Henrietta: Hiking at the Tamarind Waterfalls

Exploring Mauritius isn’t just about lounging on beaches; it’s also about discovering the lush landscapes and hidden gems like Tamarind Waterfalls. This guided tour promises a memorable trek through tropical greenery, with plenty of opportunities to get close to cascading waterfalls and enjoy refreshing dips.

What makes this experience special are the personalized small-group setting, expert guides, and the chance to actually go behind and underneath the waterfalls — not just admire them from afar. That said, it’s a physically moderate walk that might not suit those with mobility issues or small children, and the price of $94 includes most of what you need for a day full of adventure.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a genuine outdoor experience that combines gentle hiking with incredible sights. If you’re after an authentic, immersive nature outing in Mauritius, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Expert guides enhance the adventure with detailed info about flora, fauna, and local ecosystems.
• Close-water interaction with waterfalls, ponds, and fish spas offers unique, hands-on experiences.
• Beautiful scenery and optical illusions make for fantastic photos and unforgettable moments.
• All-inclusive transfer from your accommodation simplifies logistics.
• Suitable for non-experienced hikers but not recommended for children under 10 or travelers over 70.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tamarind Waterfalls Tour

The journey begins with a convenient pickup from your Mauritius accommodation — whether a hotel, bungalow, apartment, or cruise ship. From there, you’ll be driven to Henrietta, where the real adventure starts with a 400-meter walk through sugar cane fields. This initial stretch is a gentle warm-up, giving you a taste of the countryside before entering the lush forested areas.

The Hike Through Lush Vegetation

Once in the woods, you’ll follow a river enveloped in dense greenery, with the guide pointing out local plants, waterlilies, and occasionally spotting small creatures. The terrain remains manageable, with some slippery sections, but your guide’s experience ensures safety and encouragement. The walk covers about 600 meters between waterfalls, with stops to absorb the views, take photos, or simply relax.

Reaching the Tamarind Waterfalls

As you approach, the sight of up to 12 waterfalls is breathtaking. Each cascade is more impressive than the last, with water tumbling over rocks creating mist and rainbows. The guide’s knowledge shines here, highlighting how these waterfalls form part of a special ecosystem. You’re encouraged to come close, go behind, or even underneath the falls — an experience many describe as sensational and surreal.

Hands-On Water Experiences

One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to jump from the waterfalls into natural ponds, which serve as natural swimming pools. The water is crystal clear, invigorating, and a welcome refresh after the hike. Several reviewers mention how fun this part is, with one traveler noting, “We also got to try sugar cane, black pepper, and guava during the hike,” adding a cultural flavor to the day.

Another charming feature is the free fish spa — small fish gently nibbling at your feet, providing a gentle massage that’s both amusing and relaxing. These ponds also serve as ideal spots to relax, soak in the scenery, or snap some stunning photos.

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Scenic Breaks and Local Flavors

Throughout the tour, you’ll find spots to lounge and take in the views. Many guests enjoy simply sitting back and contemplating the landscape, which is dotted with waterfalls, pools, and lush vegetation. At the end of the hike, there’s often time to sample seasonal fruits or sugarcane, giving a taste of local flavors and culture.

Return Journey

After exploring the waterfalls and relaxing in the ponds, you’ll climb back to the starting point. The return ride is comfortable, with your guide sharing insights about Mauritius’s flora and fauna — and perhaps some local stories — making the entire day both informative and fun.

The tour wraps up with a drop-off at your accommodation, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of photos to remember the day.

The Value of the Experience

At $94 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. The small group size, often just three to six hikers, means your guide can give personalized attention, help with tricky sections, and accommodate your pace.

Most reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the organization. One traveler shared, “Our guide told us a lot about the local flora and fauna in both English and French,” making the tour educational as well as adventurous.

The inclusion of transfers, water, and guide services means you’re paying for a hassle-free day. It’s especially valuable for solo travelers or those without transport, as the pickup is arranged from your place of stay.

Given the manageable walking distance and the opportunity to go close to waterfalls, it’s suitable for people who enjoy moderate outdoor activities but aren’t seasoned hikers. The tour isn’t recommended for small children under 10 or seniors over 70, mainly due to some steep and slippery sections.

What We Loved About This Tour

• Personalized service: With only a small group, the experience feels intimate and tailored. Reviewers mention how guides like Vikash are patient, informative, and helpful, ensuring safety and fun.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable about the environment, flora, and fauna, turning a scenic walk into an educational experience.
• Close encounters with waterfalls: Going behind and underneath waterfalls is a rare treat. This hands-on approach makes the scenery much more memorable.
• Authentic natural experience: The chance to swim in ponds, enjoy a fish spa, and pick seasonal fruits adds unique, authentic touches to the day.
• Beautiful scenery and photo ops: From optical illusions created by waterfalls to stunning landscape views, there’s ample opportunity to capture incredible images.
• Inclusive and flexible: Pickup from your accommodation, water, and the option to pay later make planning simple and flexible.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

While the experience fits many, some travelers may find the terrain tricky in spots, especially if they’re not comfortable with uneven or slippery surfaces. Also, if water levels are low — as some reviews noted during the start of summer — the waterfalls might not be as full or dramatic, but the scenery still remains impressive.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers who want more than just a walk in the park. It’s perfect for those interested in authentic outdoor experiences, with opportunities for swimming, photography, and learning about local ecosystems. Its small-group setting makes it appealing for travelers seeking personalized attention.

It’s also a good choice for solo travelers or couples who want a guided adventure without the hassle of planning transportation. However, it’s not suitable for very young children, older adults, or anyone with mobility issues, given the nature of some terrain.

FAQ Section

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Mauritius accommodation.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and biodegradable insect repellent for comfort and safety.

Can I go behind the waterfalls?
Absolutely. You’ll have the chance to come close, behind, and underneath the waterfalls for an unforgettable experience.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or travelers over 70 due to the physical nature of the hike.

How long is the hike?
The walk is around 600 meters between waterfalls, with the total tour duration usually under 3 hours including breaks.

What if the water levels are low?
While waterfall flow can vary, the scenery remains stunning, and many reviewers still find the experience worthwhile.

Is it a physically demanding tour?
The hike is considered manageable, with some slippery sections, but guides help ensure safety and comfort.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Final Thoughts

The Henrietta: Hiking at the Tamarind Waterfalls tour offers a compelling combination of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. With expert guides, personalized attention, and the chance to explore up close, it provides a genuinely authentic Mauritius experience.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy moderate outdoor activities, nature photography, and learning about local ecosystems. The inclusion of transportation and the small-group format make it a hassle-free, value-packed option for a day away from the beaches.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic adventure that balances fun, education, and a splash of adrenaline, this tour deserves a spot on your Mauritius itinerary. Just remember to wear suitable shoes, bring your camera, and be ready for a day full of waterfalls, swims, and fascinating sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: