Getting There & Away: Black River Gorges National Park

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), or Plaisance Airport, serves as Mauritius's sole international airport, located in the southeast.

Airlines & Hubs

National Carrier: Air Mauritius.
Major International Airlines: Emirates, British Airways, Air France, South African Airways, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, Virgin Atlantic.
Direct flights from Europe (London, Paris), Africa (Johannesburg), Middle East (Dubai), Asia (Mumbai).

Airport Services & Transfers

MRU Airport presents a range of services for arriving and departing travelers.

Facilities & Options

Duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi.
Transfer options: Taxis (fixed fares to Black River area ~Rs 1,500-2,500).
Pre-booked private transfers or car rental.

Price Fluctuations

Prices are highest during peak season (May-Oct) and holidays. They drop during the low season (Jan-Mar).

Bus Transfers

Public buses go from the airport to nearby towns for island connections. This is the cheapest option.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Departure taxes are typically included in airline ticket prices.
Arrive at MRU at least 3 hours before scheduled international flight departure.
This allows time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
Check-in online when possible to save time at the airport.

Airport Facilities

MRU Airport presents check-in counters, baggage drop-off, and security screening.
After security: duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and ATMs.
Clear signage system makes navigation straightforward.
Allow extra time for security during peak travel periods.

Land Transportation

Bus Network

An extensive public bus network covers most of the island. Buses run frequently during daytime hours (05:30-20:00).

Metro Express

A modern light rail system connects areas like Port Louis, Rose Hill, and Curepipe along the central corridor.

Park Access

No direct bus service into Black River Gorges National Park. Taxis or private transport needed from nearest towns.

Self-Driving & Road Safety

Self-Driving Requirements

Renting a car brings freedom to explore. Several local and international rental agencies operate in Mauritius.

What you need

Minimum age for rental typically 21-23.
Valid national driving license.
International Driving Permit (IDP) holds legal necessity.

Road Conditions & Safety

Understand local driving specifics to stay safe on the roads.

Driving Rules

Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Speed limits: 40-60 km/h in urban, 80-100 km/h on highways.
Road hazards: occasional potholes, stray animals, pedestrians.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Available, specifically in coastal tourist areas. Requirements typically include a valid motorcycle license and an IDP.

Considerations

Not advised for extensive island travel or to Black River Gorges.
Road conditions and distances can be challenging.
Booking in advance is advisable for car rentals, especially peak season.

Bicycle Rentals & Cycling

Bicycle rentals are available in some tourist areas, especially coastal towns. No widespread public bicycle sharing programs exist.

Cycling in the Park

Cycling within Black River Gorges National Park is permitted on designated administrative roads or specific trails.
Most hiking trails do not suit bicycles due to challenging terrain.
Cycling on main roads calls for caution due to traffic.

Sea & River Travel

Mauritius has a main cruise terminal in Port Louis.
No passenger ferry services to mainland Africa or other distant islands (except Rodrigues).
River transportation options hold no applicability for general tourism or park access.

Immigration procedures at seaports match airport procedures.
From Port Louis cruise terminal, taxis and public buses connect to the island.
These routes include directions towards the Black River Gorges area.

Departure Checklist

Before Heading to the Airport

Prepare for a smooth departure from Mauritius.

Steps

Confirm departure tax inclusion in your ticket price.
Plan to arrive at MRU at least 3 hours before your international flight.
Complete online check-in if possible.

Airport Experience

MRU Airport presents many services for departing passengers.

Available Services

Check-in counters, baggage drop-off.
Security screening points.
Duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, ATMs.

Navigation

The airport displays a clear signage system, making navigation straightforward.

Timing

Allocate extra time for security checks during peak travel periods or holidays.

Efficiency

Online check-in and early arrival streamline your departure process.

Local Transport Options

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis bring convenience, while ride-sharing presents modern options. Licensed taxis typically have a taxi sign on the roof.

Aspects

Negotiate fare before starting journey.
Cash is the main payment method for taxis.
Popular local ride-hailing app: Yugo (Yugo.mu).

Walking & Cycling

Explore on foot or by bike for a closer look. Walking within Black River Gorges National Park serves as the main mode of exploration.

Options & Advice

Self-guided hikes with clear signage and maps.
Guided tours with local operators for insights.
Cycling is limited to designated administrative roads in the park.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Many tour operators present full-day or half-day excursions, including transport to Black River Gorges National Park.

Water Transport

Boat taxis and water transportation hold no relevance for access to Black River Gorges National Park (an inland area).

Accessibility

Accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges within the park remains limited due to natural, uneven terrain.

Final Tip

For navigating efficiently, allow extra time for bus journeys. Have small denominations of MUR for bus fares. Ask locals or bus conductors for directions; Mauritians are generally helpful.

Getting There & Away