Le Morne Peninsula and the South
A striking natural landscape which evokes a taste of the old Mauritius
Overview
Le Morne Peninsula and the South
The Southern region of Mauritius is a captivating blend of rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, making it a unique destination for families.
Known as the island’s most rustic area, it remains largely untouched by large-scale developments due to it having fewer swimmable beaches than the Northern and Western regions of Mauritius.
The Southern coast is a natural refuge for Mauritius’ unique wildlife and historic landscapes. The striking Le Morne Brabant mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, while the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve and Black River Gorges National Park protect endemic flora and fauna and Mauritius’ last remaining rainforest habitat.
The area is renowned for some of the best snorkelling and diving in Mauritius, particularly at Blue Bay Marine Park, which protects over 50 species of vibrant coral reefs teeming with sea turtles. Families can enjoy relaxing at the beautiful beaches of Bel Ombre and Gris Gris, where the turquoise waters and sheltered coves encourage long family days in the sun.
The Southern coast’s charm lies in its blend of adventure and raw natural beauty, making it an ideal escape for families seeking nature and a taste of the old Mauritius.
Overview
Le Morne Peninsula and the South
Where is the Le Morne Peninsula and Southern Mauritius?
The Southern coast of Mauritius stretches from the charming village of Souillac to the imposing cliffs of Le Morne Brabant.
This region is characterised by dramatic coastal scenery, where lush green hills meet the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Rugged cliffs at Gris Gris rise majestically above secluded beaches, while the tranquil lagoons of Blue Bay Marine Park showcase vibrant coral reefs.
The landscape is dotted with dense rainforests in the Black River Gorges National Park and sweeping sugarcane fields around Bel Ombre, offering a picturesque view of Mauritius’s natural beauty and a sense of its colonial history.
What to do in Le Morne Peninsula and Southern Mauritius?
From hiking Mauritius’ tallest mountain to diving with its healthiest coral reef, Southern Mauritius delivers some of the most spectacular natural experiences on the island.
Black River Gorges National Park, Mauritius’ largest national park, protects the last remaining rainforest habitats on the island. Visitors can witness the stunning Chamarel Waterfall, which cascades 83 metres into a lush amphitheatre of rainforest, and marvel at the unique seven-coloured earth formations. Nearby, a traditional rum distillery produces rum from locally grown sugarcane, offering a taste of Mauritian culture.
Just a short distance away, Blue Bay Marine Park is a local favourite for snorkelling and diving, thanks to its healthy population of over 50 coral species, sightings of sea turtles, and the largest colony of brain coral in the Indian Ocean.
The Le Morne Peninsula stands out as one of the island’s most breathtaking regions, dominated by the towering Le Morne Brabant mountain, which overlooks sugary sand beaches and the mesmerising underwater waterfall. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, this area invites active families to hike the historic trails once traversed by escaped slaves, rewarding them with panoramic views of Mauritius.
For those who prefer to explore the island’s natural and cultural riches without climbing a mountain, the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve offers an excellent day trip. Visitors can tour the lush forests by 4×4, bike, or quad, while spotting some of Mauritius’s last remaining endemic species, such as the Echo Parakeet.
Best time to visit?
Mauritius has an enviable sub-tropical climate which offers warm temperatures and sun for most of the year.
For the highest temperatures and driest weather, October to December are some of the best months to plan your family holiday to the island. With Diwali and Christmas falling during this time, the hotels and beaches can get busy with both tourists and locals, but for families with older children looking for a vibrant atmosphere this is a great time to visit.
The transitional months of May, June and September all offer a more comfortable climate, with lower temperatures and humidity, and fewer crowds. For those wanting a little more space for themselves and low-season rates, the shoulder season is a great time to travel.
Who should visit?
Southern Mauritius is perfect for families and adventurers seeking a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path luxury Mauritius holiday. Known for its rugged landscapes and fewer large developments, this region offers a peaceful escape from the busier parts of the island.
Families who love nature will enjoy exploring Black River Gorges National Park, where hiking trails lead to waterfalls and unique geological formations like the seven-coloured earth. The waters of Blue Bay Marine Park attract snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, with vibrant coral reefs and sea turtles to discover.
While thrill-seeking teens and active parents can dive into Le Morne Brabant’s challenging hike, exploring the area’s panoramic views and rich cultural history.