Dolphin Experience in Open Sea and South West Tour of Mauritius including Lunch

Planning a day in Mauritius that blends wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural stops sounds tempting, but finding a tour that offers genuine value without feeling rushed can be tricky. The Dolphin Experience in Open Sea and South West Tour from Eco Holidays aims to deliver just that—covering the best of Mauritius in one well-rounded day. From swimming with dolphins to exploring the island’s iconic seven-colored earth, this tour promises a mix of adventure, beauty, and local flavor.

What really makes this experience stand out are three key aspects: the chance to swim with wild dolphins, the variety of scenic and cultural stops, and the inclusive nature of the package, which covers meals, snorkeling gear, and even rum tasting. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s success hinges on weather and dolphin sightings, which can be unpredictable. Still, with a backup second boat ride if dolphins are elusive, most travelers find it a worthwhile adventure. If you’re after a full day of authentic Mauritian sights combined with marine magic, this tour is likely to resonate with you.

Key Points

• Wild dolphin encounter is the highlight, with a 60% chance to spot dolphins, and a second boat ride included if needed.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers land and sea, including Chamarel’s colorful earth, waterfalls, and sacred lakes.
• All-inclusive price includes lunch, beverages, snorkeling equipment, and rum tastings, providing great value.
• Suitable for all ages, though only those over 18 can sample rum.
• Small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Weather-dependent, with full refunds or alternate dates if canceled due to poor conditions.

Introduction: Why This Tour Could Be Your Mauritius Highlight

We love the idea of a tour that captures the essence of Mauritius in just one day. From the reviews and descriptions, it’s clear this experience offers a well-balanced mix of marine adventure, scenic beauty, and local culture. The fact that it starts early at 8:00 am, with pickups arranged, makes it a convenient option for travelers wanting to maximize their day.

Three things stand out for us: swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat, the chance to see the iconic Chamarel seven-colored earth, and the inclusive nature of the tour that minimizes extra costs. It’s also great to note that most travelers see dolphins, with a second boat ride offered free of charge if they don’t. That kind of flexibility is reassuring.

One consideration is that dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed—a reminder that wildlife encounters can be unpredictable. Still, the second boat ride is a bonus, and the overall experience promises to be memorable regardless. This tour seems best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a blend of adventure, nature, and cultural sights.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Dolphin Swimming in the Open Sea

The day kicks off with what many consider the main event: swimming with wild dolphins for about two hours. Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ professionalism and their efforts to get everyone close to the dolphins—sometimes with impressive success. One guest, Victoria, mentioned, “Starting with swimming with the dolphins and snorkelling around a coral reef. Both were fantastic.” This part of the tour is truly the centerpiece, offering a rare opportunity to observe and interact with these intelligent marine mammals in their natural environment.

The tour provider emphasizes that while most you will see dolphins, it’s not guaranteed. If they’re not spotted on the first attempt, a second boat ride is included at no extra cost, ensuring you still get your marine experience. Reviewers like ShootBB expressed delight about their encounter, stating, “A moment magique passé avec les dauphins… Je recommande ce tour !” The experience feels authentic—not a staged show—adding to its appeal.

Snorkelling and Marine Exploration

Following the dolphin swim, snorkelling equipment is provided, allowing you to explore the coral reefs surrounding the area. This offers a chance to see vibrant marine life up close, complementing the dolphin encounter. The reviews highlight that snorkeling around the reef was as much a highlight as the dolphin swim itself, with Victoria encouraging others to bring their own gear if possible for comfort and convenience.

Scenic and Cultural Stops

After the ocean adventure, the tour switches gears to lush landscapes and cultural sights. The first stop is Chamarel’s seven-colored earth, famed for its striking hues and geological wonder. Reviewers like Mathieu call it a “magnifique balade”, and note that the views are truly unique. It’s a brief but memorable visit, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll visit Black River Gorges National Park and Alexandra Falls Viewpoint—both offer spectacular vistas of Mauritius’s verdant forests and waterfalls. These stops provide a peaceful contrast to the lively marine activities and are perfect for short walks or just soaking in the scenery.

