Le Morne Brabant
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Morne Brabant offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views and a unique 'underwater waterfall' illusion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Le Morne Brabant
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Morne Brabant offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views and a unique 'underwater waterfall' illusion.
"The hike was absolutely worth it! View is stunning!"
👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes
Essential for the steep and sometimes slippery sections. Avoid smooth-soled shoes!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially for the warmer parts of the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Le Morne Brabant Summit
Breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon and surrounding islands. A truly unforgettable sight.
Underwater Waterfall Illusion
Viewpoint from Le Morne Brabant
A stunning optical illusion of a waterfall beneath the ocean, created by sand and sediment flow.
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Historical Significance
Le Morne Brabant
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this mountain is a symbol of resistance for escaped slaves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Guide or No Guide?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes
Essential for the steep and sometimes slippery sections. Avoid smooth-soled shoes!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially for the warmer parts of the day.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Useful for the lower parts of the trail, especially in the early morning.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes
Essential for the steep and sometimes slippery sections. Avoid smooth-soled shoes!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially for the warmer parts of the day.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Useful for the lower parts of the trail, especially in the early morning.
📝 Sign In & Out
Use the book at the gate to track your hike for safety.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the phenomenal and breathtaking views from Le Morne Brabant, calling the hike absolutely worth it. The 'underwater waterfall' illusion is a unique highlight. However, some find the climb difficult, especially the upper sections, and advise caution due to potential crowds and risks, particularly if not properly equipped.
"Don’t have enough words to describe the view we saw at multiple spots during our trek. Just phenomenal. We reached there at around 6 AM but couldn’t get in because it was locked and dark. The person came after 7 AM after which we started our trek. It’s a difficult trek but the beginning trail is still walkable. After the first point a guide is needed to help you climb the mountain. It involves literal wall climbing so you should be in a great health to do it. If you’re a patient or recovering then this trek is not for you. Carry some water and some bars as it takes around 2 hours to just do the easy trail and back. Start early because the sun gets harsh with time and it becomes difficult to climb. Also carry mosquito repellent. We were also able to see the underwater waterfall from the top. All the beaches and islands are clearly visible. Highly recommended."
Urvashi Ramdasani
"Easy part 1 and more challenging part 2. The day we went wad way too crowded. Many climbed to the summit and you could just tell from their face how scared they were to go down w.out the right shoes or equipment. 3 days after we climbed up, we didnt go to the peak as the last climbed was jammed with ppl of all sorts of levels, we heared of the tragic accident of a young man. Just a reminder that climbing this mountain comes with high risk. Please avoid when too crowded on the last bit."
ntht Nguyen
"Hike was absolutely worth it! View is stunning! It is a little difficult though but not as difficult as it might seem. Actually it is very doable if you are in a pretty much good shape. You for sure don't need to be an expert hiker or athlete to do it. And you do not need a guide! At the beginning we thought we will hike till just the climbing sign, but then we continued a bit by a bit and reached the top! Mind you, we (me and my husband) are not expert hikers nor in extreme good shape. You just need a good hiking shoes or shoes with a good grip as it could be a bit slippery. It is not dangerous at all if you watch your steps carefully. Also the way down looks way more difficult than it actually is. Just go slowly and catch to anything near you to keep your balance (tree, rock...). There was no "obvious trail", especially at the top, you climb wherever it is possible, or follow the other people. Don't be scared of the word "climbing" as we were also scared to do it especially that it was our first time "climbing a mountain". No tools or anything needed.
If you hesitate to continue the hike, the view from the point just before the climbing is also spectacular!! Walk a little bit toward the trees and you will see pretty much similar view as the top. Even if you continue the hike, you will see many spots on your way up, with the exact same view as the summit. You don't need to continue to the top if your goal is just the view and good photos.
Weather is no joke when warm, take plenty of water with you.
Hike was in total around 3,5hours (reaching the top, with many stops for photos).
Enjoy the hike 😊"
sally karaky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Le Morne Brabant is located on the southwestern tip of Mauritius. You can reach it by car or taxi. Turn off the main road onto a dirt road and drive about 1 km to a parking area. There's a gate to enter the trail.
Yes, there is an informal parking area available near the entrance to the hiking trail. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.
While public buses do run in the general area, reaching the specific trailhead might be challenging. Hiring a taxi or using a rental car is generally more convenient for direct access.
For the iconic 'underwater waterfall' illusion, the best views are from above, often seen from viewpoints during the hike or from aerial perspectives. 
The hike is challenging and involves steep sections and climbing. It's not suitable for those with mobility issues or recovering from injuries.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no official tickets required for the hike itself. However, you must sign in and out at the book located at the gate for safety tracking.
Le Morne Brabant is typically open from 7 AM to 4 PM, with the last entrance around 2:30 PM. It's best to start early to avoid the heat and crowds.
A guide is not strictly mandatory for the entire hike, but it is highly recommended for the upper, more technical 'climbing' sections for safety.
Yes, you can hike without a guide, especially if you are in good physical condition and have appropriate footwear. However, be aware of the risks involved in the steeper sections.
No, there is no entrance fee to hike Le Morne Brabant. The primary requirement is to sign in and out for safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike can take around 3.5 hours round trip, including stops for photos. The 'easy' part to the first point and back can take about 2 hours.
The hike is considered difficult, especially the upper sections which involve actual climbing. The initial part is more of a steep trail.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Comfortable athletic clothing is recommended. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable.
There are no formal facilities like restrooms at the trailhead. It's best to use facilities before you arrive.
You'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon, surrounding beaches, and the famous underwater waterfall illusion.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. Even viewpoints before the final climb provide spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.
The underwater waterfall illusion is best viewed from above, and its visibility can depend on the light and ocean conditions. Early morning or late afternoon can offer dramatic lighting.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
You might encounter cute little birds along the trail. Some videos mention dolphins and turtles in the surrounding waters, though not directly visible from the hike.
Prioritize safety over photos on the steep climbing sections. Focus on capturing views from secure vantage points.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Early morning light offers beautiful conditions for capturing the scenery. Be mindful of safety when composing shots, especially on steeper or more exposed sections of the trail. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Le Morne Brabant Hike: A Traveler's Guide
Essential preparation includes wearing sturdy hiking shoes with excellent grip, as the terrain can be slippery, especially on the descent. Carrying ample water is crucial due to the tropical heat. Starting early, around 6 AM, is highly recommended to avoid the midday sun and potential crowds. Remember to sign in and out at the provided book at the entrance for safety tracking.
While some experienced hikers manage without a guide, the upper sections require careful navigation and climbing. If you're not an experienced climber or are unsure about your abilities, hiring a local guide is a wise decision for a safer and more enjoyable ascent.
The 'Underwater Waterfall' Illusion
+1This illusion is best observed from above, making the hike up Le Morne Brabant the perfect place to witness it. While the phenomenon is safe to swim and surf over, seeing it from the mountain provides a unique perspective on the dynamic forces shaping the ocean floor.
Many visitors highlight this as a must-see spectacle, adding another layer of wonder to the already stunning landscape. Historical and Cultural Significance
+1The mountain's dramatic basaltic peak, dotted with caves, provided shelter and a strategic vantage point for those seeking to evade capture. The stories and legacy of the maroons are deeply intertwined with Le Morne Brabant, making a visit a poignant experience. Understanding this history enriches the appreciation of the site beyond its scenic beauty.
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