Ebony Forest Reserve Chamarel
Updated: September 9, 2024
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The Chamarel Ebony Forest Reserve is located in close proximity to the Chamarel Geopark and is usually visited by tourists on the same day as the park itself. The reserve was created to protect and restore the unique flora and fauna of the island, especially rare and endemic species such as ebony.
The reserve covers an area of about 50 hectares and features tropical forests, scenic trails for leisurely hiking and bird watching routes. By visiting the reserve you will have a unique opportunity to see how Mauritius' ecosystem, which was severely damaged during the colonial period, is being restored. One of the main achievements of the park is the revival of populations of rare endemic birds such as the Mauritian pink pigeon and the Mauritian starling.
Ebony Forest Reserve Chamarel - facts
- Walking trails and excursions: The reserve offers several hiking trails, some of which lead to viewpoints with stunning panoramic views of the mountains and coastline. One popular trail is the Flycatcher Raised Walkway (“Flycatcher Raised Walkway” is the name of the flycatcher bird, which is one of the endemic species found in the reserve), a wooden deck raised off the ground through dense rainforest with opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna.
- Ebony plantations: the reserve staff are actively restoring the ebony trees that were almost completely destroyed during the colonization of the island. You will see these rare trees and learn about their important role in the island's ecosystem.
- Museum and Educational Programs: The reserve has a museum that teaches the importance of conservation and the history of the Mauritius ecosystem. Educational programs and guided tours are available for children and adults.
- Birdwatching: The reserve is home to several species of rare and endemic birds, and is particularly popular with birdwatchers and birdwatching enthusiasts.