Exploring Chamarel: A Local Guide to Mauritius’ Most Scenic Mountain Village
Chamarel is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mauritius. It is not a beach destination, and that is exactly why it feels so special. Instead of turquoise lagoon and white sand, Chamarel gives you mountain roads, forest, waterfalls, viewpoints, local rum, coloured earth, giant tortoises, native trees, cool air and some of the best inland scenery on the island.
For many travellers, Chamarel is the moment they realise Mauritius is much more than a beach holiday. The village sits in the southwest highlands, surrounded by green hills and close to some of the island’s most famous natural attractions. It is quiet, scenic, slightly cooler than the coast, and full of places that feel different from the usual resort experience.
As a local guide from Mauritius Explored, we see Chamarel as one of the best day trips in Mauritius. It is ideal for couples, families, nature lovers, photographers, food lovers and anyone who wants to understand the island beyond the beach.
Why Visit Chamarel?
Chamarel is one of the most complete inland destinations in Mauritius. In one day, you can see a waterfall, visit the famous Seven Coloured Earth, walk through restored native forest, taste Mauritian rum, eat in a scenic restaurant and drive through some of the island’s most beautiful mountain roads.
It is also one of the best areas for travellers who want a slower, more natural Mauritius. The pace is different here. You come to Chamarel to breathe, look around, take photos, walk slowly and enjoy the cooler mountain feeling.
Chamarel is best for:
Nature lovers
Couples and honeymooners
Families with children
Photographers
Road trip travellers
Food and rum lovers
Visitors staying in Le Morne, Black River, Tamarin or Flic en Flac
Travellers who want a break from the beach
People interested in conservation and native forest restoration
The best thing about Chamarel is that it works for many travel styles. You can do it as a quick half-day visit, but it is much better as a full-day experience.
Where Is Chamarel?
Chamarel is located in the southwest of Mauritius, in the inland highlands above the west and southwest coast. It is close to Le Morne, Black River Gorges, La Gaulette, Tamarin, Black River and Bel Ombre.
Approximate driving times:
From Le Morne: 20–30 minutes
From La Gaulette: 15–25 minutes
From Black River: 30–40 minutes
From Flic en Flac: 45–60 minutes
From Grand Baie: 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
From Belle Mare: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
From the airport: around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
The road to Chamarel is part of the experience. Expect bends, viewpoints, forest, small villages and scenic mountain sections. Drive slowly, especially after rain.
Best Time to Visit Chamarel
The best time to visit Chamarel is in the morning. The light is softer, the temperature is cooler, and the main attractions are usually less crowded.
For photography, morning is excellent for the waterfall and forest. Late afternoon can also be beautiful, especially if you plan to continue towards Le Morne or the west coast for sunset.
Best time of day
Morning: best for fewer crowds and cooler weather
Late afternoon: good for soft light and a relaxed end to the day
Midday: fine, but attractions can feel hotter and busier
Best season
Chamarel can be visited all year, but the experience changes with the weather. After rain, the forest looks greener and the waterfall can be more powerful. However, roads and trails can also be slippery.
Bring a light rain jacket if the forecast looks uncertain. Chamarel is in the highlands, so weather can change more quickly than on the coast.
How Long Do You Need in Chamarel?
You can see Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Coloured Earth in about 2–3 hours, but that would be a rushed visit. To really enjoy the area, plan at least half a day. For a proper Chamarel experience, plan a full day.
Quick visit: 2–3 hours
Best if you only want:
Chamarel Waterfall & Seven Coloured Earth
Giant tortoises
Half-day visit: 4–5 hours
Best if you want:
Chamarel Waterfall & Seven Coloured Earth
Ebony Forest or Rhumerie & Lunch or coffee stop
Full-day Chamarel experience
Best if you want:
Waterfall & Seven Coloured Earth
Ebony Forest
La Rhumerie de Chamarel
Lunch & Viewpoints
Slow scenic drive & Nearby stop after Chamarel
Local tip: Chamarel deserves more than a photo stop. If you can, give it a full day.
Top Things to Do in Chamarel
1. Visit Chamarel Waterfall
Best for: photography, nature, first-time visitors, couples, families
Suggested time: 20–45 minutes
Chamarel Waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in Mauritius and one of the first stops most visitors make in Chamarel. The waterfall drops dramatically into a green valley surrounded by forest and volcanic cliffs.
