If you’re thinking about hiking in Mauritius, lucky you! Hidden waterfalls tumbling from tropical forests, unique mountain peaks and breathtaking scenery await.
Plus, you have a chance to see Mauritian wildlife too, such as giant fruit bats and giant tortoises (there’s nothing else that’s ‘giant’ here, don’t worry)!
This Mauritius hiking guide doesn’t cover every amazing place on the island (there are a lot…) but I’ve made sure to include a list of trails to suit a range of adventures and difficulty levels.
Do them with a guide or on your own, depending on how confident you feel.
So, here are the best hiking places in Mauritius.
Mauritius hiking map
The best walking trails in Mauritius
The best hikes in Mauritius allow you to discover incredible landscapes | Photo credit: Canva.com
1. Le Pouce Mountain
- Hike difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Route length: 4.3km (2.6 miles)
- Hike duration: 2-3 hours
Le Pouce, aka ‘The Thumb’ is the third highest mountain in Mauritius. Located near Port Louis, it stands at 812 metres tall, and it’s moderately challenging to hike.
It’s about a 2 hour round trip to complete and offers seriously gorgeous views of Port Louis below.
These only get better once you reach the summit and find panoramic views out towards the Moka Range with forests, sugarcane fields and the ocean in the distance.
Watch out for monkeys on your trail. Keep your possessions close!
Where to start the hike: The trailhead can be found where Chateau D’eau Street ends in Port Louis.
Photo credit: Canva.com
2. Le Morne Brabant
- Hike difficulty: Challenging
- Route length: 7km (4.3 miles)
- Hike duration: 3-4 hours
An ideal hike for those who like adventure, Le Morne Brabant is a bit of a tough one, but it’s still one of the most rewarding hiking trails in Mauritius.
The trail is iconic both for its historical and geological significance. In fact, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The first part of the hike isn’t too difficult. It’s only when you start to climb up that it gets steep and scrambly.
You won’t be able to reach the true summit without climbing gear but you can get to a mini-summit. There you’ll find a large cross to mark the mountain’s historical significance.
I recommend walking this with a hiking tour. They can help you navigate some of the trickier scrambles plus you’ll learn about the history of the mountain.
Where to start the hike: The start of the trail is well marked on a map. In fact, if you search Le Morne trail entrance it will come up.
Book your guided hike of Le Morne Brabant.
Photo credit: Canva.com
3. Les Trois Mamelles
- Hike difficulty: Moderate
- Route length: 4.2km (2.6 miles)
- Hike duration: 2 hours
Trois Mamelles is another stunning mountain to hike in Mauritius, near Vacoas-Phoenix, Plaines Wilhems. It’s recognisable by its collection of three peaks which the name unflatteringly translates to ‘three udders.’
There are some pretty steep sections where you’ll be climbing up rocks using your hands – so it’s worth taking that into account if you aren’t confident.
Most hikers climb the middle peak of the three, which stands at 500 metres.
Once again, panoramic views make the effort 100% worthwhile!
Where to start the hike: The trailhead is a little tricky to find as it’s located in some sugarcane fields.
Head to Quatre Bornes and then make your way to Jawaharlal Nehru Avenue where you’ll find the start of the track.
Photo credit: Canva.com
4. Lion Mountain Hike
- Hike difficulty: Medium to challenging
- Route length: 8.4km (5.2 miles)
- Hike duration: 3-4 hours
One of the most challenging mountains to climb in Mauritius. Lion Mountain is not for the faint of heart as it requires some serious scrambling and the track isn’t always well signposted.
Sitting at 590 metres above sea level, it isn’t too high, but it does offer some beautiful views once you make it to the top.
Be careful as the trail isn’t well marked in places, and there are some steep bits.
Where to start the hike: The trailhead for Lion Mountain is located next to Virieux Grand Port Police Station in the southeast of Mauritius.
Photo credit: Canva.com
5. Piton De La Petite Rivière Noire
- Hike difficulty: Moderate
- Route length: 7km (4.3 miles)
- Hike duration: 3-4 hours
Of course, I couldn’t leave out the highest and one of the most bucket list-worthy mountains in Mauritius! Standing at 828 metres above sea level, the summit is the tallest point on the island.
Despite its size, the mountain isn’t too challenging to climb because it’s well signposted and the path is easy to follow.
The first part of the hike in Black River Gorges is well shaded. The second and third sections are more exposed and a lot harder.
The final bit does require you to scramble. Once you make it to the top, you’re rewarded with dramatic 360 views of the southwestern peninsula.
You can book a hiking tour here.
Where to start the hike: Located in Black River Gorges National Park, the trailhead can be found off Plaine Champagne Road.
Photo credit: Canva.com
6. Machabee Trail
- Hike difficulty: Easy
- Route length: 10km (6.2 miles)
- Hike duration: 2-3 hours
One of my favourite hikes in Mauritius because it’s so easy!
