Pieter Both Mountain

Pieter Both, at 820 metres, is the second highest peak in Mauritius. It is distinctive for the large spherical boulder perched improbably on its summit — a landmark visible from the sea and from Port Louis. Climbing the peak requires a rope and some scrambling skill on the final approach to the summit boulder; it is a serious hike rather than a walk.

The mountain lies in the Moka Range north of town. The approach is typically from La Laura-Malenga village, and the full day hike is rewarding for those with the experience and fitness it requires. The views from the upper ridges are exceptional, rivalling Le Pouce for panoramic scope. Many hikers choose to combine a visit to the Le Pouce area with views toward Pieter Both rather than attempt both peaks in one day.

things to do sight
A story
The mountain is named after Pieter Both, the first Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies, who drowned when his ship wrecked off Mauritius in 1615 during a storm — one of the earliest recorded European deaths associated with the island. The distinctive boulder balanced on the mountain's summit is visible from much of the northern coast and has been a navigation landmark for ships entering Port Louis harbour for centuries.