Top Shopping Places in Mauritius

Shopping in Mauritius is a delightful experience that goes far beyond typical souvenirs. This tropical island offers a wide range of shopping options, from bustling local markets and vibrant street stalls to modern shopping malls and elegant boutique stores. Whether you're searching for handcrafted souvenirs, designer fashion, locally made goods, or exotic spices, Mauritius has something for every type of shopper.

The island's cultural diversity is reflected in its shopping scene, blending African, Indian, French, and Chinese influences into unique products and styles. Travelers can explore traditional crafts, intricate textiles, and even rare gems like locally mined semi-precious stones. Local food products such as Mauritian tea, vanilla, rum, and spice blends also make excellent gifts and keepsakes.

In this guide, you'll discover the top shopping destinations across the island and learn what to buy from each location. From Port Louis to Grand Baie and Curepipe to Flacq, we’ll help you navigate the best places to shop and take home a piece of Mauritius with you. Whether you're bargain hunting or looking for luxury, this shopping guide covers it all.

Overview of Shopping in Mauritius

Shopping in Mauritius is an exciting part of the island experience, blending culture, creativity, and convenience. The island offers a unique mix of traditional local crafts, duty-free luxury goods, trendy island fashion, and lively markets filled with colorful products. Whether you're browsing handmade souvenirs or designer labels, the variety is impressive and caters to all budgets.

Local artisans craft beautiful products using wood, textiles, and natural materials, reflecting the multicultural heritage of the island. At the same time, modern shopping centers provide access to global brands and tax-free deals on electronics, watches, and perfumes. From charming market stalls to sleek malls, shopping in Mauritius feels both authentic and luxurious.

For many travelers, shopping is more than a leisure activity; it’s a way to connect with the culture and take a piece of the island home. It complements the overall tourism experience by offering travelers the chance to explore local life, try traditional flavors, and find unique treasures during their stay.

Best Markets in Mauritius

Port Louis Central Market, Mauritius

Located in the heart of the capital, the Port Louis Central Market is one of the most iconic and busiest markets in Mauritius. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the island's true local flavor.

The market is divided into sections where you’ll find fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic spices, herbs, and locally made souvenirs. There's also a dedicated area for street food, offering delicious local snacks like dholl puri, gato pima, and samosas.

Tip: Visit early in the morning for the freshest produce and to enjoy a quieter shopping experience before the crowds arrive.

Flacq Market (East Coast), Mauritius

The Flacq Market is the largest open-air market in Mauritius and one of the most popular among both locals and tourists. Held twice a week, it offers a lively atmosphere filled with the sounds, colors, and scents of the island. The market features a wide range of items, including handmade crafts, clothing, tropical fruits, spices, and a variety of local snacks. It’s a great spot to buy unique souvenirs while enjoying the buzz of local life.

Whether you're hunting for artisanal jewelry or just soaking in the energy, Flacq Market offers a rich cultural experience on the island’s east coast.

Quatre Bornes Market (Textiles Market), Mauritius

Located in the central part of Mauritius, the Quatre Bornes Market is famous for textiles and is a top destination for bargain hunters. It’s best known for its wide selection of clothing, accessories, and household textiles at very reasonable prices. From trendy casual wear to handcrafted tablecloths and curtains, there's something for every taste and budget.

Sundays and Thursdays are the best days to visit, as most stalls are open and the market is at its liveliest. Be prepared to negotiate for the best deals and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Goodlands Market (North Mauritius)

Goodlands Market is a lesser-known gem located in the northern part of the island. It’s perfect for travelers looking for traditional Mauritian goods at low prices. The market is more locally focused, offering items like saris, fabrics, handmade crafts, and everyday essentials. You’ll also find fresh produce and street food vendors scattered throughout.

This market provides a more intimate and laid-back shopping experience, and it's a great place to interact with local vendors and get a feel for the everyday life of Mauritians in smaller towns.

Popular Shopping Malls in Mauritius

Bagatelle Mall (Moka), Mauritius

Bagatelle Mall is the largest and most popular shopping center in Mauritius. Located in Moka, it offers a mix of both international and local brands, making it a one-stop destination for fashion, electronics, beauty, and lifestyle products. The mall is known for its spacious layout and includes a multiplex cinema, a wide food court with global cuisines, and several luxury retail outlets.

It’s a great place for families, groups, and solo travelers alike, offering everything from daily shopping to premium experiences under one roof.

Caudan Waterfront (Port Louis), Mauritius

Located in the capital city of Port Louis, the Caudan Waterfront is more than just a shopping mall, it’s a cultural hub. Set along the harbor, this complex combines shopping, dining, and local culture. You'll find a variety of boutique stores selling designer clothes, jewelry, and handcrafted goods. It’s also a great spot to pick up souvenirs, including artisanal items made by local craftspeople.

With art galleries, a casino, and regular street performances, Caudan Waterfront offers a unique and enjoyable shopping atmosphere with scenic views of the port.

Phoenix Mall (Phoenix), Mauritius

Phoenix Mall, also known as Phoenix Mall by Ascencia, is a well-known shopping destination located in the central region of the island. It features a good mix of mid-range fashion stores, homeware shops, electronic outlets, and supermarkets. This mall is especially family-friendly, offering entertainment areas for kids, food courts with local and international chains, and seasonal events.

