Mauritius Guided South tour (Private)

Thinking about exploring Mauritius beyond its beaches? This private south tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the island’s volcanic landscapes, spiritual sites, and lush forests—all with the comfort of personalized transportation. While it’s priced at just under $120 for up to four people, the real value lies in the rich, diverse sights you’ll experience during a full day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll enjoy the flexibility and intimacy of a private guide—no rushing or crowded groups. Second, the stops are thoughtfully curated to showcase Mauritius’s natural beauty and cultural essence. Third, the tour is packed with scenic vistas and memorable photo ops—think volcanic craters, waterfalls, and multicolored earth. The main caveat? It’s a quite full itinerary, so if you’re looking for a slow, relaxed day, this might feel a bit fast-paced.

This experience suits travelers who crave an authentic, in-depth look at Mauritius’s southern landscapes, especially those keen on nature, geology, and cultural heritage. It’s ideal for visitors who appreciate guided tours that offer both information and scenic beauty, all while maintaining good value for money.

• Private, personalized experience with driver/guide ensuring flexibility.
• Diverse stops: volcano crater, Hindu temple, waterfalls, and colorful earth formations.
• Excellent value, especially for small groups up to four people.
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles for a full-day adventure.
• Authentic insights from knowledgeable guides, with reviews praising their friendliness and patience.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation and options for a full refund if plans change.

Starting Point: Convenience and Comfort

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it simple to start your day without logistical worries. This private setup means your group can go at your own pace, with the driver serving as your guide, providing insights about each stop.

First Stop: Trou aux Cerfs – The Dormant Volcano

Your journey begins at Trou aux Cerfs, a well-loved spot among both locals and visitors. Sitting at around 605 meters above sea level, this extinct volcano offers a stunning view of the crater, which measures about 350 meters in diameter and roughly 100 meters deep. The lush vegetation surrounding the crater makes for a peaceful, scenic setting, with some reviewers noting the presence of indigenous plants and towering green pines.

Expect about 30 minutes here. Besides the breathtaking landscape, it’s a fantastic place for photos and to understand the island’s volcanic history. One reviewer, Michael E., appreciated the guide’s knowledge, though he mentioned feeling a bit rushed through the tourist spots. Still, the crater’s panoramic views make it worth the visit.

Next Stop: Grand Bassin – The Sacred Lake

A short drive takes you to Grand Bassin (also called Ganga Talao), a crater lake set high in the mountains. This site is of major spiritual significance for Hindus in Mauritius, and the towering 33-meter statue of Lord Shiva is a striking feature. Visitors often marvel at the size and peaceful expression of the statue, which is the highest in the country.

You’ll have about an hour here to soak in the atmosphere, see the temples and shrines honoring various deities, and perhaps observe pilgrims paying their respects. The setting, surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views, adds a sense of serenity that many find deeply moving. Reviewers like Dominique L. describe the experience as “worth it,” citing the guide’s friendliness and the opportunity to feed monkeys, which adds a fun, interactive element.

Reservoir and Scenic Drives: Nature’s Hidden Gems

Following this, the tour includes a visit to Mare aux Vacoas, the largest reservoir on the island. While it’s a more understated stop, it offers a tranquil view of the water against the backdrop of forested hills—an ideal spot for a few relaxed moments and some photos.

The drive to Black River Gorges National Park is equally scenic, especially along the winding roads that cut through dense forests. The Gorge Viewpoint rewards you with sweeping panoramas of rolling hills, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls—an ideal spot to appreciate the lush landscape. Expect about 30 minutes here, and be prepared for the possibility of encountering local monkeys, as some reviewers have noted.

Alexandra Waterfall: Nature’s Movie-Set

One of the highlights according to many travelers is Alexandra Falls. Tucked away in the rainforest, this waterfall is a postcard-worthy scene—surrounded by greenery, with sounds of water and birdlife creating a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers who enjoy quiet, untouched scenery. The site is accessible after a short walk through the jungle, and the experience of standing near the falls feels like being in a nature documentary.

Scenic Route to Bassin Blanc

The journey to Bassin Blanc features a scenic drive along Mauritius’s lush roads, taking you through thick forests and offering multiple photo opportunities. The route includes an impressive 180-degree bend, making it a memorable part of the drive. While not a stop on the official itinerary, the landscape makes for a beautiful backdrop, and travelers have noted the tranquility of traveling through such pristine scenery.

Final Stop: La Vallée des Couleurs and the 23 Colored Earth

Your tour wraps up at La Vallée des Couleurs, a site renowned for its multi-hued earth formations. The 23-colored earth is a natural spectacle, with vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, and green creating a striking landscape. Besides the geological marvel, the park offers various activities, from walks to spotting indigenous flora and fauna. The reviews commend this stop for its natural beauty and variety of local activities, making it a fitting finale to a day filled with nature.

Duration and Transport

With about 7 hours from start to finish, this tour packs in a lot without feeling overly rushed—though it’s a full day. The use of air-conditioned private transport ensures comfort, especially on Mauritius’s warm days. Since it’s a private tour, your group’s pace can be adjusted, and the driver acts as both guide and chauffeur.

Cost and Value

At around $116.86 per group, the price is quite reasonable considering the personalized service and the number of attractions visited. The tour covers multiple key sights, many of which are free or have minimal entrance fees, giving you good value for money. Notably, the guide’s local knowledge and friendly approach are frequently praised, adding a layer of authenticity and personal touch often missing in larger group tours.

Flexibility and Booking

Most travelers book this experience about a month in advance, indicating good planning ahead. The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing peace of mind should your plans change.

Not Included

Lunch isn’t included, but the driver can recommend nearby restaurants. This gives you flexibility to choose a spot that suits your taste and budget, whether you want a quick snack or a sit-down meal.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers eager to explore Mauritius beyond the beaches and resorts. It’s perfect if you want a personalized experience that combines scenic drives, impressive geological sites, and cultural landmarks. Those interested in photography will appreciate the diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to multi-colored earth.

It also suits travelers who value knowledgeable guides and a relaxed, hassle-free day. Given the 7-hour duration, it’s best for those prepared for a full day of sightseeing rather than a leisurely, spontaneous exploration.

For anyone wanting a comprehensive southern Mauritius experience without the chaos of large tours, this private guided trip offers excellent value. It combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and scenic drives in a well-organized package. The inclusion of diverse stops, from volcanic craters to sacred lakes and waterfalls, ensures you see a broad cross-section of the island’s natural and cultural landscape.

The reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, which can make or break a tour. The fact that you’re traveling in a private vehicle means you can customize your experience slightly and avoid the crowds. If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and informative day in Mauritius, this tour could be a perfect choice.

Is the tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour isn’t overly strenuous, but consider individual mobility levels since some stops involve walking or short hikes.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 minutes at volcanic craters and waterfalls to around an hour at Grand Bassin, allowing enough time for photos and exploration.

Are entrance fees included?
Most attractions are free to enter, such as Trou aux Cerfs and Grand Bassin, but La Vallée des Couleurs does not include admission in the price.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your driver/guide is likely flexible, but any specific changes should be discussed upon booking.

What language does the guide speak?
While not explicitly stated, guides in Mauritius typically speak English and often other languages, ensuring clear communication.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but your guide can recommend local restaurants near the stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and camera gear are recommended for the outdoor stops.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 29 days ahead, so plan early to secure your preferred date.

What is the weather like?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely—it offers a full day of diverse, scenic, and cultural sights at a reasonable price, with the added bonus of a private guide.

In summary, this private guided tour of south Mauritius offers a beautifully curated day out that balances scenery, culture, and comfort. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a meaningful, flexible, and picturesque experience on the island.