Things to Do in Port Louis in March

March Weather in Port Louis

31°C (88°F) High Temp

23°C (74°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

March marks the beginning of the dry season with minimal rainfall (0.0 mm/0.0 inches) making it ideal for waterfront activities and harbor exploration without weather disruptions
Comfortable temperatures ranging 23-31°C (74-88°F) create perfect conditions for walking the historic streets and exploring outdoor markets during morning and late afternoon hours
This is shoulder season with significantly fewer cruise ship arrivals compared to April-September peak, meaning shorter queues at Central Market and more authentic interactions with local vendors
March coincides with harvest season for tropical fruits - you'll find the freshest lychees, mangoes, and pineapples at 30-40% lower prices than imported fruit available during other months

Considerations

70% humidity combined with temperatures reaching 31°C (88°F) makes midday exploration (11am-3pm) uncomfortably sticky, forcing you to plan activities around cooler morning and evening hours
Despite being 'dry season', Port Louis still experiences 10 rainy days with sudden tropical downpours that can last 20-30 minutes and flood narrow city streets temporarily
March heat makes the already intense aromas of the Central Market and street food areas overwhelming for some visitors, particularly those sensitive to strong spices and fish odors

Best Activities in March

Caudan Waterfront Harbor Walking Tours

March's dry conditions and comfortable morning temperatures (23-26°C/74-79°F) make waterfront exploration ideal. The harbor breeze provides natural cooling, and clear skies offer excellent views of the surrounding mountains. Early morning walks (6-9am) avoid both crowds and afternoon heat while capturing the best light for photography.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but organized heritage walks cost Rs 800-1,200 per person. Book cultural walking tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed heritage guides. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Central Market Food Discovery Tours

March brings peak season for local tropical fruits and vegetables, making market visits exceptionally rewarding. The dry weather means fresh produce quality is at its highest, and harvest season offers 30-40% better prices. Visit early morning (7-10am) before heat intensifies the aromatic spice and seafood sections.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically cost Rs 1,500-2,500 per person including tastings. Book through certified food guides who know vendors personally. Tours run 2-3 hours and include 8-12 tastings. Check current options in the booking widget below.

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden Day Trips

March's combination of dry weather and moderate humidity creates optimal conditions for the famous giant water lilies, which are in full bloom. The 23°C (74°F) morning temperatures make the 3-4 hour walking tour comfortable, while afternoon shade from mature trees provides natural cooling when temperatures peak.

Booking Tip: Entry costs Rs 200 for adults, guided tours add Rs 500-800. Located 12 km (7.5 miles) from Port Louis - combine with other northern attractions. Book transport with licensed operators, typical day trips cost Rs 2,000-3,500. See current tour packages below.

Aapravasi Ghat Heritage Site Visits

March's clear, dry weather provides excellent conditions for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. The comfortable morning temperatures allow for unhurried exploration of the immigration depot ruins, while the lack of rain means outdoor interpretive displays are fully accessible. Perfect for understanding Mauritius' multicultural history.

Booking Tip: Free entry with guided tours available for Rs 300-500 per person. Audio guides cost Rs 150. Allow 90 minutes for full experience. Combine with nearby Caudan Waterfront. Book certified heritage guides through official channels - see options in booking section.

Le Morne Brabant Mountain Hiking Excursions

March offers ideal hiking conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable early morning temperatures (23°C/74°F). This UNESCO site requires 4-6 hours round trip, best started at sunrise to avoid afternoon heat. The dry season provides clearer mountain views and safer trail conditions compared to rainy months.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes cost Rs 2,500-4,000 per person including transport from Port Louis (45 km/28 miles). Book certified mountain guides - this is mandatory for safety. Requires moderate fitness level. Start times typically 5:30-6:30am. Check current guided options below.

Ile aux Cerfs Catamaran Day Tours

March's calm seas and minimal rainfall create perfect conditions for catamaran trips to this popular island. Water temperatures around 27°C (81°F) are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The dry weather ensures beach activities aren't interrupted, and moderate winds provide comfortable sailing conditions.

Booking Tip: Full-day catamaran tours cost Rs 3,500-5,500 including lunch and snorkeling equipment. Depart from Grand River South East, 60 km (37 miles) from Port Louis. Book 10-14 days ahead during March. Include hotel pickup from Port Louis area. See current tour options in booking section.

March Events & Festivals

Early March

Maha Shivratri Festival

This major Hindu festival typically falls in late February or early March, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims to Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao). Witness the spectacular sight of devotees walking 30+ km (18+ miles) carrying ornate bamboo structures. The processions pass through Port Louis, creating vibrant street celebrations.

Mid March

Holi Festival Celebrations

The Hindu festival of colors takes place in March with public celebrations in Port Louis parks and Hindu temple complexes. Locals throw colored powders and water, creating joyful street parties. Join the festivities at Plaine Verte or near major temples, but wear clothes you don't mind getting permanently stained.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - despite dry season classification, those 10 rainy days bring sudden 20-30 minute downpours that flood streets temporarily

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and reflects intensely off harbor waters and white colonial buildings

Breathable cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid polyester fabrics which become unbearable in 70% humidity conditions

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - historic Port Louis streets are cobblestone and can become slippery when wet

Light cardigan or long sleeves for air-conditioned spaces - the temperature contrast between 31°C (88°F) outdoor heat and heavily air-conditioned malls/restaurants is significant

Insect repellent containing DEET - March humidity attracts mosquitoes, especially near the harbor and market areas during evening hours

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial in 31°C (88°F) heat, and reduces plastic waste in this environmentally conscious destination

Power bank and waterproof phone case - for navigation during sudden rain showers and extended walking tours around the city

Cash in Mauritian Rupees - many street vendors and local transport don't accept cards, especially in Central Market and street food areas

Insider Knowledge

Visit Central Market between 7-9am when vendors display the freshest produce and before the midday heat intensifies the fish and spice section aromas - after 10am it becomes overwhelming for many visitors

Take advantage of the harbor breeze by timing waterfront activities for late afternoon (4-6pm) when temperatures drop to 26-28°C (79-82°F) but you still have good daylight for photos

March is mango season - buy directly from street vendors around Rs 20-30 per kg instead of hotel shops charging Rs 80+ per kg, and ask them to cut it fresh for immediate eating

Use the free shuttle bus between Caudan Waterfront and central Port Louis during peak heat hours (11am-3pm) rather than walking - it runs every 15 minutes and includes air conditioning

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing during 11am-3pm when temperatures peak at 31°C (88°F) and humidity makes it feel much hotter - schedule indoor activities like museums during these hours instead

Wearing synthetic fabrics like polyester which trap moisture and become uncomfortable in 70% humidity - stick to natural fibers that breathe

Assuming 'dry season' means no rain - March still has 10 rainy days with sudden tropical downpours that can strand you without proper rain gear