All Inclusive Full Day Tour: Chamarel Rhumrie,7-Coloured & Lunch

A Complete Guide to the All-Inclusive Full Day Tour in Mauritius

If you’re planning a visit to Mauritius and want a day packed with natural beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food, this all-inclusive full-day tour offers an excellent way to see some of the island’s most iconic spots without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets yourself. With a comfortable round-trip transfer, your own driver-guide, and visits to key attractions like the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth, Black River Gorges National Park, and the Rhumerie de Chamarel, this tour promises a balanced mix of scenic beauty and culture.

What we love about this experience includes the convenience of hotel pickup, the variety of stops that showcase Mauritius’s diverse landscapes, and the notable inclusion of a Mauritian 3-course lunch. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention a rushed schedule and lack of detailed commentary from guides, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured day and are happy to see many sights in a single trip. If you’re after a rundown with minimal planning on your part, this tour will fit the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and round-trip transfers, saving you time and effort.
• Diverse stops: From waterfalls and beaches to cultural sites and natural wonders.
• Cultural insights: Visit Grand Bassin and learn about Hindu festivals.
• Taste of Mauritius: Enjoy a delicious local 3-course vegetarian or non-veg lunch.
• Natural beauty: Marvel at the Seven Coloured Earth, waterfalls, and lush forests.
• Value: All entrance fees and tastings are included in the price.

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day package is designed to give you a well-rounded experience of Mauritius’s highlights in roughly 7 to 8 hours. The tour operates with a private group (your own party), and the itinerary is carefully curated to maximize your sightseeing time while minimizing long waits or disorganized transitions.

Starting the Day: Hotels and Early Morning Pickup

Your day begins around 8:00 am with a pickup from your hotel. The smooth private transfer sets a relaxed tone for the day, and since most travelers book this tour about 42 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a ready-made itinerary.

Visiting Grand Bassin: Hindu Culture and Spirituality

Your first stop is Grand Bassin, a sacred lake for Hindus, famous for its vibrant festivals and spiritual atmosphere. Here, you’ll learn about Hindu sacrifices and prayers, as your guide explains the significance of this spiritual site. Expect a 30-minute visit with free entry, but be prepared for a meaningful cultural moment—something reviewers say offers a window into local traditions, despite some feeling the guide’s commentary could be more detailed.

Rum Tasting at Rhumerie de Chamarel

Next, you’ll venture to the Rhumerie de Chamarel, a distillery where Mauritius’s renowned flavored rums are crafted. The visit lasts around 45 minutes, and you’ll enjoy a rum tasting session included in the tour. Travelers highlight that this part of the tour is both informative and flavorful, with the opportunity to sample several types of Mauritian rum—a real treat for those interested in local products. The factory itself is a good glimpse into island craftsmanship, with some reviewers noting it’s a highlight.

Encounter with Wildlife at Black River Gorges

After the distillery, it’s time to explore Black River Gorges National Park, a lush and sprawling natural reserve. The 20-minute stop offers a chance to see the forest scenery and encounter some of the park’s famous monkeys. One reviewer mentions seeing amazing forest views and meeting monkeys, which adds a touch of adventure. While the stay is brief, it provides a quick dose of Mauritius’ verdant landscape.

The Spectacle of the Seven Coloured Earth and Waterfalls

The highlight for many is the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, where you’ll witness the 272-foot waterfalls and the unique multicolored sands. This stop is scheduled for 45 minutes, giving ample time for photos and exploration. Here, you might also encounter a giant tortoise—a fun addition for families or animal lovers.

One reviewer describes this as an “amazing” spot perfect for Instagram photos, though some note that the schedule is tight, making it a quick visit rather than a leisurely exploration. Still, the views of the vibrant sands and cascading waterfalls are truly memorable.

Le Morne: A Historical Climb

Your next stop is Le Morne, a mountain with a somber but significant history as a refuge for escaped slaves. The 15-minute stop offers a chance to take photos of the mountain’s majestic silhouette. While it’s a brief visit, many appreciate the opportunity to see this UNESCO site and learn about its historical importance.

