Mauritius is home to three main peaks, each offering unique experiences:
- Black River Peak (828 m / 2,717 ft): The tallest mountain in Mauritius, featuring forest trails within the Black River Gorges National Park.
- Pieter Both (820 m / 2,690 ft): Known for its distinct boulder-shaped summit, ideal for technical climbers.
- Le Morne Brabant (556 m / 1,824 ft): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with historical significance and scenic hiking paths.
Quick Comparison Table
| Mountain | Height (ft/m) | Difficulty | Key Features | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black River Peak | 2,717 ft / 828 m | Easy to Moderate | Forest trail, panoramic views | Black River District |
| Pieter Both | 2,690 ft / 820 m | Difficult | Boulder summit, technical climb | Moka Range |
| Le Morne Brabant | 1,824 ft / 556 m | Moderate | UNESCO site, historical importance | Southwest Peninsula |
Best Time to Visit
- May to December: Cooler, dry weather.
- Avoid January to March: Cyclone season.
Essentials to Bring
- Hiking boots, sunscreen, water, raincoat, and a trail map.
Whether you’re a hiker, climber, or history enthusiast, Mauritius’s mountains offer something for everyone.
Climbing Black River Peak, Mauritius: A Hiker’s Guide to the …
Main Mountains in Mauritius
Mauritius is home to several iconic peaks, each with its own unique history and features. Key highlights include Le Morne Brabant, Pieter Both, and Black River Peak.
Le Morne Brabant
Le Morne Brabant stands at 556 meters (1,824 feet) and is a striking basaltic monolith. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds deep historical significance. During the 18th and early 19th centuries, it served as a sanctuary for escaped slaves. Tragically, in 1835, when authorities approached the area, many chose death over the risk of re-enslavement.
Pieter Both
Pieter Both, the second-highest peak in Mauritius, rises to 820 meters (2,690 feet). It is named after the first Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies. Its distinctive head-shaped summit makes it a standout feature of the Moka Range.
Black River Peak
At 828 meters (2,717 feet), Black River Peak (Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire) is the tallest mountain in Mauritius. Located in the Rivière Noire District, it is the highlight of the Black River Gorges National Park. Visitors can access this peak via several well-maintained trails starting from Plaine Champagne, Chamarel, and the Black River Gorges Visitors Centre.
| Mountain | Height | Notable Features | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black River Peak | 828 m (2,717 ft) | Highest point in Mauritius | Black River District |
| Pieter Both | 820 m (2,690 ft) | Distinctive head-shaped peak | Moka Range |
| Le Morne Brabant | 556 m (1,824 ft) | UNESCO World Heritage Site | Southwest Peninsula |
Mountain Trails and Activities
Explore the variety of trails and outdoor experiences each peak has to offer.
Le Morne Brabant Hiking Path
The Le Morne Brabant trail stretches 4 miles round trip and is considered moderately challenging. Most hikers complete it in 3–4 hours while soaking in stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Guided tours, such as the Le Morne Mountain UNESCO Eco Hike, are a popular choice and cost $79.16 per person.
"Given the family ownership of Le Morne peninsula, I doubt you can find a more knowledgeable, experienced or caring guide."
Pieter Both Climbing Route
The climb up Pieter Both spans 2 miles round trip and is best suited for experienced climbers. Due to the technical nature of this route, hiring a professional guide is strongly advised for safety.
Black River Peak Hiking Options
This 4-mile round trip hike is also moderately challenging. Starting points include Plaine Champagne, Chamarel, and Black River Gorges National Park. The trail is well-maintained, with fixed ropes to assist on steeper sections. Starting early and bringing the right gear is essential for a smooth hike.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Mountains
Accessing these mountains depends on their unique entry points. For Le Morne Brabant, guided tours are available through Horazis, a company that has been organizing small-group expeditions since 2018. To reach Black River Peak, start from Plaine Champagne near the Black River Gorges Viewpoint, or take trails from Chamarel or the national park. For Pieter Both, the climbing route begins at La Laura village.
When to Visit
The ideal time for hiking is between May and December, when the weather is cooler, dry, and sunny. October stands out as an excellent month due to minimal rainfall. On the other hand, avoid hiking from January to March, as this is cyclone season, and be cautious of strong winds during July and August. Early morning treks are recommended to steer clear of the midday heat.
