Chamarel Coffee Plantation

The Chamarel Coffee Plantation, located in the southwestern part of Mauritius, is the only place on the island where coffee is grown on a commercial scale. The history of coffee cultivation in this region dates back to the 18th century when French settlers introduced Coffea Arabica. Today, the plantation primarily cultivates the rare 'Laurina' variety, known for its naturally low caffeine content and refined aromatic profile. The fields are situated on the fertile volcanic soils of the Chamarel plateau, where the cooler climate and regular rainfall provide optimal growing conditions. The entire process, from manual harvesting of the coffee cherries to drying and roasting, is handled locally to ensure quality and freshness. This local production remains a key part of Mauritius' agricultural heritage, offering insight into niche farming sectors beyond the dominant sugar industry. The plantation is integrated into local tourism, showcasing sustainable farming practices to visitors from around the world.

Nearby cities

Madrague

Madrague is a small coastal locality in southwestern Mauritius, near Bel Ombre.

Riviere Noire

A scenic district on the west coast, known as the gateway to Black River Gorges National Park and for dolphin watching tours.

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.

La Gaulette

La Gaulette is a fishing village in the southwest that is very popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.

Tamarin

Tamarin is a coastal village in the west known for its salt pans and dolphin watching tours.

Le Morne Village

Le Morne Village is situated at the foot of the majestic Le Morne Brabant mountain.

Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac is a major tourist village on the west coast.

Chemin Grenier

Chemin Grenier is a large village in southern Mauritius.

Bambous

Bambous is the administrative capital of the Rivière Noire district in the west.

Chamouny

Chamouny is an inland village in the Savanne district.

Surinam

Surinam is a coastal village in southern Mauritius, adjacent to Chemin Grenier.

Gros Cailloux

Gros Cailloux is a rural village in the west of the island.

History & landmarks

Alexandra Falls

A high waterfall in the Black River Gorges National Park, plunging over a forested cliff.

Nature

Tourelle du Tamarin

A standalone mountain on the west coast, rising steeply above the village of Tamarin.

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.

More places

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.

Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel

A geological phenomenon consisting of dunes in seven distinct colors, created by the conversion of basaltic lava into clay minerals.

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.

Plaine Champagne

The highest plateau in Mauritius, known for its cooler temperatures and the harvesting of wild Chinese guavas.

Black River Gorges National Park

The largest protected area in Mauritius preserves the last remains of the original rainforest and spectacular gorges.