Duration
5–6 hours return
Distance
10 km
Elevation
828 m (highest point in Mauritius)
Region
Black River / South West
Overview
Black River Peak (Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire) is the highest point in Mauritius at 828m. The trail passes through the heart of the Black River Gorges National Park — Mauritius's only true national park and home to its last remaining areas of endemic forest. The hike passes through native woodland alive with the calls of Mauritius kestrels, pink pigeons, and echo parakeets — all birds brought back from the edge of extinction. The summit views extend to both the east and west coasts.
Difficulty: Hard
Requires good fitness and some scrambling. Boots recommended. Allow a full half-day.
Trail Route
Start at the Petrin Visitor Centre. Register your name with the National Parks staff (recommended).
Follow the well-marked forest trail heading south. Dense endemic forest — watch for Mauritius kestrel overhead.
First viewpoint at approximately 2km — views over Black River Gorges valley.
Trail climbs consistently for 4km through alternating forest and rocky exposed sections.
Junction sign for Black River Peak — take left fork. Final 1km is the most demanding.
Summit: 360° views from Flic en Flac on the west coast to Grand Port in the east.
Highlights
Best Time to Hike
May to October
What to Bring
- 3L water per person
- High-energy snacks and lunch
- Trail shoes or boots (mandatory — rocky trail)
- First aid basics
- Rain jacket (weather changes quickly)
- Insect repellent
Important Warnings
- ⚠This is a full-day commitment — do not start after 9am
- ⚠Weather on the peak can change rapidly — bring a layer
- ⚠No mobile signal on much of the trail
- ⚠Do not deviate from marked trails — dense vegetation makes navigation difficult
- ⚠Carry out all rubbish — this is a national park
