Turquoise lagoon, fine sand and coconut trees, Mauritius is definitely a part of the Indian Ocean flagship destinations. Each year this paradise destination attracts many tourists looking for relaxation and escape from the four corners of the planet. Its rich culture, its gastronomy, the legendary hospitality of the Mauritian people, its luxurious nature: all make the island a tourist destination. Among the attractions of the island, you should not miss Port Louis and its Creole houses, Garden of Pamplemousses, Gabriel Island, Flat Island, the famous Land of Seven Colors Charamel and most importantly the Black-River gorges.
Take a big breath of fresh air
Inspire…. Expire…. and especially, keep the pace!
More than generous, the lush nature of the Black River Gorges Park (Black River Gorges National Park) contrast with the stretches of white sandy beautiful beaches the island of Mauritius offers. Located in the southwest of Mauritius near Chamarel, the park was created in 1994 and has since been managed by the NPC (National Park Service Conservation). Easily reached by car, we advise you to ask a road map from your car rental company in Mauritius so that you can add this wonderful spot on your “To-visit list”.
Black Rivers Gorges, extending over 6754 hectares, is a unique undulating emerald forest containing species and rare specimens (309 species of plants and 9 species of birds) endemic to Mauritius. The park makes it a point of honor to the preservation of this unique natural heritage. The reserve allows different species to evolve, to reproduce in a healthy environment and this is also an opportunity to raise awareness among visitors of the damage caused by man.
Trails in Black River Gorges
The Black River Gorges are worth a visit for all walkers, for nature lovers and bird watchers. The Black River Gorges are in the largest national park in Mauritius. Famous for its waterfalls, its scenery and hiking trails, the grooves are in the highlands, making them a colder place than the rest of the island.
Hiking Trip – Black River Gorges Park – Half Day
The Black River Gorges is a natural park that is located in the mountainous part of southwestern Mauritius. The park covers an area of 6.754 hectares. With the help of guides, you will discover the natural heritage of Mauritius in this unique region which is also the location of one of the rarest forests in the world. It houses about 311 species of native and endemic plants and flowers and 9 species of birds, which are found only in Mauritius.
This walk takes you to the heart of the indigenous forest with many panoramic views. You also arrive to a river where you can swim. During your ride you will learn about the indigenous, vegetation as well as on species of endemic and exotic birds.
The views you see during this hike are breathtaking: a large, beautiful gorge (canyon) curving dramatically downward between a series of mountains. Beautiful waterfalls down along the hillside with a mountain behind them among many other amazing views.
The park protects most tropical forest remaining on the island. Many endemic plants and animals can be found in the park, including the Mauritian flying fox foxes and all sorts of endemic birds of the island: the Mauritius Kestrel, the Pink Pigeon, the Mauritius parakeet, shrikes Mauritius The bulbul of Mauritius, the Mauritian White-eye, the white bird and the Mauritian cardinal.
Black River Gorges
Different forests, from East to West with different climates at high altitudes. The park is full of natural treasures: breathtaking vistas, lush forests, waterfalls and rivers with clear water. The national park has 4 main entrances: via Curepipe or Petrin in the North East, via Black River in the northwest, or via Chamarel or Case Noyale on the west and the path of the loft to the south of the park.
At the entrance of the park at Petrin information center, you can buy a map showing the various marked trails. The hiking trails are of different difficulty levels. Savanne is an easy 6 km track which offers beautiful views of the South East of Mauritius.
Note that you will witness spectacular views of Alexandra Falls located 700 meters above the level of the sea. All other viewpoints are as impressive on tropical forests and the Indian Ocean: the Maccabee View Point and Gorges View Point.
9 marked trails:
– Bel Ombre is an 18 km hike (round trip). It is located in Plaine Champagne southwest of the park. A long hike accessible to all.
– Cascade Roches, 3 km. A difficult track for the descent since it is steep.
– Forest Maccabee, moderate trail of 14 km. You will be immersed in the heart of one of the most beautiful tropical forests.
– The Maccabee Trail, 10 km. The trail will guide you to the Maccabee View Point where beautiful views of the ocean and the park await you.
– The trail of the Big Cateau Verte, 8 km. Challenging track
– The Mare Longue loop, 12 km. Moderate path, you will cross the dwarf native forest and discover the beautiful waterfall Mare Reeds and the Mare Longue Lake.
– The peak of the Black River, 9 km. Moderate trail that takes you to the Gorges View Point (828 meters above sea level).
– Le Paille en Queue trail 3 km. Moderate track.
– Savanne, 6 km. Easy trail.
Enjoy your visit of Black River Gorges!
