Black River Gorges National Park

The Black River Gorges National Park, sprawling across the mountainous southwest, protects the largest remaining tract of Mauritius's native forest and is the wild, green heart of an island otherwise dominated by sugar cane and resorts. Its rugged terrain of deep gorges, peaks and tumbling waterfalls is a refuge for the island's precious endemic wildlife, including rare birds like the once nearly extinct Mauritius kestrel, pink pigeon and echo parakeet, saved by conservation. A network of hiking trails and spectacular viewpoints reveals a completely different, unspoilt side of Mauritius.

What you actually see

• The native forest - the last great tract of endemic woodland.
• The endemic birds - the rare kestrel, pink pigeon and parakeets.
• The viewpoints - the gorge overlooks and panoramas.
• The waterfalls and trails - the cascades and hiking network.

When to go

May to December, the cooler, drier season, for the best hiking conditions and clearest views; the forest and waterfalls are lush after the summer rains but trails can be muddy. Early morning is best for spotting the rare endemic birds and enjoying the viewpoints before any cloud.

Honest expectations

It is a place for hiking, nature and birdwatching rather than dramatic big scenery or easy sightseeing, and the rare endemic birds, while present, take patience and luck to spot; trails range from easy viewpoints to strenuous gorge hikes. As a chance to experience the wild, forested, mountainous interior and the remarkable conservation story of Mauritius's endemic wildlife, though, it is a wonderful contrast to the beaches.

Nearby

Chamarel, the tea route and the highland town of Curepipe are close by.