Black River Gorges: hiking to the highest point in Mauritius

Looking for the largest protected natural area on the island? Black River Gorges National Park covers 6,574 hectares in south-west Mauritius and features more than 60 km of marked hiking trails. Climb to Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, the highest point in Mauritius at 828 metres, spot rare endemic birds and walk through a humid forest recognised by UNESCO. Follow our tips to plan your hikes and activities from the west coast, just a short distance from Legend Hill, a residence worthy of a 5-star hotel in Mauritius.

A natural sanctuary and biosphere reserve

Black River Gorges National Park protects the last large area of native forest in Mauritius. Proclaimed on 15 June 1994 in the south-west of the island, this national park covers 6,574 hectares of wooded landscapes, steep-sided valleys and humid plateaus. Mount Cocotte dominates this wild landscape, while numerous cascades and waterfalls flow down the slopes after rainfall.

This Mauritian natural sanctuary forms part of the Black River Gorges – Bel Ombre Biosphere Reserve, formerly known as Macchabée / Bel Ombre, recognised by UNESCO since 1977. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, from Legend Hill in Rivière Noire, you can reach the western entrance to the park by following the coast: an ideal nature excursion during a trip to Mauritius.

Hiking trails to explore

Black River Gorges National Park has more than 60 km of marked trails, with routes and hikes ranging from 3 to 14 km suitable for all levels. Two information centres, at Pétrin and Grande Rivière Noire, mark the main starting points and provide trail maps. For hikers who are less accustomed to mountainous terrain, a guided hike with a local guide is recommended.

Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire: the 828-metre summit

This trail leads to the highest point in Mauritius, at an altitude of 828 metres. From the gorge viewpoint, allow approximately 11 km for the round trip and 4.5 hours of hiking, including the steep final climb to the summit. At the top, a bench known as Bench 828 rewards hikers with some of the best views over the west coast.

The Macchabée Trail and Parakeet Trail

Here are two iconic routes for discovering the heart of the park on foot:

• The Macchabée Trail connects the two information centres through the primary forest and along spectacular viewpoints.
• The Parakeet Trail passes through areas where endemic parakeets nest and is a shorter, more accessible route.

Endemic wildlife and flora to protect

Black River Gorges National Park is home to species found nowhere else but Mauritius. This remarkable biodiversity explains its protected status and the conservation efforts undertaken to save several bird species from extinction. Discovering them is one of the highlights of a visit.

Among the emblematic species you may spot along the trails, keep an eye out for:

• The Mauritius kestrel, a small bird of prey that was saved from the brink of extinction, soaring above the gorges.
• The Mauritius parakeet, also known as the echo parakeet, which nests in the island’s native forest.
• The pink pigeon, recognisable by its pale plumage and considered one of the rarest birds in the world.
• The Mauritian flying fox, a large fruit bat that becomes active in the canopy at dusk.

Practical information for visiting the park

Before setting off on a hike through Black River Gorges, here is some useful information to help you plan your visit:

• Opening hours: the trails are walked during daylight hours. The two information centres keep their own hours, longer at Grande Rivière Noire than at Pétrin, which closes early and on Sundays.
• Access: admission to the park is free, and a trail map is available for a few rupees at the information centres.
• Information centres: visit Pétrin or Grande Rivière Noire to collect maps and trail recommendations.
• Nearby activities: canyoning, dolphin watching in Tamarin and an excursion to Chamarel are great ways to complement a day of hiking.
• Best time to visit: the dry season, from May to November, offers less slippery trails and better visibility.

Want to turn your day in nature into a relaxing wellness retreat? Why not combine an early-morning hike through Black River Gorges with some peaceful time overlooking the lagoon? Book your stay at Legend Hill: our concierge team can organise your trip and excursions along the west coast.

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