Rochester Falls

A wide fall over basalt organ pipes

On the Savanne river, about 2.5 km from Souillac, the water drops some 10 m over a surprisingly wide rock face. What makes it special are the rectangular basalt columns, lined up like organ pipes, that the river has laid bare. It is often described as the widest waterfall in Mauritius.

The setting is simple and green, with cane fields all around and a freshwater pool at the foot of the fall: a refreshing stop on a south coast day.

Getting there

From Souillac, follow the signs and then a 2.5 km dirt track through the cane fields. It is bumpy, so drive slowly, especially after rain; a normal hire car copes in dry weather. An informal car park on the south side leaves a 10-minute walk to the falls, and there is another approach from the north via Surinam village.

Allow about 1h15 from Port Louis, an hour from Flic en Flac and 1h30 from Grand Baie. Buses run to Souillac, but the last stretch is by taxi or on foot. Access is free (checked in October 2026). Save the location in your map app before leaving Souillac, as the tracks through the cane all look alike.

Swimming and safety

The pool below the falls is fine for a dip in calm weather. Stay out during or just after heavy rain, when the water rises quickly and the current picks up.

Locals sometimes jump from the rocks, about 10 m up. Do not copy them without knowing the depth and the submerged rocks, and never alone. The stones round the pool are slippery, so water sandals help.

When to go

The dry season, May to November, keeps the track drivable and swimming safer. After the summer rains the fall is more powerful but the track gets muddy. On weekday mornings you will often have the place nearly to yourself.

Combine with

The rest of Souillac is minutes away: Gris Gris beach and cliffs about 5 km, the Souffleur blowhole 6 km, and the Robert Edward Hart museum about 3 km. Bel Ombre and the road up to Plaine Champagne carry the day west.