When planning a vacation or trip, the last thing on one’s mind before leaving is usually shopping. Whether we travel to a different state or a country, most of us would think of getting a piece of memory back from where we went.
Shopping in Mauritius is an experience of its own. It offers a wide range of shopping spots, including the Port Louis market, Flic and Flac market, Bay Bazaar, Bagatelle mall, Grand Baie market, and more. From thriving markets to chic malls, the small Island’s options are wide.
If you’re here, it means you want to know the must-buy things in Mauritius and places to shop in Mauritius. We are here to help you out!
Tip: Make sure to look out for the ‘Made in Moris’ tag to know if they are a genuine Mauritius product.
Famous Things to Buy from Mauritius
Just like any other tourist destination, you’ll get as cute little souvenirs like shells, jewellery and more. But also, you can find experiences and souvenirs that are unique to Mauritius. Keep reading to find out!
Mauritius Rum
Mauritius is celebrated for their rums worldwide, including the global events like the Rumfest in London and the Joint Rum initiative in Geneva. The rum tradition began in the 18th century when the French began producing rum from the abundance of sugarcane, which is locally known as ‘Rhum Agricole’.
Today, there are six spirit distillers on the Island, like Chamarel, Saint Abuin and Labourdonnais. For a unique experience, consider visiting Rhumerie de Chamarel, where you can take a tour of the distillery and conclude with a tasting session.
Note: People’s favourite is the Vanilla Chamarel Rum
Most rum distillers and producers offer a variety of rum flavours, including coconut, chilli, caramel, pineapple, chocolate, coffee and more! Mauritius is truly a rum lover’s haven.
If you don’t want to buy these fancy, expensive rums, then you can choose the Green Island rum, which is the locals’ usual drink.
Luxury shopping in Mauritius: The Dodo Gold Rum can be considered for a luxury gift, which is priced at around 14,000 INR per Litre.
Sugarcane Souvenirs
Mauritius, small in territory, is yet the 9th-largest sugar producer in Africa. Much like rum, the history of sugar goes way back into the history of Mauritius. Brought in by the Dutch from Java (Indonesia), but then expanded by the French.
Now, the plantations are used to produce a wide variety of artisan products, which are unique things to buy in Mauritius as souvenirs.
Sugar
Mauritius produces a whopping 18 varieties of sugar! It includes high-quality outputs like Demerara sugar and Muscovado sugar, including variations like light, dark and extra light.
Sugarcane Straw Products
If you have ever visited a sugarcane juice shop, you would notice that the vendor will extract the juice using a wheel. Just the fibre will be left out after extracting every bit of juice. Artisans use the fibre residue to weave into eco-friendly bags, hats and mats after cleaning.
Sugar Infused-Products
Beyond raw sugar, Mauritians have found a way to infuse sugarcane into multiple products like syrups, oil, perfumes and candles. These products capture the island’s signature sweetness in creative ways, offering souvenirs that are both functional and charming.
Dodo-Inspired Merch
The Dodo birds have a rather interesting but sad background. Millions of Years back, Pigeons flying across the Indian Ocean were using the Island of Mauritius as a pitstop. However, over time, they decided to stay back due to the lack of predators.
A few centuries later, the Pigeons turned into the flightless, chubby Dodo, which we now know. When the Dutch entered the Island, the birds’ fate changed forever. The Dutch used these birds for food and also brought in predators like monkeys, which eventually destroyed the entire population in the 17th century.
Later, Mauritius made the Dodo its national symbol, which you’ll be able to spot in many places on the island, including on stamps and the currency.
Presently, you can find many Dodo-themed souvenirs, such as Dodo-shaped rum bottles, plushies, keychains, magnets, and decor, that are cheap things to buy in Mauritius.
Flavoured Tea
Mauritius’s nutritious volcanic soil is not just good for sugarcane plantations but also for tea. Alongside rum & sugar, the tea tradition was also brought in by the French.
Even though the Island has a lot of different types of tea, the one company that stands out is the ‘Bois Cheri tea factory’.
