Seven Coloured Earth Geopark | Chamarel

Information

Landmark: Seven Coloured Earth Geopark
City: Chamarel
Country: Mauritius
Continent: Africa

Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, Chamarel, Mauritius, Africa

The Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is a geological phenomenon and one of the most visited heritage sites in Mauritius, located in the Chamarel plain of the Rivière Noire District.

Visual Characteristics

The site is defined by a series of undulating sand dunes comprising seven distinct colors (red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow). The dunes are characterized by their smooth, weathered texture and do not erode despite tropical rainfall. The surrounding area features lush greenery and a fenced enclosure housing giant Aldabra tortoises.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: 7 Colored Earth Road, Chamarel, Mauritius.

Access: Accessible via a private road within the park. Entry requires a paid ticket, which also includes access to the Chamarel Waterfall.

Transport: Best reached by private car or taxi. The drive involves steep, winding mountain roads from either the West coast (Case Noyale) or the South (Baie du Cap).

Parking: Ample on-site parking is available near the main dunes and the visitor center.

Geological Origin

The dunes were formed from the decomposition of volcanic rock (basalt) into clay, which was then transformed into ferralitic soil through hydrolysis. The different colors are the result of varying concentrations of iron and aluminum oxides. The phenomenon is unique because the different colored sands spontaneously settle into separate layers even when mixed.

Key Highlights & Activities

Coloured Earth Dunes: Primary observation area with wooden walkways providing 360-degree views of the geological formations.

Giant Tortoise Park: A habitat for several Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old.

Chamarel Waterfall: Located near the park entrance, it is the highest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius.

Coffee Plantation: The park produces its own "Café de Chamarel," the only coffee grown in Mauritius.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Le Chamarel Coffee Shop: An on-site cafe overlooking the dunes, serving local coffee and light snacks.

Souvenir Shop: Sells vials of the seven-colored earth and local artisanal products.

Facilities: High-standard public restrooms and shaded resting areas.

Hours: Daily from 08:30 to 17:00.

Best Time to Visit

The colors are most vivid in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower, enhancing the contrast and shadows on the dunes. Visiting immediately after rainfall can also deepen the saturation of the colors.