If you are a lover of greenery and even more so an avid walker, then Black River Gorges National Park is a must during your visit to Mauritius. Spanning 6,574 hectare, the area was declared a natural reserve in order to protect the fast-disappearing indigenous forests of Mauritius. It includes almost 100 percent of the remaining hardwood upland, boggy heath land and tropical forest (about 3.5 percent of the surface of Mauritius Island).
Not only does the park protect the ebony forests, but it is also the saviour of the rare pink pigeon and Mauritian kestrel. This is a place where you can experience about 311 species of native plants and 9 species of birdlife that are unique to Mauritius. You will also find the curious "Bois de Natte" trees with their umbrella-shaped canopies that are often laden with ferns and orchids and have a chance to see the national Mauritian flower - the Trochetia boutoniana.
A densely-wooded area, the Black River Gorges National Park traverses valleys and mountains affording spectacular scenery and waterfalls. It is possible to drive or take a bus through the park and stop for some stunning views over the gorges and down to the coastline, but the best option is to experience this luscious land on foot.
There are over 60 km of walking and hiking trails which can take you to the Maccabée forest, the Alexandra falls, amazing viewpoints, the marshy heartland and even the highest point - Black River Peak (828m).
The National Park is easily accessible from Vacoas or Curepipe via La Marie and Mare aux Vacoas. There is a visitor information centre at Le Pétrin where you can get details on the trails. Always obtain a map and check that the trail is in good condition before starting out on your beautiful experience of Mauritius' natural inlands.
