La Vallee de Ferney, Mauritius: Explore one of the island’s most beautiful nature reserves

You’re craving greenery and fresh air during your stay in Mauritius?

Then you really shouldn’t miss a visit to Vallee de Ferney!

This 200-hectare nature reserve is a lush area home to endemic fauna and flora, where walkers are more than welcome.

It’s one of the rare and precious biodiversity refuges on the island, protected through several conservation programs.

If you love hiking in nature, you will enjoy walking along its green, well-maintained trails that cross hills and tropical forest.

So, how do you visit Vallée de Ferney?

I explain everything in this guide!

Where is Vallee de Ferney?

Vallee de Ferney is located in the south-east of Mauritius, right next to Mahébourg and only a few minutes from the airport. The reserve stretches at the foot of Bambous mountain range.

How to get to Ferney Vallee:

• From airport or Mahébourg: allow about 15 minutes following the direction “Ferney”.
• From Grand Baie: the drive takes about 1h10 via South highway, Curepipe then Mahébourg.
• From Flic en Flac: plan about 55 minutes via Vacoas, Curepipe then Mahébourg.

Why you should visit Vallee de Ferney in Mauritius

Today, there is less than 2% of indigenous forest left in Mauritius, and Vallée de Ferney is one of the few places where you can still experience this preserved tropical nature.

It’s a truly rejuvenating place, with green hills as far as you can see, rivers, and dense vegetation… And the landscapes are very different from the rest of the island, so it’s really worth coming to discover them.

Personally, in some parts, the scenery reminds me of valleys in New Zealand! 🙂

Vallee de Ferney is also a perfect place for hiking. Even more so if you’re not very comfortable with mountain trails (which make up the majority of hikes in Mauritius).

In Ferney, it’s relatively flat. There is even a 5 km trail that is completely flat, accessible to everyone, no need to be sporty. So if you want to immerse yourself in Mauritian nature without tackling a big hike, you should definitely come here!

The reserve is peaceful and home to an endemic fauna that you might be lucky enough to see: Mauritius kestrel, pink pigeon, and also black flying foxes.

Another great reason to visit Vallée de Ferney: your entrance fees directly help fund the protection of endemic species and the conservation of this unique ecosystem. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy a day in nature while supporting an essential project for Mauritius!

Best things to do in Vallee de Ferney

Hiking in Vallee de Ferney

Hiking is for sure the best activity in the Ferney Vallee.

You have 3 trails to choose from:

• Easy – 5 km (1.5 hours walking): completely flat, accessible to everyone. Perfect for a relaxed walk. Last departure: 2 pm.

• Intermediate – 13 km (4 hours – 530 m elevation gain): a bit more sporty, with great viewpoints along the way. Last departure: 11:30 am.

• Technical – 18 km (6 hours – 970 m elevation gain): only for experienced hikers. It’s the most demanding trail, but also the one with the best viewpoints. Last departure: 10:30 am.

Personally, I did the easy trail several times, often with family, and it’s really a great, effortless walk. I haven’t tried the more challenging trails yet but it’s on my list 🙂

Along the way, you will see grand landscapes, rare plants (such as Mauritian orchids, ebony trees, palmistes blancs…), giant tortoises in semi-freedom, and even a nursery dedicated to endemic plants involved in a conservation program in the reserve.

If you want to hike on your own, no problem: trails are well marked with a color code, and you can come every day as long as you respect the latest departure times.

You can also opt for a guided hike in Vallee de Ferney. In that case, you need to book your guide in advance directly on the official website (right here).

Visit Vallee de Ferney by 4×4

If you can’t or don’t want to walk, you can also discover Vallee de Ferney by 4×4. It’s a good alternative to enjoy the reserve without hiking.

Tours take place during the day or at sunset, on reservation. The route goes through forest and rivers, with several stops at the best viewpoints of the site.

The guide will help you spot animals in the reserve, especially deer and wild boar that often move in groups. You will also discover endemic trees and plants that only grow in Mauritius, such as precious ebony trees.

The vehicle can take up to 9 people, and it can be private or shared. The route is between 10 and 13 km long and lasts around 1.5 hours.

Prices:

• Residents: from 1050 rupees (19,50 €) per adult*

• Tourists: from 1575 rupees (29 €)

You need to book at least 72 hours in advance, directly online right here.

