Mauritius: Tamarind Falls Guided Hike with Swim and Lunch

Mauritius: Tamarind Falls Guided Hike with Swim and Lunch

If you’re after an adventure-packed day in Mauritius that combines stunning scenery, physical activity, and a touch of thrill, the Tamarind Falls guided hike might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vivid picture of what to expect — and it’s quite the experience.

What we love about this tour is how it offers an immersive nature experience with seven waterfalls to explore. The chance to swim in natural pools, the knowledgeable guides, and the delicious picnic lunch all make it stand out. On the flip side, it’s important to note that this isn’t for everyone — a good level of fitness and comfort with heights are prerequisites.

This tour is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who enjoy a physical challenge combined with breathtaking views. If you’re looking for a memorable day in Mauritius’s wilderness, this experience delivers well. Now, let’s break down exactly what makes this hike so special and what you should keep in mind.

Key Points

Stunning water features: Seven waterfalls offer continuous excitement and photo opportunities.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable, attentive guides like Prakash and Andy ensure safety and share interesting flora and fauna insights.
Active adventure: The hike involves steep descents, jumps, and swimming in natural pools — perfect for those seeking a physical challenge.
Authentic experience: Local guides provide a genuine taste of Mauritius’s lush interior, away from tourist hotspots.
Value for money: With a full day of activity, swimming, and lunch included at $87, it’s a well-rounded, affordable option.
Accessibility considerations: Not suitable for pregnant women, young children, those with mobility issues, or anyone afraid of heights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary — What to Expect

Meeting Point and Duration
Your adventure begins at Henrietta Bus Station, where your licensed guide, Prakash, will be waiting. From there, expect a 40-minute walk along a trail through vibrant jungle scenery before reaching the first waterfall. The whole experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the views and enjoy each stop.

Start of the Hike
The initial walk is relatively gentle, giving you a chance to acclimate. The surrounding landscape is lush, filled with indigenous plants, colorful birds, and exotic trees. As you progress, the trail gets steeper, especially when descending to reach the first cascade. Reviewers mention that proper footwear is key — slippery, muddy paths after rain can be tricky.

Waterfalls and Swimming
The main highlight is the chance to visit seven waterfalls along Tamarind River. The waterfalls are close enough to each other that the hike feels continuous, yet each offers its own unique charm—some with inviting pools for swimming, others with jumping opportunities.

One of the most exciting moments for thrill-seekers is the possibility of jumping from the second plateau into a basin below from about seven meters high. If jumping isn’t your style, no worries — you can simply climb down a natural path or branch your way down with the guide’s assistance. Reviewers have appreciated guides like Andy and Prakash for their patience and careful supervision during these moments.

The Challenge and the Views
The ascent back after reaching the seventh waterfall is often described as challenging but rewarding. The steep climb involves some slippery sections that demand good footwear and a decent fitness level. As one reviewer put it, “make sure to wear proper shoes,” especially after rain, as the path can get very slippery.

Standing on the edge of the seventh waterfall offers a spectacular view of the canyon, with a roughly 60-meter drop to the basin below. For the brave, lying on your stomach near the edge provides an adrenaline rush and a fantastic photo opportunity.

Lunch and Relaxation
After the physical exertion, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with refreshments. The food received praise for being satisfying and hearty, providing energy for the rest of the day. Many reviewers highlighted the care taken by guides to ensure everyone felt comfortable and supported, especially when climbing or jumping.

End of the Tour
The hike concludes back at the starting point, with some reviewers noting that the return climb can be strenuous. However, the overall sense of achievement, paired with the lush scenery, makes it all worthwhile.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

Authentic Connection: The guides are not just safety supervisors but also storytellers, sharing insights about the native flora, fauna, and the history of the area. This adds depth to your experience that purely sightseeing tours can’t match.

Safety First: The presence of expert guides like Andy, Wendy, and Prakash ensures that even if you try some jumps or climb down tricky paths, you’re in capable hands. Their attentiveness shines through in reviews, with many mentioning how safe and supported they felt throughout.

Value for Money: For $87, you get a full-day adventure that includes transportation (if arranged), a guided hike, swimming in natural pools, and a picnic lunch. Considering the exclusivity and uniqueness of the experience, many travelers find this to be an excellent deal.

The Perfect Mix of Adventure and Relaxation: If you love the idea of combining physical activity with moments of calm in nature, this tour fits perfectly. The swimming breaks and scenic pauses give you time to breathe and take in the surroundings.

Not for Everyone: This experience is physically demanding, with steep descents, jumps, and uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 8, or anyone with mobility or health issues, especially fear of heights.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Tamarind Falls

• Bring proper footwear: Closed-toe hiking shoes or sturdy sandals are essential, especially after rain.
• Pack a change of clothes and a towel: You’ll want dry clothes after swimming in the pools.
• Insect repellent: The lush jungle means bugs are part of the package — bring protection.
• Camera: The views from the top of the waterfalls are stunning, so don’t forget capturing the moment.
• Physical preparedness: A good fitness level will make the hike more enjoyable; reviewers mention that it’s quite demanding, especially on the return climb.
• Morning start: The tour begins early, so plan your day accordingly to maximize your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the tour last?
The guided hike takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, including swimming, jumping, and lunch.

Is transportation included?
Not automatically, but transfers can be arranged, making it easier to get to the meeting point at Henrietta Bus Station.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes suitable for muddy conditions, and closed-toe shoes. Bring a change of clothes and a towel for after swimming.

Can I jump from the waterfalls?
Yes, there are opportunities to jump from about 7 meters into the basin below at certain waterfalls. Guides will supervise to ensure safety.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers aged 8 and above, particularly those who are physically fit and comfortable with heights.

Will I need insect repellent?
Yes, as the lush environment can attract bugs. It’s a good idea to bring some along.

Can I do this tour if I’m pregnant?
No, it’s not suitable for pregnant women due to the physical demands and heights involved.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the terrain is steep and uneven, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility difficulties.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Mornings are ideal to avoid the afternoon heat and to ensure the trails aren’t slippery from earlier rain.

To sum it up, the Tamarind Falls guided hike offers a captivating combination of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic Mauritian scenery. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy challenging hikes, scenic swimming spots, and sharing the experience with knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a day of exploration that gets your adrenaline pumping and leaves you with unforgettable sights, this tour definitely deserves a spot on your Mauritius itinerary. Just be sure you’re prepared for some physical effort and the occasional leap of faith — the views and sense of achievement are worth it.