Hike Ebony Forest Reserve Chamarel: Flycatchers, Sublime Point & Native Forest Trails
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for reasonably fit travelers who can manage short steeper sections and uneven terrain; wheelchair-accessible sections are available for those who need them.
Overview
Walk elevated boardwalks beneath ancient ebony, watch endemic birds flit through a recovering forest, and climb a short ridgeline for sweeping coastal views. Ebony Forest Reserve blends hands-on conservation with accessible hiking and rewarding panoramas.
Hike Ebony Forest Reserve Chamarel: Flycatchers, Sublime Point & Native Forest Trails
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You step off the road and the sound of the coast drops away; the forest takes over in a dense, humid hush. A raised boardwalk rises gently through trunks of ancient ebony that still bear scars from early logging — black-barked elders that seem to watch the trail. Birds dart between branches: Mauritius Flycatchers flit like punctuation marks, and the Black Bulbul chases a shaft of sunlight across the understory.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Go early for birds
Book the guided flycatcher tour or arrive at opening to catch peak bird activity and cooler temperatures.
Bring insect repellent and water
The canopy is humid and mosquitos can be active—carry at least 1 L of water and repellent.
Wear grippy footwear
Raised boardwalks are stable but side trails to Sublime Point and Piton Canot are uneven and can be slippery when wet.
Support restoration
Buy a snack or souvenir at the boutique—profits fund planting and reintroduction programs on-site.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mauritius Flycatcher
- Mauritius Black Bulbul
History
The reserve protects one of Mauritius’ last pockets of native ebony forest; the island’s volcanic past shaped the soils while colonial-era clearing decimated much of the original vegetation.
Conservation
Ebony Forest runs active restoration and reintroduction programs, having planted over 148,000 native trees; purchases and donations directly fund ongoing planting and weeding.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chamarel
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy trail shoes
Provide traction on muddy roots and rocky ridgeline sections.
Insect repellent
Useful in humid, wet-season conditions to reduce bites.
summer specific
Light rain shell
Mauritius’ wet season brings brief heavy showers; a shell keeps you comfortable.
summer specific
Binoculars or phone with zoom
Helpful for spotting endemic birds and photographing canopy activity.