The Central Market of Port Louis (often called the Bazaar Port Louis or Victoria Market) is the historical and cultural heart of the Mauritian capital. Dating back to the early 19th century (settled in its current location around 1828), it is one of the island’s oldest and most vibrant commercial hubs, offering an unfiltered glimpse into local life and culture.

What to Experience

The market is a chaotic, colourful, and loud feast for the senses, typically divided into a few key sections:

1. Fresh Produce (Ground Floor)

This is the most authentic and bustling section, where locals shop for their daily needs.

• Fruits and Vegetables: Stalls are piled high with seasonal tropical fruits (mangoes, pineapples, lychees, depending on the time of year) and unique local vegetables.
• Spices: An aromatic area selling local vanilla pods, saffron, chilli paste (piment moulu), and a vast array of curry powders and blends.
• Herbal Remedies: You can find vendors selling traditional Chinese and local medicinal herbs and teas.
• Meat and Fish: Separate, traditional sections are dedicated to fresh meat, poultry, and seafood.

2. Street Food (Food Court/Kiosks) – A Must-Try

The market is arguably the best place in Port Louis to sample authentic, affordable Mauritian street food.

• Dholl Puri & Roti: The quintessential Mauritian snack—a thin, yellow split-pea pancake often filled with curry and chutney.
• Alouda: A famous, refreshing milk-based drink served ice-cold with basil seeds, agar-agar jelly, and sometimes a scoop of ice cream.
• Fritters (Gato): Various fried snacks like samoussas (samosas), gato piment (chilli cakes/fritters made with yellow split peas), and bajas (vegetable fritters).

3. Souvenirs and Handicrafts (First Floor/Craft Market)

The upper level is generally dedicated to items for tourists.

• Dodo Souvenirs: Everything depicting the national bird, from T-shirts and magnets to wood carvings.
• Textiles: Locally made clothing, sarongs, and colourful fabrics.
• Handicrafts: Basketry, model ships, and artisanal jewellery. Bargaining is expected in this section.

Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Go early (around 9:00 AM) to experience the market at its peak, avoid the midday heat, and find the freshest produce. Saturday is the busiest day.
• Bargaining: While prices for fresh produce are generally fixed, be prepared to bargain politely in the souvenir and textile section.
• Location: The Central Market is centrally located in Port Louis, a short walk from the Caudan Waterfront and the Aapravasi Ghat UNESCO World Heritage Site.