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Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park
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The Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park, located in Chamouny in southern Mauritius, is world-famous for its unique geological phenomenon: the 23-colored earth. Discovered in 1998, this site differs significantly from the more famous 7-colored earth in Chamarel due to its broader spectrum of hues, created by volcanic activity and the chemical decomposition of basalt. The park covers an expansive area featuring waterfalls, lakes, and dense endemic vegetation. Beyond its geological significance, the reserve has evolved into a hub for adventure tourism, hosting the longest zip line in the Indian Ocean and a suspension bridge offering sweeping views of the southern coastline. Scientifically, the site documents the complex volcanic processes that formed the island millions of years ago. The various layers of earth are rich in iron and aluminum oxides, accounting for the distinctive red, yellow, and blue tones. The park follows an integrated management concept combining environmental conservation with active leisure pursuits.
- Location: Mauritius
- Nearby: Souillac (5 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
Visiting
Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park is an adventure park that can be visited for an entrance fee. The 23-colored earth and activities like ziplining are only accessible inside the park and require a ticket.
Typical hours
The park is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, last entry usually at 3:30 PM. Exact hours may vary seasonally, advance check on the official website is recommended.
Photography
Photographing the colored earth is a must and allowed everywhere in the park. The best shots are achieved under slightly overcast skies, as the colors then appear especially vivid.
Time needed
A visit with exploration of the colors and one or two activities typically takes 2 to 3 hours. Those who want to try all offered activities like quad biking and zip line should plan 4 to 5 hours.
Combine with
The park is in southern Mauritius and combines well with Black River Gorges National Park or the Chamarel Waterfalls. A beach day nearby, for instance at Le Morne, is also a good option.
Getting there
Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park is reachable by car from the capital Port Louis in about one hour. Public buses go to Chamarel, from where it is a few kilometers; a taxi or rental car is more practical.
Insider tip
Book activities like ziplining and quad biking online in advance to avoid waiting times. Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes as paths in the park are partly uneven.
Geography
Facts
- Features a unique formation of earth with 23 distinct colors
- The site was officially discovered on July 4, 1998
- Home to the longest zip line in the Indian Ocean region
- Color variations result from differing concentrations of minerals
- Located in the southern mountainous area of Chamouny
- The park contains four scenic natural 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.
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Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Vallee des Couleurs?
The famous earth with 23 different colors and spectacular waterfalls.
Can you go hiking there?
Yes, there are many well-maintained paths through the park.
Are there activities for adrenaline junkies?
Yes, there is a long zipline and quad tours through the park.
Is the entrance fee expensive?
The entrance fee is moderate, but activities cost extra.
Is rain gear useful?
Yes, short, heavy rain showers can occur at any time in this region.
Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park: where is it located?
Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park is located in Mauritius.
Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park, located in Chamouny in southern Mauritius, is world-famous for its unique geological phenomenon: the 23-colored earth.
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History & landmarks
Le Domaine de Bois Chéri
The oldest tea-producing estate on the island houses a factory and a museum.
Rochester Falls
A spectacular waterfall in the south of the island, famous for its unique, rectangular basalt columns.
Gris Gris Cliffs
The southernmost point of the island, known for its rugged basalt cliffs and the absence of a protective coral reef.
Alexandra Falls
A high waterfall in the Black River Gorges National Park, plunging over a forested cliff.
Tamarind Falls
A series of seven consecutive waterfalls on the Tamarind River, surrounded by dense tropical forests.
Nature
More places
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This park is famous for its thousands of Nile crocodiles and giant Aldabra tortoises that visitors can interact with and feed.
Kanaka Crater
An extinct volcanic crater in the central plateau area, providing evidence of the island's volcanic origins.
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.
Bassin Blanc
Another volcanic crater lake in the south, surrounded by dense forest and recognized as an important bird area.
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Le Domaine de Saint Aubin
A historic estate in the south of the island, known for its vanilla plantation and a traditional manor house dating back to 1819.
Domaine des Aubineaux
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