What to Bring
Make sure to pack these essentials:
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), a hat, and sunglasses
- At least 2 liters of water per person
- A light raincoat and a warm layer
- A trail map or GPS device
- A basic first aid kit and emergency contact information
Proper preparation can make all the difference. Here’s what one visitor had to say:
"We had the most fabulous time hiking up Le Morne Brabant and would highly recommend this activity! Our guide Kevin was absolutely amazing and he is a true professional! He shared a lot of knowledge about the surrounding nature & history of Le Morne and he made the hike really fun and interesting but also keeping us safe at all times! We would really recommend this tour….it was the highlight of our honeymoon!" – Ashling
If you’re planning a guided tour at Le Morne Brabant, expect to pay around $59 per person, which includes expert guidance and safety gear.
History and Nature
Le Morne Brabant History
Le Morne Brabant stands as a powerful symbol of resistance and freedom in Mauritius. This mountain became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 due to its historical role as a refuge for escaped slaves, known as Maroons. During the 18th and early 19th centuries, they sought shelter in the mountain’s caves and dense forests. Tragically, on February 1, 1835, a group of enslaved individuals, unaware that freedom was being announced, leapt from the cliffs to avoid recapture.
"There were hundreds of them, but my people the maroons chose the kiss of death over the chains of slavery."
Today, the cultural significance of Le Morne is honored every year on February 1 at the International Slave Route Monument, located at the mountain’s base. This 30-acre site preserves both the natural and historical heritage of the area.
Beyond its human history, Mauritius’s peaks also host fascinating ecosystems.
Black River Peak Wildlife
Black River Peak, located within Black River Gorges National Park, is a haven for some of Mauritius’s rarest species. It provides a home for endangered birds like the Mauritius Kestrel and the Pink Pigeon. The forest surrounding the peak represents one of the last remaining patches of native woodland on the island. Thanks to its protected status, the area has preserved native plants, including rare orchids and endemic hardwood trees. Different elevations within the park create microhabitats that support a variety of unique plant species.
Pieter Both Formation
Pieter Both, Mauritius’s second-highest mountain, is instantly recognizable by the large boulder perched at its summit, measuring about 30 ft (9 m) in diameter. This peak is named after Pieter Both, the first Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies, who tragically died in a shipwreck near Flic-en-Flac in 1615. It forms part of the Moka Range and remains a striking feature of the island’s landscape.
Mountain Quick Facts
Mountain Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main features of each peak:
| Feature | Black River Peak | Pieter Both | Le Morne Brabant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 2,717 ft (828 m) | 2,690 ft (820 m) | 1,824 ft (556 m) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate | Mildly Difficult | Moderate |
| Trail Type | Forest walk | Technical climb (scrambling) | Guided hike |
| Starting Point | Plaine Champagne or Black River Gorges Visitors Center | La Laura village | Le Morne Peninsula |
| Notable Features | Summit bench; panoramic views; native forest trail | Distinctive boulder; part of Moka Range | UNESCO site; historical refuge |
Black River Peak is the tallest mountain in Mauritius, offering a well-marked trail that includes fixed ropes for steeper parts. At the summit, hikers are greeted by the iconic Bench 828, providing a perfect spot to enjoy sweeping views of the island.
Pieter Both, just 8 meters shorter than Black River Peak, is known for its more demanding climb. Its summit is marked by a striking boulder about 30 ft (9 m) in diameter, creating a dramatic silhouette against the sky.
Le Morne Brabant stands out for its historical importance and scenic beauty. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it served as a refuge during Mauritius’s colonial past, adding a layer of cultural depth to its breathtaking trails.
Conclusion
Mauritius’s three iconic peaks offer something for every adventurer. Black River Peak, standing at 2,717 ft (828 m), delivers sweeping views through a moderate forest trail. For those seeking a tougher challenge, Pieter Both offers technical climbing opportunities. Meanwhile, Le Morne Brabant, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, combines stunning landscapes with deep historical roots.
Timing your hike is key for the best experience. Starting early in the morning helps you avoid the harsh midday sun, especially on exposed trails. These mountains showcase the island’s beauty, offering everything from well-marked paths to more demanding climbs.
But these peaks are more than just hiking spots – they tell the story of Mauritius’s geological past, cultural heritage, and diverse ecosystems. As Venture Mauritius puts it:
"Once you make it to the summit you won’t be disappointed by the breathtaking views over the island"
Whether you’re captivated by history, up for a climbing challenge, or simply looking for scenic trails, Mauritius’s mountains promise a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
