Discover Chamarel – Nature, Culture & Unique Landscapes
Chamarel Waterfall
Rising dramatically from lush tropical vegetation, Chamarel Waterfall is the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius, plunging nearly 100 meters into a natural basin below. Fed by three rivers converging into the Saint-Denis River, the waterfall can reach an impressive flow of over 40,000 m³ per minute during peak periods.
As you travel along the scenic 3 km road leading to the Seven Colored Earth Geopark, be sure to stop at the waterfall viewpoint on the left. A short path through dense greenery reveals a breathtaking, front-row panorama of this natural marvel.
Cascading over a basalt cliff into an oval pool, the waterfall continues its journey through a 6 km rainforest canyon toward Baie du Cap. This spectacular landscape, shaped by volcanic lava flows of different ages, offers a powerful reminder of the island’s ancient geological past.
For adventure lovers, a three-hour guided hike leads to the base of the waterfall, where you can swim in the refreshing pool while being misted by the roaring cascade. Surrounded by the sounds and scents of the tropical rainforest, this experience is nothing short of unforgettable.
Rhumerie of Chamarel
Nestled in a fertile valley in southwest Mauritius, Rhumerie de Chamarel lies just minutes from the famous Seven Colored Earth. The road leading there winds through sugar-cane fields, pineapple plantations, and tropical fruit farms, setting the tone for an authentic Mauritian experience.
Situated 300 meters above sea level, the estate benefits from a unique microclimate and combines an agricultural plantation with a modern distillery, all designed with strong environmental values. The result is a truly immersive and eco-friendly attraction.
Designed by renowned Mauritian architect Maurice Giraud, the distillery blends seamlessly into its surroundings using wood, natural stone, and flowing water. Often considered one of the most beautiful distilleries in the world, it offers guided tours where knowledgeable hosts reveal every step of the rum-making process — from cane to bottle — followed by tastings of premium rums.
Seven Colored Earth of Chamarel
Among the most extraordinary natural phenomena in Mauritius, the Seven Colored Earth of Chamarel is a geological wonder unlike any other. Hidden within dense forest near the mountain village of Chamarel, this open clearing reveals rolling dunes shimmering in seven distinct natural colors.
Spread across 7,500 m², the dunes display striking hues of red, brown, purple, green, blue, yellow, and violet. Despite heavy tropical rains, the sands never erode or mix — a mystery that continues to fascinate scientists and visitors alike. Rainfall has instead sculpted delicate patterns in the earth, giving the dunes a soft, meringue-like appearance.
Discovered in the late 18th century by Charles-Antoine de Chazal de Chamarel, the site was later identified as ancient volcanic ash shaped by erosion and wind. The color variations are believed to result from molten lava cooling at different temperatures, though the precise process remains partially unexplained.
A visit to Chamarel would be incomplete without experiencing this iconic site — a vivid testament to the island’s volcanic origins and its commitment to preserving natural heritage.
