Best Hiking Trails in Mauritius for Every Level
Mauritius is a surprisingly good hiking destination. Within a short drive, you can walk through native forest, climb a basalt peak or follow a ridge with sea views. These trails suit different levels, and the cooler months are the best time to go.
Trails at a glance
| Trail | Level | Time | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black River Gorges walks | Easy to moderate | 1 to 5 hours | Forest, birds, gorge views |
| Le Pouce | Moderate | 2 to 3 hours | Views of Port Louis |
| Le Morne Brabant | Hard, guided | 3 to 5 hours | UNESCO mountain, lagoon views |
| Pieter Both | Hard | Full day | The famous rock on top |
| Lion Mountain | Moderate | Half day | South-east coast views |
Where to start
- First hike: choose a short walk in the Black River Gorges.
- Classic view: hike Le Pouce for a big view with a manageable climb.
- Challenge: join a guide on Le Morne or Pieter Both.
Safety tips
- Start early to avoid the heat and afternoon cloud.
- Use a local guide on harder trails, where paths can be unclear.
- Carry at least 2 litres of water and snacks.
- Tell someone your plan, and turn back if the weather changes.
- Wear sturdy shoes and use insect repellent.
The best hikes by region
South-west: Black River Gorges and Le Morne
The Black River Gorges National Park has the widest choice of trails, from short forest loops to long descents into the gorge. Le Morne Brabant, at the south-west tip, is the most famous hike on the island, with a steep final section and a view over the lagoon that is hard to beat. Nearby, the Tamarind Falls (7 Cascades) trail follows a chain of waterfalls through forest.
Centre: Le Pouce and Pieter Both
The Moka range rises behind Port Louis. Le Pouce is the classic half-day climb, while Pieter Both, with its balanced rock on the summit, is a serious scramble that should only be done with an experienced guide.
South-east: Lion Mountain
Lion Mountain, near Mahebourg, is a ridge walk with views over the lagoon and Ile aux Aigrettes. It is less crowded than the western hikes and makes a good morning outing if you are staying in the south-east.
What to bring
- At least 1.5 litres of water per person, more on longer hikes.
- Shoes with a good grip; trainers are fine for most trails, hiking boots are better on Le Morne and Pieter Both.
- Sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent.
- A light rain jacket, as weather changes quickly in the hills.
- A charged phone and a small snack.
Guided or on your own?
Easy, well-marked trails in the national park can be walked without a guide. For Le Morne summit, Pieter Both and any route with scrambling, a local guide is strongly recommended: they know the safe paths, the conditions and the history of each place. Guided hikes also include transport from your hotel, which saves a lot of planning.
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 Brabant
- 7 Cascades & Tamarind Falls Hiking – 7 Cascades and Tamarind Falls
- Hiking the Wild South – easy coastal hike in the wild south
- Two Waterfalls Walking Trail – Bel Ombre Nature Reserve – Two Waterfalls trail in Bel Ombre
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a guide to hike in Mauritius?
Not for short, well-marked walks, but it is strongly recommended for harder trails.
What is the best month for hiking?
May to October, when it is cooler and drier.
Are the trails crowded?
Mostly no, except popular ones like Le Pouce on weekend mornings.
Are there snakes or dangerous animals on the trails?
No. Mauritius has no dangerous snakes or large predators. The main risks are heat, slippery rock and getting lost, so stay on marked paths.
Can I hike in the summer months?
Yes, but start very early. From December to April it is hot and humid, and afternoon showers are common.
Which hike is best for a family?
Short trails in the Black River Gorges or the walk around the base of Le Morne suit families with older children.
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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