Mauritius is a tropical island located in the southern Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometers east of Madagascar. Under the official name of the Republic of Mauritius, Mauritius Island is also simply known as Mauritius or Beach Island. It’s a piece of volcanic paradise with white sand, turquoise waters, surrounded by coral reefs, and a tropical climate.
The Le Morne Brabant Peninsula is located in the south of Mauritius Island, in the wildest area of this pearl of the Indian Ocean. It is distinguished by a single basalt rock considered one of the most imposing views in Mauritius. The summit covers an area of more than 12 hectares and on its facade, there are numerous caves surrounded by a lagoon.
Declared a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site since July 2008, Le Morne Brabant is one of the most beautiful mountains in Mauritius. It has an altitude of 556 meters and is located in the southwest of the island. It played a fundamental role in the life of the peninsula in the 19th century, after the abolition of slavery. There’s nothing better than combining history and nature during your international volunteer experience. Keep reading to find out all the details.
Visit Le Morne during an international volunteer program
A bit of history
History tells that throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Le Morne mountain was used as a refuge by escaped slaves, called Cimarrones (les marrons in French). Protected by the lush and rugged terrain of the mountain, the cimarrones created authentic settlements along it, both in caves and on its summit.
When slavery was abolished in 1835, authorities climbed Le Morne to bring them the news and confirm their freedom. However, terrified and unable to understand what they were trying to communicate, many slaves committed suicide by jumping off the cliff. To this day, the mountain represents the suffering of those thousands of slaves who inhabited Mauritius Island, which is why the island came to be known as “la République de les Marrons”.
Ascending to the top of Le Morne
If you like panoramic and impressive views, the ascent to this emblematic mountain is one of the most beautiful routes in Mauritius. The hike usually takes about two or three hours and it’s recommended to start early to avoid the heat, as well as to go accompanied by a guide. The starting point is practically on the beach and then you’ll find a trail that begins to climb through an area of dense vegetation. Immediately, extraordinary views of the coral reef framed by a scene of pointed mountains begin to appear.
Further on, you reach a gate that must be crossed to make the final part to climb to the top of Le Morne Brabant along a rougher trail to a cross. Once at the top, you’ll be able to appreciate a spectacular view of the southwest area of Mauritius, where you can also see the famous underwater waterfalls, an optical illusion that occurs in this area. Therefore, climbing Le
Morne Brabant is a must-do activity during your volunteer experience in Mauritius.
If you’re not a hiking fanatic, another alternative to enjoy the landscape of Le Morne is to do it by helicopter. Flying over the area will take you no more than 20 minutes and you’ll be able to enjoy one of the most exciting experiences of your stay in Mauritius.
Don’t hesitate any longer and discover this tropical paradise during your volunteer experience in Africa!