Sacred Lake and the Volcano Crater

The tour also includes Grand Bassin, a Hindu sacred lake nestled within lush greenery, and Trou aux Cerf, a dormant volcanic crater offering panoramic views of the island. Both sites add cultural depth to the day, and travelers have appreciated the chance to learn about local beliefs and geology in one trip.

Rhum Tasting and Lunch

A visit to the rhum factory is included, where you can sample different varieties and enjoy a taste of local craftsmanship. Reviewers like Edgar mention, “La comida y bebidas también. Lo pasamos en grande,” highlighting the enjoyable rum tasting experience. Beverages are offered during lunch, which is part of the all-inclusive package, and the meal features local flavors—vegetarian options are available if requested.

Final Stops: Trou aux Cerf and Grand Bassin

The day wraps up with additional scenic viewpoints and a peaceful visit to the sacred lake, providing a spiritual and natural conclusion to the tour.

What Does the Tour Price Cover? Is It Good Value?

At $154.71 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. Included in this price are hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch with beverages, a second dolphin boat ride if needed, snorkelling equipment, and rum tasting. The reviews consistently praise the value for money, especially considering the number of stops and activities packed into 8 hours.

For example, Victoria appreciated that the tour “started with swimming with dolphins and snorkelling around a coral reef,” emphasizing how much was packed into the day. Given that the tour also includes entrance fees to sites like Chamarel and transportation, it’s a practical way to see a broad swath of Mauritius without the hassle of organizing everything separately.

The Group Size and Comfort

The tour is kept small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more personal experience. Many reviewers noted that guides like Vik and Rajan were knowledgeable and attentive, making everyone feel well cared for. Small groups also mean less waiting and more time to enjoy each stop.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Timing: The tour departs at 8:00 am, with pickup starting about two hours earlier. This early start allows enough time to enjoy each site comfortably.
• Duration: Expect around 8 hours of activity, including travel and sightseeing.
• Age Restrictions: Children must be accompanied by an adult; only those 18 and older can partake in rum tasting.
• Weather Considerations: As with any outdoor marine activity, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• Booking: Most travelers book at least a week in advance, indicating high demand. The tour requires a minimum of 2 people per booking.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a prime pick for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and culture. Families with children will enjoy the safe and interactive marine activities, while couples and solo travelers may appreciate the intimate group setting and opportunities for memorable photos.

If you’re someone eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat, explore Mauritius’s geological wonders, and sample local rums—all in one day—this tour offers excellent value. The combination of guided stops, logistical convenience, and inclusive pricing makes it an appealing choice for those wanting a full, authentic taste of Mauritius.

However, keep in mind that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, and weather can impact the experience. But with the second boat ride included and a variety of scenic stops, most travelers leave with a sense of having experienced the best of what the island has to offer.

FAQs

Is the dolphin encounter guaranteed?
No, dolphin sightings depend on the day’s conditions. If they aren’t seen on the initial ride, a second boat ride is included for free.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, beverages, snorkeling equipment, and rum tasting. Entrance fees for sites like Chamarel are not included.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult. Only those over 18 can sample the rum.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps your own snorkelling gear if you prefer. The tour provides snorkelling equipment, but personal gear can be more comfortable.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 8 days ahead, especially during busy seasons, to secure their spot.

Final Verdict

For travelers seeking a full day of adventure and cultural sights in Mauritius, this tour offers a well-rounded package. The opportunity to swim with wild dolphins remains the main draw, but the scenic stops and local tastings add layers of richness. With small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive pricing, it’s a practical choice that balances fun with value.

Ideal for those who want a memorable, authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Just be prepared for the unpredictability of wildlife encounters and weather, which are part of the true outdoor adventure. Ultimately, this tour provides a fantastic way to connect with Mauritius’s natural beauty and vibrant culture—all in one day.