Which is the best short walk in Black River Gorges?

From Pétrin, walk the first hour of the Macchabée trail through the forest and turn round; it is flat and shaded. For the full viewpoint carry on to the end, three hours return.

Mauritius Gem

Black River Gorges National Park

The island's last big native forest: 60 km of free trails, a gorge viewpoint from the road, and the best chance of seeing a Mauritius kestrel or echo parakeet.

Why go

This is what Mauritius looked like before sugar. The Gorges viewpoint on the Plaine Champagne road needs no walking at all; the Macchabée trail from Pétrin is the classic three-hour walk to a cliff-edge view over the whole gorge, with a real chance of the island's endemic birds.

How to do it

Free. Two entrances: Pétrin on the plateau (start of the Macchabée trail) and Black River on the coast. Pick up a trail map at the information centre. Take water, there is none on the trails; wear shoes with grip, the red earth turns to soap when wet.

Questions people ask

Which is the best short walk in Black River Gorges?: From Pétrin, walk the first hour of the Macchabée trail through the forest and turn round; it is flat and shaded. For the full viewpoint carry on to the end, three hours return.