Why and where to live in the Centre of Mauritius?

If living near the beach is not your priority, and you would rather reduce your daily commute and live in a more urban setting, the Centre is worth considering.

The Centre of the island, where most Mauritians live, offers ideal proximity to business areas. Although most expatriates prefer the coast, some have discovered the advantages of settling in this region: easy access to all amenities, cooler temperatures, and an urban lifestyle. Here, Mauritius feels different, far from the tourists.

Historically, the Centre has been home to the country's businesses and shops, as well as the families who work there. The result is an economic and residential corridor stretching from Port Louis to the central plateau, encompassing the towns of Beau Bassin-Rose Hill, Quatre Bornes, Vacoas-Phoenix and Curepipe-Floréal. Sugar cane plantations and mountain ranges surround this urban axis. This region is the most connected on the island, with regular public transport and the development of the MetroExpress linking Curepipe to Port Louis via Quatre Bornes, and a line running towards Moka.

Moka: sustainable urbanisation

The town of Moka is growing sustainably through the Moka Smart City urban expansion programme. In Moka you will feel close to the countryside just 10 km from Port Louis and Ebène Cyber City, with prime residential options and all the modern conveniences.

Beau Bassin-Rose Hill: a vibrant residential area

Upmarket residential areas welcome a few expatriates who appreciate the cultural activities and facilities the city has to offer. The centre is lively during the day, but quieter after 6 pm.

Quatre Bornes & Vacoas-Phoenix: the commercial hub

Further south, you will find Quatre Bornes, with Vacoas-Phoenix just around the corner. These towns are bustling with life and businesses, and close to the west coast beaches.

Curepipe-Floréal: escape the heat

In Curepipe, you will enjoy year-round a cooler, albeit humid climate, thanks to the town's 560-metre altitude. The town has an authentic Mauritian feel, with a good range of shops and restaurants. Residential neighbourhoods spread out in all directions, particularly in Floréal, a leafy, upscale neighbourhood where wealthy Mauritian families have put down roots.

What to do in the Centre?

At weekends, it is easy to head to other parts of the island for day trips. Staying in the Centre, you can climb Le Pouce, the mountain that overlooks Moka, or discover Mauritian cultural heritage in the region's many colonial houses, tropical gardens and old sugar estates. The region is also a shopper's paradise, from small local boutiques and "bazar" in towns, to large shopping centres.