*Exchange rate as of December 2025

Day or evening packages

Ferney Valley also offers day (or evening) packages, perfect if you want to enjoy every aspect of the site while being guided.

The day package includes:

• a guided tour of the conservation park,

• free access to the walking trails

• a lunch at Ferney Nature Lodge, the ecolodge located in the heart of the reserve (I talk about it in detail a bit further down)

Price: Residents: from 2950 rupees (≈ 55 €) per adult – Tourists: from 3700 rupees (≈ 69 €)*

If you’re more of a night owl (like me :D), the evening package is really great. It includes:

• a 4×4 tour at sunset (the best time of day to spot animals, and the light is gorgeous!)

• an aperitif in a beautiful spot in the valley,

• a dinner at Ferney Nature Lodge.

Evening package price: Residents: 4500 rupees per adult / Tourists: 5500 rupees*

You of course need to book in advance, and you can do it very easily on Ferney Valley official website right here.

*Exchange rate as of December 2025

Ferney Valley restaurant: Falaise Rouge

In Vallee de Ferney, you will also find a restaurant: Falaise Rouge. It’s located right next to the reserve entrance, but you need to get back in your car to access it.

It’s a favorite address for those who want to enjoy good food after a morning or a day in nature. The restaurant offers a beautiful panoramic view over Vieux Grand Port bay and Lion Mountain. It’s a really great setting for lunch.

Falaise Rouge serves generous Mauritian cuisine, with seasonal, locally sourced products: local fruits and vegetables, most of them grown in the estate gardens, and typical dishes that highlight island flavors.

The service is friendly and really reflects Mauritian hospitality 🙂

Ferney Trail

Among the best things to do in Vallee de Ferney, you also have special events like the Ferney Trail!

Every year in September, the nature reserve hosts this very popular sport event. Four routes are available, from 5 to 35km, so everyone can take part, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner.

With more than 3500 participants every year, Ferney Trail has become one of the most popular running events in Mauritius.

Vallee de Ferney: entrance fee, opening hours & booking

Vallee de Ferney is open every day (including Sunday), from 9 am to 5 pm.

Here are the ticket prices for Vallee de Ferney with free access (self-guided hike):

• Tourists: 500 rupees (≈ 10€) per adult / 250 rupees (≈ 5€) per child from 5 to 12 years old

• Mauritians and residents: 200 rupees per adult / 100 rupees per child *

If you want to hike with a guide, prices are different:

• Guided hike for foreign visitors: 1150 rupees (21,50€) per adult and 575 rupees (11€) per child *
• Guided hike for Mauritians and local residents: 500 rupees per adult and 350 rupees per child

And as mentioned in the previous paragraphs, there are also specific prices for 4×4 tours as well as for day or evening packages.

For all guided activities, booking is mandatory. You can do everything very easily online on Vallée de Ferney official website. Here are all useful links:

• Book your GUIDED HIKE in Vallée de Ferney

• Booking for 4X4 TOURS in Vallée de Ferney

• GUIDED DAY OR EVENING VISIT + MEAL: click here to book

*Conversion rate from December 2025

Where to stay in Vallee de Ferney in Mauritius?

Vallée de Ferney estate is home to an exceptional place: Ferney Nature Lodge, where you can spend the night.

If you’re looking for an exceptional place to stay in Mauritius, you should really go for it.

Overlooking the reserve, this eco lodge with its chic safari style blends perfectly into the landscape thanks to natural materials: wood, thatch and rattan.

This is an eco-friendly accommodation, designed for comfort, with 4 double rooms offering a direct view over the valley thanks to large bay windows. Each room has a private bathroom and a terrace.

You can also enjoy a common lounge, a large panoramic terrace where meals are served, and an infinity pool facing an incredible view.

Ferney Nature Lodge is set in an isolated location, only accessible with estate 4×4 shuttles. It’s the ideal place if you want peace and quiet, in the heart of nature, with direct access to the reserve hiking trails.

Located only 15 minutes from the airport and close to Mahébourg, it can be the perfect place to end your trip to Mauritius in style (or to start it ^^).

Click on the button below to book your stay at Ferney Nature Lodge:

Practical tips for your visit

To really make the most of your visit to Vallee de Ferney, here are a few useful tips:

• Proper shoes: choose good walking shoes, ideally waterproof as some sections require you to cross (shallow) rivers.

