Chamarel Coloured Earth

This geological formation called the “Seven Coloured Earth” is comprised of dunes comprised of seven different coloured layers.

Over the millennia, the rocks were pulverized into sands which have the amazing property of settling into distinct layers: if you take a handful of each of the seven different colours of dirt and mix them together, they'd eventually separate into a colourful spectrum, each dot of sand rejoining its colour caste.

Since the earth was first exposed, rains had carved beautiful patterns into the hillside, creating an effect of earthen meringue. At first you'll notice shadows on the hills, creating the illusion of different colours, but soon you realise that the colours are real and the shadows were the illusion....

Nearby you will also find a great vantage point to view the spectacular waterfall which plunges more than 100 meters.

Mauritius was formed by volcanic molten rock, and the coloured earth is the result of the cooling of the molten.
The coloured earths are a fine site and the seven different colours could be distinguished easily. The scenery around there is also wonderful, and it’s definitely a place you need to take a camera with you.

Close to Black River Gorges National Park, from the village of Case Noyale, a winding road leads to the coloured earths at Chamarel. Over time the weathering and subsequent erosion of volcanic ash has led to the formation of exposed hills complete with contrasting tiers of different shades of red, yellow, green and blue. From the hillside an easy walking trail leads to the beautiful Chamarel waterfalls, cascading hundreds of feet down the side of a cliff.

The village of Chamarel, in the south west of the island, is home to two natural wonders - the magnificent Chamarel Falls and the coloured earths of Chamarel. The earths are particularly unusual; created by volcanic rocks that cooled at different temperatures, the earths form beautiful patterns of colour in the exposed hillsides. And if you mix the coloured earth together, they'll eventually settle into separate layers.

On the premises, you will also find a children's playground and some giant tortoises.

The restaurant, Le Chamarel, nearby the coloured earth site is slightly expensive but the quality of food is worth it; and there is also a gift shop.

It’s an opportunity to see some natural splendours of Mauritius as you will take in the coloured earths, the waterfall but also take the opportunity to see the Black River national park.