A jewel in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is beloved for its natural beauty that spans between lush landscapes and azure waters full of coral reefs and marine life. In the southwest of Mauritius, a one-of-a-kind underwater waterfall takes place in the Le Morne Peninsula. This natural phenomenon is actually an optical illusion caused by sand cascading from shallow to deep waters, a stunning spectacle put on by Mother Nature. Read on to learn how to best experience this unique site and its surroundings.
Mauritius is the second-largest of the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean, which were formed by underwater volcanic activity 8 million years ago. These islands sit on a shallow submarine shelf which is no deeper than 150 metres below sea level. The particularity of Mauritius' marine geography is the huge drop-off that plunges to over 4000 metres below sea level. So what you're witnessing is not an underwater waterfall, but more a sandfall. The strong ocean currents propel sand and silt deposits off the shelf's edge - erosion at its most magnificent. The ocean's 50 shades of blue illustrate the different depths, with the shallow waters a bright turquoise and the ocean deep a rich blue.
You'll want to take flight to witness this incredible sight in all its glory. Air Mauritius offers helicopter tours to get a bird's-eye view of the underwater waterfall, Le Morne Brabant, and Mauritius' breathtaking coastline. Seaplane tours are also fun to experience a water take-off and landing on the Indian Ocean. Both offer an incredible perspective of the cascading sand and myriad of colours.
Hike to the 500-metre peak of Le Morne Brabant to soak up views of the waterfall and surrounding reefs. As for swimming, strong swimmers can get close though should be careful of the forceful currents. The same goes for diving. Hire a guide to accompany you into the unknown abyss since the conditions can be unpredictable.
Mother Nature is at her most dazzling in this southwest corner of Mauritius. Hike the majestic Le Morne Brabant mountain for 360-degree views of the picturesque peninsula. Le Morne Beach below, is one of the best kitesurfing spots in the world while the nearby, and calmer, Prairie Beach is known for snorkelling. Both are famous for glorious sunsets.
Heading northeast inland, the Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is as geologically fascinating and colourful as the underwater waterfalls, its volcanic earth dunes a rainbow of ochres, oranges, and reds. Further east, Black River Gorges National Park is the largest nature reserve on the island. A beautiful mosaic of green hills, craggy gorges, and waterfalls, spot a wealth of flora and fauna by hiking, mountain biking, or canyoning. Don't miss the Chamarel waterfall that soars 83 metres above ground (not underwater.) Your Villanovo concierge can book an expert local guide to help you navigate all these natural wonders.
In addition to its spectacular views, lush vegetation, and abundance of wild animals and endemic plants, Le Morne Brabant represents an important chapter of Mauritian culture and history. In the 18th and early 19th century, runaway slaves hid in the mountain's caves, They created small settlements in the steep slopes whose inaccessibility protected them from being caught. A powerful symbol for the slaves' fight for freedom, Le Morne Brabant was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
As far as when to plan your luxury trip to Mauritius, the island has two seasons: the southern winter from May - October and the southern summer from November - April. The island's climate is mild year-round. Summer is the warmest and wettest, with intermittent rain showers providing a refreshing respite from the heat. Winter is drier and milder, with some wind that surfers and kitesurfers appreciate.
As for the underwater waterfall in Mauritius, the best visibility is in November and December while July and August could have more clouds that could prevent clear views. When it comes to transport, you can get around via a taxi, a bus (slower yet a way to mingle with locals), or a car hire with or without driver - just remember to drive on the left! Regardless of the season, your Villanovo concierge is happy to advise you for your trip to Mauritius.
Villanovo offers a wide range of luxury villas in Mauritius, including those with a private swimming pool, direct beach access, house staff, or private chef. This wealth of amenities ensures you and your loved ones will have a great time on your Mauritius holidays.
Our sumptuous villas can be rented in prime locations across Mauritius: Grand Baie, Trou d’Eau Douce, Bel Ombre, Belle Mare, Anahita, Le Morne, and Flic en Flac.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can focus on your Mauritius holidays. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, booking everything from a boat trip or catamaran cruise in the Indian Ocean, childcare, or a private chef to cook up specialties of Mauritian gastronomy. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel diary for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations for restaurants, shops and the best places to visit in Mauritius for great times guaranteed.