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Black River Gorges National Park
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The Black River Gorges National Park is the largest protected area in Mauritius, covering approximately 6,754 hectares of rainforest in the southwest of the island. The park was officially proclaimed on June 15, 1994, to protect the island's last remaining continuous native forests and numerous endangered animal species. Rare birds such as the Pink Pigeon, the Echo Parakeet, and the Mauritius Kestrel find a protected habitat here. The landscape is defined by deep gorges, dramatic waterfalls like Alexandra Falls, and dense, endemic vegetation types. More than 60 kilometers of hiking trails crisscross the area, leading to vantage points like the Gorges Viewpoint, which features views extending to the coastline. The park plays a central role in the country's scientific research and ecotourism. Preserving this ecosystem is vital, as many of the plant species found here exist nowhere else in the world except on Mauritius.
- Location: Mauritius
- Top sights: Plateau Remousse · Machabée Viewpoint · Cascade Mare aux Joncs
- Nearby: Chemin Grenier (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 127 | 113 | 124 | 79 | 47 | 32 | 28 | 26 | 29 | 31 | 34 | 48 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This premier protected area is typically safely accessed via well-maintained island roads. These routes directly lead to several main visitor centers and official park entrances that are fully equipped with trail maps.
Best season
The cooler, drier months between May and November are generally strongly recommended for scheduling visits. They offer far more comfortable hiking conditions and a visibly lower likelihood of sudden, heavy tropical downpours.
Terrain & paths
Visitors can confidently expect a diverse landscape featuring dense original rainforests and steep spectacular gorges. The trails effectively range from very easy, flat walks to highly strenuous, steep vertical ascents.
What to bring
Breathable tropical clothing, highly reliable rain gear, and rugged shoes with excellent grip are generally essential. The deep forest floor and exposed gorge edges can very often become exceptionally muddy and slippery.
Parking
Designated, secure parking lots are usually neatly provided at the main park entrances and popular panoramic viewpoints. This setup makes logistics very straightforward for visitors arriving comfortably by local rental car.
Safety
Sticking directly to the officially marked trails is generally strictly advised to protect the delicate endemic flora. It also effectively prevents highly dangerous drops near the sheer edges of the spectacular gorges.
Time needed
Most visitors typically spend anywhere from a half-day enjoying the accessible main viewpoints and short walks. Tackling the longer, far more demanding trails deep within the rainforest generally requires a full day.
Geography
Facts
- Largest national park in Mauritius, covering 6,754 hectares
- The park was officially proclaimed on June 15, 1994
- Home to over 300 species of native flowering plants
- Crucial sanctuary for the endangered Mauritius Kestrel
- Features a network of more than 60 kilometers of hiking trails
- Contains Alexandra Falls, one of the island's most famous waterfalls
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Black River Gorges National Park (7)
Black River Peak
Mountain in Mauritius, the highest point in Black River Gorges National Park.
Gorges Viewpoint
Lookout with a direct view into the deep gorges of Black River Gorges National Park.
Piton Saint Denis
Mountain peak in Mauritius, located in Black River Gorges National Park.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the park offer?
Hiking trails through dense rainforest and spectacular viewpoints.
Do you need a permit?
No, access to the park is free for hikers.
When is the best season?
During the drier season from May to November.
Are there dangerous animals?
No, there are no dangerous wild animals in Mauritius.
How long is the longest trail?
The routes vary, some hikes take several hours.
Black River Gorges National Park: where is it located?
Black River Gorges National Park is located in Mauritius.
Black River Gorges National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Plateau Remousse, Machabée Viewpoint, Cascade Mare aux Joncs.
Black River Gorges National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Black River Gorges National Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Black River Gorges National Park is the largest protected area in Mauritius, covering approximately 6,754 hectares of rainforest in the southwest of the island.
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Nearby cities
Riviere Noire
A scenic district on the west coast, known as the gateway to Black River Gorges National Park and for dolphin watching tours.
Chemin Grenier
Chemin Grenier is a large village in southern Mauritius.
Madrague
Madrague is a small coastal locality in southwestern Mauritius, near Bel Ombre.
Baie du Cap
Baie du Cap is an idyllic coastal village at the southwestern tip of the island.
Grande Rivière Noire
Grande Rivière Noire is the heart of the Rivière Noire district.
Tamarin
Tamarin is a coastal village in the west known for its salt pans and dolphin watching tours.
Case Noyale
Case Noyale is a small, authentic coastal village in western Mauritius.
Bambous
Bambous is the administrative capital of the Rivière Noire district in the west.
Surinam
Surinam is a coastal village in southern Mauritius, adjacent to Chemin Grenier.
Flic en Flac
Flic en Flac is a major tourist village on the west coast.
Curepipe
Curepipe, also known as 'La Ville Lumière', is the highest town in Mauritius.
Le Morne Village
Le Morne Village is situated at the foot of the majestic Le Morne Brabant mountain.
History & landmarks
Nature
Mare Longue Reservoir
An upland reservoir near the Black River Gorges, surrounded by primary forest.
Trois Mamelles
A distinctive three-peaked mountain in the west of the island.
Mare aux Vacoas
The largest reservoir in Mauritius, located on the central plateau.
Tourelle du Tamarin
A standalone mountain on the west coast, rising steeply above the village of Tamarin.
More places
Plaine Champagne
The highest plateau in Mauritius, known for its cooler temperatures and the harvesting of wild Chinese guavas.
Macchabée Forest
A section of upland rainforest within the Black River Gorges Park, famous for its ancient ebony trees.
Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire
The highest peak in Mauritius offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and is part of the Black River Gorges National Park.
Chamarel Coffee Plantation
The only coffee production site in Mauritius, growing the famous Arabica beans in the fertile soil of Chamarel.
Ebony Forest Reserve
A conservation project restoring the original ebony forests of Mauritius, providing a refuge for rare native wildlife.
Rhumerie de Chamarel
A world-class rum distillery located amidst sugarcane plantations, demonstrating traditional distillation methods.
Curious Corner of Chamarel
A house full of optical illusions and interactive puzzles designed to amaze and confuse visitors of all ages.
Chamarel Waterfall
The highest waterfall in Mauritius, plummeting over a steep basaltic cliff into a horseshoe-shaped pool.