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Cascade 500 Pieds – Guided Hike
(2526 reviews)
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Tour Summary
Duration:
3 – 4 hours
Group:
2-8
Tour Type:
On demand
Difficulty:
Difficult
Transport:
Shuttle Available at Extra Cost
Distance:
3 km
About the Tour
Hidden in the highlands of Plaine Champagne, Alexandra Falls is one of Mauritius’ most iconic natural landmarks. Framed by a magnificent avenue of paperbark trees, the site already offers spectacular views over the island’s south coast.
This challenging 4-hour adventure is designed for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience.
The hike unfolds in two distinct parts:
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The first stage is relatively easy and ends at the top of Alexandra Falls, where the river plunges dramatically into the depths below. From here, the panoramic view over the south of Mauritius is simply unforgettable.
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The second stage takes you deep into the forest on a demanding descent. Expect steep sections where you will need to hold onto tree roots or use ropes to support your body weight. This challenging path leads down to the riverbed, where the roar of the falls grows ever stronger.
After a short approach along the river, you’ll find yourself standing before Cascade 500 pieds, the tallest waterfall on the island. The dramatic scenery, straight out of a fantasy film, is a moment of pure awe. Words fall short here — we take time to breathe, connect, and fully absorb the energy of this unique place before making our way back.
What’s Included?
Professional guide
Safety briefing and support during the hike
Why Yanature?
Pioneers in the outdoor 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
- Meet & Brief (10–15 min):
Meet your guide at the Alexandra Falls parking area. After introductions, gear check, and a short safety briefing, you’ll start the adventure. - First Section – Easy Walk to the Viewpoint (30–40 min):
Walk along a relatively easy trail through the paperbark tree alley, leading to one of the most stunning viewpoints of Mauritius. Here you’ll admire panoramic views over the south coast and the top of the Alexandra Falls plunging vertically into the valley. - Descent to the River (1h15–1h30):
From the viewpoint, the trail becomes more demanding. Expect steep sections where you’ll need to hold onto trees and use ropes to support your weight. Your guide will assist you in navigating these passages safely. Surrounded by dense green forest and the constant sound of rushing water, you’ll feel fully immersed in the wilderness. - Arrival at the River & Approach to 500 Feet Falls (15–20 min):
Once at river level, a short approach walk along the water brings you face to face with Cascade 500 pieds — the highest waterfall in Mauritius. The sight and energy of this place are truly breathtaking, offering a unique moment to pause, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere. - Return Ascent (1h30–1h45):
The return journey follows the same path, with steady climbs on steep and uneven terrain. Your guide will set a manageable pace with breaks as needed. - Wrap-Up (5 min):
Back at the parking, enjoy a short debrief and farewell with your guide.
Highlights
- The iconic Alexandra Falls and panoramic views of the south coast
- A forest trail lined with paperbark trees
- A challenging descent into untouched wilderness
- The awe-inspiring 500ft Cascade, the highest waterfall in Mauritius
- An authentic adventure away from the crowds
What to bring?
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip (mandatory, no sandals or flip-flops)
- Light sportswear (preferably quick-dry, no wide or loose clothing)
- Small backpack for personal belongings
- Reusable water bottle (1.5L minimum)
- Snack or energy bar
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Swimwear & towel (optional, for refreshing at the river)
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- Children under 14 years old
- People over 60 years old
- People with serious back, knee, or heart conditions
- People with limited mobility
- Anyone uncomfortable with ropes, heights, or steep descents
Meeting Point
Alexandra Falls Car Park
Know before you go
- Duration: around 4 hours (challenging hike)
- Activity subject to weather conditions
- The trail includes steep slopes, rope sections, and uneven terrain – good physical fitness is required
- Some descents require using your hands, ropes, and tree roots for support
- Wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed
- Maximum group size: 6 participants
- Minimum age: 14 years old
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- The guide reserves the right to refuse participation if someone does not have suitable clothing/footwear or if they are deemed unfit to safely complete the hike
- Babies or children in carriers/backpacks are strictly not allowed
- 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:
Guided Tour with Gilles
The waterfalls were absolutely worth the visit and clearly one of the highlights of our stay in Mauritius. Booking was quick, straightforward, and easy to arrange even at short notice. The natural scenery is truly outstanding — untouched, diverse, and simply breathtaking throughout the entire hike.
Gilles is an excellent guide. He shared interesting insights about the flora, fauna, and surroundings, and at the same time made sure we felt safe and comfortable, especially in the more challenging sections. His calm and attentive approach made the experience even more enjoyable. We highly recommend him.
Unforgettable hike!
Decided very last minute to go on a 4am sunrise hike of Le Morne to catch sunrise at the top and Yanature were very accommodating and fast to respond and to find my fabulous guide Henri to take me. It was an incredible experience and one of the best memories of my trip to Mauritius. I highly recommend going for sunrise as we had the entire mountain to ourselves and only started to encounter groups on the descent. Henri was an amazing guide, chatty knowledgeable and calm which was a great support towards the top when you’re scrambling. A wonderful experience and a fantastic guide.
Kayaking Tamarin river
We were 2 kayaking Tamarin River and it was an amazing experience. Rowin our guide was top notch n kudos to him for keeping up with us.☺️see u next
Highly Recommend the Sunrise Hike
Challenging but completely safe — I absolutely loved this hike.
Our guide, Paj, was fantastic. He was incredibly helpful, carefully pointing out the best way to navigate the trickier sections and making sure everyone felt confident
I highly recommend booking the sunrise hike. We had a super small group and didn’t see anyone else on the trail — we even had the summit entirely to ourselves. The views were breathtaking, and the sunrise colours were unforgettable.
A must do activity in Mauritius.
Great experience with very helpful teachers. A must do in Mauritius.
₨3,200
Full 100% Deposit Required
This booking is made on request
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.
