What to Wear in Port Louis

Because the volcanic amphitheatre of the Moka mountains blocks the ocean trade winds, central Port Louis feels noticeably warmer and more humid at street level than Mauritius's breezy beaches or highland towns. Pack light, breathable natural fabrics for town walks alongside grippy footwear if you plan to hike the surrounding basalt peaks.

Walking shoes, temple socks and breathable fabrics

• Lightweight cotton, linen and viscose layers: loose-fitting linen shirts, cotton trousers, tailored chinos, midi skirts and breathable sundresses keep you comfortable while walking between Le Caudan Waterfront, Place d'Armes and Chinatown. Remember that Port Louis is a working administrative and financial capital rather than a beach resort: cover swimwear completely and dress in neat smart-casual attire in town.
• Cushioned walking sandals or breathable trainers (plus a pair of socks): ideal for the basalt cobbles of Aapravasi Ghat and Fort Adelaide. If you visit the Jummah Mosque in Chinatown or the Kaylasson Tamil Temple in Sainte Croix, you must remove your shoes at the entrance; carry a clean pair of cotton socks in your daypack so your feet do not burn on sun-heated stone courtyards.
• Closed trail trainers for Le Pouce and Signal Mountain: if you head up into the Moka Range to climb Le Pouce, wear closed trainers with real rubber tread, as the upper red-earth and basalt path under the guava bushes can be damp after morning mist.

Religious modesty, sun protection and sudden showers

When stepping inside mosques, Hindu kovils, Chinese clan pagodas or St Louis Cathedral, ensure both shoulders and knees are covered (a light cotton scarf or shawl in your bag doubles as a quick shoulder wrap or headscarf). Pack a wide-brimmed sun hat, polarised sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, a compact umbrella, a refillable water bottle for market walks, and a light layer for the air-conditioned Metro Express tram; check seasonal weather before you travel.