Watch: Why Mauritius' Third-Highest Peak Is Called The Thumb Mountain

Le Pouce mountain in Mauritius is the third-highest peak, standing at a height of 812 meters. It is commonly referred to as the Thumb Mountain because of its distinct thumb-shaped peak.

Situated near the capital city of Port Louis, Le Pouce provides hikers with impressive panoramic views. m this vantage point. Visitors can enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of Mauritius. The northern part of the island unfolds the beauty of northern islets like Flat Island, Round Island, and Snake Island besides a view of the capital and the western region of the island.

A recent video of the mountain is going viral on the internet. The caption of the post reads, “ Le Pouce mountain which has a height of 812 metres, is the third highest mountain in Mauritius! Better heights, better views, agreed? Located in Moka, Le Pouce meaning “The Thumb” in English was named after its thumb-shaped peak”.

Climbing Le Pouce Mountain is attainable with various starting points, such as Saint-Pierre and the Le Dauguet Nature Trail. The Saint-Pierre track, a relatively easy route, takes about an hour to reach the expansive emerald plateau, providing stunning landscape views despite occasional strong winds.

In contrast, the Le Dauguet Nature Trail, originating from Tranquebar, presents rocky tracks to the Le Pouce ridge, a journey that can extend up to 3 hours. While accidents are less likely with careful navigation, erosion, especially at the peak, necessitates extra caution during the climb.

Le Pouce remains a favoured hiking spot, known for its panoramic views of Port Louis. The trail spans approximately 4.5 kilometres, with a hiking duration ranging from 45 minutes to an hour.

Located in the extensive Moka Mountain Ranges, the longest range on the island, Le Pouce is nestled between Montagne des Signaux and Pieter Both Mountain. The mountain hosts unique plant species indigenous to the region. Enthusiasts of botany have the opportunity to witness rare plants such as Bois Dentelle (Elaeocarpus bojeri) and Cylindrocline Commersonii in the surrounding area.

Le Pouce’s also offers a scenic panorama of Port Louis, Moka, and the elevated grounds of Plain Wilhems. Hikers can descend from the summit, trekking back to the starting point in Moka while soaking in the stunning scenery along the way.