Trekking and Hiking in Mauritius - 7 Hiking Spots For The Adventure Enthusiasts

Known for its hilly terrain from a volcanic origin, Mauritius is widely popular among tourists for its different hiking possibilities all over the island. Hiking and Trekking in Mauritius, with a combination of challenging trails through rough terrains, is tough for any adventure lover to resist. The vibrant island nation has some breathtaking locations to explore and embrace nature up close.
Here are 7 Hiking Trails in Mauritius:

1. Black River Gorges National Park

This 6754-hectare national park located in the southwestern part of Mauritius offers a lot of scope for hiking and trekking. The park is divided into a 120-kilometer trail on the western gorges and 50 kilometers on the east. The Petrin information centre in the park provides tourists with a hiking map for primary trails. Hiring a guide is recommended for more adventurous and hidden treks. The hikes generally start and end in the park's southernmost or western part. That's the place for the second information center, which also provides maps.

Winter season is the best time for hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park. It is recommended that the tourists bring their mosquito repellent cream and sunscreen lotion, hiking shoes, spare clothes, and a decent amount of food and water supply before setting on to the trip.

Duration: 2-3 hours
Distance: 10km (6.2m)

2. Corps De Garde

Another hiking spectacle with a hint of historical backdrop, the Corps de Garde has a height of 720 meters and is located between Black River and Plaine Williams. It is believed that the slaves ran away from their masters and hid in the mountain's dense forests and rocky terrain. The mountain has a fair gradient slope initially, and the paths are crisscrossed. The hike offers the tourists views of the La Ferme reservoir and the ocean beyond. Mountains like the Le Morne are fairly visible from the summit.

A few of the edges during the trail are very steep and deserve special care while crossing them. The sights of the nearby villages cuddled by the lush vegetation give the hike a classic country feel.

Duration: 2-3 hours
Distance: 8.4km 

3. Tamarin Falls

Widely known as 'Sept Cascades', which means seven waterfalls, the Tamarin Falls is heaped with lush tropical vegetation. The best way to explore this natural wonder is through an adventurous trek. It originates from the Tamarind River, formed the canyon over millions of years, and gave birth to these seven-stepped cascades. The water streams down to a refreshing pond at the bottom, and the water goes ahead as a supply to two reservoirs of the island, namely the Tamarind Reservoir and the Longue Reservoir. The water of the Tamarind Falls is also used to generate hydroelectricity. Under the guidance of a professional trekker, almost anyone with little or no experience in trekking is eligible to undertake this venture.

It is one of the most loved getaway destinations to connect with nature and be immersed in the freshness of the falls. The trekkers can choose either the trail going through the forest or the basalt rock open area. The 40-meter waterfall, complemented by the captivating greenery, constitutes stunning scenery. Each of the seven falls has a different view to offer, with variations in height and water flow. Nature lovers cannot afford to miss the reflection of the sunlight behind the waterfall.

Duration: 1-2 hours
Distance: 5.6 km

4. Le Morne Brabant

This UNESCO World Heritage site has earned its reputation among the top destinations for hiking lovers. Le Morne stands at 550 meters above sea level, and its total area is over 12 hectares. We can find this majestic mountain in the southernmost tip of Mauritius. Along with its adventurous popularity, the Le Morne Brabant has vital historical significance, and many tourists visit the commemoration of the slaves in the sight as it is believed that hundreds of slaves jumped from the cliffs of the mountain and gave their lives in fear of being captured again. Apart from this blue background, hiking up the hill through the dense arrays of trees and being exposed to the extraordinary beauty of the turquoise blue ocean is worth all the time and effort invested in it.

The Le Morne Trust restricts the entire summit to ensure the perseveration of this nature reserve. The most hiked trail is relatively easy and is a well-traveled pathway. The hike isn't physically challenging, although having a guide is recommended in emergencies. While crossing a few sections that are very steep and narrow requires some extra help to cover the grounds. The hike starts early because of its direct exposure to sunlight, and it can get tiring. It is advisable not to start the trek in case of weather changes and rainy climate.

Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance: 7kms

5. Signal Mountain

Due to its most natural hiking trail, Signal Mountain is popular among residents and tourists. With a height of 323 meters above sea level, the peak of Signal Mountain offers a view of Mauritius. Capital Port Louis and its harbor. The path to the mountaintop is full of wild vegetation and dry bushes, and species like Acacia trees can also be found. Further ahead, landmarks like La Citadelle and Champ de Mars can be seen.

Signal Mountain is a frequent jogging and walking area where the tourists come to relax both in the morning to take in all the freshness and in the afternoon to ease away all the stress of their days with the sight of the heavenly sunset.

Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance: 10.3kms

6. Le Pouce Mountain

Situated in Mauritius' Moka district, the hiking trail of Le Pouce Mountain is very popular among adventure lovers despite its low difficulty level, making it very suitable for aspiring hikers and beginners. It is the third-highest mountain in Mauritius, with a height of 812 meters. Guava and acacia trees populate the Le Pouce along with some endemic species throughout the landscape it covers. The hiking trail runs in between the sugarcane fields, and going further ahead from there, the curvy mountain roads begin, which are shaded by huge trees and dense forest alongside.

Breathtaking views of the harbor, Plaine Williams, and Pailles can be witnessed from over the highlands upon reaching the edge of the cliffs. The pathway that leads to the top of the mountain is very dangerous, and it is highly recommended to have a guide. Other than this tricky part, the trail is an easy walk for families and groups of friends. On reaching the top, the astonishing 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding islets, the sugar plantations, the docks and the west coast leaves you speechless.

Duration: 2-3 hours
Distance: 4.3 kms

7. Lion Mountain

This 480-meter mountain in the south-eastern landscapes of Mauritius got its name because of its sphinx-shaped structure. Vast lands of natural vegetation and rare species of flora and fauna bombard the surroundings of Lion Mountain. The fresh air and the soothing ambiance are ideal for hikers for a soul-cleansing rejuvenation. The route to this, the Lion Mountain, runs through sugarcane fields up to the foot of the slope. The climb is a mixed bag of relatively easy pathways and steep corners that require precaution. It gets a little challenging when it comes to following the unmarked rocks and is best dealt with by professional help. The trail pierces through the dense forests and cliffs.

The roots of trees help climb to the peak. At the summit, the soul-soothing view of the entire South Coast, the sparkling blue ocean, some famous historical islets of the region, and their lush green surroundings make you forget all the climbing.

Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance: 8.4kms

Hence, it would be apt to conclude that Mauritius is a hikers' paradise. With extraordinary scenic beauties and exciting hiking experiences to offer, this Indian Ocean island nation is going to become your favorite getaway for hiking!