The Top 4 Hikes in Mauritius

As an island nation in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is most often celebrated for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and luxurious resorts. But beyond the picture-postcard coastlines and the plush hotel lobbies lies an interior and some fantastic hikes in Mauritius that are waiting to be explored by adventurous travellers.

One thing that surprises many visitors when they first arrive in Mauritius is how green it is! Many have the vision of beaches and bright blue waters inside the lagoons, but the island has a lot more to offer.

Mauritius was formed around 10 million years ago by a volcanic eruption. The volcanic topography creates an array of beautiful hiking trails that cater to a range of fitness levels and capabilities.

The flight path into Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport comes in over rainforest that’s dense and verdant, broken by some spectacular waterfalls for which Mauritius is famous. Those flying in may also be treated to views of the mountains and peaks, all waiting to be explored.

In this blog, we’ll delve into some of the best hikes in Mauritius. The trails we’re featuring are suitable for those who are fit and active, but don’t necessarily have to be seasoned mountaineers to complete!

Le Pouce

One of the most iconic and challenging hikes in Mauritius, Le Pouce (also known as “The Thumb”) is a must-do for avid hikers. As the third-highest peak on the island, this distinctive thumb-shaped mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the central highlands.

The hike to the summit of Le Pouce is considered moderate, with a well-marked trail that winds through dense tropical foliage and over rocky terrain. The ascent can be a little steep in parts but the trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers who are comfortable with some light scrambling.

The reward at the top of Le Pouce is a 360-degree view that takes in the lush green hills, distant ocean and the iconic silhouette of nearby Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire (Peak of the Small Black River).

Elevation Gain: 458 meters (1,502 feet)

Duration: 3-4 hours round trip

Black River Gorges National Park

Probably the most famous area on the island for hiking, the Black River Gorges National Park is a true gem of Mauritius’ interior and encompasses over 6,500 hectares of wilderness. This protected area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the Mauritian flying fox, the Mauritius kestrel and lots of monkeys.*

Within the national park, there are several trails that cater to different skill levels and offer some of the best hikes on the island. One of the most popular routes is the Alexandra Falls trail, which leads hikers through a lush, forested landscape to a stunning 98-metre (322-foot) waterfall. The moderate, 6-kilometre (3.7-mile) round-trip hike is well-marked and relatively easy, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a scenic but manageable trek.

For those wanting more of a challenge, the Black River Gorges National Park offers longer, more strenuous hikes like the Pigeon Wood Trail and the Grand Bassin Trail. These routes feature steeper climbs, rougher terrain and more diverse wildlife.

The highest peak in Mauritius – Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire – can be accessed via a trail in the national park (also accessible from the main road of Plain Champagne). This peak is 828 metres (2,716 feet) and offers breathtaking views across the island. Hiking to the summit is pretty steady with viewpoints at 620 metres – Piton St Denis – and at 828 metres at Black River Peak. Predominantly forest-walking, it’s only the last section that gets quite steep. Hikers can use the rope handle for support in steeper sections.

Elevation: Varies by trail

Duration: 2-6 hours, depending on route

*watch out for monkeys, especially in the more touristy areas – round food shacks and ice cream vans. They’ve become fans of ice cream and have been known to approach tourists and grab snacks and cones out of their hands.

Macchabée Forest

Situated in the southwestern part of Mauritius, the Macchabée Forest beckons hikers with its lush trails and stunning natural beauty. This protected forest reserve is home to a range of endemic plant and animal species, including the Mauritius kestrel and the Mauritius bulbul.

One of the most popular hikes in Mauritius is the Curepipe-Macchabée Trail, a moderate 8-kilometre (5-mile) route that takes hikers through stunning tropical vegetation, towering trees and occasional panoramic views. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate.

The longer Macchabée-to-Vacoas Trail covers approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) and offers a deeper dive into the forest’s interior. This trail is slightly more challenging, with some steeper sections and more technical terrain.

