If you’re living in the west of Mauritius, you’re practically at the foot of the magnificent Le Morne Brabant. But if you choose to invest in property elsewhere on the island, and still want to explore all parts of it, you should make hiking the 3.5km up Le Morne Brabant a priority. Tourists who love the outdoors make it a must!

It’s a Unesco World Heritage Site known for the shelter it provided runaway slaves and maroons in the 18th and 19th centuries. You can hike alone if you wish, or enlist the services of a local guide to learn more about the endemic plants and history of this landmark.

The views are quite spectacular and well worth the effort of a reasonably comfortable exercise. One of the features of the coast that you can only see from high up is a drop-off that forms where the reef gives way to the deep open ocean, creating the illusion of an underwater waterfall.

It’s best to start early in the morning before it gets too hot. You need to allow between three and four hours to complete it if you’re moderately fit. The ascent begins slowly, becoming more taxing and ‘technical’ the higher you climb.

Think Cape Town’s Lion’s Head, but more challenging. Experienced hikers can complete the ascent in about two hours at pace. The last bit to the peak is trickier, and you should only do this roped, and with a guide.

Signs clearly indicate the dirt road turn-off to the visitor’s centre where you park (or type ‘Le Morne trail entrance’ into Google Maps). Take your own water and snacks as there’s nothing to buy on site.

There’s no cost to hike and a guide is not essential, but contact Local Spirit if you’d like one. “I don’t feel like I am working, I enjoy making people discover the secrets of our beautiful island, so everyday hiking for me is bliss,” says Allan Ramalingum.

Ramalingum lives in Le Morne Village. He gave up his office job for walking in nature and hasn’t regretted it for a single day. “From the starting point of the trail, it is 10 minutes’ walk to Le Morne public beach, which is between Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa and LUX* Le Morne. It’s two minutes by car,” says Ramalingum. “You can enter the trail by car if you really want to, but it is not recommended as the road is not good especially when it rains. You can park at the public beach, where it is safer. We always collect clients there in our 4×4 van.”

What to pack when hiking Le Morne

Pack mozzie repellent, light-cotton and Lycra clothing for hiking.

What it costs for a guide

Tickets for a guided hike start at MUR 450 per person.

Getting to Mauritius

Look out for Air Mauritius flights when borders open again. FlySafair has also had routes approved to fly between Joburg and Mauritius.

Need to know

South African passport holders don’t need a visa for Mauritius. The best weather is from April to June as well as September to December.