Full day visit to Chamarel ,Curious Corner & Takamaka with Lunch

Discover the Best of Mauritius in a Day: A Detailed Review of the Full Day Tour to Chamarel, Curious Corner & Takamaka

If you’re planning a day trip in Mauritius, this full-day tour promises a well-rounded experience filled with stunning scenery, fascinating attractions, and a taste of local culture. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what makes it stand out, and it seems perfect for travelers seeking an efficient way to see some iconic sights with ease and comfort.

What I love about this adventure is the comprehensive itinerary that combines natural beauty with fun activities, the inclusion of local wine tasting, and the guides’ reputation for being knowledgeable and personable. The value for money appears strong, especially considering all entry fees, meals, and experiences are included. However, travelers should be aware that the 7-hour duration means a fairly packed schedule, so expect to spend most of the day on the move.

This tour is ideal for those who want a flexible, all-in-one experience without worrying about logistics. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore a mix of scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and cultural sites will find it particularly appealing. Those looking for a relaxed, unhurried day might want to consider the pace, but overall it offers great value and a taste of Mauritius’s highlights.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Entry fees, guided service, lunch, and wine tasting are included, making it straightforward and stress-free.
• Diverse Highlights: From volcanic craters to colorful earth, waterfalls, and sacred sites, the tour covers a broad spectrum of natural and cultural sights.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Hans and Kavish are praised for their knowledge, adding depth to the experience.
• Beautiful Views & Photo Opportunities: Expect stunning vistas at Trou aux Cerfs, Chamarel, and viewpoints over the south-west coast.
• Well-Paced but Busy Day: With nearly 8 hours of sightseeing, the itinerary is full but designed for those eager to maximize their day.
• Value for Money: The price includes almost everything, making it a cost-effective way to see many highlights.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with Trou aux Cerfs

The tour kicks off with a visit to Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano on the central plateau. Standing at the highest point, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the island. This spot is famed for its stunning vistas and photographic potential. Reviewers note that Hans, our guide, provided insightful commentary about the volcanic origin of the island, which adds contextual depth to the visit. Expect a quick 15-minute stop, perfect for snapping photos and taking in the sweeping landscape.

Sampling Mauritian Wine at Takamaka Boutique Winery

Next, the itinerary takes you to Takamaka Boutique Winery, where you get to taste the island’s renowned lychee wine. This part of the tour is a real highlight, especially if you’re a wine enthusiast or curious about local flavors. With tickets included, you’ll enjoy a relaxed hour exploring the winery, learning about the production process, and sampling some unique Mauritian wines. One reviewer remarked, “The wine tasting was fantastic, and the guides made it fun and informative,” making this stop both educational and delicious.

Exploring the Sacred Ganga Talao Lake

A visit to Ganga Talao provides a serene break from the tour’s more active stops. Known for its large Shiva statues and spiritual significance, this site is popular among visitors seeking peace and reflection. As one reviewer explained, “It’s packed with positive energy, and the sacred ambiance makes it a must-visit.” You’ll spend about 35 minutes here, enough to absorb the spiritual atmosphere and take some memorable photos.

Discovering Alexandra Falls and Gorges Viewpoint

Then, we move to Alexandra Falls, a scenic spot with lush surroundings and the opportunity for a brief exploration of Mauritius’s natural beauty. The waterfall itself is breathtaking, and the park offers a peaceful respite. Close by, the Gorges Viewpoint offers a stunning outlook over the Black River Gorges, with views that are often described as “insanely green and breathtaking.” Here, you can browse some local crafts at the small fair, adding a touch of local culture.

Marveling at Chamarel’s Scenic Spots

The heart of the trip is Chamarel, with multiple stops highlighting its natural marvels. The viewpoint offers fantastic vistas of Ile aux Benitier, perfect for photos. The Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is a highlight, formed from volcanic minerals, creating a kaleidoscope of colors. Visitors often find it mesmerizing — one reviewer called it “mind-blowing,” and it’s easy to see why. Spend about 45 minutes wandering among the vibrant dunes, marveling at the natural wonder.