This beginner-friendly hike takes you into the heart of Black River Gorges National Park, which is an absolutely breathtaking place to trek in Mauritius.
The Machabee hike itself is well-signposted and you’re surrounded by lush forest and wildlife. You can do this guided tour too.
Pack a picnic and stop at Machabee Viewpoint, which has lovely views across the park. You’ll want to bring your camera!
Where to start the hike: You can find the trail starting point at Le Pétrin Information Centre, not far from Grand Bassin Temple (which is another amazing excursion to add to your Mauritius itinerary!).
Photo credit: Canva.com
7. Corps de Garde Mountain
- Hike difficulty: Moderate
- Route length: 4km (2.5 miles)
- Hike duration: 3-4 hours
Corps de Garde is one of the top stamina mountains to hike in Mauritius, with a few rocky scrambles. At 720 metres above sea level, it takes a good 4 hours – maybe even 5 if you have lots of breaks.
The hike is pretty exposed most of the way, so bear that in mind if you want to avoid the heat of the sun. Try to start it earlier in the day if possible.
The good news is the hiking trail is pretty easy to follow so it’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Where to start the hike: The hiking trail starts from the Camp Levieux Housing Estate in Stanley. It’s a well-marked track, so you should have no problems finding it.
Photo credit: Canva.com
8. Ebony Forest
- Hike difficulty: Easy
- Route length: 1-6km (up to 3.7 miles)
- Hike duration: 2-3 hours
Another one of my favourite easy hikes in Mauritius, Ebony Forest is a reserve dedicated to protecting the island’s native species, including giant tortoises and endemic birds.
There are several easy family-friendly hikes around the reserve but the absolute best one is up the raised walkway to Sublime Point.
You can walk or get a 4×4 ride to the walkway and follow it through the trees.
At Sublime Point you have amazing views across Mauritius and out towards the Indian Ocean. You can stay there or continue on for another hour up to the summit of Piton Canot for even more views.
Where to start the hike: Head to Ebony Forest Reserve Chamarel. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you arrive at the gates. You can then follow the signs to Piton Canot or do a guided hike.
Book your ticket for Ebony Forest Reserve here.
9. Tamarind Falls / Sept Cascades
- Hike difficulty: Moderate
- Route length: 5km (3.1 miles)
- Hike duration: 3-4 hours
If you’re looking for waterfalls galore, you’ll absolutely want to do Tamarind Falls, which also goes by Sept Cascades – aka Seven Waterfalls. Apparently, there are actually 12 waterfalls in total!
The trail takes you through a lush green valley where one by one, you’ll come across magnificent waterfalls.
You can do the hike on your own, but I recommend going with a guide as they will show you the best pools to swim in during your hike – bring your swimwear!
Where to start the hike: Head to the Bord Cascade bus stop in Henrietta to find the trailhead. It’s a popular waterfall hike in Mauritius, so there should be plenty of people around if you get stuck.
Book your Tamarind Falls hike.
Photo credit: Canva.com
Essentials for your Mauritius hikes
Sunscreen  It’s very hot and sunny in Mauritius so make sure you wear sunscreen. I use Green People because it’s reef-safe, great for sensitive skin and rubs in well - no awkward streaks! | Water bottle  Remember to hydrate when out walking. I recommend taking a water filter bottle like Water-to-Go because you can safely use it on any fresh water source you come across. | Hiking shoes  Wearing the right footwear is important. If hiking boots are too bulky, go for a terrain sneaker like Tropicfeel that’s got your back from trail to street. These are lightweight and comfy! |
10. Eau Bleue Waterfalls
- Hike difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Route length: 1km (0.6 miles)
- Hike duration: 2-3 hours
Easily some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mauritius, Eau Bleue has stunning blue waters surrounded by tropical forest. It’s understandably pretty popular!
Found near the village of Cluny, the trail has a string of seven waterfalls to explore – each one with crystal clear waters so you’ll want to pack your swimwear again.
Where to start the hike: Eau Bleue Waterfall is located in the village of Cluny. Here’s the exact location of the starting point.
Photo credit: Canva.com
11. Cascade 500 Pieds
- Hike difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Route length: 4km (2.5 miles)
- Hike duration: 1.5 hours
Cascade 500 Pieds or Cascades des Galets as it’s also called is one of the tallest waterfalls in Mauritius – the top spot goes to Chamarel Waterfall.
Located in Black River Gorges National Park, it has a few tricky parts where you navigate river crossings but once you reach it you get panoramic views of the south coast and a natural infinite pool.
Where to start the hike: Make your way to Alexandra Falls Car Park in Black River Gorges National Park. The track starts from Alexandra Falls Viewpoint.
