“Crafting Memories in the Heart of Nature: Personal Tales from Black River Gorges, Bras d’Eau, Île aux Aigrettes, and Mauritius’ Enchanting Islets”
Discover the hidden gems off the coast of Mauritius, where the ancient flora and fauna have defied the test of time. Over millions of years, this biodiversity has evolved into a unique spectacle of endemic beauty. However, the arrival of humans 400 years ago led to the gradual disappearance of many local plants and animals, including the iconic Dodo bird.
Today, the surviving havens for these original species are transformed into national parks and nature reserves. Picture yourself exploring 8 breathtaking offshore islets designated as National Parks and 7 enchanting islets preserved as Nature Reserves. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ecosystems that have managed to withstand the impact of time and human influence.
Mauritius boasts several nature reserves, each showcasing a distinct array of flora and fauna. Among these, the notable Black River Gorges National Park covers 2% of the island’s total surface, featuring lush forests and undulating hills. As the largest national park in Mauritius, it holds immense ecological significance, harboring native and endangered species within the remnants of the island’s rainforest. Here are some details about this significant nature reserve:
Location: Situated in the southwestern part of Mauritius.
Size: Covering an area of about 67.54 square kilometers.
Features:
With Unwind Mauritius Tour Operator, let your adventure begin as you have the opportunity to embark on a personal journey, immersing yourself in the stunning natural landscapes and witnessing the unique biodiversity that Mauritius has to offer at Black River Gorges National Park.
Mauritius showcases a rich tapestry of wildlife, from endangered bird species like the Mauritius Kestrel to vibrant marine life, offering opportunities for eco-friendly tourism and wildlife appreciation in its diverse landscapes.
Discover the charm of Bras d’Eau National Park, named the second terrestrial National Park of Mauritius on October 25, 2011. Nestled in the northeast, it covers areas like State Land Bras d’Eau, Pas Geometriques Bras d’Eau, and Poste Lafayette Pas Geometriques reserves. Established in 1991, it’s a birdwatcher’s delight, providing a shaded walk where you might spot the elegant Mauritian Tchitrec.
The name “Bras d’Eau” comes from the water shaping an arm between Pointe Radeau and Belcourt Bay. Here are some details about this significant nature reserve:
Location: Situated in the north-east of the island.
Size: Covering an area of about 497.2 hectares.
Features:
The Coq des Bois Trail (5 km Return from Bras D’eau Visitor’s Centre) is a fairly easy one. Though only 2.5 km long, visitors may easily enjoy the different aspects of a forest since there are dwarf trees as well as tall trees along the track.
Take a leisurely walk through the park’s mahogany, araucaria, tecoma, and eucalyptus plantations, embracing the tranquility of the surroundings. As you explore the paths, you’ll come across remnants of a Hindu temple and may even encounter some curious macaques, adding a personalized touch to your journey through this blend of history and nature.
Embark on a personalized adventure with Unwind Mauritius as we invite you to discover the enchanting beauty of the south. Immerse yourself in the allure of iconic destinations. Let us tailor a journey that unveils the hidden gems of southern Mauritius just for you.
La Vanille Nature Park is like a guardian for plants and animals, working hard to keep them safe both here and around the world. In this magical place, where the warmth of Mauritius shines, we prioritize taking care of nature and our animal friends. Let our guides show you around for a special visit you won’t forget. Here are some information about this noteworthy nature reserve:
Location: Situated in the southern part of Mauritius.
Size: Covering an area of about 5 hectares.
Features:
La Vanille Nature Park stands as a crucial player in the conservation landscape, engaging in diverse initiatives to safeguard species and their habitats on both local and international fronts.
Mauritius’s natural wonders attract nature enthusiasts and travelers in search of distinctive and breathtaking experiences, making it a sought-after destination.
Nestled at the foot of Lion Mountain, overlooking Mahebourg Bay, Ferney stands as a historical and natural gem in Mauritius. Covering 2,800 hectares, this private domain is dedicated to sustainable development, focusing on environmental education, healthy living, and responsible Agro or Agri-tech development. Here are some information about this noteworthy nature reserve:
Location: Situated in the south-eastern part of Mauritius.
Size: Covering an area of about 2,800 hectares of private domain.
Features:
Conclude your visit with a meal at Ferney Falaise Rouge Restaurant, offering stunning ocean views and a menu featuring delightful dishes crafted with seasonal fruits and vegetables, supporting local suppliers and growers. La Vallée de Ferney Conservation Trust is a non-profit institution dedicated to safeguarding Mauritius’ remaining <2% primary forest. Committed to education, daily guided and non-guided tours invite exploration, and the funds generated from these visits are reinvested in vital conservation efforts, ensuring the preservation of the Valley’s rich biodiversity.
