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Gris Gris Cliffs

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Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)

Weather…

The Gris Gris Cliffs, located at the southernmost tip of Mauritius, present a rugged and untamed landscape that differs significantly from the island’s typical coral-fringed lagoons. Here, the absence of a protective reef allows the full force of the Indian Ocean to crash directly against the towering basalt cliffs, creating a dramatic display of crashing waves and sea spray. The area is famous for the "Roche qui Pleure" (Crying Rock), a unique rock formation where the constant wash of retreating seawater makes it appear as though the cliff is shedding tears. These volcanic formations offer a glimpse into the island’s fiery geological origins. Well-maintained paths wind along the cliff edge, providing visitors with spectacular vantage points to observe the power of the southern ocean. While the treacherous currents and sharp rocks make swimming impossible, Gris Gris is a popular spot for hiking and photography. The site captures a raw, elemental beauty, making it an essential stop for nature lovers seeking a contrast to the tranquil beaches elsewhere.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272727262523222223242526
Rain mm127113124794732282629313448

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Gris Gris Cliffs are a public viewpoint you can visit for free. There is a walking path along the cliffs and several viewing platforms.
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Typical hours
The cliffs are accessible at any time, as it is an open natural area. Best visited in good weather and daylight to see the waves and coastline.
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Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere. The dramatic cliffs and roaring ocean provide spectacular subjects, especially at sunset.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes to an hour for a walk along the cliffs. If you enjoy the view and take photos, it may take longer.
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Combine with
The cliffs are in the south of the island, near Souillac and Domaine de Saint Aubin. The Rochester Falls are also not far.
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Getting there
The cliffs are about 2 kilometers south of Souillac on the coastal road. Reachable by car or taxi; there is a small parking lot at the entrance.
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Insider tip
Keep a safe distance from the cliff edge as there are no safety barriers and the wind can be strong. Visit the cliffs at low tide to better observe the spray.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.52550, 57.53110

Facts

  • Southernmost point of Mauritius
  • No coral reef present
  • Composed of volcanic basalt
  • Near the village of Souillac
  • Home to the weeping rock
  • Strong sea currents in the area

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Souillac Marine CemeterySouillac Marine Cemetery2 km · SEExplore →
Saint Aubin HouseSaint Aubin House3 km · NEExplore →
SurinamSurinam4 km · SEExplore →
Vallee des Couleurs Nature ParkVallee des Couleurs Nature Park4 km · EExplore →
Rivière des AnguillesRivière des Anguilles5 km · NEExplore →
Le Domaine de Bois ChériLe Domaine de Bois Chéri6 km · EExplore →
ChamounyChamouny6 km · SEExplore →
Kanaka CraterKanaka Crater7 km · EExplore →

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 Gris Gris Cliffs (9)

Gris Gris

Sandy beach on Mauritius' south coast, known for strong waves and dark volcanic sand.

Gris Gris Public Beach

Public beach area with parking and picnic spots, located near the Gris Gris cliffs.

la roches de bois

Viewpoint at wooden rock formations, offering views of the wild coastline and Indian Ocean.

La Roche qui Pleure

Rocky outcrop where waves splash through a cave, creating a weeping sound.

Robert Edward Hart Museum🏛 museum

Former home of Mauritian poet Robert Edward Hart, now a museum displaying his personal items.

Telfair Gardens

Garden named after Charles Telfair, featuring native plants and a small pond.

Telfair Public Beach

Public beach with calmer waters, suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

Riambel Public Beach

Long, flat sandy beach popular with locals for walks and picnics.

Saint Aubin Sugarcane Museum🏛 museum

Museum on a former sugar cane plantation, showcasing historic processing machinery and rum production.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim at Gris Gris?
No, swimming is life-threatening due to the strong surf.
Is the place suitable for photos?
Yes, it is one of the most dramatic coastlines for spectacular photos.
Are there paths along the cliffs?
Yes, there are easy paths with magnificent viewpoints.
What is the best time of day?
Early morning or late afternoon features the best light.
Is the parking free?
Yes, usually free parking is available nearby.
Gris Gris Cliffs: where is it located?
Gris Gris Cliffs is located in Mauritius.
Gris Gris Cliffs: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gris Gris, Gris Gris Public Beach, la roches de bois.
Gris Gris Cliffs: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Gris Gris Cliffs: why is it worth visiting?
The Gris Gris Cliffs, located at the southernmost tip of Mauritius, present a rugged and untamed landscape that differs significantly from the island’s typical coral-fringed lagoons.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Port Louis — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Port Louis
Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and the country's economic hub.
Vacoas — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Vacoas
Vacoas is located in the heart of the island and is known for its cooler temperatures.
Vacoas-Phoenix — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Vacoas-Phoenix
Vacoas-Phoenix is one of the most populous municipalities in Mauritius.
Bassin — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Bassin
Bassin is a residential village in the Plaines Wilhems district, near Quatre Bornes.
Beau Bassin — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Beau Bassin
Beau Bassin is part of the larger Beau Bassin-Rose Hill urban area in the center of the island.
Curepipe — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Curepipe
Curepipe, also known as 'La Ville Lumière', is the highest town in Mauritius.
Triolet — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Triolet
Triolet is one of the longest villages on the island, located in northern Mauritius.
Bel Air Rivière Sèche — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Bel Air Rivière Sèche
Bel Air Rivière Sèche is a large village in eastern Mauritius.
Bambous — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Bambous
Bambous is the administrative capital of the Rivière Noire district in the west.
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Centre de Flacq
Centre de Flacq is the main village of the Flacq district in eastern Mauritius.
Mahébourg — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Mahébourg
Mahébourg is a historic coastal town in the southeast of the island.
Olivier — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Olivier
Olivier is a small village in the Grand Port district.
Saint Pierre — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Saint Pierre
Saint Pierre is a centrally located village in the Moka district.
Le Hochet — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Le Hochet
Le Hochet is a densely populated village in the Pamplemousses district, just north of the capital Port Louis.
Riche Terre — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Riche Terre
Riche Terre is located on the outskirts of Port Louis.

History & landmarks

Curepipe Town Hall — Gris Gris Cliffs (Mauritius)
Curepipe Town Hall
A fine example of colonial wooden architecture in the center of Curepipe.