Here’s a perfect plan for the day when you need a break-from-the-beach
Beaches in Mauritius are beautiful but if you are a hyperactive soul like me, you will end up looking for alternatives after day 3. So, here's a perfect plan for the day when you need a break-from-the-beach. We highly recommend you head to Chamarel to see nature's attempt at abstract art - Seven Coloured Earth.
A piece of land in the midst of a tropical jungle that has seven different colours
The bedrock here is an old volcanic basalt rock and the many different colours visible are due to continuous weathering and decomposition of that rock into clay minerals. The diverse colours that you’ll get to see here are believed to be a result of molten rock cooling at different external temperatures.
You aren't allowed to step on the coloured dunes. However, there is a small network of trails with observation decks that allow you a pretty close look. Why? Well, it is only a precautionary measure to preserve the site and ensure that everyone doesn't just go about collecting this precious sand.
Another interesting feature of this popular tourist attraction is that the dunes don’t seem to erode in spite of the area witnessing a decent bit of rainfall. This barren piece of land is ironically located in the middle of a dense forest.
All in all, this is definitely something you won’t get to see at a lot of places. Also, it makes for a good break-from-the-beach day. While it's a pretty sight, please don’t go expecting massive mounts like some of the pictures might lead you to imagine or you’re just going to be disappointed. It is in fact quite a small area of only around 7,500 square metres.
This geological formation found in the Chamarel plain of the Riviere Noire District in south-west Mauritius is a small area that comprises sand of seven different colours.
Approximately 46 km from Port Louis, it's going to be a rather long drive depending on which part of Mauritius you stay in.Plan your visit on a bright sunny day. That's when the colours appear most vivid. A visit on a cloudy day could be quite underwhelming.
Entry Fee: Rs. 850 approx (FREE for children below 5 years of age)
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