If you’re dreaming of exploring Mauritius beyond its beaches, a full-day sightseeing tour combined with a horse riding experience offers a fantastic way to see the island’s varied landscapes and cultural landmarks. While we haven’t personally trotted through the terrain, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a memorable and well-rounded adventure.
What we love about this tour is how it packs some of the most iconic sights into just one day — from the sweeping views of Trou aux Cerfs crater to the vibrant Seven Colored Earths. The knowledgeable guides seem to make all the difference, adding local insights and helpful tips that elevate the experience. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious set menu lunch and rum tasting adds a taste of Mauritian flavor to the day.
The only point to consider is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and sightseeing, so travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. It’s a full day, so those seeking a more relaxed pace might want to plan accordingly. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who love a mix of nature, culture, and a dash of adventure.
Key Points
- Diverse Highlights: Combines cultural, natural, and scenic attractions in one day.
- Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Shan are praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge.
- Authentic Experiences: Includes a horse riding segment along with visits to iconic landmarks.
- Value for Money: At $103, the tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of southern Mauritius.
- Group Size: Keeps to small groups (max 15), ensuring a more personal experience.
- Convenience: Mobile tickets and optional transfers make planning easier.
Full Review of the South Mauritius Tour
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What to Expect from the Itinerary
This tour begins at Haras du Morne, the starting point for a day packed with sightseeing and cultural insights. The first stop is at Le Morne Cultural Landscape, a rugged mountain with a dark history as a refuge for runaway slaves. This site offers dramatic views and a powerful reminder of the island’s past. According to reviews, visitors appreciate the meaningful storytelling about the mountain’s significance, making it more than just a scenic backdrop.
Next, visitors typically head to the Trou aux Cerfs crater — a dormant volcano that offers panoramic views over Curepipe and the surrounding areas. We loved the way this spot combines natural beauty with a sense of quiet awe, perfect for photo opportunities.
The Seven Colored Earths are a must-see with their vibrant, multi-hued sand dunes. Reviewing travelers mention the striking colors and unusual landscape, which makes it a highlight despite the brief stop. It’s an ideal place for wandering and taking pictures, and many appreciate the chance to learn about the geology behind it.
After a morning of sightseeing, the group usually heads to Black River Gorges National Park. Here, you’ll find lush greenery, impressive waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Reviewers often note that the park’s natural beauty is a peaceful contrast to the more crowded tourist spots, providing a real sense of escape into nature.
The tour wraps up at Grand Bassin, a sacred Hindu site with a tranquil lake and impressive statues. Visitors find it a spiritually enriching ending, with some mentioning how the peaceful atmosphere helps them reflect on the island’s cultural diversity.
The Horse Riding Experience by Haras du Morne
Most tours include a horse riding segment at Haras du Morne, which is a highlight for many. The experience is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it offers a gentle ride that allows you to enjoy the scenery while getting a taste of equestrian life. Reviewers like Diana appreciate the opportunity to explore the countryside on horseback, describing it as a “wonderful” addition that enriches the day.
The riding experience is complemented by the scenic surroundings of the estate, and guides like Shan are praised for their helpfulness, offering tips and photography insights. It’s a relaxed yet engaging ride that allows you to connect with the landscape in a unique way.
Lunch and Rum Tasting
A key part of the tour is the included set menu lunch at Chamerel Rhumerie, which reviewers like Cuneyt find “nearly perfect.” The meal offers a taste of local cuisine, providing a satisfying break after a morning of sightseeing.
Following lunch, many tours feature a rum tasting session, showcasing some of Mauritius’ famous distilling traditions. This adds a fun, flavorful element to the experience and helps travelers appreciate the island’s craftsmanship.
Practical Details and Group Size
At $103 per person, the tour offers good value considering the range of sites visited and activities included. It’s booked about 45 days in advance on average, reflecting its popularity. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures you receive personalized attention from guides, making it easier to ask questions and get local insights.
Transportation is included if you opt for transfers, which makes logistics straightforward. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, but with the full-day itinerary, it’s a full and fulfilling experience.
What Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major plus. Shan, in particular, is singled out for his helpfulness and photography tips, which many treasure as part of their memories. The stunning vistas, especially from Trou aux Cerfs and Le Morne, receive praise for their breathtaking views.
Some minor downsides include the need for moderate physical fitness and the fact that the day can feel rushed, especially if weather disrupts plans (as one reviewer noted during a cyclone). Nevertheless, most find that the variety of sites and experiences outweighs these considerations.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural sites, natural beauty, and light adventure. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history, scenic landscapes, and a touch of local flavor through lunch and rum tasting. The small group dynamic and expert guides make it appealing for travelers seeking an intimate and informative day out.
If you’re not keen on long walks or strenuous activities, this tour’s moderate pace and manageable physical demands make it accessible. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore Mauritius beyond the usual beaches.
Final Thoughts
This full-day Mauritius tour offers a carefully curated experience that highlights the island’s natural wonders and cultural landmarks in one fell swoop. The inclusion of the horse riding segment at Haras du Morne provides a unique way to connect with the landscape, making it more than just sightseeing.
The value is clear when you consider the diverse stops, delicious lunch, and insightful guides like Shan. While the pace might be a bit full for some, most will find the day’s highlights more than worth it — especially those who love to learn and discover new facets of a destination.
For travelers wanting a well-rounded, authentic day in Mauritius with a touch of adventure, this tour delivers on many levels. Just pack comfortable shoes, a camera, and an appetite for discovery.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $103 covers sightseeing at key landmarks, the horse riding experience, a set menu lunch, and rum tasting, depending on the specific day’s itinerary.
How long does the tour last?
The activity is approximately 3 hours, but since it’s a full-day experience, expect the total outing to be a full day of exploring.
Is transportation included?
Transfers are available if you purchase transfer options, simplifying logistics and ensuring you start and end at the designated meeting point.
What should I wear for the horse riding?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities is recommended. Since riders have a moderate fitness level, bringing hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is advised.
Can children join this tour?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, but specific age restrictions aren’t provided. It’s best to check with the provider if you have young children or specific needs.
Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and standing, especially at sites like Trou aux Cerfs and Le Morne, so travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.
How do I book this tour?
You can book through the provider’s website or via authorized tour operators like Viator. It’s recommended to reserve at least a few weeks in advance due to its popularity.
To sum it up, this Mauritius tour offers a wonderful way to see the island’s highlights in a compact, engaging package. Combining scenic views, cultural insights, and a fun horse ride, it caters well to curious travelers eager for a full and authentic day out.