Endemics of Mauritius: A Curated Walk (Bird-Watching)

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Tour Summary

Duration

Duration:
3-5 hours

Group

Group:
2-12

Tour Type

Tour Type:
On demand

Difficulty

Difficulty:
Easy

Transport

Transport:
Shuttle Available at Extra Cost

Distance

Distance:
6km

About the Tour

Step into the heart of Mauritius’ most scenic national park for a unique bird watching experience. This gentle guided walk takes you through lush forest trails, where you’ll have the chance to observe some of the island’s most iconic and endemic bird species in their natural habitat.

During the tour, we usually spot around 5 to 6 out of 9 endemic bird species. Among the most commonly seen are the Mauritius Cuckooshrike, Echo Parakeet, Mauritius Bulbul, Grey White-eye, Mauritius Fody, Pink Pigeon, and occasionally the elegant Paradise Flycatcher. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare Mauritius Kestrel, which has been seen on roughly 2 out of 10 tours. We sometimes also spot the Mascarene Swallow and Mascarene Swiftlet, endemic to the Mascarene islands.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Black River Gorges National Park, its mountains, forests, waterfall, and the distant

1 pair of Binoculars is provided during the tour for the group.

Whether you’re an experienced birder or simply a nature enthusiast, this outing offers a peaceful and immersive way to discover the rich biodiversity of Mauritius.

 

What’s Included?

Certified guide

Certified guide

Safety briefing and support throughout the activity

Safety briefing and support throughout the activity

Storytelling and insights about the park’s history, flora & fauna

Storytelling and insights about the park’s history, flora & fauna

Why Yanature?

Pionneer in the hiking and trekking tourism sector

In Mauritius since January 2004

We are friends and passionate mountain lovers

Our desire to bring people on discovery

Excursions in the wilderness is what we live for

Fast, friendly support you can count on

What you’ll do

  • 06:50 | Meet your guide
    Meet your Yanature guide at the entrance of the Black River Gorges National Park for a short briefing about the park’s unique biodiversity and the species you might encounter.
  • 07:00 – 10:30/11:30 | Guided birdwatching walk
    Follow your guide along forest trails and scenic viewpoints as the island awakens. You’ll explore around 6 km of easy paths (with a few short climbs), stopping to observe and identify different endemic bird species. Listen for their songs, learn to recognize their silhouettes, and hear fascinating stories about the conservation efforts that saved many of them from extinction.
  • 11:30 | End of tour
    Take a quiet moment to enjoy the forest atmosphere before returning to the starting point.

Highlights

  • Discover Mauritius’ 9 endemic bird species in their natural habitat
  • Visit exclusive and protected areas within the Black River Gorges National Park
  • Learn about the island’s remarkable bird conservation success stories
  • Observe rare species such as the Mauritius kestrel, Pink pigeon, and Echo parakeet
  • Enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by lush tropical forest and breathtaking views
  • Peaceful and educational nature experience suitable for all levels

What to bring?

  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Light sportswear (preferably quick-dry)
  • Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle (at least 1.5L)
  • Snack or energy bar
  • Rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable in the mountains)
  • Insect repellent

Not suitable for

  • Pregnant women
  • People with serious back, knee, or heart problems
  • Persons with limited mobility
  • Children under 12 years old
  • Elderly individuals with health issues or limited stamina
  • Individuals recovering from surgery or injury.

Meeting Point

The meeting point will be at Pétrin Information Centre

Know before you go

  • This activity starts early morning to increase chances of sightings
  • Difficulty: easy — mostly flat with a few short climbs, no technical parts
  • Binoculars are provided, but you may bring your own if preferred (1 pair per group, to be shared among participants)
  • The tour may be rescheduled in case of heavy rain for safety reasons
  • Wildlife sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed
  • The guide will be the only contact person on the day of the tour. You will receive the guide’s contact details upon booking or on the eve of the activity date by email (make sure to check your spams if you did not receive the email)

What people say about us:

User avatar

Relaxing kayaking on the river

Jan 21, 2026
The cost was very good value. Our guide, Gilles, was really helful and friendly. We have kayaked many times before but the trip on these gentle rivers was easy for anyone. A very calm experience
User avatar

The exciting hiking le morne mountain

Jan 20, 2026
Jilles was our guide of this hiking Le morne mountain. He was very nice to us, and explained the mauritian history and some plants. He also cared how tired we were during hiking. (some rest, drink water …)we walked round of this mountain so we got to see beautiful views at each good spots. we are so grateful that we had this experience, which is one of hilight of our travel. Thank you !!
User avatar

Fun, safety, adrenaline and wonderful people.

Jan 20, 2026
The adventure, waterfalls and the team behind everything, were the best. We had so much fun together, talked a lot and felt very save. A must do on mauritius if you are seeking for adrenaline and a story to tell your friends.
User avatar

Love it!

Jan 19, 2026
Amazing experience! And the guide –
Gilles was super kind and helpful. Totally recommend him.
User avatar

Safe and professional all the way!

Jan 16, 2026
Nicolas and Gregory were brilliant professionals from start to finish with a keen eye on safety at all times. Felt safe under their lead. Great characters with a lovely humour. They guided us through some nervy moments with ease and patience which allowed everyone to enjoy and get the most out of the experience.

All kit provided. And even took photos along the journey for us as well as carrying out water on such a hot day!

Brilliant experience 🙂

3,300

Full 100% Deposit Required

This booking is made on request

Where you’ll be?

Cancellation policy

A cancellation fee of 50% of the total price is asked for bookings cancelled on the day preceding the hike and 100% on the day.

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Endemics of Mauritius: A Curated Walk (Bird-Watching)
Endemics of Mauritius: A Curated Walk (Bird-Watching)
This reservation is non-refundable.
Date
Thursday, Jul 17, 2025
10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Guests
1 adult
Hotel Pickup Shuttle
Price details
$52.91 x 1 adult $52.91
Total USD $52.91

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