Candos Hill | Quatre Bornes

Information

Landmark: Candos Hill
City: Quatre Bornes
Country: Mauritius
Continent: Africa

Candos Hill, Quatre Bornes, Mauritius, Africa

Candos Hill, also known as Mount Candos, is a prominent volcanic elevation situated in the Plaines Wilhems District of Mauritius. It is located on the western edge of the town of Quatre Bornes, serving as a distinct natural landmark within the densely populated central plateau.

Visual Characteristics

The hill is a basaltic peak rising approximately 490 meters above sea level, featuring a conical shape typical of extinct volcanic remnants. Its slopes are covered in a mix of scrub brush, invasive acacia, and patches of indigenous dry forest vegetation. The eastern face is moderately developed with residential housing at the base, while the western and northern flanks remain steeper and more rugged, showcasing exposed dark volcanic rock and orange-tinted soil.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is bordered by the La Marie Road and the residential areas of Palma and Sodnac. It is located 2 kilometers west of the Quatre Bornes town center. Access to the primary hiking trail is via the road leading past the Victoria Hospital. Public transport is available via bus routes connecting Quatre Bornes to Vacoas and Phoenix, with the closest stop at the hospital. Parking is limited to residential street sides or the hospital's public areas.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Candos Hill is part of the late volcanic activity of the intermediate series that shaped the central plateau of Mauritius during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs. Historically, the hill was utilized for its vantage point overlooking the western plains and the Black River Gorges. Ecologically, it serves as a micro-habitat for local bird species and small reptiles, though much of the original endemic flora has been displaced by introduced species.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is hiking the well-trodden trail to the summit, which is a popular exercise route for local residents. The peak provides a 360-degree vantage point of the island, including views of the Moka Range, the Trois Mamelles, and the western coastline. At the base, the area is frequently used for low-impact jogging and walking along the perimeter roads.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Infrastructure at Candos Hill is minimal. There are no public restrooms, visitor centers, or official park benches on the trails. Shade is available only under the tree canopy along the lower sections of the climb. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is consistently strong across the entire hill due to its proximity to the urban centers of Quatre Bornes and Vacoas. Food and water must be purchased from vendors near Victoria Hospital or in the town center.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for hiking is in the early morning (06:00–08:00) or late afternoon (16:00–18:00) to avoid high humidity and direct solar exposure. For photography, the late afternoon offers the best light for capturing the silhouette of the Trois Mamelles to the west. The months of May through October offer cooler, drier weather suitable for the steep ascent.

Facts & Legends

A local historical oddity involves the "Meditation Centre" located near the base, which attracts practitioners due to the hill's perceived tranquility. There are also local accounts of the hill being used as a lookout point by maroons (escaped slaves) in the 18th century, though archaeological evidence remains sparse.