The Black River Gorges National Park is one of the most popular sights in Mauritius - and the ideal playground for adventurers and explorers. The 16,7 hectare park is home to dense forests, waterfalls and exotic birds. You will find over 300 different types of plants and a number of bird species in the park. I have put together the most important information for you in my Black River Gorges National Park Mauritius tips and experiences.

The large national park in the southeast of the island is in itself a destination with which you can fill an entire Mauritius vacation. It is so big, expansive with so much untouched nature to explore. That's why one of the best ways to explore Black River Gorges National Park is on foot, hiking. There are numerous hiking trails of varying lengths and levels of difficulty, so there is something for everyone. If you really want to get off the beaten path, you can even camp in the park.

One of the highlights of Black River Gorges National Park is the Black River itself. The river flows through the heart of the park and in some places is even a great place for swimming, fishing or simply relaxing. My highlight was the spectacular waterfalls and rapids of the river that meanders through the middle of the jungle.

If you're lucky, you might even spot some of the park's rare wildlife like the Mauritian falcon or the pink pigeon. You can also see monkeys up close in the park. So be sure to keep your eyes open. Black River Gorges National Park is a perfect place to see animals and plants that you have never encountered in your life. It is truly a place of natural beauty.

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How to get started in Black River Gorges National Park Mauritius?

A visit to the Black River Gorges National Park Mauritius is actually a must for all holidaymakers. Definitely for adventurers, explorers and active vacationers. the largest of the national parks in Mauritius. With a bit of luck you can admire over 300 different plant species and nine bird species that are only found on the island. The park is located in the southwest of the island state, about 40 kilometers south of the capital Port Louis and 22 kilometers south of Flic en Flac.

The visitor center is located at the entrance to the Black River in the northwest of the national park. Entry is free. Here you can also park your car in the free parking spaces and start your discovery tours with hiking boots, a backpack, food and a passion for hiking.

My personal experiences at Black River Gorges National Park

When we visited the Black River Gorges National Park for the first time, we criminally didn't do much research beforehand. I had no idea what a breathtaking park awaits us in the southeast of Mauritius. We arrived in a rental car and worked our way from sight to sight by car. Right at our first stop there was an incredibly beautiful view point where you could get up close to the waterfalls.

Basically, many of the spectacular sights are very similar and unless you study them in detail and read the signs, it is difficult to recognize which waterfalls you are looking at. The transition from the Black River Gorges National Park to the Chamarel Geopark (which costs an entrance fee) is also not immediately obvious. This seems to be the case for many visitors. I couldn't find any info about the difference between the two. I would put it this way: Chamarel Geopark borders the Black River Gorges National Park to the southwest. Anyone who is there could easily think that both parks belong to the same park.

However, anyone who is out and about in the park doesn't want to dwell on such quibbles. The Black River Gorges National Park is simply breathtakingly beautiful. You can either drive through it in a rental car or go hiking and camping on site. Both options are totally worth it.

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Black River Gorges National Park - Tips for your visit

Black River Gorges National Park is incredibly vast – and I recommend doing a little preparation before your visit. Because you will probably spend at least a whole day there. A few tips for your visit to Black River Gorges National Park:

• Wear comfortable, safe shoes and clothing as the terrain can be very uneven and hiking means you are deep in untouched nature.
• Bring plenty of water and food as there are no restaurants or shops in the park. The only restaurant that caught my eye is at the Seven Colored Earth in Chamarel.
• Be careful with the monkeys that are common in the park. They look very trusting from a distance. But be careful: they can become aggressive if they feel threatened and especially if they have a young one with them.
• Be sure to pack insect repellent as mosquitoes can be a problem - especially after dusk.
• Start your hike early in the day to avoid the heat of the midday sun. I recommend taking a hat with you as sun protection or using an umbrella as a parasol.
• I also recommend a GPS tracker such as your smartphone with a local SIM card, a smartwatch with maps or a similar tracker.