You usually see the waterfall from a viewpoint, which makes it easy to visit even if you are not hiking. The view is beautiful after rain, when the waterfall is stronger and the forest looks fresh and green.
This is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Mauritius, and for good reason. It has height, scenery and a strong sense of place. It is not just a small roadside cascade; it feels like a real mountain waterfall.
Why visit Chamarel Waterfall:
One of the most iconic waterfalls in Mauritius
Easy viewpoint access
Beautiful forest and valley scenery
Great photo stop
Good for families and couples
Perfect introduction to Chamarel
Local tip: Visit early in the morning for better light and fewer people. After heavy rain, the waterfall can look more powerful, but viewpoints and paths may be wet.
Internal links:
2. Explore the Seven Coloured Earth
Best for: families, first-time visitors, photography, geology, iconic Mauritius scenery
Suggested time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
The Seven Coloured Earth is Chamarel’s most famous attraction. It is a natural geological formation where the exposed earth shows different colours, often described as red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow tones depending on light and weather.
The colours are strongest in dry weather and good light. Even if you have seen photos before, it is still worth visiting because the landscape is unusual and very different from the beaches Mauritius is known for.
The site is well set up for visitors, with viewpoints, walking areas and giant tortoises. It is a good stop for families because it is easy to access and does not require hiking.
Why visit Seven Coloured Earth:
One of the most iconic attractions in Mauritius
Good for children and families
Unique natural colours & Great photography stop
Usually combined with Chamarel Waterfall
Local tip: The colours can look different depending on the light. Avoid expecting every colour to appear strongly at all times. Visit on a dry, bright day for the best effect.
Internal links:
3. See the Giant Tortoises
Best for: families, children, wildlife interest
Suggested time: 15–30 minutes
The giant tortoises near the Seven Coloured Earth area are a popular stop, especially for families. Children often enjoy seeing them up close, and it adds a wildlife element to the visit.
This is not the same as visiting a full wildlife park, but it is a nice addition if you are already exploring Chamarel with children.
Local tip: Keep children respectful around the tortoises. Do not tap shells, shout, feed them without permission, or treat them like props for photos.
Internal links:
4. Visit Ebony Forest
Best for: conservation, native forest, viewpoints, nature walks, eco-tourism
Suggested time: 1.5–3 hours
Ebony Forest is one of the best nature experiences in Chamarel. It focuses on restoring native forest and protecting endemic biodiversity. This is where Chamarel becomes more than just a sightseeing stop.
Mauritius has lost much of its original native forest over time, and Ebony Forest helps visitors understand what the island’s natural ecosystem once looked like. You can walk through forest trails, learn about endemic plants, look for native birds and enjoy viewpoints over the southwest.
For travellers who care about sustainability, conservation and nature, Ebony Forest is one of the strongest reasons to spend more time in Chamarel.
Why visit Ebony Forest:
Learn about native forest restoration
Walk through peaceful nature trails
See conservation work in action
Enjoy viewpoints over the southwest
Add depth to a Chamarel day trip
Good for eco-conscious travellers
Best for couples: peaceful walking and viewpoints
Best for families: educational nature experience
Best for photographers: forest, views and landscape shots
Local tip: Do not rush Ebony Forest. It is best enjoyed slowly. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Internal links:
5. Visit La Rhumerie de Chamarel
Best for: adults, food lovers, rum tasting, local production, lunch
Suggested time: 1.5–2.5 hours
La Rhumerie de Chamarel is one of the best places in Mauritius to learn about local rum production. Located in a beautiful green setting, it combines a distillery experience with tasting, dining and local craftsmanship.
This is a great stop for adults who want something beyond nature viewpoints. You can learn how rum is made, taste different styles and enjoy a meal in a scenic setting. It is also one of the better places in Chamarel for a more refined lunch experience.
Why visit La Rhumerie de Chamarel:
Learn about Mauritian rum
Taste local products
Enjoy a scenic distillery setting
Good lunch option
Great for couples and adult groups
Adds culture and flavour to a nature day
Local tip: If you are driving, be sensible with tastings. Either nominate a driver, book a guided tour, or take only small samples.