The Chamarel Waterfalls then provide a perfect photo backdrop with its impressive cascade, often cited as the most scenic waterfall in Mauritius. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

The Fun of Curious Corner

No trip to Chamarel would be complete without a visit to the Curious Corner park. Known for its illusions, magic tricks, and mind-bending displays, this place promises a lot of fun and surprises. Reviewers highlight the interactive nature of the park, with one noting: “It’s full of magic and illusions that leave you speechless.” This stop is about an hour long, offering entertainment and a chance for some playful photos.

Scenic Drive and Final Views

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive through Mauritius’s lush forests and reservoirs, giving travelers a chance to appreciate the island’s greenery and unspoiled landscapes. The entire route showcases the island’s natural beauty from a comfortable vantage point.

Practical Considerations

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. It’s operated as a private experience, meaning only your group participates, adding a personalized touch. The guides, like Hans and Kavish, are well-rated, often described as friendly and knowledgeable.

Duration and Pacing

At 7 hours and 45 minutes, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing. While busy, it’s designed to cover a lot without feeling rushed. However, travelers should be prepared for a packed schedule and potentially long days, especially if you prefer more leisure time at each stop.

Cost and Value

At roughly $138 per person, the price covers almost everything — entry fees, lunch, wine tasting, and guided service. Considering the number of attractions visited, this is a good value for a full-day, all-inclusive experience. The inclusion of a three-course lunch with soft drinks adds to the value, providing a break and a chance to enjoy local cuisine.

Reviews and Feedback

Most reviews are positive, praising the knowledgeable guides, particularly Hans for his insights into Mauritian culture and geology. The views and attractions—especially the Seven Coloured Earth and waterfalls—are consistently described as stunning. The lunch was positively mentioned as being “lovely,” adding a nice touch to the day.

However, one reviewer pointed out potential issues with additional charges for solo travelers, so it’s wise to clarify any extra costs beforehand. The consensus is that this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day in Mauritius.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day without the hassle of planning every stop. It suits adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and photography lovers alike. Families with kids, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive yet relaxed experience will find it very appealing.

If you’re after a blend of natural beauty, culture, and fun attractions, this tour delivers. But if your schedule allows more flexibility or prefers more leisurely exploration, you might want to customize your own day.

The Sum Up

This full-day Mauritius tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and fun attractions all in one package. The inclusion of guided commentary, all entry fees, and a delicious lunch makes it a great value for travelers eager to see the highlights without stress.

The variety of stops ensures that everyone will find something to love — whether it’s the vibrant colours of Chamarel’s earth, the peaceful spirituality of Ganga Talao, or the playful illusions of Curious Corner. The guides are an added bonus, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

While it’s a fairly full day, those who enjoy a busy itinerary and want to cover many sights will find it ideal. It’s especially suited to travelers who prefer organized, all-inclusive tours that handle the logistics while delivering authentic, memorable experiences.

If you’re looking for a balanced, engaging way to explore Mauritius’s highlights with good value and expert guidance, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all entry fees, guided services, lunch with soft drinks, and wine tasting at Takamaka. Transportation is also included with pickup and drop-off.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, packed with sightseeing and activities.

Is it suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the variety of attractions makes it suitable for families, especially those interested in natural scenery, cultural sites, and fun parks.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Most reviews mention that all costs are included, but be aware that additional charges might apply for solo travelers or special requests. Clarify with the provider beforehand.

What guides can I expect?
Guides like Hans, Kavish, and Mr. Jean Kevin are known for their friendly, informative approach, adding value through their local knowledge and engaging commentary.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a private, all-inclusive tour, so it’s designed for your group only. While the itinerary is fixed, you may discuss special interests or needs with the provider.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and some water. The stops involve walking and photography, so be prepared for outdoor activities.

This tour offers a fantastic way to glimpse the best of Mauritius with minimal hassle and maximum variety, perfect for those eager to explore the island’s natural and cultural treasures in just one day.