Mare aux Vacoas Reservoir | Vacoas Phoenix

Information

Landmark: Mare aux Vacoas Reservoir
City: Vacoas Phoenix
Country: Mauritius
Continent: Africa

Mare aux Vacoas Reservoir, Vacoas Phoenix, Mauritius, Africa

Mare aux Vacoas

Mare aux Vacoas is the largest freshwater reservoir in Mauritius, situated on the central plateau in the district of Plaines Wilhems.

Visual Characteristics

The reservoir is a massive expanse of calm water surrounded by dense coniferous forests and lush tropical vegetation. Its perimeter is characterized by scenic pathways and a peaceful, remote atmosphere. The surrounding landscape often features low-hanging mist due to its high altitude and high rainfall, giving it a serene and moody aesthetic.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Mare aux Vacoas, Plaines Wilhems, Mauritius.

Access: Located south of Curepipe and Vacoas, accessible via the B70 road (La Marie Road).

Transport: Most easily reached by private vehicle or taxi. Limited bus services operate to the nearby La Marie area, followed by a significant walk or taxi ride.

Parking: Small gravel pull-off areas and designated viewpoints are available along the road encircling the reservoir.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Built in 1885, Mare aux Vacoas was the first major reservoir constructed on the island to meet the growing water demands of the central plateau. It has a storage capacity of approximately 25.8 million cubic meters. The reservoir is fed by rainfall and several small streams, playing a critical role in the island's water security. The surrounding area is part of a protected catchment zone to ensure the purity of the water.

Key Highlights & Activities

Nature Walks: The surrounding forest offers several shaded paths popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Bird Watching: The quiet environment attracts various local bird species, making it a favored spot for ornithologists.

Photography: Highly popular for landscape photography, especially during the early morning when the water is mirror-like.

Proximity to Grand Bassin: It is a major landmark on the pilgrimage route to Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin).

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: As a protected water catchment area, there are no commercial facilities (cafes or shops) directly on the reservoir banks.

Water Treatment: A major water treatment plant is located nearby, which filters and distributes water to the surrounding districts.

Connectivity: 4G/5G cellular coverage is available but can be inconsistent in the denser forested sections.

Best Time to Visit

The reservoir is accessible 24/7. The best time to visit is during the early morning (06:00 to 09:00) for the calmest waters and best wildlife viewing. During the winter months (June to August), the area is significantly cooler and can be quite rainy.

Facts & Legends

The reservoir derives its name from the "Vacoas" (Pandanus) plants that were once abundant in the marshes before the dam was constructed. It is often cited as the most vital water source for the urban centers of Curepipe, Vacoas, and Quatre Bornes.