How to See the Underwater Waterfall in Mauritius (2026 Aerial Tour Guide)
Last Updated on: 31st January 2026, 01:26 pm
I still remember the first time I saw the underwater waterfall off the coast of Le Morne in Mauritius. I was gazing out the plane window as we descended toward the island, and there it was.
A massive waterfall, seemingly plunging deep into the sea. It looked like the ocean was folding in on itself.
That image stayed with me.
Since then, I’ve returned to that coastline. I’ve swum and snorkelled in those same turquoise waters, watching dolphins glide through the waves just above the edge of the illusion.
And over the years, I’ve helped other travellers book scenic flights and seaplane tours to see it from above. It’s the only way to truly appreciate the full picture.
If you’ve been wondering how to see the underwater waterfall in Mauritius, this guide will walk you through it.
I’ll explain what it actually is, how to book a flight, when to go, what it costs, and how to plan your visit with intention. You’ll also get my personal tips for exploring the area around Le Morne, where ocean magic meets grounded beauty.
🌟 Top Pick: See the Underwater Waterfall by Helicopter
If you want the most unforgettable view of Mauritius’ famous underwater waterfall, this is the flight to book. This 40-minute private helicopter tour departs from near Le Morne and gives you aerial views of the illusion, the reef, and Le Morne Brabant itself. It’s convenient, breathtaking, and incredibly well-reviewed.
💡 Why I recommend it: It’s the most reliable and scenic way to see the illusion up close, with window seats for every passenger and flexible departure times.
👉 Book your helicopter tour here on GetYourGuide →
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✅ Key Takeaways: How to See the Underwater Waterfall in Mauritius
- The underwater waterfall is a natural optical illusion near Le Morne on Mauritius’ southwest coast.
- It can only be seen clearly from the air, via a scenic flight or seaplane tour.
- You may catch a glimpse during commercial flights, but dedicated tours offer the best experience.
- I’ve helped travellers book flights and have snorkelled right beside the illusion’s edge.
- This guide will show you how to see the underwater waterfall in Mauritius, what it costs, when to go, and what to expect.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you, which allows me to keep this blog up and running!
🌊 What Is the Underwater Waterfall in Mauritius?
The underwater waterfall in Mauritius isn’t a real waterfall. It’s an optical illusion created by sand and silt flowing off the edge of an underwater coastal shelf.
The illusion happens just beyond the shoreline of Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the island’s southwest coast.
From above, the ocean looks like it’s collapsing into a swirling void. But if you’re standing on the beach or even out in the water, you won’t see anything unusual. That’s why this incredible sight is best viewed from the sky.
You can only see the full illusion from a helicopter, scenic flight, or seaplane tour. It’s one of those rare moments where altitude reveals something magical that you’d never notice from the ground.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re flying in or out of Mauritius, try to grab a window seat on the left side of the plane. You might catch a glimpse of the waterfall illusion as you approach or leave the island.
🚁 Best Ways to See the Underwater Waterfall in Mauritius
If you really want to see the underwater waterfall in all its glory, you’ll need to take to the skies. The illusion only becomes visible from above, which means your best options are a scenic helicopter flight or a seaplane ride.
I’ve helped plenty of travellers choose between these two. Some go for the thrill of a helicopter. Others love the laid-back adventure of a seaplane gliding over the coast. Either way, the view is unforgettable.
🚁 Scenic Helicopter Tours (Top Pick)
This is the most popular and luxurious way to see the waterfall illusion. Flights typically depart from various helipads around the island, including near Le Morne, and follow a route along the coastline for the best views.
- Flight time: 15 to 45 minutes
- Highlights: Bird’s-eye views of Le Morne Brabant, the reef, and the illusion itself
- Experience: Private or shared flights available
- Price range: From around $250–$500 per person
💡 Pro tip: Morning flights offer the best visibility. The water is calmer, and the light hits the reef perfectly.
👉 Book your helicopter tour through trusted partners like GetYourGuide!
✈️ Seaplane Rides Over the Illusion
A more affordable but equally scenic option is a seaplane tour. These flights often take off directly from the lagoon near Le Morne, offering a gentle climb over the coastline and lagoon below.
- Flight time: 20 to 30 minutes
- Experience: More casual, low-flying, and great for photos
- Price range: Around $170–$300 per person
- Bonus: You’ll see kite surfers and coral reefs as you fly
While I haven’t taken the seaplane flight myself, I’ve helped travellers book with several providers. Everyone has come back raving about the views and how peaceful the ride felt.
👉 Compare scenic seaplane tours here!
💡 Pro tip: Book flights 3 to 5 days in advance. The weather can change quickly on the island, and morning slots go fast.
🤿 My Experience Snorkeling Near the Underwater Waterfall
I didn’t take a helicopter or seaplane the first time I visited Le Morne.
Instead, I went into the water.
We set out early one morning for a snorkeling trip off the coast. The water was crystal clear. The kind of clarity that makes everything below look almost too perfect.
Dolphins appeared not long after we left the beach. They moved alongside the boat like they were guiding us.
We stopped near the edge of the reef, right by where the illusion begins. You can’t see the underwater waterfall from the water itself—it’s only visible from above—but being there, floating just above the drop, was surreal.
The colours shift so dramatically. One moment, it’s a shallow, sandy bottom. Next, it disappears into deep navy blue. That sudden change in depth is what creates the illusion of the sky.
It’s strange how powerful it felt, even though I couldn’t see the waterfall image itself. I could feel the energy of it. The pull of something vast and unseen just below me.
That moment, drifting above the reef, is one I still think about when I need to feel grounded.
💡 Pro tip: If you have time, combine an aerial flight with a lagoon snorkeling tour. Seeing it from above and feeling it from the water creates two completely different experiences—and both are unforgettable.
👉 Book a snorkeling or dolphin tour near Le Morne!
🏨 Where to Stay Near the Underwater Waterfall
If you’re planning to see the underwater waterfall in Mauritius, the best place to base yourself is Le Morne. This peaceful peninsula is home to some of the island’s most luxurious beachfront resorts, and it puts you right next to the action.
I always recommend staying nearby, especially if you’re booking a morning flight or tour. You’ll avoid the long drives from other parts of the island and wake up to views that feel like a dream.
Here are my top luxury picks:
🌟 LUX* Le Morne (Top Pick)
This is my favourite place to stay near the waterfall. Tucked between the mountain and the beach, LUX* Le Morne blends barefoot luxury with soulful charm. The views from here are unreal, and it’s just minutes from the scenic flight helipad.
- Direct beach access with views of Le Morne Brabant
- Gorgeous spa, romantic suites, and sunset vibes
- Perfect for couples, honeymooners, or solo escapes
👉 Check availability at LUX* Le Morne →
✨ The St. Regis Mauritius
If you’re craving elegance and privacy, The St. Regis delivers. It’s one of the most refined properties on the island, with butler service and panoramic oceanfront suites.
- Colonial-style design meets modern luxury
- Fantastic location for both flights and snorkelling tours
- Ideal for luxury seekers and wellness travellers
👉 Book your stay at The St. Regis Mauritius →
🌴 Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa
This serene resort is known for its spacious suites, peaceful atmosphere, and lush surroundings. If you prefer quiet mornings and palm-shaded paths, Dinarobin is a dreamy choice.
- Overlooks the Le Morne lagoon and mountain
- Beautiful gardens and beach service
- Great for wellness retreats or relaxed getaways
👉 Explore rates at Dinarobin Beachcomber →
📅 Best Time to See the Underwater Waterfall in Mauritius
Timing is everything when it comes to spotting the underwater waterfall clearly. Weather, light, and sea conditions all affect visibility from the air.
Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip at the right time:
☀️ Best Season: May to October
This is Mauritius’ dry season, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and lower humidity. The ocean is calmer, and there’s less chance of cloud cover during flights.
- Ideal for scenic flights
- Comfortable weather for tours and beach days
- Peak visibility of the illusion
🌧️ Avoid: January to March
This is the cyclone season, with frequent rain and cloud build-up. Flights are often delayed or cancelled, and visibility can be poor.
- Tours may be rescheduled due to storms
- Lower chance of seeing the illusion clearly
⏰ Best Time of Day: Early Morning
Whether you’re flying by helicopter or seaplane, choose a morning flight, ideally before 10 AM. This is when the sun angle is just right, the winds are lighter, and the sea is usually at its calmest.
💡 Pro tip: Book your flight for one of your first mornings on the island. That way, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you have time to reschedule.
👉 Check available flight times and book early →
❓ FAQs: How to See the Underwater Waterfall in Mauritius
Can you see the underwater waterfall in Mauritius?
Yes, but only from above. The underwater waterfall is a visual illusion created by the movement of sand and silt over a steep drop in the seafloor near Le Morne Brabant. To see it clearly, you need to book a helicopter or seaplane tour. You may also catch a glimpse during your flight in or out of Mauritius, especially if you’re seated on the left side of the plane.
How much is the seaplane in Mauritius?
Seaplane tours in Mauritius typically cost between $170 and $300 USD per person, depending on the provider, flight duration, and departure location. Most seaplane rides last around 20–30 minutes and depart near Le Morne for the best view of the underwater waterfall. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially in peak season.
Is the underwater waterfall in Mauritius worth it?
Absolutely. Seeing the underwater waterfall illusion from the air is one of the most unique and visually striking experiences in Mauritius. The combination of the illusion itself, the vivid colours of the reef, and the surrounding landscape makes it unforgettable. Whether you choose a helicopter or a seaplane, most travellers say it’s worth every cent.
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🌺 Final Thoughts: How to See the Underwater Waterfall in Mauritius?
It’s one thing to see a beautiful place. It’s another to be reminded that nature still knows how to surprise us.
The underwater waterfall in Mauritius is a perfect example. It’s not a real waterfall. And yet, when you see it from the sky—when your brain tries to make sense of that swirling drop into the sea—it feels real. It pulls you in. It leaves a mark.
Whether you’re flying high above Le Morne or floating just off the coast, this experience will stay with you. It’s not just about chasing a view. It’s about remembering how small and lucky we are to witness something like this.
If it’s calling to you, listen to that. Book the flight. Feel the magic. Let it move you.
👉 Ready to see the underwater waterfall? Start planning your Mauritius experience →
