Gris‑Gris cliffs and La Roche qui Pleure
A dramatic southern coastline attraction where waves crash against bare basalt cliffs producing thunderous surf and a distinctive roaring sound. Gris‑Gris is famed for its raw, wind‑swept cliffs with no protective reef, while nearby La Roche qui Pleure ("The Weeping Rock") is a sculpted rock face where seawater spouts and trickles, resembling tears. The site is popular for sightseeing, photography and short coastal walks.
Location
Gris‑Gris Cliffs & La Roche qui Pleure, Souillac, Mauritius
Duration
30 minutes — 2 hours (short visit or combined with nearby attractions for a half‑day)
Best Time to Visit
May — October (cooler, drier months). Best times of day: early morning for softer light and calmer conditions, late afternoon for dramatic light and sunsets. Avoid rough seas and cyclone season (November — April) for safety.
Pricing
Free public access. Optional guided tours or transfers typically cost between €10–€40 depending on duration and pickup location. Street parking is free but limited; taxis or rental cars recommended.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Raw basalt cliffs with waves crashing directly onto shore (no protective reef)
Dramatic surf and roar — Gris‑Gris gets its name from the rumbling sound of the sea
La Roche qui Pleure: carved rock face with water seeping and spurting like tears
Excellent photo opportunities at sunrise/sunset
Short coastal walks and viewpoints with interpretive signs
Easy access from Souillac village; combine with Rivière des Anguilles or La Vanille Nature Park excursions
Itinerary
Park near the official viewpoint and follow the walking path to the main Gris‑Gris lookout.
Allow a few minutes to walk from parking to the cliff edge; stay behind any safety barriers.
Take in the raw coastal vistas, listen to the surf and photograph the waves hitting the basalt cliffs.
Use a wide lens for landscape shots and a fast shutter to freeze splashes; watch footing on uneven ground.
Walk along the coastline toward the sculpted rock face where seawater trickles and sprays.
Best observed when waves are active — the ‘weeping’ effect is more pronounced during higher swell.
Enjoy a short walk along the coast or a small picnic at a safe distance from the cliff edge.
Bring water, sun protection and pack out any rubbish.
Combine the visit with nearby attractions in Souillac such as local restaurants, the church, or a drive to neighbouring coves.
Local guides can add cultural and geological context for a small fee.
Safety Requirements
Stay behind railings and marked barriers; cliff edges are unstable.
Do not swim — there is no reef and strong currents can be deadly.
Avoid visiting during storms, strong onshore winds or cyclone alerts.
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for uneven and sometimes slippery rock.
Supervise children at all times; there are steep drops and no lifeguards.
Tips
Bring a windproof jacket — it can be very gusty on the cliffs.
Use binoculars for sea birds and distant views of the southern coast.
Carry water and sunscreen; there is limited shade at the viewpoint.
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.
Combine with a visit to nearby attractions (La Vanille Crocodile Park, Rochester Falls) to make a half‑day itinerary.
Respect local signage and avoid climbing down the cliff face — dangerous and illegal in some places.
