Hiking & Trekking in Mauritius

Explore Mauritius on Foot

While Mauritius is world-renowned for its pristine beaches and turquoise lagoons, the island's interior reveals a completely different but equally captivating landscape. Hiking and trekking in Mauritius opens up a world of endemic forests, cascading waterfalls, dramatic mountain peaks, and breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the island's volcanic origins and incredible biodiversity. From gentle nature walks suitable for families to challenging mountain ascents that test experienced hikers, Mauritius offers trails for every fitness level and interest.

The island's compact size means you can experience diverse ecosystems within short distances – from coastal plains through mid-altitude forests to mountain peaks, each supporting unique plant and animal communities. Many of these species exist nowhere else on Earth, making hiking in Mauritius not just a physical adventure but also a journey through evolutionary history. The cooler temperatures at higher elevations provide welcome relief from the tropical heat, while the panoramic views reward every step of the challenging climbs.

Black River Gorges National Park

The Heart of Mauritius' Wilderness

Black River Gorges National Park covers over 6,500 hectares of pristine forest and represents the largest protected area in Mauritius. This remarkable park preserves much of the island's remaining native vegetation and provides sanctuary for many endemic species that were once on the brink of extinction. The park's network of well-maintained trails offers hiking opportunities ranging from easy walks to demanding multi-day treks through some of the most biodiverse forests in the Indian Ocean.

The Macaque Trail is one of the park's most popular moderate hikes, winding through dense forest where hikers can spot the endangered pink pigeons and Mauritius kestrels that have been brought back from near extinction through conservation efforts. The trail passes through different forest zones, each with its own character and endemic species. Ancient ebony trees, some over 100 years old, tower overhead while rare orchids and ferns carpet the forest floor.

Waterfalls and Hidden Gems

The park is home to several spectacular waterfalls that serve as rewarding destinations for hiking adventures. The Alexandra Falls trail is a moderate hike that leads to one of the island's most beautiful cascades, plunging 700 feet into a pristine pool surrounded by native forest. The trail passes through areas where visitors can observe the remarkable recovery of endemic species, including native palms and hardwood trees that were once nearly extinct due to deforestation.

For more adventurous hikers, the trail to Tamarind Falls, also known as the Seven Cascades, offers a more challenging but incredibly rewarding experience. This series of waterfalls requires river crossings, scrambling over rocks, and navigating through dense vegetation. The effort is rewarded with opportunities to swim in natural pools beneath stunning waterfalls, surrounded by untouched forest where the only sounds are flowing water and endemic bird calls.

Iconic Mountain Peaks

Le Morne Brabant - UNESCO World Heritage Climb

Le Morne Brabant stands as both a natural monument and a symbol of human struggle, recognized by UNESCO for its role as a refuge for escaped slaves in the 18th and 19th centuries. The mountain itself is a spectacular monolith rising 556 meters from the southwestern tip of Mauritius, offering one of the island's most challenging and rewarding hiking experiences. The trail to the summit is steep and demanding, requiring good fitness levels and proper equipment, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.

The hike begins through dry coastal vegetation before ascending through different ecological zones, each supporting unique plant communities adapted to the harsh mountain conditions. As hikers climb higher, the vegetation becomes increasingly specialized, with endemic plants that exist only on this mountain. The final approach to the summit involves some scrambling over rocks and can be intimidating for those with fear of heights, but the reward is unmatched – 360-degree views of the island, the famous underwater waterfall illusion, and the vast Indian Ocean stretching to the horizon.

Le Pouce and the Central Plateau

Le Pouce, at 812 meters, is one of Mauritius' highest peaks and offers a more accessible mountain hiking experience than Le Morne. The distinctive thumb-shaped peak that gives the mountain its name (Le Pouce means "the thumb" in French) provides excellent views over Port Louis and the northern plains. The trail begins in the Moka mountain range and passes through different vegetation zones, from introduced pine forests to native mountain scrubland.

The hike to Le Pouce summit typically takes 3-4 hours round trip and is suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels. Along the way, hikers encounter spectacular viewpoints, interesting rock formations, and opportunities to observe both endemic and introduced bird species. The summit offers panoramic views that on clear days extend across the entire northern part of the island, providing perfect opportunities for photography and a well-deserved rest before the descent.