So you shouldn't make the mistake we made on our first visit. With careful planning and preparation, your visit to the Black River Gorges National Park will be an unforgettable experience that is one of the highlights in Mauritius.

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The sights and activities in Black River Gorges National Park

The Black River Gorges National Park is a true paradise for explorers and nature lovers who want to follow in the footsteps of the diverse flora and fauna of Mauritius. This breathtaking national park offers numerous sights and activities that will keep you on the edge of your seat during your trip.

To really immerse yourself in the wonders of this park, we recommend reserving several days of your stay in Mauritius for it. In the following sections, we'll introduce you to some of the most notable highlights and unforgettable activities in Black River Gorges National Park that you shouldn't miss.

1. Hiking in Black River Gorges National Park

If you like hiking, you should definitely visit the Black River Gorges National Park in Mauritius. This park is the largest and most diverse nature reserve on the island and offers you a breathtaking landscape of green mountains, deep gorges, rushing waterfalls and lush forests. Here you can discover the unique flora and fauna of Mauritius, which includes many endemic species that are only found here.

The park has nearly 100 kilometers of trails suitable for all levels and interests. Whether you want to travel for just an hour or a whole day, you're sure to find a route that excites you. The trails are well marked and maintained so you won't get lost. There are also several picnic areas and viewpoints where you can take a break and enjoy the beautiful views.

Macchabee Trail

This 10-kilometer circular trail takes you through the dense cloud forest on the Macchabée Plateau. Here you can admire many rare plants such as the black ebony tree or the pink pigeon wood. You also have a good chance of spotting some of Mauritius' endemic birds such as the Echo Parakeet, the Mauritius Hawk or the Pink Pigeon.

Black River Peak Trail

This 8-kilometer round-trip hike takes you to the highest point on the island, Black River Peak. From here you have a spectacular view over the whole island and the sea. The trail is quite steep and rocky but worth the effort. Along the way you can also see the famous Tambalacoque tree, also known as the Dodo tree because it used to be eaten by these extinct birds.

Parakeet path

This 6-kilometer circular trail is ideal for families with children or for beginners. It leads you through a beautiful mixed forest with lots of colorful flowers and butterflies. You can also take a detour to Alexandra Waterfall, which is particularly impressive after a rain shower. Along the way, you can also spot some of Mauritius' rare parrots, such as the green ringneck or the blue Mauritius parakeet.

2. Discover waterfalls

Many of the waterfalls in Black River Gorges National Park are only accessible on foot and require a certain level of fitness and adventure. But don't worry, there are also some that you can reach by car or bus if you prefer to take it a little slower.

One of the most famous and easy to reach waterfalls is Chamarel Waterfall, located in the southwest of the park. At 100 meters, it is the highest waterfall in Mauritius and falls in three cascades into a deep gorge. You can admire it from a viewing point on the main street. Also nearby is the famous Seven Colored Earth of Chamarel, a geological attraction created by volcanic activity.

3. Wild animals in the park

Black River Gorges National Park is home to more than 300 species of plants and 60 species of animals found only here. The park is particularly well-known for its rare and endangered birds, such as the Mauritius wedge-tailed eagle, the pink flamingo or the Mauritius parrot. With a bit of luck you can observe these colorful and fascinating creatures up close if you embark on one of the many hiking trails. But other wild animals are also waiting to be discovered by you. In the park, for example, you can meet the Mauritius flying foxes, the largest bats in the world. These nocturnal animals spend the day in the treetops and only become active at dusk to feed on fruit.

Even giant tortoises on site

Or how about a look at the Mauritius giant tortoise? These primitive reptiles are the last surviving of their kind and can live up to 100 years. They live in a special enclosure in the park at the Seven Colored Earth where you can feed and pet them. The Black River Gorges National Park is a true paradise for animal and nature lovers. Whether you're planning a short hike or a multi-day tour, you're sure to find something that excites you here. And the best thing is: Admission is free! So pack your camera and head to this unique place.

