Explore Mauritius – north tour
Ready to see the famous north of Mauritius? Leave the map behind and let us drive. On this private tour, you will walk through the water lilies at Pamplemousses Garden, taste local sugar history, and snap that perfect photo at the Cap Malheureux Red Church.
Whether you love history or just want to see the beautiful beaches of Grand Baie, this day is all about you. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the island vibes in an air-conditioned and comfortable vehicle.
overview
Itinerary summary
Citadelle (Fort Adelaide)
⏱ Recommended: 20 MinsPanoramic Views & History Start your day at this 19th-century fort perched atop a hill. Enjoy stunning 360-degree views of Port-Louis and the harbor— a perfect viewpoint to take photos of the capital.
Port-Louis Caudan Waterfront
⏱ Recommended: 2-3 HoursShopping & Culture Descend to the vibrant Caudan Waterfront. Stroll under the famous Umbrella Square, visit the Craft Market for local souvenirs, and soak in the lively harborfront atmosphere.
SSR Botanical Garden
⏱ Recommended: 1 Hr 30 MinsTropical Flora & Giant Lilies Visit one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Famous for giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies and the Talipot palm, it’s a peaceful, green escape.
L’Aventure du Sucre
⏱ Recommended: 1 Hr 30 MinsSugar Museum & Tasting Located in a converted sugar factory, this interactive museum tells the story of sugar in Mauritius. The visit concludes with a delightful tasting of unrefined sugars and local rum.
Cap Malheureux Beach
⏱ Recommended: 30 MinsThe Red Roof Church End your tour at the north of the island. See the iconic Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice with its bright red roof contrasting against the turquoise lagoon and Coin de Mire island.
Notre Dame Auxiliatrice – Cap Malheureux
Coconut Water on the Beach
Cap Malheureux Beach
Juice Stall Caudan Waterfront
Caudan Harborfront
- Notre Dame Auxiliatrice – Cap Malheureux
- Coconut Water on the Beach
Cap Malheureux- Caudan Harborfront
- Juice Stall Caudan Waterfront
North Tour Itinerary
Depart from any hotel/airbnb in Mauritius. Pickup can start between 8-9 a.m depending on the location.
As you enter Port Louis, we head up to this 19th-century military fortress. It sits atop a hill, offering the best vantage point for photos of the capital city.
- Views: Panoramic views of the harbor, the racecourse, and the city skyline against the Moka range.
- History: Built by the British to protect the harbor from invaders.
- Recommended time: 20-30 minutes.
Drive to next stop: ~15 minutes (traffic into the waterfront can be slow)
Park at the waterfront for the 2nd leg of the tour. This area serves as a hub for shopping, dining, and culture. Here are the things you can do around Port-Louis:
- Blue Penny Museum: A must-visit for history lovers, housing the world-famous “Post Office” stamps (Blue Penny and Red Penny | Shown for only 10 minutes at 15 minutes past each hour). Note: The museum usually takes about 45-60 minutes. Entrance Fee: Mur 325.
- Craft Market: A vibrant hall filled with local artisans selling colorful textiles, spices, woodworking, and souvenirs and even delicious vanilla jam.
- Lunch: The waterfront offers a food court and various restaurants, such as Ocean Basket, l’Entracte and Spur overlooking the harbor.
- Recommended time: 2 hours (includes lunch and visits).
After exploring the capital, this lush garden offers a refreshing escape into nature. As the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere, it provides a cool, shaded stroll—perfect for slowing down after your city tour.
- Famous Highlights: The water lilies and the Talipot Palms, which bloom only once every 30-80 years.
- What to see: Spices, ebonies, and sugar canes, as well as an enclosure with giant tortoises and deers.
- Entrance Fee: Mur 300 | Free under 5 years old
- Recommended time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
Drive to next stop: ~5 minutes
Located just minutes from the gardens, this former sugar factory has been transformed into a museum. It provides a fascinating look at the history of Mauritius through the lens of its sugar industry.
- The Experience: Includes a guided visit (approx. 1 hour) through interactive exhibits with original machinery.
- Tasting: Ends with a tasting of special unrefined sugars and local rums.
- Recommended time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes tour + tasting/shop).
Drive to next stop: ~25 minutes
Discover the iconic red-roofed church and stunning coastal views of the picturesque fishing village of Cap Malheureux, a must-see stop on any northern Mauritius tour.
- Iconic Landmark: Home to the famous Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel with its vibrant red roof.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking panoramas of the northern islets, including the impressive Coin de Mire.
- Activities: A popular starting point for catamaran cruises, snorkeling, and kitesurfing.
Depart from Cap Malheureux beach to your hotel or airbnb.
