The Mountains of Mauritius: Highest Peaks and Best Views
The peaks of Mauritius are ancient volcanic remnants, now worn into steep ridges and sharp summits. They are not very tall by world standards, but they rise right out of the sea and give the island its dramatic shape. Here are the best known.
The main peaks
| Mountain | Height | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Black River Peak | About 828 m | The highest point, in the national park |
| Pieter Both | About 823 m | A famous rock head on its summit |
| Le Pouce | About 812 m | An easy classic hike near Port Louis |
| Corps de Garde | About 719 m | A sharp ridge above the west |
| Le Morne Brabant | About 556 m | UNESCO site rising from the sea |
| Lion Mountain | About 480 m | A lion-shaped ridge in the south-east |
How to enjoy them
- For views without effort, drive to a viewpoint. See our viewpoints guide.
- For a hike, start with Le Pouce.
- For history, climb Le Morne with a guide.
How the mountains were formed
Mauritius was born from volcanic eruptions on the ocean floor about eight million years ago. Over millions of years, the original volcano collapsed and eroded, leaving the jagged ridges and isolated peaks you see today. Later volcanic activity created craters such as Trou aux Cerfs and lava plains on the central plateau. This history explains why the island is so varied: steep mountains in the west and centre, gentle plains in the north and east.
The three main ranges
- Black River range (south-west): the highest and wildest mountains, home to the national park and Black River Peak.
- Moka range (centre): the mountains behind Port Louis, including Le Pouce and Pieter Both.
- Grand Port range (south-east): lower peaks such as Lion Mountain, overlooking the lagoon at Mahebourg.
Where to see them without climbing
You do not need to hike to enjoy the mountains. The Black River Gorges viewpoint, the drive through Chamarel and the coast road around Le Morne give superb views from the car. From the west coast, the sunsets behind Le Morne and the Tamarin bay are some of the most photographed scenes on the island.
Tips for mountain days
- Go early: clouds often cover the peaks after midday.
- Take water and sun protection, even on short walks.
- Use a local guide for any climb with scrambling.
Book it with Plan Mauritius
These experiences can be booked through us, with transfers added if you need them:
- Hiking Around Le Morne Brabant Mountain – guided hike around Le Morne
- Le Morne Brabant
- Black River Gorges National Park
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest mountain in Mauritius?
Black River Peak, at about 828 metres.
Are the mountains volcanic?
Yes, they are remnants of ancient volcanoes.
Can I climb all of them?
Some require a guide or permission. Ask before you go.
Which mountain has the best view?
Le Morne Brabant has the most famous view, over the lagoon and the underwater waterfall area. Le Pouce gives the best view of Port Louis.
Is Pieter Both safe to climb?
Only with an experienced guide and climbing equipment. The final rock is exposed and dangerous without help.
Want this planned around your dates?
Tell us when you are travelling and who is coming. We will build a day-by-day plan with hotels, transfers and activities, and send you a clear price.
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