Mauritius island is the perfect place for many activities related to nature and water. You can enjoy scuba diving or snorkeling, give a try to deep sea fishing or kitesurfing.
There are many hiking trails in Mauritius, with fascinating views on the island’s cities and lagoons. Here is the list of the most popular trekking spots you should visit on this paradise island in the Indian Ocean.
1. Hiking Trails in Mauritius National Park “Black River Gorges”
The biggest part of all hiking trails in Mauritius is located on the territory of Black River Gorges National Park.
This park gained its status in 1994, with the main goal to preserve the endemic species of the island as well as to protect the forests.
There are trekking trails in Black River Gorges national park for people with different fitness levels. One of the most popular points there is Black River Gorges Viewpoint.
When you saw the pictures with the hill covered with greenery you should know that they were made exactly here.
There are about 60 km of trails to be explored. If you’re a pro, then you can try Mare Aux Joncs. This trail is 8.4 km long and will take 3 hrs + to complete. Click here to join Black River Gorges National Park hiking.
2. Le Pouce Mountain
This mountain is located very close to the capital of the island and can be included in your list of things to visit in Port Louis. It is a very popular hiking spot in Mauritius, which offers an opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views on the capital of the island, as well as other places.
In the beginning of your journey you’ll be surrounded by trees that give enough shade. But once you climb a bit higher you’ll see open space.
There is a plateau that you’ll reach in the middle of your way. If you’re planning to reach the top of Le Pouce mountain should know in advance that good fitness is required to do this.
On the summit of the mountain at the same time there can be only 10 people. Follow the link to book Le Pouce mountain hike.
- Length: 4 km
- Time: 2 hrs
- Difficulty: Moderate
- On the map
If you’re looking for easy walk with nice views on Port Louis and nearby area – check out Signal Mountain.
3. Le Morne Mountain
To enjoy the panoramic views on the south coast of Mauritius island you can from Le Morne Brabant. This is one of the best hikes in Mauritius that must be included in your list of things to do in Le Morne.
There are no trees on the mountain that could provide shade, so it is better to plan the ascent in the morning to avoid the scorching sun.
You don’t need some special training to climb the mountain, but it’s better to know in advance about several rather tricky parts you should be very careful of.
Being the UNESCO world heritage site, Le Morne is very popular hiking trail, that can be explored all year round.
You can climb Le Morne Brabant on your own, but if you’re not an experienced hiker Mauritius hiking guide will not be superfluous. Click here to join Le Morne Brabant sunrise hike.
It’s also one of the ways to enjoy the Underwater Waterfall Le Morne Brabant. The views will not be as impressive as from a bird’s eye view, but they worth all your efforts.
- Length: 7 km
- Time: 3 hrs
- Difficulty: Hard
- On the map
4. Lion Mountain
If you’re traveling to the southeast of the island, you might want to take a look at the island from the top of Lion mountain. This hiking trail requires you to be very careful.
Your journey will start right from the sugarcane fields, from which the path takes you up a tree-covered mountain. As many guides note, it’s rather easy to get lost there, so make sure you follow the route. There are two viewpoints you can check: east and west.
Scenic views opened from the summit will be a pleasant bonus for all your efforts.
- Length: 5 km (round trip)
- Time: up to 5 hrs
- Difficulty: Hard
- On the map
5. Mare Sarcelle
In the north-east of Mauritius island lies one of the national parks – Bras d’Eau. You can visit this place and explore the nice hike called “Mare Sacrelle”. It’s considered as one of the easiest hikes and will take about 90 minutes to complete.
You have to be aware of many rocks you’ll meet along your way. The path goes through the forest and at the end of the trek there is a beautiful lake. As there are many rocks, make sure you wear appropriate boots.
- Length: 7 km
- Time: 1.30 hrs
- Difficulty: Easy
- On the map
6. Tourelle du Tamarin
When you’re thinking about the western part of Mauritius island, the first thing you’ll find in any guide is that you must visit mountain Le Morne Brabant.
But, what do you think about hiking the mountain that will allow you to take a look at this famous place from absolutely another perspective. If that intrigues you, plan your visit to Tourelle du Tamarin.
Take enough water and plan your visit during morning or evening hours, as its super hot there and there is a lack of natural shade. This trekking path is pretty challenging, but the views from the summit are worth it.
- Length: 3 km
- Time: 2 hrs
- Difficulty: Moderate
- On the map
7. Deux Mamelles
There are two summits you can visit: west and east. Many guides recommend to follow the route to the east summit as it’s clean and easy to go compared to the west peak. The path is challenging and steep in some places, so you should be very careful.
Some tourists say that it’s a great place to see the sunset, but make sure you leave as early as possible, otherwise you’ll have to go through the dark forest.
- Length: 14 km
- Time: up to 4 hrs
- Difficulty: Moderate
- On the map
8. Corps de Garde
This hiking trail in Mauritius is just 30 minutes drive to the center of the island from its capital – Port Louis. There is a lack of natural shade at the place, so it’s better for you to start your journey early in the morning.
It’s difficult to lose the route, as it’s visible in the grass because it was trampled by other tourists. In addition to the view of the Rose Hill city on the horizon you can see the mountain Le Pouce.
- Length: 2 km (one way)
- Time: up to 4 hrs
- Difficulty: Moderate
- On the map
9. Les Trois Mamelles
This trail is located not so far from Curepipe city and Tamarind falls. The distinguishing part of this path from other Mauritius hikes is that it’s rather narrow. So, your physical fitness must be good to climb this mountain successfully.
Trip must be postponed in case of rain. The summit is very narrow, so you should be very careful. The views open from the top of Trois Mamelles are stunning.
- Length: 4 km
- Time: 2 hrs
- Difficulty:
- On the map
10. Trou aux Cerfs
Being in Mauritius, you’ll get a chance to explore dormant volcano, that is now a place for jogging and one of the best walking trails. This may sound a bit fantastic, but the slopes of the crater are covered by greenery.
Trees and bushes border a small lake located in the very center of the crater. It’s very dangerous to go down to this lake, as slopes are rather slippery.
But the area of Trou aux Cerfs volcano is very pleasant and quite easy to explore, about 1500 route steps with almost zero elevation.
11. Mont Limon
If you’re traveling to Rodrigues island and would like to have a great look on the island, plan a visit to Mont Lubin. From the summit of this mountain you will get a chance to see the whole island.
There are also many other places in Rodrigues island to discover, most of them don’t require special fitness level. But please make sure you wear appropriate hiking shoes, have enough water and take sunscreen with you.
- Length: 12.9 km
- Time: 4 hrs
- Difficulty: Moderate
- On the map
Main image: Photography by Kurt François