• Sun protection: sunscreen and hat are a must. A good part of the trails is not shaded and the sun is strong on clear days.

• Water: make sure you bring enough water, especially if you plan to hike a long trail.

• Mosquito repellent: these little creatures can be quite annoying in the forest, so protect yourself to stay comfortable.

In terms of accessibility, it really depends on your level and fitness:

• If you’re visiting with family or if you’re not used to walking: choose the easy trail (5 km) or a 4×4 tour.

• For experienced hikers: the intermediate or difficult trails will be more suitable.

Finally, keep in mind that weather in the South-East can be a bit more windy and humid than in the rest of the island. A rain jacket or a light windbreaker can therefore be very useful.

What to see around Vallee de Ferney?

There are plenty of places to discover around Vallée de Ferney if you want to explore the region in more depth!

Here is an overview of the best places to see before or after your visit to the reserve:

Mahebourg

Mahebourg is the very first town built in Mauritius in the 17th century and former capital of the country.

Today, it still keeps a very authentic charm with its peaceful waterfront, cobbled streets and typical atmosphere.

There are quite a few historic places to discover, such as:

• Historical and Naval Museum

• Old washhouse dating back to 1770

• the historic waterfront and its remains of Battle of Grand Port

Other places to see in Mahébourg:

• Rault biscuit factory, a traditional cassava biscuit factory that has been operating since 1870!

• Covered market, open every day

• Big Monday market, perfect to immerse yourself in local culture

• Waterfront jetty with beautiful views over private islet Mouchoir Rouge.

Ile aux Aigrettes

In Mahebourg lagoon, Aigrettes Island is a small round islet, but most importantly a strictly protected nature reserve.

You can only visit it with a nature guide from the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.

Ile aux Aigrettes is home to several endemic species of Mauritius. On the wildlife side, you can observe the pink pigeon, the Telfair’s skink, the Mauritian fruit bat and also the Mauritius fody.

The islet is also home to several rare and endemic plants, such as blue latan palm, pandanus and ebony.

You will also find a small population of Aldabra giant tortoises. Originally from the Seychelles, these giant tortoises were introduced here to help maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

Guided tours last about 2 hours, with scheduled departures in the morning and afternoon. The lagoon crossing starts from Pointe Jérôme, only 5 minutes from Mahébourg.

Both in the lagoon and in the heart of the islet, the scenery is really beautiful and the visit super interesting.

Book your guided tour to Ile aux Aigrettes online directly here (click on this link).

Blue Bay

Near Vallee de Ferney, you also shouldn’t miss the beautiful Blue Bay beach (20 minutes by car).

It’s the emblematic beach of the southeast and you will instantly understand where it gets its lovely name when you see the superb shades of blue.

If you love swimming with mask and snorkel, it’s one of the best places in the south for snorkeling: tropical fish, coral, very clear water… all conditions are met!

You should also try the glass-bottom boat snorkeling tour in Blue Bay Marine Park. Your guide will take you to the best spots to observe the rich marine life. The tour even includes a picnic on a small wild islet.

It’s a simple and authentic activity with a local guide, really great to do with family!

Click on the button below to book your glass-bottom boat tour in Blue Bay:

Vieux Grand Port

Right next to Vallee de Ferney, Vieux Grand Port is a place full of history. It was the very first landing point for Dutch settlers in the 17th century.

Today, you can visit the ruins of the former colony, an interesting site to better understand the early days of Mauritius.

The village is also home to the small Frederik Hendrik Museum, which tells the story of the Dutch arrival and the development of the region. The visit is quick but very informative if you enjoy local history.

It’s a peaceful stop that you can easily combine with Vallee de Ferney and Mahebourg.

Pointe d’Esny

Another must-see beach in the area: Pointe d’Esny. More intimate than Blue Bay, it’s a bit hidden and therefore much less crowded. Perfect if you want peace and quiet and just relax.

It’s one of my favorite beaches in Mauritius!

Here, you get white sand, crystal clear water and a super peaceful vibe. The sea is a bit rougher than in Blue Bay, which also makes it a popular spot for kitesurfers.

