This stunning optical illusion has become a famous landmark attracting tourists to the island of Mauritius.
Mauritius is an island nation located off the southeast coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,000 kilometers from the mainland. The island was first discovered in 975 AD by Arab explorers. Later, it was also explored by the Portuguese around 1507 to 1513.
Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, along with other islands such as Rodrigues and Réunion, a French overseas territory. After its discovery and colonization, the island underwent several phases of colonial rule by major powers such as the Dutch, French, and British.
Since gaining independence in 1968, Mauritius has continuously developed and transformed into a stunning tropical paradise. Not only does it boast pristine turquoise beaches with long stretches of white sand, but it is also a tourist haven filled with a myriad of diverse and exciting activities.
The Illusion of the ‘Underwater Waterfall’
You will find it easy to discover historical and cultural sites to visit or engage in various recreational activities, not just loitering around the beach and pools. One of the most unique sights on the island is the illusion of the ‘underwater waterfall.’
This captivating illusion can be found at the southwestern tip of the island. When viewed from above, beneath the clear water, you can see a flow of sand and mineral mud cascading down, creating the illusion of a gigantic waterfall.
This illusion can also be seen on Google Maps satellite imagery
The stunning “visual trick” can only be truly appreciated from the air. In fact, this scene can be observed on Google Maps satellite imagery.
The satellite images are equally impressive, giving the impression of a massive whirlpool forming off the coast of this paradise.
Looking at it from another angle, we can see that the sea is a beautiful palette of ocean blue, emerald green, and white. This harmonious color combination creates the magical illusion of a waterfall cascading to the ocean floor.
The key element creating this unique illusion is the sand – the intermediary color of the picture. The water currents created by the waves crashing against the island’s unique topography have caused the sand at the bottom to disperse, mimicking the appearance of a natural waterfall, creating the illusion that the waves are being suddenly pulled down. It can be said that this “illusionary waterfall” resembles an hourglass more than a typical waterfall.
Together with other scenic spots and tourist attractions on the island, this “waterfall” has significantly contributed to attracting a large number of visitors each year. In 2013 alone, it is estimated that over one million international tourists visited this small island.
Although it has been confirmed to be just an illusion, the image of the “underwater waterfall” continues to fascinate thousands of visitors to this beautiful island.
Perhaps it is because the mysteries that the ocean holds remain largely unexplored. Who knows, somewhere deep beneath the ocean, there may indeed be a gigantic waterfall existing?