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The most beautiful Black River Gorges National Park hikes

Black River Gorges National Park is a hiker's paradise. With a variety of hiking trails of varying difficulty, the park offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the impressive nature and breathtaking views of the countryside. Here we present some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the park:

1. Black River Gorge Trail

The Black River Gorge Trail covers 3,5 miles (5,6 km) and is rated moderately difficult. It runs along the impressive Black River Gorge and offers spectacular views of the valley. The trailhead for this hike is near the Black River Visitor Center.

2. Blue Hole Trail

The Blue Hole Trail is approximately 1 mile (1,6 km) long and easy to walk. It leads through a dense forest and along a babbling creek to the scenic Blue Hole, a small waterfall and natural pool. The trailhead for this leisurely walk is also near the Black River Visitor Center.

3. Falls of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Trail

The challenging Falls of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Trail stretches 3,2 km and takes you through dense forest to an impressive waterfall named after the first Prime Minister of Mauritius. The trailhead for this challenging hike is near the Black River Visitor Center.

4. Les Mares Trail

The Les Mares Trail is a 6,4 km, moderately difficult hiking trail that takes you through various ecosystems of the park. Along the way you will find numerous small ponds called "mares" which are important habitats for the park's wildlife. The starting point for this varied hike is also near the Black River Visitor Center.

Viewpoints in Black River Gorges National Park

Not only the hiking trails are a highlight in the Black River Gorges National Park. The park also has several viewpoints where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the landscape. These viewpoints are easily accessible and give you the opportunity to admire the beauty of the park from a different perspective. Here are some of the most popular viewpoints in Black River Gorges National Park:

1. Black River Gorge Lookout Point

Located on the main road that runs through the park, this lookout is just minutes from the Black River Gorge Trail. From here you have a breathtaking view of the deep gorge that meanders through the park. You can admire the different shades of green vegetation and maybe even catch a glimpse of some of the rare birds that live in the park, such as the Mauritius wedge-tailed eagle or the pink-winged parrot.

2. The Blue Hole Lookout Point

This lookout is also on the main road and is close to the Blue Hole Trail. From here you have a fantastic view of the Black River Gorge and a small lake called the Blue Hole. A popular spot for picnics and swimming, this lake is a deep blue in color that contrasts with the surrounding greenery.

3. Falls of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Lookout Point

This vantage point is slightly off the main road and is a short walk away. It is located near the Falls of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Trail which leads to an impressive waterfall. From the lookout you have a great view of the waterfall and the Black River Gorge. The waterfall is named after the first Prime Minister of Mauritius, considered the father of independence.

Arrival to Black River Gorges National Park

Although there is a well-developed public transport system everywhere in Mauritius - primarily buses - it is better to travel by rental car or taxi, as commuting by bus in Mauritius can take some time depending on the route. While driving on the left is somewhat familiar in Mauritius, driving is generally not a problem. Free parking spaces are available directly at the park and sometimes even at the viewing points of the national park.

The Black River Visitors Center can be reached from the west of Grande Riviere Noire. From there a road runs into the park. The route from the Grand Bassin Temple to Chamarel is also extremely charming with a rental car - it is of course possible in both directions and perhaps even more recommended than arriving via the Visitor Center.

Black River Gorges National Park Mauritius – Tips and Experiences

My conclusion

You'll see from my photos that I'm really excited about the Black River Gorges National Park Mauritius. We really had a good time in the park and were able to discover a lot in a relatively short time with the rental car. Overall, next time I would book my entire Mauritius trip for two days longer in order to spend even more time in the park and do even more. I hope my Black River Gorges National Park Mauritius tips and experiences have helped you a little and that you can now enjoy your visit to the nature park as much as possible.

You can find more information about the park at Mauritius Tourism.

Have you already been to Mauritius or are you just planning your first trip? Share your experiences in the comments.