Embark on a personalized adventure with Unwind Mauritius as we invite you to discover the enchanting beauty of the south. Immerse yourself in the allure of iconic destinations. Let us tailor a journey that unveils the hidden gems of southern Mauritius just for you.
Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting south-west of Mauritius, where every bay holds its unique charm. This wildlife sanctuary, is a harmonious blend of history and nature. Named after the 19th-century Frederica sugar estate, its iconic chimney still graces the landscape, offering a glimpse into the rich historical tapestry of this region. Within the vast 2,500-hectare Domaine of Bel Ombre, the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve stands as a testament to this legacy. Offering a year-round premium land experience in a 1,300-hectare nature reserve. Here are some information about Frederica reserve:
Location: Situated in the south-west of Mauritius.
Size: Covering an area of about 1,300-hectare nature reserve.
Features:
Get on an exhilarating journey with our buggy and quad rides! Experience a thrilling blend of sensations and discovery as you explore unique landscapes. Venture through the valley, passing by the breathtaking Frederica waterfall—don’t forget to take a refreshing break! This exceptional outing immerses you in lush, endemic nature, promising to captivate your explorer’s spirit. Book the Bel Ombre nature Reserve now and and kickstart the excitement! It promises a fusion of fun, premium land adventures, and thrill for visitors of all ages and interests.
Embark on a journey where cultural delights meet coastal wonders, creating the perfect blend for a blissful holiday. Embark on a journey where cultural delights meet coastal wonders, creating the perfect blend for a blissful holiday
Discover the hidden gems off the coast of Mauritius, where the ancient flora and fauna have defied the test of time. Over millions of years, this biodiversity has evolved into a unique spectacle of endemic beauty. However, the arrival of humans 400 years ago led to the gradual disappearance of many local plants and animals, including the iconic Dodo bird.
Today, the surviving havens for these original species are transformed into national parks and nature reserves. Picture yourself exploring 8 breathtaking offshore islets designated as National Parks and 7 enchanting islets preserved as Nature Reserves. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ecosystems that have managed to withstand the impact of time and human influence.
Explore the diverse array of offshore islet national parks and nature reserves in Mauritius, each with its unique size and characteristics:
Offshore National Parks:
Offshore Nature Reserves:
Discover the beauty and biodiversity of these remarkable offshore destinations, each contributing to the conservation and preservation of Mauritius’ natural wonders.
Designated as a “Nature Reserve” since 1965, this coral islet underwent rehabilitation by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) in 1985, becoming a showcase for valuable conservation efforts supporting endemic fauna and flora. Here are some details about this significant nature reserve:
Location: Situated in the southeast coast of Mauritius.
Size: 27-hectare haven floating on the crystalline waters of Mahébourg Lagoon.
Features:
We invite you to embark on an unforgettable journey with Unwind Mauritius, where every step unveils the captivating stories of restoration and the intrinsic charm of this natural haven. Let our tours immerse you in the wonders of Île aux Aigrettes, a true showcase of Mauritius’ commitment to preserving its environmental treasures. Join us and witness the harmonious coexistence of conservation and breathtaking scenery on this enchanting islet.
A day with Unwind Mauritius for rum and distillery fun is like a super cool adventure into the island’s culture. Explore sugarcane growing and see the whole process of making rum – all in a really exciting way!
Damaging impacts of humans on the islets.
Before humans made Mauritius their home, the mainland and the nearby islets were full of life. However, when people started using the land for farming and building, they also cleared away the forests. This led to the disappearance of many animals and plants, especially the small reptiles.
The situation worsened when people brought in new animals like deer, pigs, rats, and rabbits. These creatures caused significant harm by destroying the understory forests, hunting animals’ eggs and young ones, and harming their homes. The black rats, known as Rattus rattus, were particularly destructive, causing the most ecological damage on the islets.
Loss of biodiversity on the islets.
In earlier times, the offshore islets served dual purposes as quarantine grounds and lookout points for potential enemies. Consequently, the construction of settlements and infrastructure unavoidably led to ecological harm.
Similarly, as people journeyed from one islet to another, they unintentionally brought along pests and weeds. The invasive species multiplied, engaging in competition with native ones for resources like food and space and even preying on them. This resulted in the unfortunate disappearance of numerous plants and animals, including the Burrowing Boa on Flat Island.
Importance of the offshore islets of Mauritius.
Despite having less than 2% of native forest on the mainland, the islets boast pristine forest areas. Remarkably, each of the numerous islets surrounding Mauritius possesses distinctive features and provides a habitat for various species.
Take Round Island, for example, where the Telfair’s Skink exclusively resides today, whereas in the past, this species inhabited multiple other islets.
