The basalt columns
Regular rectangular rocks.
Lukas von Daeniken from Schweiz — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Гульнара Бектемировна — CC BY 4.0 · Sualkdd — CC BY-SA 3.0 · No machine-readable author provided. Maral10 assumed (based on copyright claims). — Public domain · laurence comte http://www.geodiversite.net/auteur131 — CC BY-SA 3.0
Rochester Falls is among the best known sights of southern Mauritius and, according to sources, the island's widest waterfall, on the Savanne River near the town of Souillac. It is famous for its rectangular flank rocks, which make the water seem to fall over carved columns, and it is a favourite with photographers. The falls lie at 152 m above sea level, about 2.5 km from Souillac, the capital of the Savanne district, and drop about 10 m. The basalt rocks are the source of their fame, and they appear in an old engraving from the French magazine Le Tour du monde. Water pours over a broad ledge of vertical lines, then gathers in a dark pool surrounded by trees. The flow varies a great deal with the rain, stronger in the wet season and weaker in dry spells. From the bank you can see the stone columns up close, in warm grey tones, with the trees reflected on the water. It is 4.9 km in a straight line from La Vanille Nature Park, so the two fit a half day. The road passes through sugar cane fields, and a car is the best way there. Guides mention locals asking a small sum to watch your car. Do not jump from the rocks as you may see some people doing, avoid swimming after rain when the current changes, and wear suitable shoes, as the ground is slippery near the water.
Regular rectangular rocks.
Trees reflected on the water.
Sugar cane fields on the way.
Savanne River, near Souillac, Savanne District
Guides say there is no formal ticket, with a small tip customary for car park attendants.
Avoid it after rain and ask locally, as the current changes.