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Mare aux Vacoas

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Lake
—°2
Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)

Weather…

Mare aux Vacoas is the largest freshwater reservoir in Mauritius, located in the scenic central highlands at an elevation of 564 meters. Spread over a vast area, this man-made lake is encircled by thick forests of pine and eucalyptus, creating a landscape that feels remarkably distinct from the island's tropical coastline. The original dam was constructed in 1885 during the British colonial era to secure a reliable water supply for the burgeoning population, and it has since been expanded to a capacity of 25.8 million cubic meters. While the water itself is off-limits for swimming to protect its purity, the surrounding trails are popular with locals and visitors looking for cool air and tranquil vistas. The reservoir is a critical infrastructure asset and a beautiful natural retreat, where the still waters reflect the rolling green hills of the plateau. It serves as a vital habitat for local birdlife and a serene escape into the island's lush interior.

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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Getting there
This vital plateau reservoir is extremely easy to reach by standard passenger cars. It is conveniently located directly alongside the main paved roads that smoothly cross the central highland areas of the island.
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Best season
While definitely suitable for year-round visits, the slightly cooler and drier months from May to November are broadly preferred. Heavy summer downpours can occasionally disrupt relaxed lakeside walking plans.
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Terrain & paths
Visitors will find mostly flat, pleasantly well-maintained earth paths and broad grassy areas bordering the reservoir. The entire area is comfortably shaded by the beautiful surrounding mature pine forests.
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What to bring
Light, very comfortable clothing and basic athletic walking shoes are generally more than enough here. Carrying a very light rain jacket is recommended due to the sometimes unpredictable plateau microclimate showers.
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Parking
There are typically numerous designated parking areas and spacious pull-offs located very conveniently along the perimeter roads. Finding a safe, free spot to leave your vehicle near the pines is rarely a problem.
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Safety
Recreational swimming is absolutely and strictly prohibited at all times, as this body of water is the island's primary drinking source. Always make sure to remain on the safely marked public paths near the edge.
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Time needed
Most relaxed visitors spend roughly around one to two hours simply enjoying the peaceful, fresh plateau scenery. It naturally invites a slow, gentle walk among the pines away from the busy beaches.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.35830, 57.49500

Facts

  • Largest reservoir in the country
  • Capacity: 25.8 million cubic meters
  • Located in Plaines Wilhems district
  • Elevation of approx 600m
  • Built in the late 19th century
  • Main source of drinking water

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tamarind FallsTamarind Falls3 km · SExplore →
Trou aux CerfsTrou aux Cerfs3 km · SEExplore →
CurepipeCurepipe3 km · NEExplore →
Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)4 km · WExplore →
Mauritius Glass GalleryMauritius Glass Gallery4 km · EExplore →
Kanaka CraterKanaka Crater4 km · NWExplore →
Alexandra FallsAlexandra Falls5 km · SWExplore →
Bassin BlancBassin Blanc6 km · WExplore →

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 Mare aux Vacoas (2)

Un-named monument

Unnamed monument near the Mare aux Vacoas reservoir, likely a commemorative stone.

Tamarind Falls View Point

Viewpoint overlooking Tamarind Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall in the highlands of Mauritius.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Mare aux Vacoas?
It is the island's largest freshwater reservoir.
Can you go boating there?
No, because it is protected as a drinking water reservoir, water sports are prohibited.
Is it worth a stop there?
Yes, it is a nice, quiet place for a quick stop during a tour.
Is it scenically beautiful?
Yes, the surroundings are green and peaceful, convenient for nature lovers.
Are there hiking trails?
There are no official hiking trails around the reservoir, but you can walk.
Mare aux Vacoas: where is it located?
Mare aux Vacoas is located in Mauritius.
Mare aux Vacoas: what is there to see?
Highlights include Un-named monument, Tamarind Falls View Point.
Mare aux Vacoas: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Mare aux Vacoas: why is it worth visiting?
Mare aux Vacoas is the largest freshwater reservoir in Mauritius, located in the scenic central highlands at an elevation of 564 meters.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Port Louis — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Port Louis
Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and the country's economic hub.
Vacoas — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Vacoas
Vacoas is located in the heart of the island and is known for its cooler temperatures.
Vacoas-Phoenix — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Vacoas-Phoenix
Vacoas-Phoenix is one of the most populous municipalities in Mauritius.
Bassin — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Bassin
Bassin is a residential village in the Plaines Wilhems district, near Quatre Bornes.
Beau Bassin — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Beau Bassin
Beau Bassin is part of the larger Beau Bassin-Rose Hill urban area in the center of the island.
Curepipe — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Curepipe
Curepipe, also known as 'La Ville Lumière', is the highest town in Mauritius.
Triolet — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Triolet
Triolet is one of the longest villages on the island, located in northern Mauritius.
Goodlands — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Goodlands
Goodlands is a bustling village in northern Mauritius that serves as an important economic hub for the region.
Bambous — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Bambous
Bambous is the administrative capital of the Rivière Noire district in the west.
Mahébourg — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Mahébourg
Mahébourg is a historic coastal town in the southeast of the island.
Saint Pierre — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Saint Pierre
Saint Pierre is a centrally located village in the Moka district.
Le Hochet — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Le Hochet
Le Hochet is a densely populated village in the Pamplemousses district, just north of the capital Port Louis.
Riche Terre — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Riche Terre
Riche Terre is located on the outskirts of Port Louis.
Baie du Tombeau — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Baie du Tombeau
Baie du Tombeau is located on the northwest coast and is a mix of residential and industrial zones.
Trou aux Biches — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Trou aux Biches
Trou aux Biches is an upscale coastal village in the northwest.

History & landmarks

Curepipe Town Hall — Mare aux Vacoas (Mauritius)
Curepipe Town Hall
A fine example of colonial wooden architecture in the center of Curepipe.