Coastal and Lowland Trails

Ile d'Ambre Nature Reserve

For a completely different hiking experience, Ile d'Ambre Nature Reserve offers coastal trails through one of the few remaining examples of Mauritius' original coastal forest. This small island, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, preserves ecosystems that once covered much of the Mauritian coast but have largely disappeared due to development. The hiking trails here are relatively easy, making them perfect for families or those seeking a gentler introduction to Mauritius' endemic flora and fauna.

The reserve's trails wind through different habitat zones, from mangrove areas where land meets sea to dry coastal forest dominated by native hardwoods. Birdwatchers particularly enjoy this area, as it supports several endemic species including the Mauritius olive white-eye and echo parakeet. The trails also offer beautiful views across the northern lagoons and opportunities to observe the delicate balance between terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Heritage Nature Trails

Several heritage trails combine hiking with cultural education, taking visitors through areas of historical significance while exploring natural environments. The Eureka Nature Trail, for example, combines a visit to the colonial-era Eureka House with hiking through the surrounding forest and riverside areas. These trails offer insights into how humans have interacted with the Mauritian environment over centuries, from indigenous settlements to colonial plantations to modern conservation efforts.

Endemic Flora and Fauna

Unique Ecosystems and Species

Hiking in Mauritius provides unparalleled opportunities to observe endemic species that exist nowhere else on Earth. The island's isolation in the Indian Ocean led to the evolution of unique plants and animals perfectly adapted to local conditions. Many hiking trails pass through areas where conservation efforts have successfully restored native ecosystems, allowing visitors to witness remarkable recovery stories firsthand.

The endemic ebony forests that once covered much of Mauritius are now restricted to small protected areas accessible through hiking trails. These ancient trees, some over 200 years old, represent direct links to the island's pre-human ecosystem. Hikers can also encounter the famous bottle palm, one of the world's rarest palms, and various endemic orchids that bloom seasonally along the trails. The sounds of endemic birds like the pink pigeon and echo parakeet provide a natural soundtrack to hiking adventures.

Practical Hiking Information

Best Seasons for Hiking

The cooler, drier months from May to October represent the ideal hiking season in Mauritius. During this period, temperatures are more comfortable for strenuous activity, humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal, ensuring better trail conditions and clearer views from mountain peaks. Morning starts are particularly recommended as temperatures are coolest and afternoon clouds are less likely to obscure mountain views.

However, hiking is possible year-round with proper preparation. The summer months from November to April can be hot and humid, requiring earlier starts and more frequent breaks, but they also offer lush, green landscapes and flowing waterfalls at their most spectacular. The wet season brings occasional heavy showers that can make trails muddy but also creates temporary waterfalls and enhances the forest's beauty.

Essential Gear and Preparation

Proper preparation is crucial for safe and enjoyable hiking in Mauritius. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential, as many trails involve uneven terrain and occasional rock scrambling. Quick-dry clothing, sun protection, and insect repellent are important for comfort. Carry plenty of water – more than you think you'll need – as tropical conditions increase fluid requirements and natural water sources may not be safe for drinking.

A basic first aid kit, emergency whistle, and mobile phone (though coverage can be spotty in remote areas) are important safety items. Many hikers also appreciate bringing binoculars for wildlife observation and a camera with extra batteries for capturing the spectacular scenery. For longer hikes, energy snacks and a headlamp (in case of delays) are advisable. Consider hiring local guides for challenging hikes, as they provide invaluable knowledge about routes, safety, and natural history.

Safety and Environmental Responsibility

Hiking safety in Mauritius requires awareness of tropical conditions and respect for fragile ecosystems. Weather can change quickly in mountainous areas, and flash floods are possible during heavy rains. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Stick to established trails to avoid getting lost and to minimize environmental impact on sensitive ecosystems.

Environmental responsibility is crucial when hiking in areas that support endemic species and fragile ecosystems. Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, don't pick plants or disturb wildlife, and avoid creating new trails or shortcuts. The endemic species you encounter during hiking have survived centuries of challenges and deserve our protection so future generations can enjoy the same incredible natural heritage.