Black River Gorges National Park: Trails, Viewpoints and Wildlife
Black River Gorges is the largest national park in Mauritius and the best place to see what the island looked like before people arrived. Deep green gorges, cool upland forest, rare birds and long views to the sea make it a highlight for walkers and nature lovers.
What to expect
The park protects some of the last areas of native forest on the island. It is cooler, damper and greener than the coast, with mist rolling over the ridges in the morning. Trails range from short walks to viewpoints through to full-day hikes across the upland forest.
Many of the species here are found only in Mauritius. The Mauritius kestrel and the pink pigeon were both brought back from the brink of extinction through long conservation programmes, and the echo parakeet is another success story. You may also see macaque monkeys, Java deer and Mauritian flying foxes.
The best viewpoints
- Black River Gorges Viewpoint: a roadside lookout on the Plaine Champagne road with a dramatic view over the gorges to the coast. It is the easiest and most popular stop.
- Alexandra Falls: a viewpoint across the valley to a slender waterfall. See our waterfall guide.
- Petrin area: a visitor centre and trailheads, a good place to ask rangers about conditions.
Hiking trails
Trails are marked, but they can be muddy and steep. Allow more time than you expect, and ask for advice at the visitor centre before you start. Access rules and permits for some routes can change, so check the current situation before you go.
| Option | Difficulty | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Viewpoint stops | Easy | Families, short on time |
| Short forest loops | Easy to moderate | Bird watching and photography |
| Macchabee and Black River Peak | Moderate to hard | Experienced walkers, a full day |
A local guide adds a lot. They can point out birds, explain the forest and keep you on the right path. For longer routes, a guide is the safest choice.
Practical tips
- Start early. Birds are most active in the morning and clouds are less likely to hide the views.
- Wear shoes with good grip, long trousers and carry a light rain jacket.
- Bring water, snacks and insect repellent. Facilities inside the park are limited.
- Stay on marked paths and do not feed the monkeys.
- The park can be 5 degrees cooler than the coast, so bring a light layer.
Getting there and combining your day
The park is about 30 minutes from Chamarel and 45 to 60 minutes from Flic en Flac or Tamarin by road. A classic day combines the viewpoints with Chamarel for lunch and the Seven Coloured Earth, and perhaps a sunset at Le Morne.
Book it with Plan Mauritius
These experiences can be booked through us, with transfers added if you need them:
- Black River Gorges National Park
- 7 Cascades & Tamarind Falls Hiking – 7 Cascades hike
- Two Waterfalls Walking Trail – Bel Ombre Nature Reserve – Two Waterfalls trail in Bel Ombre
Frequently asked questions
Is Black River Gorges worth visiting?
Yes. It offers the island’s best views, forests and wildlife, and it feels completely different from the beaches.
Do I need a guide?
Not for the main viewpoints. For longer hikes, a guide is recommended for safety and wildlife spotting.
What animals can I see?
Native birds such as the pink pigeon, Mauritius kestrel and echo parakeet, as well as macaque monkeys, deer and fruit bats.
Is there an entrance fee?
The park has historically been free to enter, but access rules can change. Check the current information before you go.
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.
Plan my tripTalk to our team
