Curepipe

Discover Curepipe: The Heart of Mauritius’ Central Plateau

Curepipe is one of the largest towns in Mauritius, after Port Louis, with a population of nearly 100,000 inhabitants. Located in the island’s central highlands, this charming town is known for its cooler climate, colonial heritage, shopping opportunities and easy access to some of Mauritius’ most scenic natural attractions.

Often nicknamed the “City of Lights”, Curepipe offers a refreshing alternative to the coastal resorts. From historic buildings and botanical gardens to volcanic craters and waterfalls, the town is an excellent base for travellers looking to explore inland Mauritius.

Curepipe’s History: From Highland Stopover to Thriving Town

The origin of the name Curepipe is still debated. One widely shared theory links it to the French expression “curer sa pipe” (“to clean one’s pipe”), referring to 19th-century travellers and soldiers who stopped here while travelling between Port Louis and Grand Port.

Other historians suggest the name may have originated from a former landowner whose native village was located in France.

In 1858, Curepipe had a population of just around 200 people. Its growth accelerated during the malaria epidemic of the 1860s, when many residents of Port Louis relocated to the cooler highlands. This marked the beginning of Curepipe’s rapid development, with roads, houses and shops spreading across the plateau.

Hotels & Lodges Near Curepipe

• Bubble Lodge
  Experience a unique stay close to nature at Bubble Lodge. Located in Bois Chéri, just 30 minutes from Curepipe, these eco-friendly transparent bubbles combine comfort with minimal environmental impact.
• 7 Cascades Restaurant & Lodges
  Located in Henrietta, a short drive from Curepipe, this lodge sits close to Tamarind Falls and is surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers.
• Domaine de L’Arbre du Voyageur
  A peaceful guesthouse in Mare Longue, approximately 20 minutes from Curepipe, ideal for couples and families seeking to unwind in a serene environment.

Top Things to Do in Curepipe

• Explore Colonial Buildings in Curepipe Town Centre

A walk through Curepipe reveals several remarkable colonial-era landmarks, including:
Curepipe Town Hall, a grand 19th-century building Royal College of Curepipe, one of the island’s most prestigious schools Carnegie Library, home to historical manuscripts Basilica Sainte-Hélène and St Thérèse Church, dating back to 1922 and 1869

These buildings reflect Curepipe’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

• Visit the Curepipe Botanical Garden

The Curepipe Botanical Garden is a serene green space featuring a diverse array of indigenous and exotic plant species. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk and a quiet escape from the town’s bustle.

• Discover Trou aux Cerfs Volcano

Located just 1 km from Curepipe town centre, Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcanic crater over 100 metres deep. Walking paths surround the crater and lead to viewpoints offering panoramic views of Mauritius. On clear days, you may even see Réunion Island in the distance.

• Domaine des Aubineaux - Colonial House & Tea History

Built in 1872, Domaine des Aubineaux is a beautifully preserved colonial mansion showcasing 19th-century Mauritian family life and the history of tea production on the island. Visitors can stroll through the lush gardens before enjoying tea and scones inside the historic house.

• Tamarind Falls (Seven Cascades)

A short drive from Curepipe, Tamarind Falls, also known as the Seven Cascades, is one of Mauritius’ most impressive natural attractions. The waterfalls tumble through a forested canyon and are popular for:

• Hiking
• Canyoning

Half-day and full-day guided hikes are available, depending on fitness level.

Shopping in Curepipe & Floréal

Curepipe is one of the best places in Mauritius for duty-free shopping. You’ll find shops specialising in:

• Ship models
• Jewellery
• Cashmere and pashmina clothing

Nearby Floréal, located just minutes from Curepipe, is well known for its factory shops and handicraft workshops, including wool factories, diamond-cutting studios and model boat workshops. Many products are sold directly by manufacturers at competitive prices.

Why Visit Curepipe with Mauritius Attractions?

Curepipe offers a unique blend of cool climate, colonial charm, shopping and nature, making it an ideal inland destination to include in your Mauritius itinerary. Whether you’re exploring volcanic landscapes, discovering colonial heritage or escaping the coastal heat, Curepipe is well worth a visit.