Bras d’Eau National Park in Mauritius is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape into nature. Located on the northeastern coast of the island, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The park boasts a rich biodiversity, with lush forests, pristine lakes, and a variety of wildlife. One of the highlights is the extensive network of trails that cater to all levels of hikers. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Bras d’Eau has something to offer. The trails are well-marked and take you through scenic landscapes, including ancient ruins and endemic plant species.
Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy this park, as it is home to several rare bird species, including the Mauritius Paradise Flycatcher. The peaceful environment, coupled with the sounds of nature, makes it a perfect spot for birdwatching and photography.
The park is also historically significant, with remnants of old sugar mills and other colonial-era structures scattered throughout. These add an intriguing cultural layer to the natural beauty of the park.
Facilities in the park are well-maintained, with picnic areas and information boards providing insight into the park's natural and cultural heritage. While the park is relatively off the beaten path, it is easily accessible and provides a refreshing contrast to the more tourist-heavy areas of Mauritius.
Overall, Bras d’Eau National Park is a delightful destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and history. It’s an ideal spot for a day trip, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility and splendor of Mauritius’...
Read moreBras D’Eau National Park is a peaceful and healthy place on the north east coast of the island of Mauritius. It is a natural reserve for nature lovers and hiking. The Park is covered with rich fauna and flora. You can plan a great outing with family or friends out there. It got many picnic spots and at the same time you can enjoy a healthy walk. Parking facilities are available on site. Before starting your adventure, I would advise you to check-in the visitors centre or meeting with one of the forest officers which is essential for yourself to learn more about the native and endemic species you will find in the park and as well the walking trail, picnic spots, fauna and flora location, etc. There's a site plan near the parking lot which can guide you where to start off. The forest is home to many endemic species. As you will walk along the trail you will discover many trees such as eucalyptus, blackwood, teak and casuarinas. Several kinds of birds can be spotted in the forest amongst sparrows, Mauritius fodys, canaries, white-tailed tropicbird, white-eyes. It is advisable to wear good walking shoes and mosquitoes repellent if you are allergic. To end your visit, you can either opt for lunch on the wooden tables you will find in the park or picnic at Poste Lafayette Beach which is 15 minutes walk from the park’s exit. Please keep the environment clean and use available bins...
Read moreOne of the three National Parks, one of the last two remaining primal forests of Mauritius.
The signage may be questionable but it pays to engage with the very kind and helpful staff for advice and guidance on the best path to adapt to the visitors' condition: the fitter ones would be at ease doing the full course through the marshes and wetlands, complete with the loop and the trail up to the lagoon.
Beginners and less able ones (especially with children) would be well advised to backtrack within 20-30 minutes of trekking into the straight portion of the track: just follow the markings, but if you sense being off-track do not attempt to guess by wandering. Just walk back.
The more relaxed parts are the visitors' centre which provides a permanent exhibition about the endemic fauna ans flora, old ruins and a tortoise enclosure.
In the end, you will find the picnic area very soothing... this will convince you about the necessity to maintain tall trees: besides the numerous benefits of their high canopy for fauna, their shade is incredibly effective on cooling down the immediate environs and makes it a much better place to have lunch than the scorching heat of...
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