Black River Gorges National Park

　　Located in the Black River Valley, this national park is a 6,574-hectare nature reserve situated in the western part of Mauritius Island. It protects one of the most important parts of the island’s natural heritage, with a primary focus on ensuring the sustainable management and restoration of its natural resources—especially its high-quality native flora and fauna.

　　The scenery of Black River Gorges National Park is not only unique but also one of the rare forested areas found globally. These natural treasures are worth exploring, including around 311 species of native and endemic flowering plants, as well as 9 bird species that are found only in Mauritius. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking landscapes along with iconic umbrella-shaped trees, whose trunks are adorned with orchids, ferns, lichens, and other epiphytes—features typical of the island’s highland forests. In the wild, you may spot once-endangered bird species such as the Mauritius kestrel, pink pigeon, and Echo parakeet, all of which are slowly increasing in number within the forest’s depths. Well-maintained trails guide visitors through nature. The best time to visit the park is during the flowering season (September to January), when birds sing amid lush greenery and blooming flowers. From the park’s viewpoints, you can admire spectacular vistas, and the serene, unspoiled atmosphere adds an extra touch of grandeur to the scenery.