Tea route: plantation, factory and museum
Bois Chéri Tea Route is a short interpretative tour through one of Mauritius' oldest tea estates in the south-central highlands. The experience combines a small museum on the island’s tea history, a guided walk around lush tea fields, an operational factory demonstration (depending on schedule), and a tasting session in the panoramic tea pavilion. The visit highlights local production techniques, colonial and post‑colonial history of tea on the island, and offers a chance to purchase fresh loose-leaf teas and blends.
Location
Bois Chéri Tea Estate (museum, factory, tea pavilion and plantation), Plaines Wilhems / South-Midlands (near Curepipe / southern plateau), Mauritius
Duration
1.5–2.5 hours (typical guided visit). Combine with a longer self-guided plantation walk or nearby attractions for half-day trips.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round, but recommended May–November (cooler, clearer skies). Morning visits are best for factory demonstrations, clearer views, and crisper tea aromas.
Pricing
Entrance + guided tour & tasting typically ranges from MUR 300–700 (≈ USD 7–16 / EUR 6–15) per adult. Children and senior concessions often available (approx MUR 150–350). Factory-only demonstrations, private groups, or seasonal specials may cost more. Prices subject to change—check the official Bois Chéri website or call ahead for current rates and group discounts.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Guided museum tour explaining the history of tea cultivation in Mauritius and colonial-era processing
Live/recorded factory demonstration showing withering, rolling, fermenting/oxidation and drying steps (when operational)
Tea-tasting session with 6–10 varieties (black, CTC, green, flavored blends) and pairing suggestions
Panoramic views over the southern tea terraces and the island’s central plateau
Plantation walk among tea bushes with explanations of crop cycles and pruning
On-site tea shop selling single-estate teas, flavored blends, souvenirs and gift sets
Tea pavilion café serving tea with snacks and light local bites
Itinerary
Arrival & welcome
Short orientation, ticketing, and safety briefing. Restrooms and small gift/shop area available.
Museum visit
Displays on the history of tea in Mauritius, vintage equipment, old photographs and multimedia exhibits—great context before seeing the factory.
Factory demonstration
Guided explanation of the processing line. Factory may be quiet outside main production season—staff often supplement with demonstrations or video.
Tea tasting session
Taste several teas from the estate; staff explain aroma, flavor notes and steeping tips. Opportunity to buy samples.
Plantation walk & viewpoints
Short guided walk around the tea terraces, photo stops and explanation of cultivation practices. Terrain can be uneven in places.
Tea shop & café
Final stop to purchase teas, enjoy a cup at the pavilion and sample local cakes or scones.
Safety Requirements
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes for plantation paths and factory areas
Follow staff instructions in and around factory machinery; some areas may be off-limits
Protect against sun and sudden showers—hat, sunscreen and a light rain jacket recommended
Bring medication for known allergies; some tasting sessions may include flavored teas (nuts/flowers)
Children should be supervised at all times—watch steps and edges at viewpoint areas
Tips
Book guided visits in advance during high season and on weekends to secure tasting slots
Arrive in the morning for the best chance of an active factory demonstration and clearer views
Ask staff for brewing/steeping tips and try to purchase a small sample to take home—tea tastes freshest within weeks of packing
Combine the visit with nearby attractions (e.g., Grand Bassin, La Vanille Nature Park, southern beaches) for a full-day itinerary
Bring a reusable travel mug if you plan to enjoy multiple tastings—staff often appreciate sustainable choices
If driving, expect winding roads through the central plateau; allow extra time for narrow country lanes
Check accessibility if you have reduced mobility—museum spaces are usually accessible but plantation walks and some viewpoints are not fully adapted