To get there: from Mahébourg, take Coastal Road heading south. Continue for about 3km, driving slowly so you don’t miss the sign “Pedestrian access to the beach”. Park along the roadside, then follow the small path between two high walls. At the end of the path, the beach is waiting for you.

Eau Bleue Waterfalls

Here is a secret and magical place to discover 15 minutes from Vallee de Ferney: Eau Bleue.

It’s the river that runs near Cluny village and forms several small waterfalls in a row, with pools of an intense blue color.

The place is hidden and not signposted, so it can be a bit tricky to find. To get there, head to Cluny, then take B83 road through sugarcane fields.

Look for the pumping station “CWA Water Tank”: that’s where you leave your car. Then a small path crosses the canes and leads to the trees. In a few minutes, you arrive at the first waterfall. If you go up or down the river, you can see more.

There is also a direct access a bit higher up from the road. You will often see people stopped there: it’s a good landmark. However, the descent is steep, so you should avoid it if you’re not confident.

FAQ

How do you get to Vallee de Ferney?

• From airport or Mahébourg: about 15 minutes following signs for “Ferney”.

• From Grand Baie (North): around 1h10 via South highway, Curepipe then Mahébourg.

• From Flic en Flac (West): about 55 minutes via Vacoas, Curepipe then Mahébourg.

• From Bellemare (East): 50 minutes following coastal road (via Trou d’Eau Douce then Grand Sable).

You can easily go to Vallée de Ferney on your own by renting a car, which is the most convenient way to explore the island at your own pace.

(I give you all my tips about car rental in Mauritius in my guide right here.)

Otherwise, you can also visit Vallée de Ferney with an organized tour, often offered by some hotels or local agencies.

How long is the hike in Vallee de Ferney?

Depending on which trail you choose, plan between 1.5 and 6 hours.

Can you visit Vallee de Ferney without a guide?

Yes, you can. All 3 hiking trails are well marked and easy to follow on your own.

Is Vallee de Ferney suitable for children?

Yes, no problem for the easy 5 km trail and 4×4 tours. For the intermediate trail, it’s better from around 12 years old.

Which animals can you see when visiting Vallee de Ferney?

Deer, wild boar, tortoises, fruit bats, pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel.

Do you need to book in advance to go to Vallee de Ferney?

Yes, for guided tours, 4×4 tours and day or evening packages. Everything is booked on Vallée de Ferney official website.

For free hiking, no need to book.

What is the best season to visit Ferney Valley?

Between May and October, as there is less rain and the heat is more bearable, so conditions are ideal to walk around.

Travel insurance for Mauritius: My tips

And you, when are you planning to visit Vallee de Ferney in Mauritius?

You’re traveling to Mauritius? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mauritius: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mauritius are listed there.

• The 21 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

• The 11 Most Beautiful Beaches in Mauritius

• Best Time to go to Mauritius? – Seasons, weather, activities, prices
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The best itineraries for your trip

• Itinerary: 5 days in Mauritius – An amazing itinerary for a short stay in Mauritius
• Itinerary: One week in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit the island in 7 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit Mauritius in 10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mauritius – The ultimate guide to Mauritius in 15 days
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• Road-trip in Mauritius – The 6 best itineraries for your trip!
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• Morne Brabant: How to Visit Morne Brabat?
• Black River Gorges National Park: What to See and Do?
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• The Best Activities in Mauritius – Water sports, cruises, day trips, guided tours…

• The Best Boat Trips in Mauritius – Top 5 + Rates and booking
• Hiking in Mauritius – The 25 best hiking trails and nature walks + Local Tips
• Sea Kayak: Amber Island Excursion – Price, Reviews and Essential Tips
• Scuba diving in Mauritius: The Definitve Guide
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• Sharks in Mauritius: Species, Risks, and Where to See Them
• Submarine Excursion in Mauritius: My Review, Tips & Booking Prices
• Whale watching in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide
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Organize your stay

• Where to Stay in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide – All types of accommodation for all budgets

• 4-Star Hotels in Mauritius: My selection of the best!
• 5-Star Hotels in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide
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• The 11 Most Beautiful Hotels in Mauritius – Guide + Tips

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• How much to travel to Mauritius? Travel Costs, Best prices + Tips

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To go further

• Visiting Réunion Island + Mauritius: Prices, Things to do and see + Itineraries

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• Souvenirs from Mauritius: What to bring back in your suitcase?

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