Internal links:
6. Eat at a Scenic Chamarel Restaurant
Best for: lunch, local flavours, views, couples, families
Suggested time: 1–2 hours
Chamarel is one of the nicest areas in Mauritius for a slow scenic lunch. Many visitors rush from waterfall to coloured earth and then leave, but stopping for lunch makes the day feel much more complete.
Food in Chamarel often leans into Mauritian flavours, mountain views, local ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere. Depending on where you go, you may find Creole dishes, grilled food, curries, fresh juices, rum-based drinks, and simple island-style meals.
Popular food experiences in Chamarel often include:
Mauritian chicken curry or Fish dishes
Palm heart salad or Local vegetables
Rum tasting
Vanilla or tropical fruit desserts & Fresh juice
Coffee with mountain views
Local tip: Book lunch in advance during busy travel periods, especially if you want a restaurant with a view.
Internal links:
7. Stay at Lakaz Chamarel
Best for: boutique stays, nature retreats, couples, slow travel, mountain atmosphere
Suggested time: 1–2 nights if staying overnight
For travellers who want to experience Chamarel properly, staying overnight can be magical. Lakaz Chamarel is one of the most beautiful boutique-style stays in the region, known for its peaceful setting, gardens, mountain atmosphere and nature-focused experience.
Staying in Chamarel changes the rhythm of the trip. Instead of arriving with the day-trip crowds, you can wake up in the highlands, enjoy cooler morning air, explore slowly and end the day in a quiet natural setting.
This is especially good for:
Couples & Honeymooners
Nature lovers & Writers and photographers
Slow travellers & People who want a break from beach resorts
Local tip: Combine one or two nights in Chamarel with a beach stay in Le Morne, Flic en Flac, Belle Mare or Grand Baie. This gives your Mauritius trip more variety.
8. Drive the Scenic Chamarel Roads
Best for: road trips, photography, viewpoints, couples
Suggested time: flexible
The roads around Chamarel are some of the most scenic in Mauritius. They move through mountain slopes, forest, small villages and viewpoints. If you enjoy road trips, this is one of the best areas to drive slowly and stop often.
The drive from Chamarel towards Le Morne, Black River Gorges or Baie du Cap is especially beautiful. You will see a very different Mauritius from the coastal resort areas.
Local tip: Roads can be narrow and winding. Drive carefully, avoid rushing, and be extra cautious in rain or mist.
Internal links:
9. DrivBest Places to See Monkeys Around Chamarel
Best for: families, wildlife photos, scenic viewpoints, nature lovers
Suggested time: 20–45 minutes
Chamarel and the surrounding southwest highlands are among the best areas in Mauritius to see monkeys in a natural setting. They are often spotted around forested viewpoints, roadside areas and nature stops near Black River Gorges and the Chamarel mountain roads.
The two most common places to see monkeys near Chamarel are Chamarel Viewpoint and Black River Gorges Viewpoint. These areas sit close to forest and highland vegetation, making them popular places for monkeys to appear, especially during quieter times of the day.
Chamarel Viewpoint
Chamarel Viewpoint is a beautiful stop for mountain and forest scenery. If you are lucky, you may see monkeys moving near the trees or around the roadside areas. It is a good quick stop when driving through Chamarel, especially if you are already visiting Chamarel Waterfall, Seven Coloured Earth or La Rhumerie de Chamarel.
Best for: scenic views, quick wildlife spotting, photos
Local tip: Keep your distance and do not feed the monkeys.
Black River Gorges Viewpoint
Black River Gorges Viewpoint is one of the best-known places in Mauritius to see monkeys. It is located a short drive from Chamarel and offers wide views over the national park. Monkeys are often seen around the parking and viewpoint area, making it one of the easiest wildlife stops to add after exploring Chamarel.
Best for: monkey spotting, forest views, family-friendly nature stop
Local tip: Monkeys here can be confident around visitors. Keep food hidden, hold bags securely and avoid eating near them.
More info - Best Places to see Monkeys in Mauritius
Suggested One-Day Chamarel Itinerary
This is the best way to explore Chamarel if you only have one day.
Morning
Start early and drive to Chamarel. Visit Chamarel Waterfall first before the area becomes busier. Take your time at the viewpoint and enjoy the forest setting.
Then continue to the Seven Coloured Earth. Walk around the viewpoints, take photos, and visit the giant tortoises.
