Chamarel

An upland village known for its waterfall and the Seven Coloured Earth.

Explore the West & South-WestBlack River Gorges guide

Hero image: dronepicr, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Chamarel is a small village in the hills above the south-west coast of Mauritius, reached by a winding road from the coast near Case Noyale. Cooler and greener than the coast below, it is known for two natural sights: the Chamarel Waterfall and the Seven Coloured Earth, a patch of exposed volcanic soils in bands of different colours.

Most visitors come on a day trip from the west or south-west coast, often combined with the Black River Gorges National Park. A few guesthouses and lodges offer the chance to stay in the hills.

Where to stay and what to book

Places to stay

Villa ChamarelView detailsVilla Kamaya ChamarelView detailsRiverbend Eco Lodge ChamarelView detailsGreen Cottage ChamarelView details

Browse all accommodation here

Why visit Chamarel

Chamarel gives you the island’s interior in a compact visit: views over the south-west coast, a high waterfall dropping into a forested gorge and the unusual coloured earth. It is an easy add-on from Le Morne, Tamarin or Flic en Flac.

The main sights are managed visitor attractions rather than wild places, with entry arrangements and facilities. Go with that expectation and the visit works well.

The Seven Coloured Earth and the waterfall

The Seven Coloured Earth is an area of sand dunes formed from weathered volcanic rock, showing bands of red, brown, violet and other shades. The colours are most vivid in clear light. Within the same park, a viewpoint overlooks the Chamarel Waterfall, which drops in a long plunge from the plateau into the gorge below.

Viewpoints and the road up

The road from the coast to Chamarel climbs through forest with viewpoints over the lagoon and the Le Morne peninsula. Drive carefully: the road is narrow and winding, with sharp bends.

Rum and food

A rum distillery near the village offers visits, and a few restaurants in the area serve local dishes. Opening arrangements vary; check before you go.

Getting there and around

Chamarel is reached by road from the coast near Case Noyale on the south-west, or from the plateau via the Black River Gorges area. A hire car or organised tour is the most practical way to visit; public transport is limited.

Allow time for the winding roads, and avoid driving them in the dark if you are unfamiliar with them.

Best time to visit

Clear mornings give the best light for the coloured earth and views. The waterfall is fullest after rain, which is more frequent in the summer months. The uplands are cooler and can be misty.

How long to stay

Half a day covers the main sights. Combine Chamarel with the Black River Gorges viewpoints or the Le Morne peninsula for a full day.

Nearby destinations

Frequently asked questions

Is the Seven Coloured Earth worth visiting?

It is a distinctive natural feature and, combined with the waterfall viewpoint in the same park, makes a worthwhile half-day.

How do I get to Chamarel?

By hire car or tour, up the winding road from the south-west coast or from the plateau. Public transport is limited.

Can I stay in Chamarel?

Yes, there are a few guesthouses and lodges, though most visitors come on a day trip.

Plan the rest of your trip

• West & South-West region guide
• Black River Gorges National Park guide
• Le Morne guide
• Self-drive Mauritius

Official sources for Chamarel

Opening hours, entry fees, boat and transport schedules, access rules and park conditions change; check the official source before you travel.

• Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) — official visitor information

Where to stay, and what to book

Browse Chamarel accommodation or West & South-West accommodation, and see tours and activities. See also where to stay in the West & South-West.