Joanna James
Although Mauritius is more popular as a beach holiday hotspot than a hiker's haven, the paradise isle is home to an array of scenic trails. From challenging mountain hikes to jungle-bound treks full of adventure, here are some of the best hiking trails to enjoy during a holiday in Mauritius.
Those on the lookout for the best forest hiking experience in Mauritius will find no finer trail than the one accessible at Ebony Forest. Since it is a trail that largely covers unchartered territories of the forest's hidden landscapes, the 6-kilometre-long hike can take around 3 hours to complete. This relatively easy hike is suitable for new hikers and those with little experience battling the elements in the wilderness. With only 2% of Mauritian native forests left, the Ebony Forest is a special conservation hotspot that's been the focus of replanting efforts. The entrance to the hiking trail is via Chamarel Village.
Hiking enthusiasts who enjoy mountain hikes and breathtaking views will love the experience of hiking on Le Morne Brabant. This moderately challenging hike is about 7km round trip and can take up to 5 hours to complete. Located in an isolated part of Mauritius, Le Morne Brabant resembles Dumas' Monte Cristo Island, with its basaltic rock rising 556m above the ocean. Designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site due to its connection with escaped slaves and their courageous journeys to freedom, the climb can be steep and narrow in some sections. However, the stunning panoramic views from the summit make the effort well worth it, with the possibility of seeing underwater swirls to the west of the island on clear days.
Waterfall hikes are rare in this beach paradise but the Tamarin Falls trail offers holidaymakers the chance to reach a staggering seven-tiered cascade. The 2.5-kilometre-walk to the top and back again can take nearly 4 hours in all although most visitors lose track of time due to the beauty of the scenery before them. Cutting across sugar cane plantations, the Tamarin Falls trek is one that starts from the jungles and takes hikers to tree-lined landscapes with sheer drops and smooth surfaces. Reaching the topmost tiers of the cascade requires getting wet and taking occasional dips in the waterfall so it's crucial to employ a local guide for this particular adventure.
Families based at Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas and similar hotels in the area must also sign up for a hiking tour across Ferney Valley. It is one of the best locations for group hiking in Mauritius. This is an easy 2-hour round trip trek that's no longer than 5km in length.
Ranked among the least challenging mountain hikes in Mauritius, Le Pouce Trail can be navigated in less than 3 hours. The 4.5-kilometre trek follows the footsteps of evolutionary scientist Charles Darwin, who's reputed to have been the first to scale this hill back in the 1830s.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
