Champ de Mars
Port-Louis, Mauritius
Highlights
- The oldest racecourse in the Southern Hemisphere and second oldest in the world
- Home of the Mauritius Turf Club, founded in 1812
- Famous for the Maiden Cup and other prestigious races
- A vibrant atmosphere where horse racing, food stalls, and local culture blend into one
- Historic site of the Mauritius Independence flag-raising ceremony in 1968
- A must-visit cultural experience in the heart of the capital, Port Louis
Overview
Nestled at the foot of Port Louis’ green hills, the Champ de Mars Racecourse is one of Mauritius’ most iconic landmarks. Established in 1812, it proudly holds the title of the oldest racecourse in the Southern Hemisphere and has been the heartbeat of the island’s passion for horse racing for more than two centuries. But Champ de Mars is more than just a racetrack: it’s a cultural stage where history, sport, and tradition meet. This is the very place where Mauritius celebrated its independence on 12 March 1968, as thousands gathered to watch the flag of a new nation being raised. Today, weekends at the track remain a spectacle of excitement, unity, and Mauritian hospitality.
The Racing Experience
On race days, the Champ de Mars comes alive. Crowds pack the stands and grassy hillsides, cheering their favourite jockeys as horses thunder down the 1,298-metre oval track. The Maiden Cup, held every September, is the crown jewel of the racing calendar: drawing international jockeys, trainers, and thousands of devoted fans. The track is renowned for its challenging uphill home stretch, which keeps the suspense right up to the finish line. Prestigious events such as the Duchess of York Cup and Barbé Cup add further glamour and tradition.
In the lead-up to each race, local punters gather tips, known as 'tuyaux', from their networks, adding another layer of thrill. For visitors, experiencing a race here is a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse into Mauritian culture at full throttle.
Local Flavours & Atmosphere
Champ de Mars is as much about the food and community as it is about the racing. Colourful food stalls serve up authentic Mauritian favourites: crispy gateaux piments, piping hot samoussas, fragrant briyani, and the legendary gâteau lécourse, a sweet treat forever linked with race days.
The atmosphere is electric yet welcoming. Families picnic on the grass, punters carefully study their betting slips, and the air is filled with the aroma of spices and the roar of the crowd. The racecourse is a melting pot where Mauritians from all walks of life gather, from everyday fans to suited horse owners and elegantly hatted ladies in the exclusive lodges.
History & Monuments
- Founded by Colonel Edward Alured Draper, the Mauritius Turf Club is the oldest horse racing club in the Southern Hemisphere.
- The grounds are home to the statue of King Edward VII, sculpted by Prosper d’Épinay, and the Malartic Tomb, dedicated to a former French governor.
- The racecourse has long stood as a stage for national pride, and remains a symbol of unity and cultural heritage in Mauritius.
- Horse racing isn’t only felt at the track: it echoes across the island. On Saturday afternoons, radios and TVs buzz with live coverage. Generations of Mauritians know the famous commentary of Jug Gokhool, whose voice has narrated the races since the 1990s, uniting listeners in buses, cars, shops, and homes.
Experiences
- Feel the adrenaline of live races alongside tens of thousands of passionate fans
- Taste authentic Mauritian street food and mingle with locals
- Discover historical monuments dotted around the grounds
- Take in the panoramic views of Port Louis and its surrounding hills
Good to Know
- Season: March to early December
- Location: Port Louis, easily accessible from the city centre
- Dress Code: Casual on regular days; elegant attire for big events like the Maiden Cup
- Best Time to Visit: Race days, especially weekends, when the atmosphere is at its most vibrant
Visitors can choose from different ticket categories:
Access Cards Prices
Normal Raceday- Carte Barrées: Rs 500
- Member's Lounge: Rs 1,500
- Member's Lounge and Jockey Club: Rs 1,800
- Entrée Stand (Man) : Rs 300
- Entrée Stand (Woman): Free
- Entrée Stand (Kids): Free
Classical Raceday
- Carte Barrées: Rs 700
- Member's Lounge: Rs 2,000
- Member's Lounge and Jockey Club: Rs 2,300
- Entrée Stand (Man) : Rs 500
- Entrée Stand (Woman): 200
- Entrée Stand (Kids): Free
