Port Louis is situated in the North West of the Island. It is still the main port in Mauritius and also the centre of Mauritian commerce. The city is surrounded by the stunning Moka mountain range, its highest peak standing at 820m is called Pieter Both, easily identified by the large rounded rock at its summit. The western edge of the city beside the harbor is now a lively area of re-development.

The waterfront redevelopment area is known as Caudan. It is a popular destination with tourists and locals alike. Here you will find many shops and restaurants, it also has a 5-star hotel, casino and cinema. The area is beautifully landscaped and provides a tranquil place to rest away from the bustle of the older parts of the city. The shops are a mixture of local enterprise, ideal for souvenir hunting and international brands.

The older part of Port Louis is also changing as new high-rise buildings and shopping malls are constructed. However, much of this part of the city maintains its original character, beautiful colonial style buildings now stand alongside the grand, modern buildings of the banks and financial centres. The streets of the old city are narrow and bustling with life, the pavements lined with markets and shops selling everything from spices to fabric. The city also has an area known as Chinatown which even today remains very authentic, especially the restaurants found here. The large, partially covered market, called the Bazaar is situated between Farquar St and Queen Street, it was constructed in 1828 and sells a large variety of high quality fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, fish and meat at good prices.
The eastern side of the city is the home to the Champ de Mars, the second oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere. It has been an attraction of Port Louis since its opening in 1812. Horse racing is held weekends from June to November.