Plizio Visual Lab
Heritage Nature Reserve
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Heritage Nature Reserve, located in the pristine south of Mauritius near Bel Ombre, spans approximately 1,300 hectares and serves as a vital sanctuary for the island's endemic flora and fauna. The reserve extends from volcanic hills down to the coastal plains, offering a remarkable display of geological and biological diversity. Historically, this area was part of the large Bel Ombre sugar estate, but today it is primarily focused on ecotourism and the conservation of endangered species such as the Mauritius kestrel and the pink pigeon. The landscape is characterized by tropical forests, waterfalls, and vast savannahs that provide habitats for deer, wild boar, and various rare bird species. Researchers use the reserve to study Mauritius' original ecosystems as they existed prior to significant human settlement. Guided hikes and 4x4 tours are designed to raise awareness about the island's fragile ecology while ensuring sustainable management of its biodiversity.
- Location: Mauritius
- 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
Best season
The best time to visit the Heritage Nature Reserve in Mauritius is during the cooler dry season from May to October. These months offer pleasant temperatures and rewarding wildlife viewing opportunities.
Best time of day
The best viewing times are early morning and late afternoon when animals are actively foraging. During the midday heat, deer and wild boars typically retreat to shaded areas, making sightings less frequent.
Etiquette
Please stay on the designated trails and avoid disturbing the animals. Feeding wildlife and collecting plants are not allowed, in order to protect the delicate ecosystem of the reserve.
What to bring
Comfortable hiking shoes and binoculars are recommended for long-distance observation. Since the terrain is hilly, a hat and plenty of water will also prove useful during your walk.
Getting there
The reserve is located in southern Mauritius near Bel Ombre and is easily accessible by car. Follow the signs to Heritage Nature Reserve; parking is available on site.
What to expect
Be patient - the animals are shy and need time to appear. Early morning features the best chance to spot deer and wild boars foraging in the open.
Geography
Facts
- Spans a total area of approximately 1,300 hectares
- Home to endangered species like the pink pigeon
- Located within the historic Bel Ombre sugar estate
- Features diverse landscapes from forests to savannahs
- A key site for international conservation research
- Offers eco-friendly tours focused on endemic biodiversity
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 Heritage Nature Reserve (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you experience at Heritage Nature Reserve?
The reserve gives safari tours, hiking, and a rich native flora and fauna.
Are hiking shoes necessary?
Yes, sturdy shoes are highly advisable for hiking on the unpaved paths.
Does the reserve offer guided quad tours?
Yes, quad adventures are a popular way to explore the vast landscapes.
Are there facilities like toilets on-site?
Yes, there are sanitary facilities and a restaurant at the visitor center.
What is the best weather like?
Dry days are convenient, as paths can become very muddy in the rain.
Heritage Nature Reserve: where is it located?
Heritage Nature Reserve is located in Mauritius.
Heritage Nature Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Heritage Nature Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Heritage Nature Reserve, located in the pristine south of Mauritius near Bel Ombre, spans approximately 1,300 hectares and serves as a vital sanctuary for the island's endemic flora and fauna.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Mauritius →
Nearby cities
Baie du Cap
Baie du Cap is an idyllic coastal village at the southwestern tip of the island.
Chemin Grenier
Chemin Grenier is a large village in southern Mauritius.
Riviere Noire
A scenic district on the west coast, known as the gateway to Black River Gorges National Park and for dolphin watching tours.
Chamouny
Chamouny is an inland village in the Savanne district.
La Gaulette
La Gaulette is a fishing village in the southwest that is very popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.
Grande Rivière Noire
Grande Rivière Noire is the heart of the Rivière Noire district.
Le Morne Village
Le Morne Village is situated at the foot of the majestic Le Morne Brabant mountain.
Surinam
Surinam is a coastal village in southern Mauritius, adjacent to Chemin Grenier.
Tamarin
Tamarin is a coastal village in the west known for its salt pans and dolphin watching tours.
Flic en Flac
Flic en Flac is a major tourist village on the west coast.
Bambous
Bambous is the administrative capital of the Rivière Noire district in the west.
Curepipe
Curepipe, also known as 'La Ville Lumière', is the highest town in Mauritius.
History & landmarks
Alexandra Falls
A high waterfall in the Black River Gorges National Park, plunging over a forested cliff.
Gris Gris Cliffs
The southernmost point of the island, known for its rugged basalt cliffs and the absence of a protective coral reef.
Le Domaine de Bois Chéri
The oldest tea-producing estate on the island houses a factory and a museum.
Nature
Ile aux Bénitiers
A long, narrow island in the Le Morne bay, surrounded by coconut trees and clear waters.
Mare Longue Reservoir
An upland reservoir near the Black River Gorges, surrounded by primary forest.
Tourelle du Tamarin
A standalone mountain on the west coast, rising steeply above the village of Tamarin.
Mare aux Vacoas
The largest reservoir in Mauritius, located on the central plateau.
Trois Mamelles
A distinctive three-peaked mountain in the west of the island.
More places
Bassin Blanc
Another volcanic crater lake in the south, surrounded by dense forest and recognized as an important bird area.
Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)
A crater lake in the Mauritian highlands, situated in an extinct volcano and regarded as the island's most sacred Hindu site.
Kanaka Crater
An extinct volcanic crater in the central plateau area, providing evidence of the island's volcanic origins.
Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park
An adventure park famous for its 23-colored earth and offering numerous activities like ziplining and quad biking.
La Vanille Nature Park
This park is famous for its thousands of Nile crocodiles and giant Aldabra tortoises that visitors can interact with and feed.
🗺️
Savannah Sugar Estate
Located in the south, this factory is a key player in the regional economy and in sustainable energy production.
Chamarel Waterfall
The highest waterfall in Mauritius, plummeting over a steep basaltic cliff into a horseshoe-shaped pool.
Plaine Champagne
The highest plateau in Mauritius, known for its cooler temperatures and the harvesting of wild Chinese guavas.