buying, slip into one of the many pleasant restaurants along the waterfront.

If you are more of a bargain hunter, head to the Port Louis Central Market. Open daily, this browsers' hub is the place to find good deals on souvenirs, Mauritian handicrafts, DVDs, fresh fruit, T-shirts, spices, basketry and just about everything else. You can bargain for your price down here, and the atmosphere is always lively. Of course, you don't even need to leave the beach to pick up a few knickknacks. Beach hawkers will come around offering sarongs, shell jewellery and various trinkets.

Other notable shopping destinations in Port Louis include Bourbon Street, Corderie Street and La Chausee Street, the latter of which is a good place to find cheap electronics.

Gemstones and jewellery are perhaps the best deal in Mauritius. Although the gems are imported, the jewellery is made locally. Adamas is the oldest company on the island selling these jewels. Prices are considerably lower than in other countries, and of course it is all duty free for tourists. Textiles, perfumes, leather goods and wooden ship models are also big sellers in Port Louis. In general, shops are open from 09:30 to 18:00, Monday through Saturday, while markets typically close at around 16:00.