The Underwater Waterfall Illusion in Mauritius 

Mauritius, known for its heavenly beaches and rich biodiversity, is also home to one of the most fascinating optical illusions in the world: the “underwater waterfall.” This visual wonder has captured the attention of tourists and photographers from around the world, but what exactly is this underwater waterfall and how is it formed? 

The Optical Illusion 

But the reality is that Mauritius’s “underwater waterfall” is not a real waterfall, but a stunning optical illusion created by the interaction of ocean currents and sediments in the water. The ocean floor drops off abruptly, creating a spectacular visual effect when viewed from above. Sand and silt from the shallow coastal shelf are carried away by the underwater currents and then fall into the deeper parts of the ocean. This movement creates the appearance of a waterfall flowing down a steep underwater cliff.  

The different shades of blue seen in the water are due to the different depths and the way light refracts through the water at these depths. Shallow waters near the shore are lighter in color, while deeper areas are darker blue. When lighter sandy areas transition to deeper, darker blue, the stunning illusion of an underwater waterfall is created. 

Where is it located?  

This illusion is located at the southwestern tip of the island of Mauritius, near the Le Morne Brabant peninsula, in the town of Le Morne. Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. The Le Morne Brabant peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best way to appreciate this natural wonder is from an aerial view by helicopter or drone, as from sea level, the illusion is virtually invisible. 

In addition to its natural beauty, the area surrounding the Le Morne Brabant peninsula is of great cultural and historical significance. This site is recognized for its role as a refuge for runaway slaves in the 19th century. Le Morne Brabant Mountain stands as a monument to their endurance and suffering, and remains a symbol of freedom and hope. Mauritius offers a wide variety of other attractions. Visitors can explore lush rainforests, hike scenic trails, visit bustling markets, and immerse themselves in the island’s rich cultural heritage. 

 

If you’re looking to organize an adventure to explore the mesmerizing underwater waterfall and other wonders of Mauritius, our concierge team is available 24/7 to make sure your trip is perfect in every detail. From booking the best accommodation to organizing guided tours, we’re here to make your travel dreams come true. Contact us today at +1 800-678-8252, or schedule a call with our concierge here and let’s start planning your unforgettable Mauritius adventure. 

It has been a pleasure sharing this experience with you. Until our next encounter