Trou Moutou

Overview

Trou Moutou is situated along the south coast of Mauritius, a region celebrated for its wilder, less-visited dive sites compared to the more commercialised northern shores. The name itself evokes the rugged character of this coastline, and beneath the surface, the site lives up to its mystique. Divers here can expect a landscape shaped by volcanic rock, coral outcroppings, and sandy channels that weave between dramatic underwater ridges. The south coast is less frequented by mass tourism, which means the reefs here tend to be in excellent condition and the underwater atmosphere is more serene and natural.

The dive site is accessible by boat from nearby southern coastal towns such as Souillac or Le Bouchon, with local dive operators offering guided excursions. Because of the slightly exposed nature of the south coast, conditions can vary, and dives are often timed to take advantage of calmer windows. This relative remoteness adds to the sense of adventure that makes Trou Moutou special.

Marine Life

The marine life at Trou Moutou is one of its greatest attractions. The site is home to a diverse array of reef species typical of Mauritius's southern waters, enriched by the nutrient upwelling that the south coast's exposure to open ocean can bring.

• Reef Fish: Expect to encounter parrotfish, wrasse, surgeonfish, and snappers congregating around the coral formations. Trumpetfish and lionfish are also frequently spotted lurking in crevices.
• Large Pelagics: The deeper, more open sections of the site occasionally attract larger visitors including trevally, barracuda, and even reef sharks patrolling the outer edges.
• Invertebrates: The rocky substrate is richly decorated with sea fans, sponges, and nudibranchs — a paradise for macro photographers.
• Sea Turtles: Green and hawksbill turtles are sometimes spotted resting on the coral or gliding through the water column — a truly magical sight on any dive.
• Moray Eels: Several species of moray eel make their home in the nooks and overhangs of the volcanic rock, often peering out with characteristic curiosity.

Dive Conditions

Trou Moutou's position on the south coast of Mauritius means conditions are more dynamic than at sheltered lagoon sites. Visibility is generally good, ranging from 15 to 25 metres on calm days, though it can be reduced after heavy swells stir up sediment. Water temperature hovers between 23°C in the cooler austral winter months (June–August) and up to 28°C in summer (December–February).

Currents can be moderate to strong depending on tides and season, which can make the dive more exciting but also demands a degree of experience. The site is best suited to intermediate and advanced divers who are comfortable handling mild to moderate current and have good buoyancy control to protect the delicate coral formations.

Best Season

The optimal time to dive Trou Moutou is during the austral summer, from October through to April, when winds are lighter and the south coast is more accessible. January and February can bring cyclonic weather, so always check conditions with your local dive operator. The cooler winter months from June to August see the south coast affected by stronger south-easterly trade winds, which can limit boat departures but bring exceptional water clarity on calmer days. October, November, March, and April are often considered the sweet spot — warm water, good visibility, and manageable seas.

Diving Tips

• Always dive with a local operator familiar with south coast conditions — tides and currents can change quickly.
• Bring a surface marker buoy (SMB) as the site is in a more open-water environment where boat traffic awareness is important.
• A 3mm wetsuit suffices in summer; consider a 5mm in the cooler winter months.
• Arrive early in the morning — conditions on the south coast are typically calmest before midday.
• Macro photographers will love the invertebrate life; bring a good torch to illuminate crevices and overhangs.
• Respect the reef — avoid touching coral formations, as the south coast reefs are less visited and in wonderful condition.