Mauritius Gymkhana Club | Vacoas Phoenix

Mauritius Gymkhana Club (MGC)

The Mauritius Gymkhana Club is a historic private members' club located in Vacoas. Established in 1844, it is the oldest golf club in the Southern Hemisphere and a central landmark of British colonial heritage in Mauritius.

Visual Characteristics

The club is defined by its colonial-style clubhouse featuring white facades, dark wooden accents, and wide verandas. It is surrounded by an 18-hole golf course characterized by lush, rolling fairways and mature tropical trees. The interior maintains an "old world" atmosphere with traditional lounges, wood-paneled bars, and historical sporting memorabilia.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Suffolk, Vacoas-Phoenix 73419, Mauritius.

Access: Primary entrance is located on Suffolk Road.

Membership: Access to the clubhouse and sporting facilities is restricted to members and their guests. Visitors may access the golf course and certain facilities upon payment of a green fee or temporary pass.

Transport: Situated within a 10-minute walk from the Vacoas town center and the Metro Express station.

Historical Origin

The club was founded by British officers stationed at the nearby barracks. It originally served as a social and sporting hub for the military, focusing on cricket, horse racing, and polo before golf became its primary feature. The golf course was officially designed and laid out in 1902.

Key Highlights & Activities

Golf Course: An 18-hole, par-68 course known for its tight fairways and challenging layout.

Sports Facilities: Includes tennis courts, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, and squash courts.

Cricket: The club maintains one of the few active cricket grounds on the island.

Dining: Several restaurants and bars offering a mix of traditional British and local Mauritian cuisine.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: On-site pro shop, changing rooms, and conference rooms for corporate events.

Connectivity: 4G/5G cellular coverage is excellent.

Atmosphere: Maintains a strict dress code (smart casual) in most areas of the clubhouse.

Best Time to Visit

The club is active daily from 07:30 to 23:00 (extended to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays). Early mornings are preferred for golf to avoid the midday sun and potential afternoon rain showers typical of the central plateau.

Facts & Legends

The MGC is listed in the Guinness World Records as the oldest golf club in the Southern Hemisphere. It was originally used as a Royal Naval Air Station during World War II, with parts of the course repurposed for military logistics.

Nearby Landmarks

Vacoas Market: 1.2 km North

SMF Museum (Abercromby Barracks): 0.8 km North

Trou aux Cerfs Volcano: 2.5 km South

Phoenix Mall: 3.5 km North