5 Viewpoints to (Re)Discover Mauritius from Above

The Best Viewpoints to Discover Mauritius

30 April 2026

What if you left the beaches behind and ventured to where mountains, forests and ocean collide? From gentle walks to rewarding climbs, these five spots offer visitors some of the most unforgettable panoramic views on the island.

Le Pouce Mountain

Endless views over Mauritius
Fitness level: intermediate to advanced

View from Le Pouce Mountain in Mauritius

Situated in the District of Moka, Le Pouce is a favourite among hikers and nature lovers. Rising to 812 metres, it is the 3rd highest peak in Mauritius. Those who reach the summit are rewarded with sweeping views over much of the island.

The trail is relatively accessible, although the final 500 metres (the most rewarding part) require a good level of fitness. Allow around 2 to 3 hours for the ascent. Our tip: start early, ideally before sunrise…

La Citadelle

The fort overlooking the city
Fitness level: beginner

La Citadelle in Port Louis, Mauritius

Named Fort Adelaide in honour of the wife of the British King William IV, La Citadelle was built between 1830 and 1840, when Mauritius was still a British colony. This fort is steeped in history, as its construction took place during a key transitional period: the abolition of slavery and the beginning of indentured labour.

From La Citadelle, you can enjoy views over the capital, its harbour, and its famous racecourse, the Champ de Mars.

Gris-Gris, La roche qui pleure

Facing an untamed ocean
Fitness level: beginner

La Roche Qui Pleure, Gris Gris, Mauritius

Gris-Gris embodies the raw beauty of southern Mauritius. Its dramatic cliffs create a striking landscape, accompanied by the constant roar of crashing waves. Continue a little further along the road to reach “La Roche qui Pleure” (literally “The Weeping Rock”).

Be careful when walking on the rough, slippery volcanic rock. As the waves crash against it, streams of water seem to run down the stone like tears. Legend has it that the rock was once a woman who stood there weeping for her fiancé, taken by the waves, waiting for him and never leaving the spot.

Macchabée viewpoint

The perfect meeting point for bird lovers
Fitness level: intermediate

Macchabee View

This is one of the island’s most popular spots for birdwatching. The Black River Gorges National Park is home to many endemic bird species.

Here, you may see white-tailed tropicbirds soaring from their nests hidden in the steep gorge cliffs. If you are lucky, you might also spot the pink pigeon or the Mauritius parakeet. A rare and truly fascinating spectacle.

Ebony Forest viewpoint

A haven for endemic species
Fitness level: beginner

Ebony Forest Viewpoint Mauritius

This private reserve is dedicated to the conservation of native forests. A must for biodiversity enthusiasts, Ebony Forest invites them to dive deep into a fragile and precious ecosystem. During your visit, make sure to stop at the viewpoint. Facing Le Morne Brabant and Île aux Bénitiers, time almost seems to stand still.

 

From misty peaks to roaring cliffs, Mauritius rewards the curious and the adventurous alike. Each of these escapes will leave you with memories that last long after the journey ends.

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