When one thinks of Mauritius, azure waters, white sand beaches, and lush landscapes might come to mind. However, tucked away in the southwest corner of this tropical paradise is a geological marvel that tells a tale as colourful as its terrain: the Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark. A perfect blend of history, culture, and science, this gem offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature and the tales of a bygone era. Here are the 7 interesting things you need to know about Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth in Mauritius:
1. What is Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark?
A meeting ground of history and natural conservation, the geopark is a nature reserve that expands over 8.5 hectares of nature. It runs across hilly regions, vertiginous waterfalls, dirt regions – and the crowning attraction, the natural phenomenon that the geopark is named after: the 7 Coloured Earth.
2. Explanation behind the 7 Coloured Earth
Are the 7 colouredin the geopark artificial? A few myths float around the origins of these dunes, but here is the scientific truth about them:
The 7 coloured earth are the result of the very birth of what would become Mauritius. The 7 coloured earth are made from exploding lava that was cooled into basalt, and later broke down. This refined basalt underwent oxidation in the meantime, resulting in the creation of aluminium and iron oxides which stained the fine basalt into several colours ranging from blue to orange. In the morning and afternoon sun, the dunes gain something of an iridescent glow that make the visit even more magical. You canonly imagine how the dunes look bathed in the glow of golden hour!
3. History and culture of the site
The park, which was launched in the late 1960s turned out to be crucial to the growth of Chamarel, a region rich in history and natural charm.
At a meeting on November 26, 1879, a member of Mauritius' Royal Society of Arts and Sciences was the first to mention the occurrence of multicoloured earth in the Chamarel region. The sons of François de Chazal de la Genesté, a previous member of the island's High Council, Toussaint and Charles de Chazal de Chamarel were the inspiration for the naming of this historic settlement. In 1786, they had acquired a concession there for 625 acres of land.
When tourism started in Mauritius in the 1960s, the phenomenon known as the Land of 7 Colours—already unusual—became a popular tourist attraction.
4. How to visit Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth
You can simply book your visit online here! We have different offers and packages with options to dine at Le Chamarel restaurant or to visit other attractions like the World of Seashells. Once you've booked your visit, it's time to head South West to the village of Chamarel, after which the geopark is named.
5. Sustainable initiatives from the geopark
Conservation efforts
The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) and Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth collaborate closely to oversee, revitalise, and conserve the Chamarel forests. Since 2009, initiatives have been taken to get rid of invasive species and encourage the recovery of indigenous and native plants in Mauritius. A project that hasal ready begun to pay off!
The geopark has also supported initiatives to help protect endangered endemic bird species such as the Mauritian EchoParakeet and the Pink Pigeon. Both of these rare birds can now be seen – if you are lucky enough! – living peacefully in the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earthgeopark.
Composting of green waste
No organic waste goes to the landfill at the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark! All residual organic matter (fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, cardboard boxes and discarded paper) are turned into compost, which is then reused all across the geopark. A beautiful example of the circular economy at play!
Waste sorting at the Geopark
We sort through all our waste products, separating different materials for enhanced recycling and disposal of waste materials.
6. Dining options near Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth
Coffee Shop at the park
Nestled amidst the enchanting wonders of Chamarel, the Coffee Shop offers visitors a delightful retreat. With a menu that boasts both local and international favourites, it promises a gustatory experience to complement the visual feast of the 7 Coloured Earth. Enjoy a refreshing drink, indulge in a light snack, or savour a sweet treat, all while basking in the breathtaking views surrounding you. It's not just a pit-stop; it's an essential part of your Chamarel journey.
Le Chamarel Panoramic Restaurant
Le Chamarel is as unique a restaurant as it is breathtaking. After all, when was the last time you dined on authentic gourmet Creole meals…at 260m above sea level? Sat in a mountainous landscape, the view of the Western sealine will stay with you as one of your most refreshing dining experiences.
The best part? The Creole gastronomy and creative meals live up to every standard set by the view and location.