The factory welcomes tourists with a guided tour, explaining the process and introducing them to tea tasting. If you like any of them, you can buy them directly from their factory outlet. These are perfect souvenirs and Mauritius’ famous things to buy.
Tip: Bois Cheri’s Coconut-flavoured and Vanilla-flavoured tea are the best-selling ones!
Beyond Bois Cheri, Trios Pavilion, Corson, and Charteuse, other varieties and brands of tea are available in Mauritius, allowing you to enjoy a delightful tea.
Ship Models
Mauritius has always been an important stepping stone for all sea travellers in the Indian Ocean. For many centuries, ships have made pit stops on the Island for import, export, rest, or to repair damages. Due to this, the Island has consistently been surrounded by Merchant ships, naval vessels and even pirates.
With such a rich maritime history, artists began to replicate the ships around them, which the colonists and traders then bought as a symbol of pride. And finally, in the 1980s, the Island saw a boost in tourism, and Mauritians decided to transform this art into an actual handicraft industry.
Now, you can see these boat replicas almost everywhere, including the markets where you can buy them for a few hundred rupees. However, if you are planning to get a famous ship’s exact replica, head to Mauritius’s ship model factories, such as the Le Port company or the Historic Marine.
Historic Marine was founded by three friends in 1982, and they have been creating models of Historical ships, Motor ships and yachts in their studio. Historic Marine’s artists are skilled at creating masterpieces of various vessels, excelling in the art of miniaturisation.
You can visit their factories for free, take a guided tour, learn about the history, and buy the models if you like. They make replicas of famous ships like the Titanic, Victory and the Black Pearl. However, the price of each model can reach up to 4 lakh INR, which is truly a luxury and a unique thing to buy in Mauritius.
Rodrigues Pepper
Rodrigues is an Island that lies just east of Mauritius. A private estate grows one of the smallest yet fieriest peppers, and it is locally known as ‘Ti Piment’ or ‘Bird Chilli’ because the birds of the Island love feasting on it.
Note: The heat of the Rodrigues chillis is scored 8/10 in the Scoville scale!
If not as chillis, you can buy them as pickles. You’ll find a bunch of chillis in small glass jars at the supermarkets in the Flic en Flac market.
Even though Rodrigues is a separate Island near Mauritius, the pepper is widely available for purchase in Mauritius. And it is definitely a unique thing to take back with you to add a unique taste to your home-cooked meal!
Vanilla
Centuries ago, the luxury crop of vanilla was introduced to the Islands of the Indian Ocean by the French. These crops from the island will have a distinct smell and taste that are fresh and extremely aromatic!
That is also a reason why a tourism brand now exists with the name ‘Vanilla Islands’. The Islands consist of Mauritius, Reunion, Madagascar, Seychelles, Comoros and Mayotte.
There are smaller vanilla plantations in Mauritius, along with a bigger one known as ‘Saint Aubin’. You can purchase raw vanilla sticks from Saint Aubin, which are packed nicely and make perfect gifts. Or you can get them from local supermarkets for half the price.
Other vanilla-infused products you can buy include lip balms, chocolates, skincare, tea, rum, perfumes, lotion, and more!
Manioc Biscuit
Manioc biscuits are the treats that are truly authentic to Mauritius, as they cannot be found anywhere else in the world. First baked back in 1920 by a family in Mauritius, this tradition has been passed down ever since.
These biscuits come in various flavours, including Coconut, Vanilla, Star Anise, Butter, Milk, Chocolate, Sesame Seeds, and Cinnamon. The best thing about these biscuits is that all flavours are gluten-free and vegan except for the milk and butter ones.
Manioc has very distinct flavours that are authentic to the region, making it a perfect goodie to return home with!
Note: Cinnamon and butter flavoured biscuits are people’s favourite!
Labourdonnais Jams
Labourdonnais are usually known for their rum distilleries, which we have already discussed in this blog. The other type of edibles that they specialise in are fruit products.
Jams, Marmalades, and their Fruit-Based Products. Their jams are made with higher fruit content with no added preservatives, and are created traditionally.