Photo credit: Canva.com
12. Rochester Falls
- Hike difficulty: Easy
- Route length: 4km (2.5 miles)
- Hike duration: 1 hour
Another popular waterfall hike, Rochester Falls is easy to reach with a mostly flat but slightly rocky track to follow. It’s well signposted so you won’t get lost.
Bring swimwear as you’ll most likely want to take a dip once you reach the falls. Some people even jump off the top as they’re not very high but don’t do anything you’re not sure about!
Where to start the hike: There are two ways to get to Rochester Falls. One which leads you to the top of the waterfall and one that takes you to the bottom.
Follow Piton Street from the town of Souillac until you reach the Rochester Falls Car Park. From there, you should be able to see the track.
Photo credit: Canva.com
13. Vallée de Ferney
- Hike difficulty: Easy
- Route length: 3km (1.8 miles)
- Hike duration: 1.5 hours
Vallée de Ferney has a beautiful nature walk in Mauritius. It has an entrance fee but you’re surrounded by forest and wildlife which makes it well worth it in my opinion.
A great choice for those wanting to get out in nature without anything too taxing, there’s an easy 3km trail to follow with a small waterfall and views out towards the ocean.
Look out for rare ebony trees, Mauritian kestrel and pink pigeon. You can find giant tortoises here too.
Where to start the hike: Vallée de Ferney is another nature reserve. Located in the southeast of Mauritius. You should be able to find it pretty easily if you look out for the signs.
14. Ile aux Aigrettes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: 1.5 hours
I couldn’t miss a chance to add Ile aux Aigrettes to the list. More of an outdoor excursion than a full-blown hike, it’s still well worth a visit if you want to get out into nature.
Run by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Ile aux Aigrettes is a tiny 27-hectare islet just off the southeast coast of Mauritius.
There you can find an endemic coastal forest with rare birds and giant tortoises roaming through it.
You can take a guided tour and learn about the conservation work on the island.
The track is very easy to follow but there are some uneven bits to look out for here and there. Visiting Ile aux Aigrettes was definitely one of the highlights of my trip!
Where to start the hike: The only way to get to Ile aux Aigrettes is by a boat operated by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.
Head to Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point to get your tickets and catch the boat. Alternatively, you can get your tickets online.
Read more about visiting Ile aux Aigrettes here.
Hiking in Mauritius: quick tips to know
You’re not really going to find long, multi-day treks in Mauritius. It’s all about day hikes – most under five hours or so.
But don’t be fooled.
Just because they’re shorter, it doesn’t mean they aren’t challenging and they won’t make you work in places!
Speaking of challenges, I’ve included different trails to suit a range of fitness and experience levels. If you want to push yourself to do a slightly more adventurous hike than you’re used to, I highly recommend doing so with a guide.
I’ve listed a few of my favourites that will make sure you’re in safe hands every step of the way. My last bit of advice is to hike in the morning to avoid the midday sun – particularly when you’re up in the mountains with no shade!
You should also:
- Bring plenty of water – a water filter bottle is handy here as you can use it at any freshwater source.
- Wear the right footwear – walking boots will support your feet and ankles. Walking shoes are a good option, too if you want to pack light.
- Wear breathable clothing – rather than exposing your skin to the sun, wear breathable and loose-fitting hiking clothes made from materials like bamboo.
- Go with a guide – if you’re not a confident hiker, find a guide or book a small group tour instead.
- Make sure you’re insured – just in case something was to happen, it’s always good to make sure you’re covered!
- Don’t carry too much – this is mainly for your own comfort. You’re not exactly going full-on backpacking for days in the wilderness here. A small backpack with key essentials will do.
- Bring a phone, camera, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and insect repellent.
Best hikes in Mauritius: final thoughts
Ready to explore the best hikes in Mauritius? Whether it’s mountains or waterfalls, easy or challenging, there’s a hike for everyone and all levels of fitness.
If you’re not an experienced hiker, I recommend going with a guide as you’ll find it a lot safer and less hassle – particularly on the scrambly bits!
Tours mentioned here include:
- Le Morne Brabant Hike
- Piton De La Petite Rivière Noire
- Machabee Trail Tour
- Ebony Forest Reserve
- Tamarind Falls Hike
As a rule of thumb, make sure someone knows where you’re going before you head into the wilderness.
Don’t attempt anything you’re unsure about, drink plenty of water, wear the right gear and always check the weather.
Do all of these and you’ll have an epic time exploring the diverse landscapes of Mauritius!
Read more Mauritius travel tips
- Mauritius: Everything You Need To Know Before You Go
- The Ultimate Mauritius Packing List: What To Wear In Mauritius
- Best Mauritius Tours: 11 Top-Rated Excursions You Need To Book
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Thanks for all the informations, it so useful since I’m going to Mauritius in 2 weeks
Enjoy!