Black River
From Mauripedia
Black River is one of the 7 districts in Mauritius. The name Black River derives from the fact that it is the driest district of the island. Compared to other regions and districts of the island, the Black River district receives less rainfall.
The Black River District Council's area is the longest but 3rd largest district of the country. Located in the western part of the Island, it spreads over an area of 346 Km² and stretches over a distance of more than 60 Km. It has a population of about 63,137 inhabitants and 20,600 households. The city has less population compared to other districts.
The district capital which was previously Tamarin has now changed to Bambous.
Being a site of tourist attraction, the city plays an important role in the financial revenue of the country. Hotels and leisure activities in the district allows a considerable income of foreign currency in the island. The Black River district includes popular places like the Chamarel colored earth and the Tamarin Falls. The city has become a tourist attraction over the years mainly because of its tropical forests.
The most popular sight of the district is the Black River Gorge National Park. The park is spread over 6,574 hectares and includes native forests. The Black River Gorge is best for hiking and trekking. For nature lovers, the park is best at providing opportunities to admire the beauty of nature.
The place is best known for deer hunting practices especially during winters. Additionally, the district is well known for bird viewing, for example the endemic Mauritian Paille en Queue bird can be admired at the Black river gorge from a view point.
The Casela Bird Park is also located in the Black River district in the neighbourhood of Flic en flac and Tamarin. The park nests more than 140 bird species and over 2500 birds. Kangaroos, tigers and monkeys can also be found in the park. The restaurant provides nice meals and the souvenir shops allow one to take good concrete memories back home.
The dry climate of this part of the island has proved to be advantageous in the sense that several fisherman villages have been progressively converted to tourist areas, for example, Flic en flac, Tamarin and Le Morne.
Tamarin is the only area where surfing is possible during the month of July and August. Salt pans are also found in this region as the dry and hot climate favours the evaporation of the sea water to leave behind the salt.
The popular hotels, resorts along with the beaches provide perfect ambience to pass a cool and relaxing vacation. Flic en flac is the longest beach on the island and certainly one of the most beautiful ones, as being on the west coast, it gives view to beautiful sunsets.
Le Morne has acquired much fame over time owing to its historical importance. During colonial times runaway slaves used to hide on these mountains and they would kill themselves there itself upon being caught. The mountains of Le Morne are thus considered to be a cultural heritage for Mauritius. Moreover, Le Morne’s constant wind effects make it an excellent kite surfing/wind surfing destination. Frequently both board and kite manufacturers can be seen trialing their new equipment in this prime location. Also, on occasion, with the right wave’s conditions, the reef outside Le Morne can be surfed.
The Black River district is an ideal holiday destination for nature lovers.
