Trou aux Cerfs – Mauritius’ Sleeping Giant with a 360° View

High above the town of Curepipe, Trou aux Cerfs silently watches over Mauritius—a dormant volcano whose lush crater tells a tale of fire long cooled into beauty. Roughly 605 meters above sea level, this massive caldera (about 300 meters wide and 100 meters deep) is now carpeted with vegetation, pine trees, and ferns, transforming what was once a churning cauldron of lava into a peaceful green basin surrounded by misty mountain views.

Though dormant for thousands of years, Trou aux Cerfs still holds the geological memory of Mauritius’ fiery beginnings. Local legends even whisper that one day, it might erupt again—though scientists currently assure that the risk is minimal.

What makes it a magnet for visitors is the panoramic 360° view from its rim: from here, you can see parts of the Moka Range, Trois Mamelles, the coastlines on a clear day, and Curepipe town nestled below like a miniature diorama.

🌄 Why You Should Visit

Peaceful sunrise/sunset moments with cool breezes and birdsong

Ideal for walking, jogging, or meditative strolls around the crater rim

One of the few natural spots in Mauritius where you get mountainous terrain

No entry fee, easily accessible by car or on foot from Curepipe town


🧭 Visitor Tips

Best time to go: Early morning for misty light or late afternoon for golden hour photos

What to bring: Jacket (it’s cooler up here), water, camera, and walking shoes

Photography tip: Capture the ring of trees circling the crater—drone shots (where allowed) are spectacular

Extra: Local vendors nearby sometimes sell spiced pineapple and coconut water—perfect post-walk treats


Trou aux Cerfs isn't just a stop on the tourist trail—it’s a place where silence, scenery, and the earth’s ancient breath meet.

#TrouAuxCerfs #MauritiusVolcano #DormantCrater #CurepipeViewpoint #MauritiusHighlands #NatureWalks #PanoramicMauritius #IslandGeology #VolcanicHeritage #HiddenMauritiusGem


Photo Credit: Wikimedia

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Gomez Kash @kashgomez9922

Beautiful views from the top! Such a perfect spot to soak in nature's beauty. Hoping you had an amazing hike and got some great shots!
18 days ago

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Scholten Brendan @brendanscholten9779

The panoramic views from Trou aux Cerfs are absolutely stunning! Early morning for misty light or golden hour shots—definitely worth the visit if you're into nature or photography. Bring a jacket, water, camera, and comfortable shoes. Don't forget to treat yourself with local snacks after walking around. It's such a hidden gem in Mauritius!
8 days ago

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Keele Calum @calumkeele4486

The views from Trou aux Cerfs are absolutely stunning! It sounds like a peaceful escape perfect for nature lovers. The tip about bringing layers and water is super helpful too.
3 days ago

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