This sport which is very popular in La Reunion was set up in Mauritius in 2004. Although Mauritius does not have the magnificent 700metre drops that its sister island has, the beautiful cliffs and waterfalls that are found inland are breathtaking.

A variety of sites for all levels have been set up by professionals allowing the experienced people in this field as well as novices to climb and hang from the Mauritian rock formations. For beginners, Eau Bleue waterfall provides a perfect introduction along a 16metre high cliff where the bravest actually have fun jumping off! Canyoning is a botanical experience thanks to the large banks covered in trees where you can jump from 1 to 4 metres into running water, toboggan and swim in the river. At Henrietta, the Tamarin falls is made up of 7 waterfalls in amongst thick and abundant vegetation.

The smallest drop is 13 metres (where you can jump!) and the highest at 55 metres allowing a range of terrain for different levels. In the heart of Plaine Champagne, the Alexandra Falls is a beautiful waterfall 55 metres high where one can walk from the river to reach it – this is 500 feet up and is much more technical. Also for beginners are the two falls at Mare aux Joncs, one at 60m and the other 80m (A long walk to enter and leave).

As long as you are in good health and are not afraid of heights or prone to dizzy spells, no fitness requirements are needed for this activity. The technique is quite simple and you easily get the hang of it (especially going down basic rock forms). The best time for canyoning is between September and November where the water levels of the rivers is ideal. Between December and April it is very hot but slipping under a waterfall for a cool shower is a pleasure! The sport is very dependent on the weather conditions and can be cancelled for a few days during the passage of a cyclone in the area (violent winds and large amounts of rainfall). Between May and August, the weather is more unpredictable but it is cooler (water in the falls is around 17degrees c) and it’s windier which is not ideal for this activity.

VERTICAL WORLD

Run by a Mauritian armed with European and American qualifications in this discipline, Vertical World is a great independent company with staff who are highly motivated and competent. A selection of falls is explored depending on your level .A maximum of 10 people per session accompanied by 2 or 3 guides. Helmets and outfits are supplied; you’ll just need to bring sun cream, towels, change of clothes and good shoes that can get wet. You have the possibility of combining canyoning at Tamarin Falls, Tyrolienne(zip rides) and lunch during the morning, followed by mountain biking in the Yemen reserve in the afternoon. Tyrolienne takes place at the seven falls with lunch during the excursion and more canyoning at Mare aux Joncs.

OTELAIR

Olivier Bourquin is another professional independent specialist in this discipline since many years. Three sites are explored depending on the level: Eau Bleue, Seven falls and a new canyon at Chamouny suitable for children (3 cascades at 9,11 and 15 metres). Groups are limited to a minimum of four people and a maximum of 12 people. The cost includes the transfer to the falls from the meeting point (Curepipe for Eau Bleue and Henrietta for the seven falls). You can also combine canyoning with mountain biking.