Things To Do
in Curepipe

Curepipe is a charming town located in the central plateau of Mauritius, known for its cooler climate and lush greenery. The town is often regarded as the second-largest urban area on the island, offering a unique blend of local culture and colonial heritage. With attractions ranging from botanical gardens to vibrant markets, Curepipe serves as a gateway to the island's natural beauty.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking in nearby trails to indulging in local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Curepipe
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, where you can admire exotic plants and tranquil ponds.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample street food, followed by a visit to the historic town center to see colonial architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Mauritian cuisine, then take a stroll through the town to appreciate the cool evening air.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a morning hike at the nearby Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Eureka House, a colonial mansion turned museum, for a glimpse into the island's history and culture.

evening
:

Wind down with a visit to a cozy café for coffee and dessert, or explore local nightlife options in Curepipe.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🍔Street food snack$1-3
🚕Taxi fare (short distance)$5-10
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Cooler climate compared to coastal areas
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Some areas may feel less tourist-friendly
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Au revoir" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Curepipe

Visit one of these nice places.

Trou aux Cerfs

A stunning volcanic crater offering breathtaking views of Curepipe and the surrounding landscape, perfect for panoramic photographs.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

A lush garden with unique plant species and serene water features, ideal for capturing nature's beauty.

Eureka House

A colonial mansion with beautiful architecture and picturesque surroundings, great for photographing historical charm.

Culinary Guide

Food in Curepipe

Curepipe offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the island's multicultural heritage. Must-try local dishes include dholl puri, a flatbread stuffed with split peas, and rougaille, a Creole stew. The town has several food markets and street food stalls where you can sample these delicacies. For dining, there are numerous restaurants and cafes that cater to different tastes, ensuring everyone can find something delicious.

Curepipe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dholl Puri

A popular Mauritian flatbread made with split peas, often served with curry and chutney.

Must-Try!

Rougaille

A flavorful Creole dish made with tomatoes, onions, and various spices, commonly served with meat or fish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Curepipe Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and an array of street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Curepipe experiences a mild tropical climate with cooler temperatures than the coastal regions. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are cooler and drier. The average temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is more common during the summer months, especially from December to March.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake or a nod is common; using 'Bonjour' is appreciated.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; beachwear is acceptable in tourist areas.

Respect for Local Culture

Be aware of cultural practices and traditions, particularly during festivals and religious ceremonies.

Safety Guide

Safety

Curepipe is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's wise to stay vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables in public, and be cautious when walking alone at night. Emergency services are accessible, and it's advisable to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Curepipe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, but it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm weather with occasional rain; ideal for outdoor activities but be prepared for humidity.

Autumn (March to May)

This season is more pleasant with cooler temperatures; great for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures prevail, making it comfortable for sightseeing; some attractions may be less crowded.

Spring (September to November)

A beautiful time to visit as temperatures rise, flowers bloom, and outdoor activities become more enjoyable.

Nightlife Guide

Curepipe at Night

Curepipe's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to other regions in Mauritius. The town features a few bars and pubs where locals and tourists gather to socialize. Live music can be found in some venues, and outdoor cafes often stay open late, providing a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the evening.

Hiking in Curepipe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Le Pouce Mountain Trail

An intermediate hiking trail that leads to the summit of Le Pouce, offering stunning views of the northern regions of Mauritius.

Black River Gorges National Park

A more challenging hiking area with diverse flora and fauna, featuring multiple trails that cater to different skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Curepipe by plane.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport

Located approximately 35 km from Curepipe, this is the main international airport serving Mauritius, providing connections to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Curepipe is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where many attractions, shops, and eateries are clustered together. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. It's enjoyable to explore on foot, particularly the markets and parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Creole Community

The Creole population is a significant demographic group in Curepipe, known for their vibrant culture and traditions.

Indian Community

The Indian community also forms a notable part of Curepipe's population, contributing to the local cuisine and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Mauritius, with many local clubs and community teams engaging in matches regularly.

Rugby

Rugby also enjoys a significant following, and local teams participate in national leagues and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Curepipe can be moderate, especially during peak hours. The town's layout can lead to congestion, but it is generally manageable. Public transportation includes buses that connect Curepipe to other regions, though schedules may not always be frequent.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Curepipe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm ingredients as some may include fish sauce.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are available, it may be limited; inform the staff about any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Curepipe are adequate, with several clinics and a hospital available for minor ailments. For serious medical emergencies, larger hospitals in Port Louis may be needed. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Mauritius

Read more in our Mauritius 2025 Travel Guide.

Mauritius Travel Guide