Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire

The Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire is the highest point on the island of Mauritius, standing at an elevation of 828 meters above sea level. Located in the southwest of the island within the Black River Gorges National Park, it forms part of the Rivière Noire mountain range. The summit provides extensive views over the forested gorges of the national park and the coastline of the Indian Ocean. Geologically, the mountain is composed of volcanic basalt, characteristic of the formation of the Mascarene Islands. Hiking trails lead to the peak from various points, such as Plaine Champagne, with the final section featuring steeper terrain. At the top, there is a metal bench and a marker signifying the highest elevation. Protection of the area is critical for maintaining the island's endemic flora and fauna, as the mountain is part of a strictly protected ecosystem.

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.

Madrague

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

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.

Baie du Cap

Baie du Cap is an idyllic coastal village at the southwestern tip of the island.

Case Noyale

Case Noyale is a small, authentic coastal village in western Mauritius.

Flic en Flac

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

Le Morne Village

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

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.

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.

Rose Hill Plaza Facade

The elegant facade of the Plaza complex is an outstanding example of neoclassical architecture in Mauritius.

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

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.

Plaine Champagne

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

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.

Black River Gorges National Park

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