Full-Day Hike in Black River Gorges National Park, Mauritius — Waterfalls, Endemic Birds & Picnic Lunch
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Good for hikers with basic fitness: able to walk 8–10 km on uneven ground and handle short climbs.
Overview
Spend a full day hiking Black River Gorges National Park with a certified local guide, picnic lunch and hotel transfer. Expect rainforest trails, waterfall swims and chances to spot endemic birds while learning about on-island conservation.
Full-Day Hike in Black River Gorges National Park, Mauritius — Waterfalls, Endemic Birds & Picnic Lunch
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You step off the minivan into a cool, fern-filtered world where the humid heat of the coast recedes and the air smells of damp earth and wild thyme. The guide checks names, hands out bottled water and points the way: a ribbon of packed dirt that slips into dense Machabee forest and immediately narrows, roots and rocks knitting the trail together. For the next five or six hours the gorge takes the lead — voices fall quiet as birds call from the canopy and waterfalls dare you downstream.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start Early
Pick the earliest pickup available to catch cooler air, active birds and clearer views before clouds build in the afternoon.
Non-slip Footwear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good tread — trails are rooty and can be slippery after rain.
Hydrate & Snack
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water in addition to what's provided; eat small snacks to keep energy steady on climbs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep voices low and cameras at a distance — many endemic birds are sensitive to disturbance during breeding season.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pink pigeon
- Mauritius kestrel
History
The park conserves the island’s last tracts of native forest, critical for species recovery programs that began after 20th-century habitat loss.
Conservation
Trails are managed to limit erosion and the guides emphasize leaving no trace; supporting guided visits helps fund local restoration and reintroduction efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chamarel
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Grip and ankle support for rooty, rocky trails and wet river crossings.
Light rain shell
Quick protection from tropical showers that can develop suddenly in the highlands.
summer specific
1–2L water reservoir or bottle
Hydration for a 5–6 hour outing — guides supply bottled water but personal carry is recommended.
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Protects against midges and sun exposure during open ridge sections.
summer specific