Le Craft Market in Mauritius: Ultimate Guide with Shopping Tips

Le Craft Market is a popular tourist destination located inside the Caudan Waterfront complex in Port Louis, Mauritius. It’s a great place to find souvenirs and experience a bit of Mauritian culture.  The market is housed in a two-story building and has 36 stalls selling a wide variety of locally made products.

From exquisite woodwork and detailed baskets to beautiful glass souvenirs and seashell items, Le Craft Market is one of the must-visit places in Mauritius to experience the local culture. Discover boxes of ground spices, embroidered linen, and handmade jewellery, each reflecting local craftsmanship. Be sure to check out the famous African rag doll dressed in a traditional sega outfit, a true symbol of the region’s culture.

Don’t let your feet stop you from shopping at Le Craft Market! Shop till you drop and get the best of Mauritius! Don’t worry about missing any details; we’re here to give you everything you need to know about Le Craft Market in Mauritius!

Essential Information for Visitors

How to Reach Le Craft Market in Mauritius

By Car:From Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, drive to Le Craft Market in 45 minutes to an hour via M1 north towards Port Louis. Park in public or designated areas.

By Bus:Take a bus from the airport to Port Louis, then walk or take a local bus/taxi to the market.

By Taxi:A direct taxi from the airport to Le Craft Market takes about 45 minutes.

By Local Transportation:Port Louis has a connected bus system and readily available taxis that can take you to the market.

Location of Le Craft Market in Mauritius

Le Craft Market is located inside the Caudan Waterfront complex in Port Louis, Mauritius.

Address: Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis, Mauritius

Le Craft Market Opening Hours

Le Craft Market is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.

Things to Buy from Le Craft Market

1. Handmade Jewellery

• Types: Beaded necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings.
• Materials: Local gemstones, shells, and beads.

2. Local Art and Paintings

• Types: Paintings, prints, and artistic crafts reflecting Mauritian culture and landscapes.

3. Wooden Carvings and Sculptures

• Types: Intricate carvings of local wildlife, figures, and traditional designs.
• Materials: Local woods like ebony and rosewood.

4. Textiles and Clothing

• Types: Sarongs, pareos, and traditional Mauritian Le Craft Market clothing.
• Materials: Hand-woven fabrics and prints inspired by local motifs.

5. Handcrafted Pottery

• Types: Bowls, vases, and decorative items.
• Features: Often featuring traditional Mauritian designs and patterns.

6. Local Spices and Sauces

• Types: Vanilla pods, chilli sauces, and spice blends.
• Uses: Perfect for adding a Mauritian touch to your cooking.

7. Mauritian Souvenirs

• Types: Keychains, magnets, and small trinkets featuring local landmarks and symbols.

8. Traditional Music Instruments

• Types: Ravanne drums, triangle, and other traditional instruments.

9. Handmade Candles and Soaps

• Types: Fragrant candles and soaps made with local ingredients.

10. Bags and Accessories

• Types: Handbags, tote bags, and accessories made from local materials and designs.

Things to Do in Le Craft Market

• Browse the Stalls and Talk to the Artisans: Engage with local artisans to learn about their crafts and traditional techniques.
• Watch Artisans at Work: See how beautiful items are made right before your eyes.
• Learn About Mauritian Crafts: Ask artisans about their work or explore resources to deepen your understanding.
• Enjoy the Atmosphere: Soak up the lively and friendly vibe at the Le Craft Market shops.
• Grab a Bite to Eat: Enjoy a meal at nearby cafes and restaurants in Mauritius, or savour local delicacies at the Le Craft Market food stalls.

Le Craft Market is located in the Caudan Waterfront complex, where you can also enjoy fun things to do in Port Louis:

• Visit the Shops: Find everything from international brands to local boutiques.
• Enjoy the Restaurants: Choose from various cuisines including Mauritian, Indian, and Italian.
• Take a Boat Tour: Explore the harbour and see Port Louis from a different angle.
• See a Movie: Catch a film at the on-site cinema.

Tips for Shopping in Le Craft Market

• Bargain Politely: Vendors often expect some negotiation, so don’t hesitate to ask for a discount, but do so courteously.
• Carry Cash: While some vendors might accept cards, cash is preferred and more convenient for small purchases.
• Explore the Whole Market: Take time to browse different stalls to find the best deals and unique items.
• Check Quality: Inspect items carefully, especially handmade crafts, to ensure they meet your expectations.
• Ask for Local Recommendations: Vendors can often suggest other local attractions or dining spots nearby.
• Stay Hydrated and Comfortable: Wear comfortable clothing and keep hydrated, as markets can be crowded and warm.

Conclusion