Ebony Forest Reserve: Guided Hike, Canopy Walk & Sublime Point Views

Summary

Raised walkways, rare birds and wild forest views in Chamarel

You’ll walk raised trails through Ebony Forest Reserve near Chamarel with a local guide, spotting rare birds among ancient ebony trees and learning their stories in the museum. Hike along ridgeline paths to Sublime Point for sweeping island views and maybe try some local snacks at the top. It’s peaceful here — a real pause from Mauritius’ busy coastlines.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air at Ebony Forest Reserve to feel so different — heavier somehow, but clean. We’d just left the busier roads near Chamarel and suddenly it was quiet except for birds I couldn’t name yet. Our guide, Jean-Luc, waved us over to the start of the walkway. He grinned when I tried to pronounce “Paradise Flycatcher” in French (I definitely mangled it). The walkway itself felt a bit springy underfoot, with that faint wood smell you get after rain. There were these black ebony trunks everywhere — some older than anyone alive here now. I kept stopping just to touch the bark.

We moved slow through Flycatcher Forest, listening for the Mauritius Black Bulbul (Jean-Luc could imitate its call — he got a laugh out of all of us when one actually answered). At one point a pink pigeon swooped overhead and startled me enough that I nearly dropped my camera. The museum part was unexpectedly interesting; eight million years packed into a few rooms, plus old photos of what this place looked like before most of the trees vanished. It made me think about how little native forest is left on Mauritius — less than 2%, apparently. That hit harder than I thought it would.

The ridgeline trail up to Sublime Point wasn’t tough, just warm work under the sun. The view from up there…well, I still think about it sometimes when I see photos online. You can see Le Morne in the distance and Ile aux Benitiers floating on blue water. Bats drifted past us like lazy kites and swiftlets zipped by so fast they were gone before you could blink. Someone handed around gateaux piments (spicy little snacks) from the shop at the top — not included but worth it if you’re hungry after hiking.

If you’re feeling energetic you can keep going up to Piton Canot for even bigger views, but honestly we just sat at Sublime Point for ages, letting our legs dangle off the edge and listening to wind in the leaves below. Not sure why that sticks with me more than anything else — maybe because it felt like time slowed down right there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ebony Forest Reserve Chamarel

• Arrive at Visitor Centre
• Admire Chamarel Waterfalls
• Take 30-minute guided walkway tour
• Visit Ebony Experience Museum
• See endemic and rare birds
• Hike ridgeline trail with views
• Optional hike to Piton Canot
• Enjoy views from Sublime Point
• Hug an ancient ebony tree

Top questions

How do I get to Ebony Forest Reserve from Chamarel?

The reserve is located beside Seven Coloured Earth near Chamarel; follow signs from town or use public transportation options nearby.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; visitors make their own way to the Visitor Centre entrance.

What kind of wildlife can I see during the hike?

You may spot Paradise Flycatchers, Mauritius Black Bulbul, Pink Pigeon, Echo Parakeet, Kestrel, bats, and swiftlets during your walk.

Are snacks or meals provided on this tour?

No meals are included but you can purchase local snacks at Sublime Point or from the boutique after your hike.

Is this hike suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels; children must be accompanied by an adult.

How long does the guided portion last?

The guided tour along Flycatcher Forest’s raised walkway lasts about 30 minutes; additional hikes are self-paced.

What’s special about Sublime Point?

Sublime Point offers panoramic views of Le Morne UNESCO site and Ile aux Benitiers—many consider it a highlight of Ebony Forest Reserve.

Can I join ongoing conservation efforts during my visit?

Your visit supports ongoing forest restoration projects; profits from purchases are reinvested into planting native trees and reintroducing birds.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to Ebony Forest Reserve near Chamarel with access to raised canopy walkways in Flycatcher Forest, a guided introduction by knowledgeable staff (subject to availability), entry to the Ebony Experience Museum where you’ll learn about island history and conservation efforts, plus time on scenic hiking trails leading up to Sublime Point. Local snacks are available for purchase at Sublime Point or in the boutique if you want something extra after your walk.