Discover Mauritius’ Wild Heart: Hiking Macchabee Forest & Mare aux Joncs
Embark on the ultimate nature adventure with a guided trek through the breathtaking Black River Gorges National Park. Your journey takes you deep into the lush Macchabee Forest and toward the hidden gems of Mare aux Joncs. Whether you are an avid trekker or a nature lover, this immersive eco-tour offers the perfect blend of physical challenge, stunning panoramas, and endemic wildlife spotting.
Price: €35 per person
[ Book an Authentic Mauritian Eco-Adventure Today! ]
Why Hike Black River Gorges National Park?
Proclaimed a protected national reserve in 1994, the Black River Gorges National Park spans over 6,574 hectares of pristine, southwestern Mauritian rainforest.
As you hike from east to west, you will witness a fascinating ecological shift. The trail transitions from damp, misty upland forests (receiving up to 4,000 mm of annual rainfall) to the warmer, drier lowland forests. This unique microclimate makes the park a thriving sanctuary for rare, endemic flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Keep your eyes peeled for rare Mauritian birds and vibrant tropical flowers along the way!
Guided by Locals, Supporting Communities
Our Pledge: Pure Local Expertise & Sustainable Tourism
We are deeply committed to sustainable travel and supporting the local community. We exclusively employ local inhabitants as forest guides on every single hiking trip. Nobody knows these mountains, weather patterns, and hidden trails better than the people who call them home. By booking this tour, you directly fund local livelihoods and help preserve the cultural heritage of Mauritius.
Meet Your Local Guide: Mevin
You are in exceptionally safe hands. Mevin is a Tourism Authority-licensed eco-guide with over 40 years of wilderness experience. As one of the island’s most respected trail veterans, he enriches your journey with deep insider knowledge of indigenous botany, local folklore, and mountain history—ensuring a deeply authentic, safe, and memorable eco-tour.
Trail Highlights & Options
Option 1: The Macchabee Trail (Full Loop)
- Route: Pétrin to Black River Lower Gorges
- Distance: 10 km
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours
- The Experience: Perfect for those looking for a rewarding physical challenge through deep canopy trails and changing microclimates.
Option 2: Macchabee Trail Viewpoint (Out & Back)
- Route: Pétrin Information Centre to Maccabee Viewpoint
- Distance: 10 km (Total)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- The Experience: A gentler pace that rewards you with one of the most iconic, sweeping panoramic views of the entire gorge and the Indian Ocean beyond.
Tour Details & Essential Information
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Feature
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Details
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Availability
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Monday to Sunday (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
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Group Size
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Min 2 – Max 12 people (For an intimate, eco-friendly experience)
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Age Limit
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Minimum 12 years old (Children must be accompanied by an adult)
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Languages
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English, French, and Mauritian Creole
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Weather & Cancellation Policy
Your safety is paramount. In the event of heavy rainfall, adverse weather conditions, or cyclone warnings, cancelled tours due to weather will be rescheduled to the next available date at no extra cost.
Packing Checklist: What to Bring
To ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience in the rainforest, please pack the following:
- Footwear: Sturdy walking or hiking shoes with good grip.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
- Nature Essentials: Mosquito repellent, binoculars, and a camera.
- Comfort: A towel and a full change of dry clothes to leave in the vehicle for after the hike.
- Weather Wear: A lightweight raincoat or poncho.
- Hydration/Nutrition: Plenty of bottled water and energy snacks (plan your outing a few days in advance and check the weather!).
