The Black River Gorges National Park is the largest protected forest of Mauritius. Providing over 50 km of magnificent and yet challenging hiking trails. This is the best way to get into the deep nature of Mauritius whether you prefer a hardcore climb to the highest peak or a gentler ramble through the forest.
Amidst the unspoilt rainforest of Mauritius, there are almost 17,000 acres of rolling hills, deep valleys, spectacular waterfalls and unparalleled beauty of flora and fauna in the southwestern region- welcome to the Black River Gorges. It covers 2 % of the thick native forests and rolling hills of the southwestern part of Mauritius.
The Black River Gorges Nature Reserve was constructed in order to save the natural vegetation of the island and make it one of the most important Mauritian sights. One can walk along the greenery and reach the highest point of the island, which is the Black River Peak.
Facilities for visitors include two information centres, picnic areas and 60 kilometers of trails.
The Black River Gorges National park protects most of the island's remaining rainforest, and is home to many species of wild animals and birds. Some endangered bird species include the Mauritius kestrel, the echo parakeet, the pink pigeon, Mauritian flying fox, Mauritius bulbul, and Mauritius olive white-eye. You might also find the introduced wild boar, macaque monkeys, and deer wandering in the wild.
History of Black River Gorges National Park in Mauritius
Black River Gorges National Park has a glorious history of independence from its colonial rule by the Dutch settlers. After long years of struggle for independence the country had its self-government in the 1950s. Finally on March 12, 1968 Mauritius became an independent nation with Sir Seewosagur Ramgoolam as its first prime minister who stood at the helm of the movement. The present natives of the region are descendants of the European settlers, African slaves, Creoles, Chinese traders and Indian labourers. During the years of Dutch rule slaves and labourers were brought in to Mauritius from Africa and India by the Dutch, British and French. Therefore, you can witness a unique hodgepodge of different cultures in this region which stands as a fine example of cultural integration today.
There is as such no official language in Mauritius. All administrative and official works are conducted in English while newspapers and other media use French as the language of interaction. In many parts of the island Creole is spoken by the locals (86.5%) with a strong French influence. The rest of the natives speak Bhojpuri (5.3%) and French (4.1%). Due to its veritable plethora of cultural influences since the days of Dutch colonisation, the Black River Gorges National Park fairly boasts of its religious diversity. Across the length and breadth of the country you can spot iconic cathedrals, mosques, pagodas, and Hindu shrines that testify to the religious freedom conferred to the natives of the island nation.
Things to do at Black River Gorges National Park in Mauritius
Here are some of the best things to do in Black River Gorges National Park
- Hiking- The park abounds with some of the stunning trails amidst that will certainly please the adventure junkie in you. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Macchabée Trail which allures hikers round the globe to explore nature at its wildest best. For expert hikers the Grosse Cateau Verte and Cascade Des Galets trails are worth venturing into. Both the routes are a bit arduous but it is well worth your attempt when you reach the summit and take a glimpse of the breath-taking panorama of the surroundings. However, beginners can attempt to hike along the Black River Piton, Savanne Sud and Macchabée trails.
- Birdwatching- In a joyful half day expedition to the paradise of birds you can catch a glimpse of some rare species of birds in their natural habitat. The National Park hosts about hundreds of hiking trails offering splendid vista of the surroundings. As you make your way through the rainforest region you will spot Mauritian pink pigeons, echo parakeets and other endangered species of birds.
You will be accompanied by a professional guide (EFR/WFA certified) on your trip. The forest predominantly comprises of black ebony and dodo trees. It is also a perfect spot for outdoor picnics. Shutterbugs be ready with your cameras to capture the intriguing gestures of colourful birds. The trip is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
- Go shopping- The Central Market is a traditional shopping corner which is buzzing with energy. Admire its vibrant colour, soak up the lively ambience, taste some tropical fruits and take your best pick from the stalls of local crafts. The indoor market is also a great place to walk around, shop and enjoy local platters. The hustle and bustle of the buyers keeps the marketplace lively throughout the day.
- Rum tasting trip- The trip has to be in the bucket list of the connoisseurs of Rum. You can watch the different stages of Chamarel Rum production right from processing of sugarcane till the final product. It is really a worthy experience to see how premium quality edible spirit is prepared from really unpromising ingredients.
The cherry on the cake is of course the degustation of various rums. You will have a generous chance to taste various types of rum before you take your best pick. The uphill road to the rum distillery is a bit challenging and you will come across a number of turns on your way. Enjoying gourmet lunch amidst a picture perfect natural setting will take away the drudgery of a long journey.
How to Reach Black River Gorges National Park in Mauritius
The Black River Gorges National Park is near Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and can be reached easily from the city centre of Mauritius.
By Bus: Private buses ply regularly to and fro the park from the city centre of Mauritius. It takes around 47 minutes to reach Black River Gorges National Park. For budget travellers bus ride is an economic mode of conveyance. By road: If you are looking for a comfy ride, you can hire a taxi that will drive you to the park entrance in 40 minutes. Driving by car is also the fastest mode of conveyance.
