Mauritius South Coast Road Trip: Le Morne, Chamarel & Black River Gorges

The south-west is where Mauritius shows its wild side. Forested hills drop towards the sea, waterfalls fall through the jungle, and the unmistakable shape of Le Morne rises from the lagoon. It is the part of the island that most rewards a car, because the best places are spread along winding roads.

This route links the main sights in a sensible order. It can be done in a day by an early starter, but two days with an overnight near the coast is more relaxed. For other regions, see the top attractions by car and the 7-day itinerary.

Before you set off

• Fill up the tank: stations are less frequent in the hills and along the south coast.
• Bring water, sun protection, a light rain jacket and sturdy shoes.
• Start early: weather is clearer in the morning, and the plateau can cloud over later.
• Check the forecast. Heavy rain makes roads slippery and reduces visibility.
• New to left-hand driving? Our driving guide covers hill roads too.

Stop 1: Black River Gorges National Park

Black River Gorges National Park protects much of what remains of the island’s native forest and is home to several rare species of plants and birds. Viewpoints along the roads give wide views over the gorges and the coast, and marked trails range from short walks to long hikes. For a first visit, choose a short trail and a couple of viewpoints, and keep to the marked paths.

Stop 2: Chamarel

Chamarel combines two attractions in one small area. The Seven Coloured Earth is a field of dunes with bands of colour, and a short drive away a high waterfall falls into a forested gorge. Both are popular, so mid-morning is busy; go early or accept the crowds. The road from the coast is steep and winding, so drive in a low gear and give way where the road narrows.

Stop 3: Le Morne

Le Morne Brabant is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for its history as a refuge for escaped slaves. The surrounding lagoon is one of the most photographed views in Mauritius, and the area is a hub for kitesurfing. Park in a legal space, pick a quiet stretch of beach and enjoy the view. We can deliver your car to Le Morne if you are staying there.

Stop 4: The south coast and Bel Ombre

From Le Morne, the south coast road is quieter and wilder, with rocky shores and views of the open Indian Ocean. Around Bel Ombre the landscape opens up to sugar cane fields, beaches and nature reserves. Stop at viewpoints and keep an eye on sea conditions: the ocean on this coast can be rough, and swimming is only advisable in sheltered areas.

A one-day and a two-day plan

In one day, start at Black River Gorges, continue to Chamarel and finish at Le Morne for sunset. With two days, spend the first in the hills and the second on the coast, with a long lunch and time on the beach. Staying overnight near Flic-en-Flac or Tamarin shortens the drives.

Driving in the hills

• Use a lower gear on steep descents instead of riding the brakes.
• Slow down before blind bends and keep to the left.
• Pull over safely to let faster traffic pass or to take photos.
• Switch on lights in rain or mist.
• Do not drive on unpaved or unsuitable tracks that your rental terms exclude.

Which car for the south-west?

A compact car with decent power copes well. Automatics are helpful on steep hills, and a seven-seater is useful for groups. Add a tourist SIM card for navigation and ask for child seats where needed. See our automatic car rental and the full fleet.

Nature and wildlife etiquette

The south-west protects some of the last native forest on the island. Stay on marked paths, do not pick plants or feed wildlife, take all rubbish with you and keep noise low so birds and other animals are not disturbed. Monkeys are common near some viewpoints: keep food out of sight and do not feed them.

What to keep in the car

• At least a litre of drinking water per person.
• Sun protection, a hat and a light rain jacket.
• Comfortable walking shoes, plus a spare pair of dry socks.
• A charged phone, a car charger and an offline map.
• A small towel and a bag for wet swimwear.
• Snacks for the road, as eating options thin out in the hills.