Wildlife in Mauritius
Including Black River Gorges National Park. On the map.
The vibe
Encountering fauna here feels intimate and coastal rather than tracking through vast continental game reserves. The austral winter brings pleasant, dry weather that makes birdwatching and marine excursions especially rewarding. You will book through casual coastal operators or wander botanical reserves easily on your own.
Black River Gorges National Park
Black River
Z thomas / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mauritius's premier protected forest protects native humid upland and evergreen thicket ecosystems. Travelers explore winding trails to spot endemic bird species including the Mauritius kestrel, pink pigeon, and echo parakeet.
Access. Accessible via rental car or taxi to various trailheads such as Petrides or Plaine Champagne, with well-marked hiking paths and visitor centers.
Notes. Best visited during the dry season from May to November; morning hours offer the best birdwatching visibility.