Chamarel

Chamarel is a village and touristic center located in the southwestern part of the island of Mauritius, within the Plaines Wilhems District. The settlement lies about 30 kilometres west of the capital Port Louis, and is situated at an elevation of roughly 200 metres above sea level. The area is characterised by gently undulating hills and a single main road that connects it to the coastal towns of Mont Choisy and Bains.

The village is best known for the Chamarel Waterfall, a 30‑metre cascade that feeds a large pool below. The waterfall is surrounded by budget camping sites and a small visitor centre that provides guided walks, a viewing platform and a canopy walk. Chamarel is also renowned for the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth, a natural basalt formation displaying a spectrum of seven silicate colours. The seven colours are said to represent the evolution of the earth, and the site has become a focal point for geological tourism.

Chamarel’s built environment consists of low‑rise residential dwellings and a handful of small shops, many of which serve visitors traveling along the main road. A visitor centre, a small hotel and a range of unlicensed restaurants accommodate the influx of tourists. Agriculture around the village mainly includes banana and plantain cultivation, as well as the growing of limited spice crops.

The local climate is tropical, with temperatures averaging 23–29 °C throughout the year. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed, though the wet season typically peaks between December and March. Because of its location, Chamarel is also a starting point for hikes into the surrounding Montagne de la Reine forest and for visits to nearby heritage sites such as the Verandah.

Chamarel operates on Mauritius Standard Time (UTC +4) and uses the 302 area code in the national telephone system. The village’s transport links are primarily road‑based; a bus system connects Chamarel with Port Louis and other nearby towns, while taxis are also available by request. The village’s twin attractions of natural beauty and basic accommodation make it a popular stop for both local residents and foreign visitors to Mauritius.