Mauritius is a beautiful country full of natural wonders. Located in the Chamarel plain of the Rivière Noire District in south-western Mauritius, the Seven Coloured Earths are a geological formation and prominent tourist attraction. These attractions draw visitors from around the world, especially the Seven Coloured Earths and Chamarel Waterfall, located just a few minutes away from each other.
It is a relatively small area of sand dunes comprising sand of seven distinct colours (approximately red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow). The name "Seven Coloured Earth(s)" is a descriptive-rather than an official-name.
The place has become one of Mauritius' main tourist attractions since the 1960s. The dunes are protected by a wooden fence and visitors are not allowed to climb on them, although they can look at the scenery from observation outposts placed along the fence.
Seven Coloured Earths in Mauritius
The Geology Behind the Colors
The Seven Coloured Earths are a geological formation and prominent tourist attraction found in the Chamarel plain of the Rivière Noire District in south-western Mauritius. The Seven Coloured Earths is a natural geological phenomenon, characterized by sand dunes of several different colors. The Seven Coloured Earths was formed from the transformation of basaltic lava rocks, originating from volcanic activity that took place millions of years ago.
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This natural wonder is formed by the weathering of volcanic rock over millions of years. The sands formed from the decomposition of volcanic rock (basalt) gullies into clay, further transformed into ferralitic soil by total hydrolysis; the two main elements of the resulting soil, iron and aluminium, are responsible for red/anthracite and blue/purplish colours respectively.
The different mineral compositions within the soil are responsible for the striking and distinct hues. The varying shades are thought to be a result of the molten rock cooling at different temperatures, causing different gradients between the red and blue shades.
What makes this formation even more fascinating is its ability to maintain these separate colors. Even if you mix the sands, they will eventually settle back into their distinct layers after rainfall. This self-separating property is a testament to the unique geological processes at play here.
The contrasting hues create a surreal and picturesque landscape, especially vibrant on a sunny day.
The main feature of the place is that since these differently coloured sands spontaneously settle in different layers, dunes acquire a surrealistic, striped colouring.
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Unlike ordinary soil, these mineral-rich formations resist erosion, maintaining their vibrant hues despite rain and wind. The shifting sunlight enhances their brilliance, making every visit a unique spectacle.
Experiencing the Geopark: Beyond the Dunes
The Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark offers more than just its famous dunes. Your entrance ticket typically grants access to the Chamarel Waterfall, a breathtaking cascade that plunges from a height of about 100 meters into a pool below. Surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation, it's a serene and picturesque spot perfect for photos and a moment of tranquility.
Another significant attraction within the geopark is the giant tortoise enclosure. Here, you can observe majestic Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are quite old and impressive. These ancient reptiles are among the largest tortoises in the world and have a long lifespan, sometimes reaching over 150 years!
Several Aldabra giant tortoises, native to the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles, can be found in a designated area near the Seven Coloured Earths. These ancient reptiles are among the largest tortoises in the world and have a long lifespan, sometimes reaching over 150 years!
The tortoises serve as an attraction and an educational opportunity for visitors, and play a significant role in conservation efforts. Historically, they nearly became extinct due to hunting and habitat loss.
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For a complete visit, consider the cafe and souvenir shop located on-site. The cafe offers a place to relax and enjoy refreshments, perhaps even trying the unique 7-colored ice cream. The souvenir shop provides mementos of your visit. Many visitors recommend allocating a few hours to fully appreciate all that the geopark has to offer.
Seven Coloured Earths - Chamarel, Mauritius Island 🇲🇺
Planning Your Visit
The Seven Coloured Earths Geopark is located in the village of Chamarel. The Seven Coloured Earths Geopark is about 3 kilometers from the entrance. The park is open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Getting There: The Seven Colored Earth is located in the Chamarel region of Mauritius. It's best accessed by car, either your own rental or a taxi. Many day tours also include this as a stop. The drive itself offers beautiful scenery. The roads leading to Chamarel are generally well-maintained and GPS navigation is recommended. The drive offers scenic views of the Mauritian countryside.
