Pieter Both Mountain
Mauritius' iconic mushroom-shaped peak, offering a challenging hike and technical climb with rewarding summit views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Pieter Both Mountain
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mauritius' iconic mushroom-shaped peak, offering a challenging hike and technical climb with rewarding summit views.
"The view from the top is worth it, even with the challenging climb!"
Hire a Local Guide
Essential for summit access & safety. Guides know the best routes and gear needs. :man_climbing:
Check the Weather
Avoid rainy days for a safer, more enjoyable hike. Clear skies = better views! :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Summit
Summit
Conquer the challenging final ascent for breathtaking panoramic views of Mauritius.

Scrambling Adventure
Mid-climb
Engage in thrilling scrambling and climbing sections that test your agility and add to the adventure.

Panoramic Vistas
Various viewpoints
Enjoy stunning, rewarding views of the surrounding landscape throughout your ascent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Guide Up Essential
Weather Watch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hire a Local Guide
Essential for summit access & safety. Guides know the best routes and gear needs.
:man_climbing:Check the Weather
Avoid rainy days for a safer, more enjoyable hike. Clear skies = better views!
:cloud:Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good grip is crucial for scrambling and rocky terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on this challenging, rewarding climb. :water_bottle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Hire a Local Guide
Essential for summit access & safety. Guides know the best routes and gear needs.
:man_climbing:Check the Weather
Avoid rainy days for a safer, more enjoyable hike. Clear skies = better views!
:cloud:Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good grip is crucial for scrambling and rocky terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on this challenging, rewarding climb. :water_bottle:
Drone Views
Capture epic aerial shots of the mountain and surrounding scenery.
:drone:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pieter Both offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding hiking and climbing experience, with the summit providing breathtaking panoramic views of Mauritius. While the initial trek is manageable, the final ascent requires technical skills and a guide is highly recommended for safety. The iconic scenery makes it a must-do for adventurous visitors.
"Great experience with the most typical hiking in Mauritius, should have a guide, and it’s the most iconic mountain in Mauritius, try to avoid bad weather and rainy days to have a better experience and easier hiking, the view from the top worth it."
Mohamed Khaled
"Almost entirely easy, 1 hour one-way hike, with elements of scrambling and climbing. The topmost part requires serious skills or some rope and gear to climb. Rewarding view from the top."
Kirill Korchagin
"Super cool view. Not so difficult to get up with a guide"
roman bartl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach the foot of Pieter Both mountain, you'll typically start from the nearby village of La Nicolière. Many visitors opt for a taxi or a rented car to get there. Some local guides can also arrange transport as part of their service.
While public transport can get you to the general vicinity, it might not drop you directly at the trailhead. It's often more convenient to combine public transport with a short taxi ride or to arrange transport with your guide.
The most common starting point is near La Nicolière. It's advisable to confirm the exact trailhead location with your guide beforehand to avoid any confusion.
Limited parking might be available near the trailhead, but it's not a formal, managed facility. If driving yourself, arrive early or consider arranging drop-off with your guide.
Cycling is possible for adventurous travelers, but be prepared for potentially challenging road conditions and the need for good navigation to reach the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no official entrance fees or tickets required to hike Pieter Both. The mountain is accessible to the public, but hiring a guide is strongly recommended for the summit.
Pieter Both does not have set opening or closing hours as it's a natural landmark. However, it's best to start your hike early in the morning and finish before dusk for safety.
Yes, booking a guide in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to reach the summit. Local tour operators or guides found online can be contacted.
Guide fees can vary, but expect to pay a reasonable amount for their expertise and safety assistance, particularly for the technical summit climb. Prices are often negotiable.
Generally, no specific permits are needed for personal photography. However, if you plan on commercial filming or drone usage, check local regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to the base of the technical climb is about 1 hour one-way. Reaching the summit with a guide can take several hours round trip, depending on conditions and your pace.
For the lower parts, sturdy hiking shoes are sufficient. For the summit, a guide will likely bring ropes and climbing gear, but you'll need appropriate clothing and gloves.
The initial part of the hike is manageable for beginners. However, the summit requires technical climbing skills and is not recommended for novices without a guide and proper gear.
The hike is generally considered moderate with scrambling elements. The final ascent to the peak is difficult and requires technical climbing expertise.
There are no facilities like restrooms or water sources on the trail. It's essential to carry all your supplies with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. Along the trail, various viewpoints provide stunning perspectives of the mountain's unique shape and the surrounding landscape.
Drone photography is possible and can capture spectacular shots of the mountain. However, always be mindful of local regulations and respect the environment.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs, minimizing harsh shadows.
Absolutely! Even from the lower trails and viewpoints, you can capture the iconic silhouette of Pieter Both and the lush Mauritian scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. If you're adventurous, consider a GoPro or action camera for the climbing sections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family is very adventurous and experienced, and you hire a highly specialized guide, a portion of the lower trail might be accessible. However, for most families, it's best to admire Pieter Both from a distance or opt for less demanding outdoor activities on the island.
🧗♀️ Adventure Seekers & Climbers
Many adventure seekers list Pieter Both as a must-do on Mauritius, appreciating the blend of hiking and climbing. The unique rock formation and the stunning views from the top make it a standout destination. Be prepared for a physically demanding ascent and ensure you have appropriate gear and a knowledgeable guide.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Whether you're capturing the mountain from its base, along the trails, or from the summit, consider the lighting. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for dramatic photos. Drone photography can also provide spectacular aerial perspectives of this magnificent natural landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pieter Both Climb: A Guide's Perspective
Many visitors emphasize the necessity of a local guide for reaching the peak. Guides not only ensure your safety by providing ropes and expertise but also enhance the experience by sharing local knowledge and pointing out the best routes. They are crucial for navigating the challenging sections and making the climb accessible and enjoyable.
When planning your climb, weather is a critical factor. Avoid attempting the hike during rainy periods, as the rocks can become extremely slippery and dangerous. Clear, dry conditions are paramount for a successful and safe ascent. The rewarding views from the top are a testament to the effort, making it a truly unforgettable Mauritian adventure.
Capturing Pieter Both: Photography Tips
Drone enthusiasts will find Pieter Both a dream location. Aerial shots can capture the sheer scale and isolation of the peak, as well as its dramatic silhouette against the sky. Videos showcasing the climb, like those shared on TikTok and Instagram, highlight the adventurous spirit and the stunning scenery.
For the best photographic results, consider the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the textures of the rock and the vibrant greens of the surrounding vegetation. Even without reaching the summit, numerous viewpoints along the trail offer excellent opportunities to photograph this iconic Mauritian landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit