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The Real Story Behind Mauritius’ Underwater Waterfall Illusion

Echoes of the ancient supercontinent, Gondwanaland
Echoes of the ancient supercontinent, Gondwanaland | © Khoroshunova Olga / Shutterstock

Baffling the most well-traveled of our world, this captivating phenomenon happens in the Indian Ocean, on the tropical island of Mauritius. Visible year-round, it is completely safe to swim in or even surf on! To ignite your wanderlust, here’s how the magic operates on this paradise island!

If you’ve never come across this island before, it’s chiefly known for being the home of the now extinct Dodo bird. More recently, Mauritius took the world by storm with the discovery of a lost continent beneath it, known as Mauricia. It’s now back with yet another fascinating trait, an underwater waterfall. Just to be clear, it isn’t an actual waterfall, but rather an illusion which can only be seen from up top. Located on the southwestern coast of the island known as Le Morne Peninsula, the phenomenon takes place in the turquoise lagoon. Thanks to the crystal clear water, it possible to see through it, being the key to unraveling the mystery.

Mauritius full day tour : Private south west with lunch

Natural Feature

Tropical scenery, beautiful beaches of Mauritius island, Le Morne, popular luxury resort. Le Morne beach luxury resorts, Mauritius. Luxury beach in Mauritius, sandy beach with palms and blue ocean.
DaLiu / Shutterstock

Embark on a captivating full-day private tour of Mauritius’ stunning southwest coast, where breathtaking landscapes await. This is where our famous underwater illusion can be found and where you can also explore picturesque attractions like the iconic Black River Gorges National Park, marvel at the dramatic Chamarel Waterfall, and witness the vibrant hues of the Seven Colored Earths. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Mauritian flavors. With personalized attention and flexible itineraries, this tour ensures an unforgettable experience, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Misleadingly, it isn’t the water which is actually falling into the unknown, but rather the sand and silt sediments which are in perpetual movement. Mauritius, being a relatively young island, happens to sit on an ocean shelf raised above seabed level. Off this particular coast, a gradual slope is noticed, abruptly ending in a 4000-meter-deep abyssal drop. Thanks to this marine topography, various shades of blue are visible, due to the movement of sand and silt deposits along these slopes. It is this unique harmony of shades which create the optical illusion which has won so many admirers across the world.

Echoes of the ancient supercontinent, Gondwanaland

To best capture this gift from Mother Nature, there is nothing better than a helicopter ride above the Le Morne Peninsula. Enhanced with the UNESCO World Heritage peak, the view gets even more breathtaking and begs for unlimited snapshots and footage. The national carrier, Air Mauritius, offers great deals for this memorable flight.

Lydia Boat : Private boat tour Dolphins & Whales encounter

Natural Feature

Indian Ocean, Mauritius Whales and sperm whales and vibrant coral reefs and sea Turtles. Mauritius island under waterfall, Mauritius undersea, Mauritius sea
karacacennet / Shutterstock

Set sail on an exhilarating private boat tour with Lydia Boat, specializing in unforgettable encounters with dolphins and whales. Glide through the crystal-clear waters of Mauritius, where you can spot playful dolphins leaping alongside the boat and majestic whales breaching in the distance. This intimate experience allows for personalized attention and an up-close view of marine life. Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery, creating memories that will last a lifetime in this tropical paradise.

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