At low tide is possible to walk from the shore to the desolate Ilot Fourneau. The feeling of walking across the lagoon with views of Le Morne Brabant is surreal – a really unique experience. By walking in the water and along the rocky shore it is possible to do a loop around the island.
The walk is not very difficult, but I could imagine it being slightly unnerving for certain people. There is a sandy, lighter colored trail visible from near the dock that is definitely recommended for two reasons: you avoid destroying coral/urchins and they avoid destroying your feet. Wearing shoes is a good idea. Keep in mind that there is virtually no shade along the way. There is a small sandy section on the beach where you could lay out or drink a beer. It is possible to make it there with your possessions dry as the water (at average low tide) does not go above a meter.
There is tidal information for Mauritius at Mauritius Meteorological Services. It is possible to go an hour beforehand, but starting after low tide would not be the best idea.
Route:
- Type of trail: Loop
- Start/end point: Near public pier in Le Morne Village.
- Length: 1.6 miles round trip
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- Lowest point: 0ft
- Highest point: 10ft
The trail starts a few hundred feet west of the main dock in Le Morne. It is visible on the map below. There is a storm water drain that exits under the road nearby. If you start there and head straight out from the shore and keep your eyes open you will see the white trail heading towards the western end of the island. Even once you have found the trail you should still watch your step. The water will become slightly deeper as you near the island and the trail will become faint. Just head towards the west side, picking a route without coral or urchins.
Walking around the island is easy in either direction. Take your time and keep an eye out for some of the interesting marine life that abounds. Return along the same route.