From the Port Louis Racecourse to the summit of Le Pouce

The walk starts at the Port Louis racecourse, located at Champ de Mars. Leave the racecourse by following Rue Château-d'Eau, then head towards the Dauguet sports centre (point 1), where there is a car park. Continue along the tarmac road, which quickly becomes stony, until you reach the Hindu temple (point 2). When I visited, there were small monkeys in this area.

At point 3, take a right-angle turn where a sign indicates the distance and time required to reach the summit of Le Pouce. Most of the hike (about 90%) takes place in the undergrowth, amid dense and lush vegetation. However, the trail is very stony and there are a lot of mosquitoes.

At point 4, you emerge from the undergrowth with a beautiful view of Port Louis. Some sections may be slippery for a short distance before reaching a plateau offering a 180° view of the east of the island. Continue towards the summit: the slope becomes much steeper and includes several technical sections. This section is not recommended for people who are prone to vertigo.

The summit (point 5) usually offers a panoramic view of much of the island. However, when I visited, the view was obscured by clouds. The return journey follows the same route, so take care where you place your feet.

Hiking boots, a hat, mosquito repellent, walking sticks can be very helpful, rain gear, plenty of water and food.

At Place du Champ de Mars: the racecourse, the statue of Edward VII, the Malartic Column. At the Dauguet recreation area: an oratory, a temple, small monkeys. Then, as you climb: beautiful vegetation, vines, trees, invasive plants (white longoses).