Things To Do
in Quartier Militaire
Quartier Militaire is a tranquil village perched on Mauritius' central plateau, surrounded by green hills and sweeping views of the Moka Range. It makes a great base for exploring the island's highland scenery while staying within reach of Curepipe, Quatre Bornes, and coastal sights. The area features residential charm, spice-scented air, and winding routes that pass tea estates and farms.
From here you can quickly reach notable natural and cultural attractions while savoring a slower Mauritian rhythm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and head straight to Quartier Militaire. Check into a cozy local guesthouse and enjoy a refreshing breakfast featuring traditional Mauritian dishes. Take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood to admire the lush landscapes and vibrant local culture.
Visit the nearby village of Curepipe, where you can explore local markets and taste street food delicacies. Stop by the stunning Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano with a panoramic view of the island. Spend time sipping freshly brewed Mauritian tea at a local café.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant, sampling seafood specialties that are unique to Mauritius. As the sun sets, take a stroll in the gardens of Quartier Militaire while listening to the sounds of nature. Wrap up the night by engaging with locals in a nearby open-air market.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Black River Gorges National Park. Explore well-marked trails, where you can spot endemic flora and fauna, as well as magnificent waterfalls. Capture the breathtaking scenery on your camera as you hike through the lush greenery.
Visit the nearby village of Chamarel, famous for its Seven Colored Earths and stunning scenery. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery featuring Creole cuisine and marvel at the stunning views from the Chamarel waterfall. Explore the rum distillery to learn about the local production process and taste some samples.
Return to Quartier Militaire and unwind with a tranquil evening at your guesthouse. Have dinner with a view, relishing local dishes under the stars. Share stories with fellow travelers or participate in traditional storytelling around a bonfire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful highland scenery and easy access to nature
- Warm, multi-ethnic culture and welcoming locals
- Safe, compact area with authentic Mauritian experiences
- Calm atmosphere compared to busier coastal towns
- Limited nightlife and dining options in Quartier Militaire itself
- Some attractions require driving between towns
- Public transport can be inconsistent; a car helps
- Markets can be crowded and hot during peak hours
- "Bonzour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Kifer ou ap fer?" - What are you going to do?
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Mersi" - Thank you
- "Kifer ou bien?" - How are you?
- "Kot la bus?" - Where is the bus stop?
Places to Visit in Quartier Militaire
Visit one of these nice places.
A dormant volcanic crater just outside Curepipe; the rim offers sweeping views over the central plateau and valleys, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Elevated viewpoints near Curepipe provide panoramic shots of green hills, winding roads, and low-lying towns.
A short hike to a craggy overlook with dramatic valley panoramas and striking rock formations.
Food in Quartier Militaire
Quartier Militaire Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A maize flour pancake stuffed with ground split peas, typically served with bean curry and chutney.
Must-Try!
Tomato-based Creole sauce with pork or fish sausage, often eaten with rice.
A tangy mustard and turmeric fish curry that pairs well with rice or bread.
Chilled milk-based drink with basil seeds, flavored with vanilla and almond essence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and ready-to-eat street bites.
Local produce, bread stalls, and inexpensive Mauritian snacks ideal for a quick bite.
Skewers, fritters, and dholl puri cooked to order along the main streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or bonjou is appreciated; Mauritians speak Creole, French, and English. Handshake is common; address elders with respect.
Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites; remove hats when indoors, ask before taking photos of people, and be respectful at markets and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Quartier Militaire
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included. Small tips for service staff or hotel porters are common.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted in towns; cash is still common for markets and smaller vendors. ATMs are readily available in Curepipe, Vacoas, and Quatre Bornes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, sunscreen, and light rain gear. Sea breezes temper coastal heat, but highland mornings are cooler.
Cooler and drier, especially at night; temperatures can drop in shaded areas and higher elevations. Still warm by day, so layering is key.
Quartier Militaire at Night
Hiking in Quartier Militaire
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short circular trail around the crater rim with views across the central plateau.
Moderate ascent to a dramatic overlook above the valley and towns.
Airports
How to reach Quartier Militaire by plane.
Main international airport located near Plaine Magnien; around 60 minutes by car from Quartier Militaire depending on traffic; served by numerous international airlines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority community with vibrant religious and cultural practices; you’ll see temples and festivals around the island.
A core cultural group contributing to the island’s music, food, and daily life.
Small communities that contribute distinct cuisines and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide, with local leagues and informal games in villages.
A widely played sport with local clubs and community grounds.
Mauritius has a strong maritime culture with sailing and diving near coastal towns; near central highlands, access is limited but day trips nearby provide water activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quartier Militaire.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made without meat; look for dal bhaji, curries with vegetables, or cheese-based options. Ask for no fish stock or meat components; request oil-free cooking when possible.