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Grand River South East

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

Weather…

The Grand River South East is the longest river in Mauritius, stretching approximately 34 kilometers from its source in the central highlands to the eastern coast. Along its course, the river cuts through dramatic ravines and lush tropical forests, creating a sanctuary for local wildlife such as Mauritian fruit bats and macaques. The river's most famous feature is the spectacular waterfall located exactly where it meets the sea, cascading over basalt rocks directly into the turquoise lagoon. This natural wonder is a prime destination for boat excursions, which typically depart from the nearby village of Trou d'Eau Douce. Historically, the river mouth served as a strategic anchorage for early settlers due to its sheltered location. Today, it gives a blend of adventure and scenic beauty, as visitors can travel upstream to witness the power of the falls and the tranquility of the surrounding cliffs. The interaction between the freshwater discharge and the ocean tides makes the estuary a unique ecological site and landmark for nature enthusiasts on the island.

Location: Mauritius
Nearby: Camp Ithier (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	27	25	24	23	23	23	23	25	26
Rain mm	130	119	135	90	48	30	25	25	29	31	32	51

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The area is most commonly reached by booking organized boat tours departing from nearby eastern coastal towns. Sometimes, adventurous hikers access the river's waterfall via unmarked, local jungle trails.

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Best season

The river is generally accessible year-round for tropical excursions. However, the cooler dry season features significantly calmer river conditions, clearer water, and less muddy surrounding pathways.

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Terrain & paths

The immediate riverbanks and terrestrial waterfall access paths can be exceptionally slippery, rocky, and heavily mud-laden. Navigating these sections on foot requires careful, deliberate footing near the water's edge.

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What to bring

Purpose-built water shoes or sports sandals with strong traction are incredibly useful. Bringing a reliable waterproof bag for your electronics and applying plenty of mosquito repellent are very wise choices.

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Parking

If you are arriving independently by rental car, standard parking is usually readily available at the designated departure docks. Land-based hikers typically park carefully at local road shoulders before the trails begin.

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Safety

The unseen water currents near the river mouth and below the main waterfall can be surprisingly strong and unpredictable. Always strictly follow the safety advice and guidelines of your local boat operators.

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Time needed

Typical organized boat excursions to the dramatic waterfall and the immediate lush river mouth usually take about one to two hours. This duration perfectly balances scenic travel and time for memorable photography.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.28610, 57.77780

Facts

Longest river in Mauritius
Length of approximately 30 km
Mouth located at Beau Champ
Waterfall near the river mouth
Home to Mauritian fruit bats
Bordered by basalt cliffs

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Grand River South East Landing Monument<1 km · EExplore →

Ile aux Cerfs3 km · NExplore →

Trou d'Eau Douce3 km · EExplore →

Bel Air Rivière Sèche4 km · SEExplore →

Pointe du Diable Battery4 km · WExplore →

Belle Mare Fruit Orchards5 km · EExplore →

Camp Ithier6 km · SEExplore →

Ecroignard6 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Grand River South East (1)

Quiet Beach

A calm beach stretch on Mauritius' southeast coast, with shallow water suitable for relaxing and swimming.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see at Grand River South East?

An impressive waterfall that flows directly into the sea.

How do you get to the waterfall?

Best by boat tour, which are often combined with other excursions.

Can you swim at the waterfall?

It is more of a place to admire, swimming is not possible everywhere.

Are there monkeys there?

Yes, you often see wild monkeys in the trees along the shore.

Is it worth traveling from far away?

Only as part of a larger boat tour or island exploration.

Grand River South East: where is it located?

Grand River South East is located in Mauritius.

Grand River South East: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Grand River South East: why is it worth visiting?

The Grand River South East is the longest river in Mauritius, stretching approximately 34 kilometers from its source in the central highlands to the eastern coast.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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