Volcano Hikes in Mauritius: A Guide to Trou aux Cerfs and Beyond

Mauritius is world-famous for its turquoise lagoons and luxury beaches—but there's a dramatic, lesser-known volcanic side waiting to be explored. Beneath the island’s serene exterior lies a rugged landscape shaped by millennia of volcanic activity.From lush crater rims to dormant cones offering panoramic views, volcano hiking in Mauritius provides the perfect blend of adventure, geology, and nature. This guide takes you to the island’s most exciting volcanic sites—led by one of the easiest and most rewarding: Trou aux Cerfs.

1. Trou aux Cerfs: The Crown Jewel of Curepipe

Location: Curepipe (Central Mauritius)

Trail Type: Circular rim walk

Duration: 30–45 minutes (leisure walk)

Elevation: ~605 meters above sea level

Why Visit:

Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcanic crater with a 350-meter diameter and lush forest filling its basin. Located right in Curepipe, it’s accessible and scenic—perfect for families, solo travelers, or anyone short on time.

Highlights:

• 360° views of central Mauritius
• Lush flora and peaceful walking paths
• Jogging track and benches for breaks
• Occasional live music or cultural events on weekends

Tip: Visit at sunrise for misty, magical views—or around sunset when the city lights of Curepipe start to glow.

2. Corps de Garde Mountain

Location: Near Rose Hill

Duration: 2–3 hours (round trip)

Difficulty: Moderate

This ancient volcanic mountain offers one of the best panoramic views over the western coast and central plateau.

Highlights:

• View of the Rempart River, forest valleys, and sugarcane fields
• Chance to spot endemic birds like the Mauritius kestrel
• Rock formations that hint at volcanic origins

3. Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire: Highest Point in Mauritius

Location: Black River Gorges National Park

Duration: 3–4 hours

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

This is the highest peak in Mauritius (828 meters), formed by volcanic uplift and erosion. While not a crater hike, it showcases Mauritius’s geologic past through thick forests and dramatic escarpments.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Rainforest trekking
• Unspoiled terrain and wildlife
• Rewarding summit views over the west coast

4. Trou Kanaka

Location: Near Bois Chéri

Duration: 1.5–2 hours

Status: Dormant crater

Often overshadowed by Trou aux Cerfs, Trou Kanaka is a quiet, offbeat alternative. The hike is peaceful, with fewer crowds and a trail that leads through native forests and tea plantations.

Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Bois Chéri tea estate for a tea tasting and factory tour.

Planning Your Volcano Hike

Best Time to Hike:

• May to November (cooler, drier months)
• Start early to avoid the midday heat and sudden rain

What to Bring:

• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Reusable water bottle
• Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
• Snacks or energy bars
• Light rain jacket (weather can shift quickly)

Why Volcano Hikes Are Perfect for Eco-Conscious Travelers

• Minimal impact hiking with existing paths
• Support local guides and vendors
• Learn about geology and ecosystems of Mauritius
• Experience authentic nature, away from crowds and resorts

‍‍Ideal For:

• Families and couples looking for soft adventure
• Photographers seeking dramatic island views
• Nature lovers and geology enthusiasts
• Travelers wanting to see more than beaches

Mauritius isn’t just about sand and sea—it’s a living monument to Earth’s fiery history. Whether you're circling the rim of Trou aux Cerfs or climbing forested volcanic peaks, each hike is an invitation to explore the island’s soul beneath the surface. These hikes are more than walks—they’re journeys through time, nature, and panoramic beauty. Hi DMC specializes in immersive, nature-focused itineraries across Mauritius. From volcano hikes to forest walks, tea trail visits to cultural excursions—we make your adventure seamless, local, and sustainable.

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