Elevation: Varies by trail

Duration: 2-4 hours, depending on route

Tamarind Falls

Located in the southwest of Mauritius, the Tamarind Falls hike is another absolute gem, offering stunning natural scenery and a moderate physical challenge. A hike not to be missed, the trail leads hikers through lush forest to a series of cascading waterfalls, culminating in the impressive and very beautiful Tamarind Falls.

The hike is considered moderate in difficulty, with a well-maintained trail that features some steep and rocky sections. The ascent can be challenging in parts, but it’s manageable for people that are reasonably fit and who’re comfortable with some light scrambling. The reward at the end is the chance to swim in the cool, refreshing pools at the base of the falls, surrounded by the lush, tropical foliage. This hike, along with the waterfall and pools are spectacular for photography!

Elevation: 400 meters (1,312 feet)

Duration: 3-4 hours round trip

Trois Mamelles

The Trois Mamelles, named for the three distinct hilltops that resemble breasts – Mauritians are very literal – offers quite a challenging hike. Those that take on the Trois Mamelles will get some incredible panoramic views and feel a huge sense of achievement. Located in the central highlands of Mauritius, this hike is known for a steep, winding trail that leads hikers through lush vegetation and rocky outcrops.

While this hike is considered moderately difficult, it is well-suited for people who are pretty fit and don’t mind a bit of light scrambling. The trail is well-marked and maintained and is a steady uphill climb. Once hikers reach the summit, they’re rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside, including the iconic Pieter Both mountain.

Elevation: 350 meters (1,148 feet)

Duration: 2-3 hours round trip

And for those seeking more of a challenge than moderate hikes in Mauritius…

Pieter Both

Pieter Both is the second-highest peak in Mauritius, reaching an elevation of over 800 metres. The hike to the summit is considered one of the most difficult in the country, requiring technical climbing skills and equipment. The peak is named after the first Governor General of the Dutch East Indies who dies in a shipwreck near Flic en Flac in 1615.

Pieter Both’s trail features very steep, exposed sections that require scrambling and the use of ropes and, in certain areas, harnesses. The final push to the summit involves rock climbing beyond the ability of most casual hikers. Requiring specialist skills and gear and a lot of stamina, the peak can test the fitness of even very experienced climbers.

The views from the Pieter Both summit are absolutely spectacular, but this hike is really only recommended for experienced climbers.

Elevation: 823 metres (2,699 feet)

Duration: 6-8 hours round trip

Le Morne

The most iconic peak in Mauritius can be found at Le Morne Brabant, the UNESCO World Heritage site that rises dramatically from the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The lower section of the trail is manageable for those who are relatively fit and happy with a small amount of scrambling, but the final part of the climb is very challenging and not recommended for anyone lacking in some pretty significant climbing experience. The hike requires a high level of physical fitness, stamina and experience with challenging terrain.

As with Pieter Both, the trail features very steep, rocky and exposed sections that require a significant amount of scrambling and use of hands for stability. The final push to the top involves rock climbing that’s beyond the abilities of most casual hikers. A strong head for heights and comfort with exposure is also a must, with numerous sheer cliff faces along the route!

Elevation: 556 metres (1,824 feet)

Duration: 6-8 hours round trip

Whilst Mauritius is renowned for its beaches and luxury resorts, the island’s interior is a real haven for travellers who want to take it some stunning scenery as well as learn about the flora and fauna of this beautiful island. The hikes in Mauritius offer a diverse array of trails for a range of fitness levels, interests and ages. We recommend all hikers are accompanied by a guide – on some peaks they’re a mandatory requirement – for safety and to make sure that suitable footwear and clothing is worn for the challenge.

If dipping your toes in to the Indian Ocean one day and hiking on rainforest trails the next sounds like your perfect holiday, have a chat with Emma who’s on hand to create the perfect holiday for you in Mauritius.