Three to Five Days in Black River
Travel advisory, 31 October 2026: Mauritius is at US Level 2 (exercise increased caution) for crime, and the UK advises avoiding demonstrations and large gatherings after unrest in October 2026. Curfews ended on 19 October. Check your government’s current advice before you book.
Three to five days in Black River District
Black River District works as a base for several days because the lagoon, the highland plateau and the national park are all within an hour’s drive. These plans use Mauritian rupees (Rs) and non-resident prices. Book the busiest items a day ahead and keep one flexible day for rain.
Where to stay
- Flic-en-Flac has self-catering apartments and mid-range hotels beside the main resort beach.
- Tamarin and Black River have boutique lodges and villas close to the marina.
- Le Morne peninsula is the resort area at the southern end of the district.
In October 2026 reservoir levels were low, and one report says some hotels may face limited water supply until December. Ask your hotel before you book.
Three day plan
Day 1, the plateau. Drive up the B104 to Chamarel. Allow about two hours at the Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark (Rs 800 for adults, Rs 400 for children aged 5 to 11). Then take the Ebony Forest jeep tour (Rs 1,600 for adults) and eat at a Chamarel restaurant. Book L’Alchimiste ahead if you want lunch at the Rhumerie de Chamarel.
Day 2, the coast. Start early with a licensed dolphin watching boat from Tamarin or Black River, which typically costs roughly Rs 1,500 to 2,500. Keep to the boat and out of the water. In the late morning take a catamaran or pirogue to Crystal Rock for snorkelling and a beach lunch on Ile aux Benitiers, at roughly Rs 2,500 to 3,500 for a full day.
Day 3, the hills and the mountain. Climb Le Morne Brabant with a licensed guide. The mountain is a UNESCO site and a memorial to the Maroons who sheltered there, so walk it quietly. The walking tours page has the safety notes. The alternative is to drive the Plaine Champagne road to the gorge viewpoints and Alexandra Falls. Both options start early. Hiking is best before the heat builds.
Extending to five days
Day 4, the national park. Hike to Piton de la Petite Riviere Noire, 828 m, from the B103. Allow 2.5 to 3.5 hours for the 6 to 7.5 km return. The final stretch is steep with ropes, and the path is muddy. Then visit Grand Bassin, which is free, and the Bois Cheri tea plantation.
Day 5, the south coast. Go to Casela Nature Parks for the safari and the aviary, then drive the B9 to Macondé Viewpoint and the cliffs at Gris Gris, where swimming is dangerous.
Getting around
Taxis and private drivers are the practical way to reach Chamarel and the gorges because public buses do not go up to the trailheads. Agree the fare before you start. Driving is on the left, the B103 and B104 are steep and winding, and unlit roads and stray dogs make night driving risky.
Seasons
Cyclone season runs from November to May and peaks from January to March. During a cyclone you cannot leave your accommodation. Winter, from May to October, is drier and cooler and suits hiking, while summer is hotter and better for marlin fishing and calm seas.
Read more: Day trips from Black River and Walking tours in Black River .
Hotels and apartments can be compared on Booking.com . Official details are on the Chamarel geopark FAQ , the Ebony Forest visitor page and the UK travel advice for Mauritius .