Bel Ombre Nature Reserve

What sets it apart

The guided hike lasts two hours. It follows natural trails through endemic forest, with a stop at a waterfall where swimming is possible when the weather allows. Along the way: the island’s endemic vegetation, century-old trees, and sometimes monkeys, kestrels or the rare pink pigeon. A shorter option pairs a one-hour guided walk, by the historic chimney and the Frédérica waterfall, with a picnic in the reserve.

The mood

Every outing is guided. The guides, trained by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, tell the history, culture and nature of the south as they go.

Highlights

• A two-hour guided hike through endemic forest
• A stop at a waterfall, with a swim when the weather allows
• A 1,300-hectare reserve within a 2,500-hectare estate
• Monkeys, kestrels and the pink pigeon among century-old trees
• The chimney of the former sugar estate and the Frédérica waterfall
• Guides trained by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation

Good to know

• Wear comfortable sportswear and suitable sports shoes. Bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a towel, swimwear and a reusable water bottle.
• Swimming at the waterfall depends on recent weather and is at the guide’s discretion.
• Severe rain or a flash flood can lead to the outing being cancelled; the reserve then offers another date or a refund.
• Bottled water is provided during the hike.
• Payment by debit or credit card, except Diners Club and American Express, or in cash, in Mauritian rupees only.

Getting there

The reserve is open every day, from 8:30 to 16:30. Outings leave in two sessions, at 9:30 and 13:30; visitors are asked to arrive fifteen minutes early for check-in and the safety briefing. Booking in advance is highly recommended, on +230 623 5615.