Chamarel Waterfall

The basics

Tours of southwest Mauritius typically visit Chamarel Waterfall, along with Chamarel’s Seven-Coloured Earth Geopark and Black River Gorges National Park. These tours usually include a trek down to the base of the falls where you can take a dip. You can also hire a private car to travel to the upper deck viewpoints, which are connected via a short flight of stairs.

Things to know before you go

• You can also abseil down the cliff of the waterfall and jump into the pool below.

• Bring insect repellent and water.

• The entrance to the falls is included with the ticket to the Seven-Coloured Earth.

How to get there

Most guided tours provide round-trip transport from hotels in Mauritius to the falls. To reach the base of the falls, you’ll follow a trail that snakes through dense foliage; you can't hike here on your own. From the village of Chamarel, it’s about a 10-minute drive.

When to get there

Chamarel Waterfall is a spectacular sight any time of year, but travelers looking to catch it at its best should visit between December and April, during Mauritius's wet season, when heavy rains cause the water levels to rise. The falls are open daily from early morning to mid-evening.

What to see at the Seven-Coloured Earth Geopark

Known for its multicolored dunes that were formed by volcanic activity, the Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is also home to Chamarel Waterfall and Tortoise Park, where you can see Aldabra tortoises, the world’s second-largest tortoise species. There’s also an on-site gift shop that sells locally produced products and a café.