Tickets & Entry: There is an entrance fee for the Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark. Prices can vary for residents and non-residents, and it typically includes access to the waterfall and tortoise park. Your ticket usually grants access to the Seven Colored Earth dunes, the Chamarel Waterfall, and the giant tortoise enclosure within the geopark.
Best Times to Visit: Visit on a clear, sunny day for the most striking colors. Early morning or late afternoon light is often recommended to avoid harsh glare and potential crowds. The dry season (May to November) offers the best chance for vibrant hues.
Onsite Experience: The main attraction is the Seven Colored Earth dunes. You can also visit the impressive Chamarel Waterfall and see giant Aldabra tortoises. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to comfortably explore the colored earth, waterfall, and tortoise enclosure. Some visitors spend longer if they enjoy photography or the cafe. The geopark has facilities including restrooms, a cafe, and a souvenir shop.
Food & Dining: Yes, there is a cafe located within the geopark where you can purchase refreshments, snacks, and light meals. Some visitors have mentioned trying 7-colored ice cream, which is a fun novelty related to the attraction.
Combine Your Visit for Full Experience: Your ticket typically includes access to the Seven Colored Earth, the impressive Chamarel Waterfall, and a tortoise enclosure. Plan to spend a few hours to fully explore all attractions within the geopark.
Giant Tortoises in Chamarel Geopark
Tips for Different Travelers
Families with Kids: Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark is a fantastic family outing. The visual spectacle of the colored dunes is captivating for children, sparking their imagination. The giant tortoise enclosure is always a hit with younger visitors, offering a chance to see these gentle giants up close. The Chamarel Waterfall provides a beautiful natural backdrop for family photos. Wear comfortable shoes as there's walking involved on viewing platforms. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as it can get hot. The on-site cafe offers refreshments and snacks, including the fun 7-colored ice cream. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekdays, to make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Photographers: For photographers, Chamarel Seven Colored Earth is a dream location. The unique geological formation offers unparalleled opportunities for capturing striking landscape shots. The key is to chase the light; aim for clear, sunny days and consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the most dramatic colors and shadows. Experiment with different perspectives. While viewing platforms are essential for preservation, they offer great angles. Don't forget to capture the Chamarel Waterfall and the giant tortoises as well, adding variety to your portfolio. The vibrant, distinct colors of the earth are the main draw, so focus on highlighting these in your compositions.
Day-Trippers: If you're on a day trip in Mauritius, Chamarel Seven Colored Earth is a highly recommended stop, especially if you're exploring the southern part of the island. It's often combined with other attractions like the Gris Gris cliffs or La Morne Brabant. The geopark is easily accessible by car, and your ticket typically covers the colored earth, waterfall, and tortoise park, making it an efficient use of your time. Start early to catch the best light and potentially fewer crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera. The on-site cafe provides a convenient spot for a quick lunch or refreshment. The drive to Chamarel itself is scenic, adding to the overall day-trip experience.
Photography Tips for Chamarel
Capturing the magic of the Chamarel Seven Colored Earth requires a bit of planning, especially when it comes to lighting. The colors are most vivid and striking under direct sunlight. Therefore, visiting on a clear, sunny day is paramount. Many photographers and visitors suggest that the early morning or late afternoon light offers the best conditions. This is because the lower angle of the sun can create more dramatic shadows and enhance the contrast between the different colored layers, avoiding the harsh midday glare.
When you visit, utilize the designated viewing platforms. These offer excellent vantage points without disturbing the delicate sand formations. Take your time to frame your shots, experiment with different angles, and be patient to wait for the perfect light.
Accommodation
There are a few different options to choose from when deciding where to stay around Chamarel. Le Morne is one of the best areas of Mauritius to stay in when visiting the Seven Coloured Earths. Located on the southwestern peninsula of Mauritius, Le Morne is known for its pristine beaches and impressive natural surroundings.
If you want to stay in Le Morne but are on a budget, check out the JN Sunflower. For a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, consider staying at the Chamarel Mountain Chalets. Located just a few minutes from the Seven Coloured Earths, this hotel boasts an infinity pool, garden, and beautiful mountain views.
If you want to have a more luxurious stay in Le Morne, check out the LUX* Le Morne Resort. Here, you can swim in one of its 5 pools and eat in one of its 3 restaurants.
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