The best place to discover Mauritian street food, buy souvenirs and taste the island’s fruits and vegetables is, of course, the local market! As colorful as they are friendly, these markets are, in a way, an open window on local culture. Here’s a small selection of the most beautiful markets in Mauritius!
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1. Port Louis Central Market
This is the island’s flagship market, offering a wide range of local produce, from fresh fruit and vegetables to exotic spices and handicrafts.
2 distinct markets: the fruit, vegetable and spice market and the souvenir market.
It’s also the place to come for alouda, the famous refreshing drink made from milk, agar-agar and basil seeds.
I also like to pass by a stand that prepares cut fruit: mango, pineapple, dragon fruit… (depending on the season, of course).
Beware of the prices charged, don’t hesitate to haggle.
What’s more, there are also many products made in Madagascar and not originating in Mauritius.
→ Days and times:
- Monday to Saturday 8.00am to 5.00pm
- Sunday from 06:00 to noon
2. Flacq market
Considered the biggest market on the island, it features a multitude of stalls selling clothes, local produce, souvenirs and culinary specialities. You can find just about anything here!
It’s one of the markets where you can get the best bargains in my opinion.
→ Days and times: Wednesdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m.
3. Grand Baie market or bazaar of Grand Baie
Located in the lively seaside resort of Grand Baie, this market offers a vibrant atmosphere with colorful stalls selling clothes, handicrafts, jewelry and local produce.
I was able to bring back some lovely souvenirs to give as gifts.
→ Days and times:
Every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cool restaurant opposite the bazaar entrance: Dodo Loco
4. Quatre Bornes market
Renowned for its cheap clothes and variety of products, this market is a great place to shop at affordable prices.
→ Days and times:
- Market Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Fabrics and clothing: Thursday and Sunday
- Fruit and vegetables: Wednesday and Saturday from 6am to 5pm
5. Mahébourg market
Nestled in the south of the island, just a stone’s throw from the waterfront, this market offers an authentic atmosphere where you can sample traditional Mauritian dishes and discover a variety of local products.
Heading towards the seafront, you’ll find vendors selling roasts and farta, as well as grated ice with tasty syrups.
→ Days and times:
- Every morning from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Grand bazaar on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Other great markets
- Goodland market: not very touristy, ideal for immersing yourself in local life.
Wednesday and Saturday: fruit and vegetables
Tuesday and Friday: clothing and fabrics from 10 a.m. (typical items, gifts, souvenirs) - Curepipe market: Wednesday and Saturday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday (6 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.): fruit and vegetables
It’s also a good time to visit the Arcades, a century-old covered market housed in a huge basalt stone building. Take a stroll down the aisles and discover the modern cafés, restaurants and tearooms. - Rosehill Market: You’ll find fruit, vegetables and tea.
It’s also where my husband buys my bouquets of flowers (alley to the left of the market).
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