Activities
The running community has been intensely renewed over the recent years in Mauritius. With an assortment of flat and hilly terrains, urban trails and natural landscapes, Mauritius is the runner’s dream destination. In the last decade, a number of dedicated trails have sprung up all over the country, making things even more exciting for seasonal runners and athletes. From mountains to forgotten valleys, forests, beaches or old colonial streets, here are the most beautiful marathons of Mauritius:
Ferney Trail
We present you the biggest sporting competition in Mauritius, Ferney Trail. Each September, Ferney and Domaine de l’Etoile welcome more than 3,000 local and foreign participants for the marathon event of the year; Ferney Trail. The event takes place in the dense vegetation of the valley, which will delight nature lovers. The valley of Ferney is a sanctuary of 200+ hectares for many species of native plants and animals such as the Kestrel, Parakeet, and Paille-en-Queue of Mauritius.
This event is a partnership between the Mauritian government and CIEL Group which ensures the restoration and protection of this national heritage. By joining the competition, you help raise funds for the preservation of the island’s nature and at the same time helping people with disabilities. The valley of Ferney promises a fun day, full of discoveries for both children and adults. The 4-kilometer race is aimed at children aged from 6 to 12, while adults and professionals can measure their time in 10, 20 and 50 kilometers. With musical entertainment, you can dance to local rhythms if you want. A creole lunch is offered after the race and you can also enjoy therapeutic massage provided by the team of Fortis Darné Clinic.
Le Dodo Trail
Le Dodo Trail is known to be the most beautiful and technical track in Mauritius, especially the Xtreme Dodo Trail which begins at the foot of the mythical Morne Brabant and then goes through the highest peak of Mauritius to finish in the village of Tamarin. This race reserves splendid panoramic views, the inland foliage on one side and the dazzling ocean on the other! There are regular replenishing points along the track and a medical team will be present at each water point.
Le Dodo trail is a prestigious race that brings together hundreds of participants from around the world. Athletes discover trails and other remote passages in the southwest and west of the country by participating in the race. The XDT (Xtreme Dodo Trail) runs for 50 kilometers with an ascent of 3500 meters, the Ti Dodo Trail stretches for 25 kilometers with an ascent of 1500 meters while the MDT – Mini Dodo Trail takes place over 10 kilometers at 500 meters of ascent.
The winners are rewarded in cash-prize and other prizes such as accommodation in Mauritius and airfare for the next edition. All those who finish the race will be awarded a medal and some marathoning souvenirs.
Moka Trail
Seasoned runners and nature lovers will both appreciate the last grand Mauritian trail of the year, Le Moka Trail. For the sixth time this year, Moka the green district of Mauritius and Bar Le Duc Chassé will welcome thousands of intrepid on their land. It has the perfect tracks to discover the rich interior o through the mountain ranges located at the heart of the country. The marathon offers three different trails with a 6-kilometer Fun Jog, Petit Both in 15 kilometers and Grand Pouce spans over 30 kilometers.
Moka Trail is without any doubt the most suitable marathon for a family adventure. The organizers also make available a kid’s corner welcoming children from 4 to 12 years old who can enjoy various activities. Since its creation in 2013, Moka Trail has known few changes to accommodate the growing number of participants. The 2017 edition saw the participation of over 2000 people. If you plan to visit Mauritius early October, we recommend this very well-organized trail to discover the rich landscapes of this region steeped in history.
City Urban Trail
Mauritius is known for its beautiful landscapes. But, few know that you can marathon in the city of Port Louis, at night! You will cross old colonial streets of the capital and have the choice between three relatively easy routes compared to the three previous trails mentioned. City Urban Trail or CUT is quite new, the first edition was held in November 2015 aiming at making an unusual experience for professional runners and amateurs at the same time. The success of the first edition inspired the organizers to renew the event for the last two years.
The 5 km, 10 km and 17 km tracks have been designed to discover the capital from a different angle by combining sport and fun. The 5-kilometer fun run is an introduction to this nocturnal adventure, the 10-kilometer and 17-kilometer trails will be more suited for seasonal runners and professionals.
Rodrigues Trail
For the next trail, we leave the main island for Rodrigues Island and its much-appreciated trail, Rodrigues Trail. The island literally is an abundant virgin volcanic land delimited with deserted beaches, a true paradise for hiking. The RTA (Rod Trail Association) privileges not only the well-being of participants but also the respect and protection of nature.
The Rodrigues Trail is an opportunity to discover the peaceful lifestyle and culture of the island. The 3 different levels of the trail invite athletes of all echelons to a day of discovery. Tracks can start on a fabulous deserted beach then go through authentic villages and natural park and hills. More than any other trail in Mauritius, Rodrigues Trail procures quietude and well-being. The ninth edition of Rodrigues Trail will take place early November like every year.