Labourdonnais jams consist of papaya, pineapple, guava, banana, mango, and a wide range of flavours. These jams are also available in cute jar packaging, which can be purchased at the factory’s outlet or in supermarkets. These are ideal for gift shopping in Mauritius.
Mauritian Curry Mix
No trip to any country will be complete without tasting the local dishes. Likewise, if you’ve ever visited Mauritius, you would have tried a Mauritian curry. Rich in species, aroma, and a blend of Indian and Mauritian flavours.
If you enjoyed the taste and essence of the curry and want to recreate it yourself, you are in luck. Local markets in Mauritius sell ready-to-mix curry powders.
You can buy these pre-mixed curry powders in the markets. Or for those who love experimenting, get different varieties of individual spices to make a custom curry mix by yourself!
Just like souvenirs that you take back with you, why not also carry the taste with you?
Note: Brands like Mayil and Suhana sell the Mauritian curry powder.
Famous Places to Buy from Mauritius
Alright, now we know what the best mementoes are to buy. Now, it’s time to see where to buy them from.
Port Louis Central Market
Located at the heart of the city, Port Louis market is the largest and most iconic market in Mauritius.
The market expands lively across two floors. The ground floor belongs to the fruits, herbs and vegetables section. Rows and rows of local vendors shouting out what they are selling and at what price. It will look absolutely vibrant and smell tropical.
Heading upstairs to the first floor and you’ll find colourful souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts and home decor.
Highlight: Embroidered napkins with a map of Mauritius or Sega dance are one of the unique things to buy in Port Louis.
A few food courts in the market are worth checking out to try out Mauritius’ specials. Especially the Alouda, which is a cold drink that is almost identical to Falooda. Also, do try out the Dholl Puris.
Highlight: The market is good for famous things like keychains, magnets, bags, and more.
Quantre Bornes Market
Quantre Bornes market is considered one of the best shopping places in Mauritius.This weekly market in the Quantre Bornes is quite different from the others, as the vendors and stalls you see today will not remain the same tomorrow. The market operates on segments, where you can find fruits and vegetables on one day, and it will be a textile hub on another.
The textile shopping is comparatively cheaper at this place. You’ll be able to find clothes, accessories, and shoes all at affordable prices. You can haggle to strike a deal; it’s acceptable.Quantre Bornes is easily accessible via a nearby metro station, and there is a paid parking area located towards the south of the market.
Highlight: This market is famous for clothes shopping.
Business days:
- Thursday and Sunday are for clothes and souvenirs.
- Wednesday and Saturday are for the fruit and vegetable market
- Monday, Tuesday, and Friday are holidays
Caudan Waterfront
Caudan is a contrast compared to the other two markets mentioned above. This place is optimised as a tourist attraction rather than an everyday local market.
With its open-air layout design, the paved paths are flanked with international-branded shops, local boutiques, coffee shops, and water-facing restaurants. Apart from these, there is also a casino, a theatre, the Blue Penny Museum and an Aquarium. If you are lucky, you’ll be able to witness live music and live Sega dance (Traditional Mauritian dance).
The lively atmosphere features a separate section of handmade souvenirs and crafts, which come at a price, as this place is not for budget shopping. But it is definitely a chill place to stroll around.
Highlight: Caudan is popular for its luxury shopping and classy water-facing restaurants.
Business days: The public/open places of Caudan will be open 24/7, the shops have their own timings.
Conclusion
Shopping in Mauritius is more than just picking a souvenir; it’s about treasuring the memory of the Island’s charm. Whether you want to gift your loved ones or have a personal memento, you’ll always find something in this paradise.
If you’re struggling to navigate an itinerary, travel, or transport, Dimaak Tours is here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mauritius
What famous things can be bought from Mauritius?
Mauritian Rum and Tea are two famous things to buy from Mauritius.
Can I do clothes shopping in Mauritius?
Yes, Mauritius has a ton of clothes shopping areas to choose from. Port Louis market and Quantre Bornes market are examples.
Is shopping in Mauritius expensive?
It depends on where and what you are planning to buy. If you stick to tiny souvenirs from the local markets, it will be on budget. However, if you want to do a luxury shopping run, the Island also offers jewellery and branded clothes.
