10 Best Viewpoints in Mauritius

The captivating Rochester Falls draws nature enthusiasts with its natural charms. Carved over time by the Savanne River, the falls offer one of the best viewpoints of the island’s rugged natural beauty. As water plunges over its rectangular rocks, dozens of white cascades mesmerize onlookers.

You can opt to gaze directly at the falls from the shoreline or have a refreshing swim in the natural pool and take a closer look at the falls. For a unique perspective, watch the falls from above. You can cross the river by stepping across large boulders. For intrepid adventurers, you can opt to cliff jump from the top of the falls into the deep pool below.

Nature lovers seeking an escape to the rugged beauty of the southern coastline will find tranquility at Gris Gris Beach. Known for its dramatic windswept shores, this is a perfect spot to connect with nature. While it’s not advisable to swim or snorkel because of the strong currents and large waves, this beach offers one of the best viewpoints in Mauritius.

Let yourself be captivated by the rhythm of the ocean waves crashing against the rocks. You can view the beach from above and recharge in the sunshine, breathing in fresh ocean breezes and taking in scenery of the verdant island terrain, golden sandy beach and rocks dotted along the coastline.

Nestled in the mountains near the town of Curepipe, the Grand Bassin, or Ganga Talao, is a sacred crater lake that holds cultural and religious significance to the Hindu community. According to the local Hindu tradition, the crater was formed by the tears of Lord Shiva. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, each year the site attracts pilgrims who arrive at the lake to celebrate the Maha Shivaratri festival.

An impressive site, the temple is adorned with intricate sculptures. A statue of Lord Shiva presides over the lake, enhancing its serene atmosphere. You can take a stroll around the lake and up to the viewpoint where you’ll have a panoramic view of the lake and mountain scenery.

Unwind on a day trip to the bustling haven of Ile aux Cerfs (Deer Island). Surrounded by the island’s tropical beauty, you can relax on the pristine white sands of Filibusters Beach and swim in its clear turquoise waters or opt for more adventurous activities.

Zipline above the dense forest canopy for views of the lagoon, explore the diverse marine life on a coral reef or learn the art of Sega dancing from local dancers and sway to the beat of Mauritian music. You can even play a round of golf before capping off your day by dining at a hillside restaurant. You’ll enjoy delicious local cuisine and the scenery of a stunning turquoise lagoon.

Located in the Chamarel 7 Colored Earth Geopark, Chamarel Waterfalls offers onlookers one of the best viewpoints in Mauritius. Throughout the geopark, you can marvel at the vivid purple and ochre hues of its landscapes, a result of volcanic activity and mineral deposits. The versatile village of Chamarel offers a delightful mix of relaxation, adventure and breathtaking nature.

The Chamarel Waterfall, the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius, is a true masterpiece of nature. The waterfall plummets from a basalt cliff more than 100 metres into a deep natural pool below. The awe-inspiring scenery of the park, coupled with the sight of this stunning waterfall, promises an unforgettable experience. 

Situated near the village of Baie du Cap on the island’s southwest coast, Maconde Viewpoint offers one of the best places to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Mauritius. The large rocky viewpoint entices nature enthusiasts with vivid hues of blue and turquoise waters and ocean waves rolling onto the shore.

At sunset, the sky transforms into a palette of mesmerizing shades of orange, pink and purple. Note that to reach the viewpoint, you need climb a narrow set of stairs. You’ll find this gem on a hairpin curve along the island’s coastal road. Parking is available on the street, but it fills up quickly on the weekends.

Explore British colonial history at the Citadelle (Fort Adelaide), a historic fortress nestled on a hilltop in Port Louis, a harbor town, and the capital of Mauritius. Constructed in the 19th century and named after Queen Adelaide, the Citadelle fortified defenses following attacks by French pirates and privateers. You can embark on a self-guided tour of the fort’s old cannons, ramparts and other remnants of its intriguing military past.

As you explore, take time to marvel at the panoramic views of Port Louis, the sea and the surrounding mountain landscape. To immerse yourself even further in Port Louis’ eclectic atmosphere, stroll along the bustling waterfront, a vibrant hub where locals and visitors gather for leisure, entertainment and delightful dining experiences.

Macchabee Viewpoint, nestled along Macchabee Trail in Black River Gorges National Park, is a treasured spot for nature enthusiasts. As you hike along the trail’s diverse landscapes, keep an eye out for a few of the island’s brightly plumed endemic bird species, including the pink pigeon, the bright green Mauritius parakeet and the red-plumed Mauritius fody. Can you hear the sweet melody of the Mauritius bulbul?

When you reach the trail’s halfway point, the Macchabee Viewpoint unveils breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, forests and valleys, providing a captivating experience for those exploring the natural beauty of the best viewpoints in Mauritius. A thatch-covered gazebo offers a place to relax and enjoy a picnic with an epic view.

Stroll through history at the Ruins of Balaclava, an 18th-century estate nestled on the white sand shores of Turtle Bay, part of the 5-star Maritim Resort and Spa. Explore the historic estate grounds, featuring an old mill, and stop to gaze at a waterfall on the Citron River. Take a walk through the Scent Garden to enjoy the aroma of tropical fruits and aromatic plants.

Here you can immerse yourself in the charm of this historical site and uncover the island’s early history when the bay was a stopping point for the Dutch on their voyages from Europe to the East. The Dutch called the bay Ebony Bay because mariners prized the island’s plentiful Ebony trees for their durable wood.

If you’re seeking one of the best viewpoints in Mauritius with maritime history, don’t miss the Albion Lighthouse on the west coast. Also known as Pointe-aux-Caves, this maritime beacon is the only operational lighthouse in Mauritius. The lighthouse has guided mariners since it was first lit in 1910. Standing at 30 metres above the rugged coastline, it offers onlookers stunning coastal and ocean views.

If you plan to tour the Albion Lighthouse, you’ll need an authorization letter from the Mauritius Ports Authority. The natural wonders around the lighthouse, including marine life in the tidepools and secret caves are also worth a visit. For photographers, this setting is among the best places in Mauritius to photograph an unforgettable Mauritian sunset.