It’s perfect for everyday shopping, quick dining, or spending a relaxing afternoon indoors with family.

Riche Terre Mall, Mauritius

Riche Terre Mall is located in the northern region and is a quieter alternative to the island’s busier malls. Though smaller in size, it still offers a satisfying shopping experience with branded clothing outlets, electronic shops, cafes, and fast-food options. It’s a convenient stop for travelers looking to shop without the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere.

The mall is well-maintained and easily accessible, making it ideal for a quick visit or casual shopping day.

Unique Local Stores & Artisan Shops, Mauritius

Mauritius is not just about malls and markets; it also offers charming local stores and artisan shops that reflect the island’s culture, creativity, and commitment to sustainability. These specialty shops are perfect for travelers looking to buy meaningful souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, and one-of-a-kind items that capture the essence of Mauritius. Here are some standout places to visit.

Curepipe Glass Gallery, Mauritius

Located in the town of Curepipe, the Curepipe Glass Gallery is a must-visit for those interested in local craftsmanship. This unique store is famous for its beautifully handcrafted glassware, ranging from delicate figurines to elegant souvenirs. One of the main attractions here is the live glass-blowing demonstration, where visitors can watch skilled artisans shape molten glass into intricate works of art.

It’s a wonderful place to buy authentic, handcrafted items while witnessing the traditional glass-making process firsthand. The shop also offers personalized items that make great keepsakes or gifts.

Island Gems & Jewels, Mauritius

Island Gems & Jewels is a renowned jewelry store in Mauritius that specializes in semi-precious stones, handcrafted designs, and locally inspired collections. Whether you're looking for a simple pendant or an elaborate piece, the store offers a wide variety of affordable luxury items. Many of the pieces are crafted using stones found in or near Mauritius, adding to their authenticity and value.

This is a great stop for those wanting to take home a unique and elegant reminder of their island adventure, with jewelry that suits both casual and formal styles.

Ebony Forest Shops (Chamarel), Mauritius

Nestled in the scenic village of Chamarel, the Ebony Forest Shops offer a refreshing mix of eco-friendly products, nature-themed gifts, and educational materials. This shop is part of the Ebony Forest Reserve, a conservation site that protects the island’s native flora and fauna. The store features handmade items like eco-journals, locally crafted wooden gifts, and nature-inspired artwork.

Visitors can support conservation efforts by shopping here while also picking up thoughtful and sustainable souvenirs. It's the perfect place for nature lovers and those looking for environmentally conscious gifts.

What to Buy in Mauritius:

Shopping in Mauritius offers a wonderful opportunity to take home a piece of the island’s vibrant culture and craftsmanship. Whether you're looking for unique gifts, souvenirs, or luxury items, there’s something special for every type of traveler. Here are some of the most popular and meaningful items to buy in Mauritius:

Local Rum & Tea:
Mauritius is known for its award-winning rum, especially from the Chamarel Distillery. You can also try different flavored teas from Bois Chéri, the island’s oldest tea plantation. These make excellent gifts or additions to your own kitchen.

Dodo Souvenirs:
The dodo, an extinct bird native to Mauritius, remains a beloved symbol of the island. You’ll find a wide range of dodo-themed items such as figurines, fridge magnets, T-shirts, mugs, and home décor in markets and souvenir shops.

Textiles & Sarongs:
Colorful sarongs (also known as pareos), beach wraps, and tropical-themed clothing are widely available. These lightweight fabrics are ideal for the island’s warm climate and also make easy-to-pack souvenirs.

Handcrafted Jewelry:
Inspired by Mauritian heritage and nature, locally made jewelry includes semi-precious stones, shells, and unique handcrafted designs. Many shops offer custom pieces with a personal touch.

Spices & Vanilla Pods:
Pick up fresh spices like turmeric, curry powder, and chili blends from local markets in Port Louis or Flacq. You’ll also find rich, aromatic vanilla pods, perfect for cooking or gifting.

Model Ships:
Mauritius is famous for its beautifully handcrafted model ships, made with precision and attention to detail. These unique decorative items represent the island’s colonial maritime history and are great conversation pieces.

Tips for Shopping in Mauritius

To make the most of your shopping experience in Mauritius, keep these practical tips in mind:

Bargain at local markets, but politely: Haggling is common in open-air markets, but always negotiate with respect.
Bring cash for rural markets: Credit cards are widely accepted in malls, but smaller shops and markets often prefer cash.
Check for duty-free zones: Certain shops and the airport offer duty-free options, especially on luxury items like watches, jewelry, and electronics.
Keep receipts for high-value goods: Especially for jewelry or art, always ask for an official receipt in case you need to declare the item at customs.
Markets close earlier on Sundays and holidays: Plan your market visits accordingly, as most stalls begin shutting down by early afternoon on these days.

Final Thoughts:

Shopping in Mauritius is more than just a vacation activity; it’s a journey through the island’s vibrant culture, craftsmanship, and creativity. From bustling local markets filled with color and flavor to modern malls offering international brands and luxury goods, the island caters to every kind of shopper.

Whether you're looking for unique souvenirs, handcrafted treasures, or stylish fashion, Mauritius offers something special to take home. So make sure to leave a little space in your suitcase; you’ll definitely find something worth bringing back.