Hiking and Conservation at Ebony Forest Reserve Mauritius

Ebony Forest Reserve covers 50 hectares of restored native woodland in Chamarel and serves as a vital sanctuary for the island rarest endemic species. Since 2006 conservation teams have planted more than 154000 indigenous trees working to reverse the ecological damage that has left less than 2 percent of the original forest of Mauritius intact. Entry for non-resident adults is 510 MUR providing access to a high-canopy walkway and trails leading to views that extend across the entire west coast. Most visitors arrive in the morning to catch sight of the elusive Mauritius Paradise Flycatcher before the midday heat settles over the ridges.

Restoration and Wildlife Encounters

The reserve exists because of a private initiative started by Owen and Mary-Ann Griffiths to recreate the ecosystem that existed before human arrival. Unlike the neighboring national parks where invasive guava and privet often choke out native saplings the teams here have weeded 34 hectares by hand to allow the ebony trees to dominate once more. You can see the result of this labor at the Flycatcher Raised Walkway which spans 300 meters through a pocket of ancient forest. Walking at a height of four meters allows for eye-level views of the canopy where the bright blue eye rings of the male flycatchers are easier to spot against the dark leaves.

Conservation Success Stories

In 2018 the reserve became a primary release site for the Pink Pigeon a species that was nearly extinct in the 1990s with only nine individuals remaining in the wild. Today you can often see these birds near the aviaries or feeding on native fruits along the Ridgeline Trail. The Echo Parakeet another success story frequently flies between the tall ebony stands and is recognizable by its distinct squawk and emerald plumage. Six of the nine remaining endemic bird species of Mauritius find refuge here making it a concentrated area for birdwatching compared to the sprawling Black River Gorges nearby.

The Ebony Nursery and Museum

Before heading onto the trails the visitor center provides a necessary context through the Ebony Experience museum. The eight-minute film shown here clarifies why the island lost its biodiversity and frames your walk as a journey through a living laboratory. Near the entrance a plant nursery cultivates 140 different endemic and native species for future planting. Observing the different stages of growth in these saplings highlights how slow-growing the genuine ebony tree actually is—a detail that makes the 350-year-old giants found deeper in the woods feel far more significant.

Trails and Summits

Visitors generally choose between a self-guided hike or a safari jeep shuttle to reach the higher elevations of the reserve. The climb from the visitor center to the main lookout is manageable for those with average fitness but the humidity of Chamarel can make the 1.3-kilometer access road feel much longer than expected. Walking this section is actually better for photography because you pass through various restoration zones that show the forest in different stages of recovery from recently weeded plots to three-meter-high stands of young trees.

Reaching Sublime Point

Sublime Point is the primary destination for most guests offering a viewpoint at approximately 300 meters above sea level with a clear line of sight to Le Morne Brabant. A small cafe here sells local snacks and drinks like lemongrass juice which are much needed after the uphill trek. From this ridge you can watch white-tailed tropicbirds soaring on the updrafts while fruit bats occasionally glide over the canopy during the late afternoon. This spot provides the best orientation of the southwest coastline including the coral reefs surrounding Ile aux Benitiers.

Scaling Piton Canot

Piton Canot is the highest point in the reserve reaching an altitude of 542 meters. The final ascent from the cafe involves a 140-meter height gain over a relatively short and occasionally slippery 400-meter path. This section is not recommended after heavy rain as the mud becomes slick but the reward is a 360-degree panorama of the Chamarel valley and the southern mountain ranges. It takes about 45 minutes for a round trip from Sublime Point and offers a ruggedness that the lower manicured walkways lack.

Practical Logistics

The reserve is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00 with the last entry usually suggested by 15:00 to ensure enough time for the full loop. While the Seven Coloured Earth geopark is situated on the same access road the forest reserve requires a separate ticket and operates as a non-profit foundation. Booking tickets online generally provides a 10 percent discount on the standard 510 MUR rate for international visitors. Wearing sturdy trainers is essential because the limestone and volcanic soil can be uneven even on the primary trails.

Choosing Between Hiking and Jeep Safaris

If your primary goal is birdwatching or photography choose the hiking option to move at your own pace and maintain silence. The jeep safaris run every 30 minutes and are useful for families or those with mobility issues but the noise of the engine often sends the rarer birds deeper into the brush. A hybrid approach works well for some—taking the jeep to Sublime Point to save energy then walking the 2.4-kilometer route back down to the visitor center. This allows for a descent through the shaded ridgeline paths without the physical strain of the initial climb.

Timing and Facilities

The winter months from May to October provide the most comfortable temperatures for hiking Piton Canot. During the peak of summer the humidity in the forest understory can be intense making a morning start nearly mandatory. There are no picnic facilities allowed inside the reserve to minimize waste so planning for a late lunch in Chamarel village after your visit is a practical choice. The on-site shop sells local artisanal products and the profits go directly back into the weeding and planting programs that sustain the 50-hectare site.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of day to see the endemic birds at Ebony Forest?

Early morning around 09:00 is the peak time for bird activity as species like the Mauritius Paradise Flycatcher are most active before the heat of the day. Guides are also more available for individual questions during these quieter early hours.

How much does it cost to enter Ebony Forest Reserve?

Non-resident adults pay 510 MUR for standard entry while residents pay 380 MUR with discounts available for children aged 5 to 17. Booking through the official website typically offers a 10 percent reduction on these prices.

Is the hike to Piton Canot difficult for children?

The 400-meter climb to Piton Canot is steep and can be slippery so it is best suited for older children with some hiking experience. The Flycatcher Raised Walkway and the main Ridgeline Trail are much easier and safer for younger families.

Can I visit Ebony Forest and the Seven Coloured Earth on the same day?

Yes because the entrances are located on the same road in Chamarel but you must purchase separate tickets for each attraction. Most visitors spend two to three hours at the forest reserve before heading to the geopark nearby.

Are guided tours mandatory for the forest walkways?

The Flycatcher Raised Walkway is visited as part of a 30-minute guided tour that departs regularly throughout the day. Other trails like the Ridgeline Trail and the path to Piton Canot are self-guided and can be explored at your own leisure.