There’s a place in Mauritius where time slows down, waterfalls sing, and nature plays architect. It’s called 7 cascade (Tamarind falls), and it’s not just a hike. It’s a half-day escape that feels like stepping into a natural waterpark sculpted by volcanic rock, jungle mist, and the rhythm of the island itself.
Set near the plateau village of Henrietta, this gorge cuts deep into the basalt cliffs, guiding the Tamarin River through a chain of waterfalls that are as thrilling as they are serene. While most people refer to it as Les 7 Cascades, seasoned guides say there are actually 11 or 12 falls scattered through the forest. Some drop from heights of over 40 metres, others slide gently into crystal-clear pools where the sunlight catches like gold.
The trail begins beside the Tamarind Reservoir, a quiet area framed by sugarcane and eucalyptus. At first, the path is easy. But as you descend into the canyon, everything changes. You step into a world of vines, wild orchids, birdsong, and rushing water. The hike becomes an adventure filled with rock scrambles, hidden pools and steep jungle walls.
What makes 7 cascade (Tamarind falls) truly unforgettable is the way it blends everything special about Mauritius into one living experience. You’re not just walking through a valley. You’re swimming under waterfalls, soaking your feet in natural basins while tiny fish nip gently at your toes, and eating lunch beneath tall trees while dragonflies hover like sentinels. The views are extraordinary too. At one point you’ll look out and see the west coast far below, with Tamarin and the shimmering line of the sea stretching to the horizon.
If you’re wondering when to go, this is the perfect adventure for your sixth or seventh day on the island. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with a group, 7 cascade (Tamarind falls) offers a kind of magic that can’t be found on the beaches. It’s peaceful, playful, and refreshingly wild.
There are two main hiking options to explore the area: the short loop and the long loop.
The short loop is great for those who want a rewarding experience without overexerting themselves. It covers about 4 to 5 kilometres and usually takes around 3 hours. This route includes visits to four main waterfalls, a couple of natural pools for swimming, and just enough challenge to feel adventurous without being too difficult. You’ll still get incredible views and that lush, immersive rainforest feeling, but it’s manageable even for beginners or families with older kids.
The long loop is the full experience. Around 7 to 8 kilometres long, it takes 5 to 6 hours to complete and includes almost all seven major waterfalls. Some trails involve steep, narrow descents, stream crossings and rope-assisted sections. Guided versions sometimes include optional canyoning where you can rappel beside the falls or plunge into deep pools. This route is perfect for thrill-seekers or hikers looking to explore deeper into the gorge and find those hidden gems others miss.
There’s no entry fee to access 7 cascade (Tamarind falls), only the cost of a guide if you choose one. And we recommend you do. A guide will help you navigate the trickier parts safely, share stories and local legends, and show you paths you might otherwise miss. One story speaks of a jaguar seen here long ago, said to have escaped from a ship passing Mauritius. Whether that’s fact or folklore, it adds another layer to the already magical atmosphere.
You’ll also walk through the site of a historic hydroelectric station, still operating today. Fed by the Tamarind River, this power plant contributes clean energy to the island. Plans are even underway to float solar panels on the reservoir to further reduce environmental impact. It’s a reminder that nature and innovation can co-exist when done with care.
Still, the gorge faces its own challenges. Invasive plants like Chinese guava are threatening native trees, and increased visitor traffic has led to erosion and litter in some areas. Local conservation groups and community teams are working to manage the trails and protect the area, but every visitor makes a difference. Take your rubbish home, stay on marked paths, and respect this wild, beautiful space.
Bring your walking shoes, a swimsuit, something to snack on, and a spirit of adventure. Even if your legs are tired by the end, your heart will be full.
7 cascade (Tamarind falls) is not just a destination. It’s a memory in the making. A natural sanctuary carved from rock and water, where you can hike, swim, explore and simply breathe.
If you are not familiar with the place, better hire a guide!
