Things to Do at Blue Penny Museum

Complete Guide to Blue Penny Museum in Port Louis

About Blue Penny Museum

The Blue Penny Museum in Port Louis stands as Mauritius' premier cultural institution, housed in a beautifully restored colonial building at the Caudan Waterfront. This compact but fascinating museum tells the story of Mauritius through its most precious artifacts, including the world-famous Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps from 1847, among the rarest and most valuable stamps ever issued. The museum's collection spans the island's rich history from the colonial era through independence, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the cultural heritage that shaped modern Mauritius. Beyond its philatelic treasures, the Blue Penny Museum showcases an impressive array of historical documents, maps, paintings, and artifacts that chronicle the island's transformation from an uninhabited paradise to a thriving multicultural nation. The museum's modern presentation techniques, including interactive displays and multimedia presentations, make the complex history of Mauritius accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages, while its prime location at the waterfront makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Port Louis.

What to See & Do

The Famous Blue Penny and Red Penny Stamps

Marvel at the original 1847 Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps, among the world's rarest and most valuable postage stamps, displayed in climate-controlled cases

Historical Maps and Documents

Explore ancient maps, colonial documents, and maritime records that trace Mauritius' discovery and development through the centuries

Art Collection

Admire paintings and artwork by renowned Mauritian and international artists, including works depicting the island's landscapes and cultural evolution

Interactive Maritime History Display

Learn about the island's strategic importance as a trading post through engaging multimedia presentations and ship artifacts

Colonial Era Artifacts

Discover everyday objects, furniture, and personal items that illustrate life during the French and British colonial periods

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sunday: Closed. Last entry 30 minutes before closing

Tickets & Pricing

Adults: Rs 300 (approximately $7 USD), Children (3-11): Rs 150, Students with ID: Rs 200. Group discounts available for 10+ people

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) for fewer crowds, or late afternoon to combine with waterfront dining

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for a thorough visit, 45 minutes for highlights only

Getting There

The Blue Penny Museum is conveniently located at the Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis, easily accessible by taxi, bus, or rental car. From Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, take the M2 highway toward Port Louis (45-minute drive). Public buses from various parts of the island terminate at Port Louis bus station, just a 5-minute walk from the museum. If staying in Grand Baie or other northern areas, direct buses run regularly to Port Louis. The museum is within walking distance of the central market, harbor, and other Port Louis attractions.

Things to Do Nearby

Caudan Waterfront
Modern shopping and entertainment complex with restaurants, shops, and harbor views, directly adjacent to the museum
Central Market (Port Louis Bazaar)
Vibrant local market selling spices, textiles, souvenirs, and street food, 10 minutes walk from the museum
Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site
UNESCO World Heritage site marking the arrival point of indentured laborers, significant to Mauritian history
Port Louis Theatre
Historic 19th-century theater hosting cultural performances and events, located in the city center
Champ de Mars Racecourse
One of the world's oldest horse racing tracks, offering races during season and historical significance

Tips & Advice

Visit during weekday mornings for the best experience with fewer crowds and optimal lighting for viewing the stamps
Combine your museum visit with lunch at the Caudan Waterfront for a full cultural and dining experience
Photography is not allowed inside the museum, so take time to really observe the exhibits closely
Consider purchasing the combo ticket if planning to visit other nearby cultural sites in Port Louis for better value

Tours & Activities at Blue Penny Museum