Getting prepared

Using the GPS track logs (GPX)

The track logs provided are in standard GPS EXchange format. These files can be uploaded to most GPS devices, including newer mobile phones with built-in GPS capabilities and the appropriate software. They can also be viewed in Google earth to visualize the track. I personally use a Garmin GPSMap 60Cx.

GPS Maps for Mauritius

Whilst routable GPS mapping is not an absolute necessity for off road hiking, it is a useful addition to those not familiar with the streets of Mauritius, and can be a great time saver.

• Garmap is a commercial vendor of Garmin mapping solutions. Their Indian Ocean Islands Streetmaps Version 1: Mauritius mapping product is a good option for Garmin users requiring Mauritius street maps.
  I have used this product and whilst it is good, it is not perfect. Like all mapping products, it is incomplete or incorrect in places, and you should pay particular note to local road layouts, especially No Entry and One Way roads.
  The CD can be ordered from their web page, and an unlock code can be purchased later using Mapsource. This is currently the only commercial option for Mauritius street maps I am aware of.
• cGPSMapper lists a free GPS map of Mauritius. While the map has lots of Points of Interest, I cannot comment on the map's accuracy or usefulness on the road.

Which route(s) should you try

I realise that some or most people might be intimidated by the sight of the mountains as seen from street level, but I assure you that most of the routes here are relatively safe, but in some places, some care should be taken.
If you are spending a short amount of time in Mauritius, then I would recommend that as a minimum you try out the Piton de la Petite Riviere Noire (Black River Peak) and Le Pouce routes. These are very accessible routes with very rewarding views over the island and can be accomplished by any adult or child. Depending on your location, you can then choose whichever other route you prefer.

Getting around in Mauritius

Ideally, you should have access to a car if you are to get around Mauritius quickly. Public transport such as buses are frequent though slow, and some hiking destinations are not served by any bus routes. A taxi can be a good option for some, but the cost of retaining a taxi for a whole day can often match or exceed the cost of a small hire car. Some more adventureous taxi drivers will sometimes accompany hikers on the more common mountain hikes, and a local can be a useful addition to a hiking group.

Equipment

• A handheld GPS unit capable of accepting track uploads (GPX files) and additional maps, if necessary.
• A road map. You can either buy one locally or print your own from the pdf found here: http://www.gov.mu/portal/goc/file/Mauritius_web.pdf
• A good pair of Hiking boots. While a pair of sports 'trainers' will be perfectly acceptable for most hikers, a pair of good hiking boots providing support to the ankles is highly recommended.
• Mosquito repellent.
• Sunscreen.
• A minimum of 2 litres of water per person, often more depending on the weather.
• Clothing which covers legs and arms to protect from mosquitos and nettles.
• A camera.
• A long blade knife. Depending on the time of year, some hiking tracks can be overgrown and nettles can be a particular nuisance. Having a knife handy can be useful in keeping the shrubs and nettles off your skin. A small cane knife (machette) can be obtained locally from most hardware stores.

Safety and Precautions

Your hiking around Mauritius is likely to be safe and enjoyable, but as with any activity, especially in a foreign country, there are some precautions you should take.

• The weather can change somewhat quickly, especially in the summer months. Avoid going out hiking during or after heavy rainfall as this can make some tracks slippery and dangerous.
• Do not attempt hiking routes alone.
• Do not leave valuables in view in your car.
• Locals. You will mostly never encounter any locals on the hiking routes except for the most popular routes at weekends or public holidays. The vast majority are friendly and may engage in conversation with you, but if you look like a foreigner, you might find some locals may try and find a way to ask for money from you.
• Use common sense and do not take any excessive risks.
• Do not start fires, cut or damage any trees.
• Do not throw litter, despite this being a national pastime.

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