Famous for its photogenic turquoise coves and white-sand beaches, Mauritius is also a paradise for nature lovers. The volcanic island brims with natural beauty - lush landscapes, verdant hills, and dazzling waterfalls that spill into refreshing pools. We've handpicked the best hikes across the island, from challenging climbs to easy walks for the whole family. As always, our expert Villanovo concierges can book private guides, help you choose which trails to hike, or plan a whole-day hiking tour in Mauritius to make the most of your holidays.
The largest nature reserve on the island, Black River Gorges National Park is a playground for every level of hiker. More than 60km of trails weave past densely forested hills, dizzying canyons, and rushing waterfalls. The 2km Trochetia Trail is ideal for beginners. One of the most strenuous treks leads you to the highest peak in Mauritius, the 826-metre Black River Peak (Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire). For waterfalls, take the easy path to Cascade 500 Pieds or the more difficult trail to Alexander Falls. With its 6754 hectares of preserved wild forest, Black River Gorges teems with birds and native and endemic plants. Need a taxi or local guide? Just ask your local Villanovo concierge.
A 30-minute drive from Mauritius' capital Port Louis, Tamarind Falls, aka the Seven Cascades, is one of the island's most captivating sites. The waterfalls are hidden in a lush, tropical forest and surrounded by volcanic rock. Discover the first four waterfalls on a half-day hike or do a full-day to see them all. Since the trails can be slippery, they are best for experienced hikers. Be sure to pack a swimsuit to cool off. Your Villanovo concierge is happy to book an expert guide or canyoning or abseiling for the more adventurous. The best time to visit Tamarind Falls is November to March. It can be crowded, but you'll get amazing views of Le Morne.
Looming 550 metres high above the Indian Ocean, Le Morne Brabant offers the island's most sublime viewpoints. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 to honour the mountain's caves that served as refuge for slaves who worked in the sugarcane fields. The 3 - 4-hour trek starts off easily, then increases in difficulty. As you climb, keep an eye out for local flora and fauna along the path, like the paille-en-queue (the island's emblematic bird) and Trochetia boutoniana, Mauritius' national flower. At the top, you'll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the turquoise waters, white beaches, and green hills that make hiking in Mauritius truly memorable.
At the foot of Lion Mountain in southeastern Mauritius, Ferney Valley is ideal for family-friendly hikes and fans of eco-tourism. Weave through the verdant hills of this 200-hectare nature reserve on well-marked paths. Choose from a flat 5km trail to a more challenging 18km trek. As one of the least-visited sites on the island you won't have to worry about crowds. Exploring this hub of biodiversity allows visitors to help preserve Mauritius' endemic trees and species, like the pink pigeon and echo parakeet. The expert guides are a must - let your Villanovo concierge handle the booking.
Choose a Villanovo villa in sought-after locations. Savour sandy beaches in Trou aux Biches, a gorgeous golf course in Bel Ombre, and breath-taking nature in Le Morne.
Our attentive, hands-on concierges handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying your holidays. This personalized service tailors each trip to perfectly suit your needs including excursion reservations. The pièce de résistance? Every Villanovo stay comes with a travel booklet packed with our insider picks, including the best restaurant, shop to visit and what to do in Mauritius.