Cryptococcal infection is rare in children, especially in immunocompetent patients. An immunocompetent preschool child was admitted due to a severe meningoencephalitis, with clear cerebrospinal fluid and focal lesions. Treatment for herpetic meningoencephalitis was commenced and mild recovery was initially observed. The patient was readmitted due to progression of the neurological symptoms. An aetiologic study was performed and cryptococcus was demonstrated in the CSF. We present this case of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, its diagnosis and a review of the literature. We advise that in all patients presenting with meningoencephalitis, clear CSF and an unknown aetilogy an India ink test should be performed.