Late Morning
Visit Ebony Forest for a deeper nature experience. Choose a walk or viewpoint experience depending on your fitness and time.
Lunch
Have lunch at La Rhumerie de Chamarel or another scenic Chamarel restaurant. If visiting the rum distillery, allow enough time for the tour and tasting.
Afternoon
Drive slowly through Chamarel village and surrounding roads. Stop for viewpoints or coffee if time allows.
Late Afternoon
Continue towards one nearby destination:
Le Morne for sunset
Black River Gorges for viewpoints
Grand Bassin for cultural interest
Tamarin or Flic en Flac for dinner
Baie du Cap and Macondé for coastal scenery
Best Half-Day Chamarel Itinerary
If you have limited time, keep it simple:
Chamarel Waterfall
Seven Coloured Earth
Giant tortoises
Quick coffee or lunch
Scenic drive back to Le Morne or Black River
This is ideal if you are staying in Le Morne, La Gaulette, Black River or Flic en Flac.
Chamarel for Families
Chamarel is one of the best inland areas for families in Mauritius because the main attractions are easy to access. Children usually enjoy the waterfall, coloured earth, tortoises and forest setting.
Best family stops:
Chamarel Waterfall
Seven Coloured Earth
Giant tortoises
Ebony Forest
Simple lunch stop
Scenic viewpoints
Family tips:
Bring water and snacks
Use comfortable shoes
Avoid overloading the day
Keep children close at viewpoints
Bring a light jacket if the weather is cooler
Do not rush from stop to stop
Internal links:
Mauritius for Families and Kids
Best Family Activities in Mauritius
Best Family Hotels in Mauritius
Chamarel for Couples and Honeymooners
Chamarel is very romantic in a quiet, natural way. It is not about nightlife or beach clubs. It is about scenery, waterfalls, slow lunches, mountain roads and peaceful viewpoints.
Best romantic ideas in Chamarel:
Visit the waterfall early
Walk through Ebony Forest
Have lunch at La Rhumerie de Chamarel
Stay overnight at Lakaz Chamarel
Continue to Le Morne for sunset
Book a private driver so neither person has to focus on the road
Combine with a private dinner or sunset cruise on the west coast
Internal links:
Mauritius Honeymoon Guide
Romantic Things to Do in Mauritius
Private Sunset Cruise from Black River
How to Get Around Chamarel
Self-drive
Self-driving gives you flexibility and is good if you are confident on winding roads. It allows you to move at your own pace, stop for photos and continue to nearby places after Chamarel.
Private driver
A private driver is one of the easiest ways to explore Chamarel, especially if you want lunch and rum tasting. It is also better if you are not comfortable with mountain roads.
Guided tour
A guided southwest tour is useful if you want everything organised: pickup, timing, attractions, lunch and nearby stops.
Taxi
A taxi can work, but agree on the price and waiting time before starting. Chamarel is not a place where you should expect taxis to be waiting everywhere.
Nearby Places to Visit After Chamarel
This blog is focused on Chamarel, but the area is perfectly positioned for adding a few nearby stops after your visit.
Le Morne
Le Morne is one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius and pairs perfectly with Chamarel. After a morning in Chamarel, drive down to Le Morne Beach for late afternoon swimming, mountain views and sunset.
Grand Bassin
Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao, is one of the most important spiritual sites in Mauritius. It can be combined with Chamarel if you are doing a central-southwest road trip.
Baie du Cap and Macondé Viewpoint
Baie du Cap and Macondé are among the most scenic coastal road sections in Mauritius. This is a great add-on if you want dramatic coastal views after your Chamarel visit.
Tamarin and Black River
Tamarin and Black River are good places for dinner, sunset, dolphin tours, catamaran cruises and west coast restaurants after a Chamarel day.
Chamarel is one of those places that rewards slow travel. Do not treat it only as a quick stop for the Seven Coloured Earth. The real beauty of Chamarel is in the full experience: the waterfall, the forest, the cool mountain air, the winding road, the rum estate, the lunch, the viewpoints and the feeling that Mauritius has many landscapes hidden behind the beach.
Start early, wear comfortable shoes, give yourself time, and combine the main attractions with at least one slower stop such as Ebony Forest, La Rhumerie de Chamarel or a scenic lunch.
If the beaches show you the postcard side of Mauritius, Chamarel shows you the island’s green heart.
