Odysseo Oceanarium
Opened in 2021 at Les Salines, the first oceanarium in the Mascarenes: 45 tanks, 3,500 animals and 200 Indian Ocean species across 5,500 m². A modern, educational visit, ideal with kids or on a cloudy day.
Tip: Open 9am-5pm (last entry 4:15pm). Discounted resident rate with ID; pair with the Caudan, a 10-minute walk away.
The Indian Ocean behind glass
Opened in September 2021 at Les Salines on the Port Louis waterfront, Odysseo is Mauritius's first oceanarium. Across more than 5,000 m², around forty tanks hold some 3,500 marine animals from the Indian Ocean, from the lagoon to the deep sea.
The route follows a clear story, from inland waters to the coral reef and lagoon, then the open ocean with sharks and rays. The tunnel where sharks glide overhead is the highlight, especially for children.
What there is to do
You explore at your own pace with an audio guide in English, French or German. A virtual reality experience (Sea 360) and a photo booth round off the visit, with the shop at the exit.
Odysseo also runs bookable experiences such as shark feeding sessions and the overnight Sleep with the Sharks. Part of the ticket revenue funds marine conservation, the building runs partly on solar power and the site is plastic-free.
Prices and opening hours
Open daily from 9am to 5pm, last entry 4:15pm, closed on 1 January. Non-resident rates: Rs 1,280 per adult (18+), Rs 960 for ages 4 to 12, free under 4. Residents pay Rs 650 per adult, Rs 285 per child and Rs 400 for over-60s with ID (checked October 2026 on the official website).
Buy tickets online or at the desk. Special experiences have limited places, so book them ahead.
Getting there and practical tips
Odysseo is at the Harbour Waterfront in Les Salines, about a 10-minute walk from Caudan Waterfront, with free covered parking. By car, allow around 30 to 45 minutes from Grand Baie or Flic en Flac, more at rush hour around Port Louis.
The building is wheelchair and buggy friendly, with baby-changing facilities. Allow two hours. It is a perfect rainy-day or midday option, and weekday mornings are usually the quietest time to visit.
Combine it with
Odysseo does not replace a lagoon trip, it complements it: you see open-ocean species up close that you will never meet snorkelling, and learn to recognise the fish you will later spot at Blue Bay or Trou aux Biches. It also works well on arrival day or just before your flight home.
Lunch at Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis Central Market and Place d'Armes, the UNESCO-listed Aapravasi Ghat or the Intercontinental Slavery Museum, all close by.
Frequently asked questions
How much are Odysseo tickets?
Rs 1,280 per non-resident adult, Rs 960 per child aged 4 to 12 and free under 4. Mauritian residents get a reduced rate.
What are Odysseo's opening hours?
Every day from 9am to 5pm, last entry 4:15pm. It is closed on 1 January.
How long does a visit to Odysseo take?
About two hours for the full route, a little longer with a feeding experience.
Is there parking at Odysseo?
Yes, free covered parking on site at Les Salines, a 10-minute walk from Caudan.