Rochester Falls: Relaxation and Refreshment

The next highlight is Rochester Falls, regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the south. It’s a 30-minute stop for photos, relaxing, and possibly swimming (bring your own towel). Several reviewers mention enjoying this spot as a peaceful retreat amid the hectic sightseeing, with the falls offering a perfect spot to cool down.

Gris Gris Beach: End on a Dramatic Note

The tour wraps up with a visit to Gris Gris Beach. After a delicious lunch, you’ll have some downtime to relax, take in the dramatic coastal scenery, and perhaps even snap a few last photos. The beach is known for its dangerous waters, but also its striking cliffs and surf.

Final Drop-Off and Flexibility

Depending on timing, the tour ends around 4:00-5:00 pm, with your driver guiding you back to your hotel. The itinerary is quite packed, so expect a full day of sight-seeing without much downtime.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $120 per person, this tour offers decent value considering the inclusions—entrance fees, tastings, transport, and lunch are covered.
• Duration: Expect about 7 to 8 hours, so plan your energy and footwear accordingly.
• Group Size & Guide: The tour is private, ensuring a more personalized experience. However, reviews suggest guides may vary in their English proficiency and communication style.
• Food Options: Vegetarian options are available; be sure to specify this at booking if needed.
• Weather & Cancellations: The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’re eligible for a full refund or rescheduling.
• Booking & Timing: Most travelers book around 42 days in advance, which indicates popularity but also the need to plan ahead.

Honest Insights from Past Travelers

While many praise the beautiful sights and delicious lunch, some reviews highlight disappointing experiences. Several mention that the itinerary feels rushed, with some spots being only briefly visited. A notable critique is that the guide’s commentary can be limited; one review pointed out the guide was more of a chauffeur with poor English, offering little cultural or historical information.

Another traveler expressed frustration about not seeing two of the advertised places and experiencing long hours in the car without water. These comments serve as reminders to keep expectations realistic about the pace and guide interaction.

However, reviewers who appreciated the scenic views, especially at the waterfalls and the Seven Coloured Earth, felt that the tour was a good way to cover many highlights in one day, especially if you prefer a structured, all-inclusive experience.

Who Is This Tour Ideal For?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Mauritius’s natural beauty and cultural sites without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s perfect for those who value convenience and value for money, especially since transportation, entrance fees, and lunch are included.

Travelers comfortable with a tight schedule and motivated by seeing multiple locations in a day will find this appealing. Conversely, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or detailed explanations from guides, you might find the experience a bit rushed or impersonal.

This tour also suits families or couples who enjoy photo opportunities, scenic vistas, and cultural insights, provided you’re ready for a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

In summary, this all-inclusive full-day tour offers an efficient way to explore some of Mauritius’s most captivating sights. It’s a good choice for those wanting a balanced mix of nature, culture, and local flavors without the stress of logistical planning. While some reviews highlight areas for improvement—such as guide quality and schedule flexibility—many travelers enjoy the stunning scenery and delicious lunch as highlights of their day.

If you’re after a convenient, structured, and scenic tour that hits the key spots in the south-west of Mauritius, this experience delivers solid value. Just keep in mind the fast pace and consider whether you’d prefer a more personalized or leisurely exploration.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $120 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, rum tasting at the distillery, a three-course lunch, and transportation throughout the day.

How long does the whole tour last?
Expect approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time and sightseeing at each stop.

Is there a vegetarian meal option?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available; just be sure to specify this when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, non-slippery shoes are recommended, especially for walking at outdoor sites like waterfalls and the Seven Coloured Earth.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you may have some flexibility, but the itinerary listed is the standard plan.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Are guide explanations detailed?
Feedback varies—some travelers found the guide informative, while others felt the commentary was limited, especially regarding cultural and historical context.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most of the stops are outdoor and family-friendly, but check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

In essence, this tour offers a manageable way to see the highlights of Mauritius’s south-west, combining scenic beauty with cultural insights and great food. Perfect for travelers who love a busy, well-organized day out with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic experiences.