Nature
Waterfalls of Mauritius
From canyon swimming pools to 100-metre single drops and geometric basalt formations.
Mauritius receives heavy rainfall in its mountainous interior during the wet season — feeding rivers that tumble down volcanic gorges in dramatic fashion. The most spectacular waterfalls are found in the Black River Gorges region and the south of the island. Several have swimmable pools at the base; others are viewpoint experiences. All are worth the journey.
All Waterfalls
5 Waterfalls Listed
Tamarind Falls
7 Cascades
The crown jewel of Mauritius waterfalls. Seven cascades on the Tamarind River, connected by natural swimming pools in a jungle canyon. Access requires a local guide and involves rope descents. One of the most memorable experiences in Mauritius.
A guided hike of 3–4 hours takes you past all seven falls, each with a pool. The canyon walls narrow dramatically between falls 4 and 5 — you swim through a gorge. Come prepared to get completely wet.
Location
Drive Time
How to Get There
Drive to Henrietta village near Black River. Most activity operators run transfers from hotels — this is the easiest option. If self-driving, follow signs to Henrietta from the M1 motorway.
Best: May to November — avoid the wet season (Dec–Mar)
Full hiking guide
Chamarel Waterfall
La Chute de Chamarel
The tallest waterfall in Mauritius at approximately 100m. Set in the lush ravine near Chamarel village, close to the famous Coloured Earths. The falls are viewed from a designated viewpoint — you cannot reach the base. Best seen during or just after the rainy season.
The Chamarel Waterfall is best combined with a visit to the Seven Coloured Earths nearby. The viewpoint is a 5-minute walk from the car park. The falls are most impressive from January to June when water volume is highest. In the dry season (Jul–Sep) they reduce significantly.
Location
Drive Time
How to Get There
Drive to Chamarel village via the B300 road from Quatre Bornes or from the M1 at Baie du Cap. Parking available at the Chamarel Coloured Earths entrance — both attractions share a combined ticket.
Best: January to June — highest water volume
Rochester Falls
Chutes de Rochester
Rochester Falls is unique — the water drops over perfectly geometric columns of ancient basalt, creating an otherworldly geometric rock formation. Set on the Savanne River in the deep south. The pool at the base is calm and safe for swimming. One of the most photogenic spots on the island.
The falls are reached by a 15-minute walk from the car park through sugar cane. The basalt columns were formed by rapid cooling of volcanic lava. The swimming pool at the base is excellent — calm, clear water and shaded. A small lunch shack is usually present at the car park.
Location
Drive Time
How to Get There
Drive south toward Souillac on the B9. Turn inland at the Rochester Falls signpost near Rivière des Anguilles. A short dirt track leads to the car park. Basic parking fee usually charged by local caretakers.
Best: Year-round — the geometry looks best in dry conditions
Alexandra Falls
Chutes Alexandra
Alexandra Falls is a roadside viewpoint on the Plaine Champagne plateau road through Black River Gorges National Park. The overlook gives a panoramic view down into the gorge with multiple cascades visible far below. The location is one of the highest accessible points in Mauritius and is often dramatically misty.
Pull in at the Alexandra Falls signposted layby on the B104 road through Plaine Champagne. No hiking required — just walk 50 metres to the cliff edge. The viewpoint is often inside low cloud, giving it a mysterious, dramatic atmosphere. Combine with Black River Peak trailhead nearby.
Location
Drive Time
How to Get There
Drive the B104 Plaine Champagne road toward Grand Bassin from the west (from Chamarel) or east (from Curepipe). Alexandra Falls viewpoint is signposted on the roadside. Free to access.
Best: Year-round — dramatic in mist, clear panoramas in dry season
Eau Bleue Waterfall
Cascade Eau Bleue
Eau Bleue is one of the lesser-visited but most beautiful natural sites in Mauritius. Multiple small cascades feed into vivid turquoise-blue pools, coloured by the mineral content of the volcanic rock. The approach trail passes through sugar cane and secondary forest in the Mahébourg area.
The trail to Eau Bleue is not officially marked — a local guide or someone who knows the area is strongly recommended. The swimming in the pools is excellent. Bring a picnic; there are no facilities. The site is rarely crowded midweek.
Location
Drive Time
How to Get There
Access is from the south-east, near Mahébourg. The approach road is off the coastal route between Mahébourg and Rivière des Anguilles. A local guide from Mahébourg is the easiest way to find it.
Best: May to November
Waterfall Safety
After Heavy Rain
Never swim in waterfall pools or enter canyons during or after heavy rain. River levels rise with terrifying speed. Flash floods occur without warning in the gorge areas.
Water Shoes
Volcanic rock is extremely slippery when wet — even on dry days, splashback zones are dangerous in bare feet. Water shoes or old trainers are essential for any waterfall visit involving walking near water.
Dry Season Best
May to November is the drier, cooler season. Waterfalls like Chamarel and Tamarind Falls are still active but safer to visit. Tamarind Falls is at its most spectacular November–January — but exercise more caution then.
More outdoor adventures in Mauritius