Places to Visit in Mauritius
Black River Gorges
Discover the wild heart of Mauritius. Ancient forests, mountain trails, waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints in the southwest of the island.
Location
Southwest Mauritius
Park Size
6,574 hectares
Best For
Nature lovers, hikers & photographers
Known For
Forests, mountains, trails & viewpoints
Trails
Around 60 km of hiking trails
Highest Point
Piton de la Rivière Noire — 828 m
Overview
Discover Black River Gorges National Park
Black River Gorges National Park protects one of the most important remaining areas of native forest in Mauritius and offers a completely different side of the island from its famous beaches and lagoons.
Spread across more than 6,500 hectares in the southwest of Mauritius, the park is a landscape of forest-covered mountains, deep valleys, waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.
Visitors can enjoy scenic stops along the surrounding roads or venture deeper into the park through its extensive network of hiking trails.
For nature lovers, photographers, hikers and travellers looking to experience the greener and wilder side of Mauritius, Black River Gorges is one of the island's essential places to discover.
6,574 hectares
of protected Mauritian wilderness
Why Visit
Why Visit Black River Gorges?
Mountain Landscapes
Experience some of the most impressive mountain and valley scenery in Mauritius.
Hiking Trails
Explore an extensive network of trails ranging from relatively accessible walks to more demanding routes through the forest.
Endemic Nature
Discover an important protected habitat for Mauritius' native plants and wildlife.
Scenic Viewpoints
Stop at elevated viewpoints for spectacular views across forests, valleys and the southwest of Mauritius.
Things to Do
Things to Do at Black River Gorges
Hiking
Explore forest trails ranging from shorter walks to challenging routes through the mountains.
Scenic Viewpoints
Enjoy sweeping views across the gorge, mountains and dense forests.
Birdwatching
Look and listen for some of Mauritius' native and endemic birdlife within the protected forest.
Nature Photography
Capture mountains, forests, waterfalls, wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
Discover Waterfalls
Explore waterfalls and streams found within and around the national park.
Experience the Forest
Take time away from the beaches and experience the cooler, greener interior of Mauritius.
Hiking
Explore the Hiking Trails
Black River Gorges contains around 60 km of trails, offering everything from relatively accessible nature walks to demanding routes through the mountainous interior.
Savanne Trail
6 km return
EasyA good option for travellers looking for a more accessible hiking experience.
Paille en Queue Trail
3 km
ModerateRuns between Alexandra and Plaine Champagne.
Black River Peak Trail
9 km return
ModerateA mountain route toward Black River Peak and some of the park's elevated scenery.
Machabee Forest Loop
14 km return
ModerateA longer forest route beginning and ending at Pétrin.
Mare Longue Loop
12 km return
ModerateA longer route through the park from Pétrin.
Parakeet Trail
8 km
StrenuousA more demanding route between Plaine Champagne and the lower Black River Gorges.
Featured Experience
Reach the Highest Point of Mauritius
Piton de la Rivière Noire
828 metres
Black River Gorges National Park contains Piton de la Rivière Noire, the highest point in Mauritius. For travellers interested in hiking and mountain scenery, the surrounding trails offer a very different perspective on the island.
Waterfalls & Viewpoints
Alexandra Falls
One of the best-known waterfall viewpoints in the region, surrounded by the green landscapes of the southwest.
Learn More
Black River Gorges Viewpoint
A spectacular stop overlooking the forest-covered valleys and mountains of the national park.
Forest & Mountain Views
Throughout the region, elevated roads and trails reveal dramatic views over one of Mauritius' most beautiful natural landscapes.
Visiting the National Park
Black River Gorges is a protected national park rather than a commercial adventure attraction.
Visitors can enjoy scenic viewpoints, nature and hiking opportunities throughout the park.
No activity purchase is required simply to appreciate the park and its viewpoints.
Travel Tips
Before You Go
- Wear appropriate walking shoes if you plan to hike
- Carry sufficient drinking water
- Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent
- Weather can change quickly in the mountainous interior
- Check weather conditions before hiking
- Stay on marked trails
- Do not disturb wildlife or vegetation
- Keep the park clean and take your waste with you
- Fires and smoking are prohibited
- Pets are not permitted
- More demanding hikes should be planned properly before arrival
Protecting Mauritius' Natural Heritage
Black River Gorges National Park plays an important role in protecting Mauritius' remaining native forests, plants and wildlife.
The national park was established not only for recreation but also for conservation, education and the protection of endemic flora and fauna.
Visitors should experience the park responsibly by staying on designated routes, respecting wildlife and leaving the natural environment undisturbed.
Getting There
Exploring Black River Gorges?
Make Black River Gorges part of your journey through southern Mauritius. MauTravel can arrange private transportation and combine scenic stops in the national park with other highlights of the region.
Continue Exploring
Explore South Mauritius
Continue your journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in southern Mauritius.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. It is one of the best places in Mauritius for travellers interested in mountain scenery, forests, hiking, viewpoints and the island's natural environment.
No. Hiking is one way to explore the park, but visitors can also experience the landscape through scenic roads and viewpoints.
A short sightseeing visit can be incorporated into a South Mauritius tour, while hikers may spend several hours or much of the day exploring the trails.
Piton de la Rivière Noire, also known as Black River Peak, reaches approximately 828 metres and is the highest point in Mauritius.
The national park contains around 60 km of trails, with routes varying considerably in distance and difficulty.
Suitable footwear, drinking water, sun protection, mosquito repellent and appropriate clothing are recommended. Weather conditions should be checked before setting out.
Yes. Black River Gorges can be incorporated into a private South Mauritius itinerary alongside other attractions in the region.
Ready When You Are
Discover the Wild Side of Mauritius
From forest-covered mountains to waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints, experience a side of Mauritius that goes far beyond its beaches.