Wild Southern 18km

If you’re looking to add an adrenaline rush to your Mauritius trip, the Wild Southern 18km quad bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s rugged beauty. This tour promises a blend of excitement, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences, all wrapped into a manageable 1 hour 40 minutes to 2-hour adventure.

What we love most about this tour is the knowledgeable guides, who truly enrich the experience with their local insights. The scenic stops at Rochester Falls, Gris-Gris cliffs, and other landmarks are genuinely breathtaking, making every moment memorable. Plus, the small group size ensures you’ll get plenty of attention and personalized tips.

A potential consideration? The tour is on dirt roads and rocky tracks, which can be quite dusty and bumpy—so be prepared for a bit of an adventure that’s a little gritty. This activity suits thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Mauritius from a unique, off-the-beaten-path perspective.

This experience is perfect for those who want a fun, active way to encounter Mauritius’s natural beauty without spending the day driving around. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just after some unforgettable scenery, this tour offers a good balance of excitement and authenticity.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: More personalized attention from guides.
• Stunning Scenery: Scenic stops at Rochester Falls, Gris-Gris cliffs, and more.
• All Equipment Provided: Helmets, dust caps, and ATVs are included.
• Flexible Timing: Two tour times to fit your schedule.
• Authentic Experience: Off-road trails and local landmarks.
• Price vs. Value: Competitive pricing considering the scenic stops and guide expertise.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Big Foot Adventure meeting point in Rivière des Anguilles. After a brief safety briefing and instructions, you’ll hop on your ATV—whether as a driver or passenger (children from 6 years old can ride as passengers, and from 16 with parental approval).

The first stop is the spectacular Rochester Falls, which is described as a “must-visit” in Mauritius. The falls are known for their unique, smooth boulders and serene atmosphere, perfect for a quick photo or just soaking in the view. Reviewers often mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot is; one said, “The waterfall was okay, but the drive through sugar cane fields and scenic stops made it worth it.”

From there, the tour continues along rocky tracks and dirt roads that wind through sugar cane plantations, offering ample opportunities to enjoy the island’s natural scenery. As one reviewer put it, “The biking was very rocky, which kept the speed down, but it added to the adventure.”

Scenic Stops and Landmarks

• Rochester Falls: A highlight, with water cascading over smooth rocks. Many reviewers describe it as “incredible” and “a great photo spot.”
• Gris-Gris Cliffs: The tour offers a magnificent view of these dramatic cliffs, with some describing it as “breathtaking.” The cliffs are a striking natural feature, perfect for taking in the raw power of nature.
• La Roche Qui Pleure: Though not detailed extensively, it’s another scenic stop that provides a moment of awe, especially for those interested in geology and coastal views.

The Guide and Equipment

Local guides like Rodric, Yannick, and Action** receive high praise for their friendliness, safety-consciousness, and local knowledge. Several reviews mention how guides went “above and beyond,” not only ensuring safety but also sharing interesting facts about the area. For example, one reviewer appreciated that their guide took them to “hidden waterfalls and secret spots,” adding a personalized touch to the trip.

All necessary safety equipment—helmets and dust caps—is provided, which adds peace of mind, especially on rocky terrain. The quads are described as new and well-maintained, contributing to a sense of safety and comfort.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts roughly 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity. The small group size—maximum of 4 travelers—means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and guides can tailor their instructions and commentary to your pace and interests.

Cost and Value

Priced at $128.28 per person, this tour offers good value considering the scenic stops, guide expertise, and equipment included. It’s an activity that balances thrill with sightseeing—more than just a bumpy ride, it’s an immersion into the island’s landscapes. Several reviewers highlighted that the experience exceeded their expectations, especially given the well-maintained quads and scenic diversity.

The Ride and the Terrain

The off-road trails are a major part of the appeal but also a potential challenge. One reviewer noted that the tracks are “rocky and kept the speed down to 20kph,” which might be disappointing for adrenaline junkies expecting high speeds. However, many appreciated the adventurous terrain, as it brought a real sense of discovery.

Expect a mix of sugar cane fields, river crossings, and coastal views. The tracks are not overly technical, making it suitable for most beginners and intermediate riders, but the rocky terrain does demand some careful maneuvering.

What You Should Know About the Experience

• Safety & Instructions: Prior instructions are detailed and clear, so first-timers or those nervous about riding are reassured.
• Photography: Several reviewers expressed a wish for more photos or videos during the tour. While guides occasionally take pictures, it’s advisable to bring your own camera or phone with a secure strap.
• Weather Dependence: The activity is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling, with full refunds offered if that happens.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This quad biking adventure is best suited for adventure lovers, families with teens, and nature enthusiasts. If you’re eager to see Mauritius’s scenic cliffs and waterfalls in a fun and active way, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also a good pick if you prefer small group experiences and personal attention from guides, who are praised for their friendliness and local insights. However, those seeking a more leisurely or heavily photographic tour might find the focus on riding and quick stops less appealing.

Concluding Thoughts

For those looking for an exciting way to see the southern landscapes of Mauritius, this tour offers a satisfying mix of thrills and scenery. The knowledgeable guides turn what could be a simple ATV ride into a richer experience, sharing insights about the landmarks and local environment.

The stops at Rochester Falls and Gris-Gris cliffs are genuinely memorable, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and admiration of the island’s natural beauty. The new, well-maintained quads and safety gear give peace of mind, making it accessible to most riders, even beginners.

While the terrain is rocky and the trip relatively short, the overall value lies in the combination of adventure, scenic diversity, and guided expertise. It’s perfect for travelers who want a fun, active, and authentic way to explore Mauritius’s southern coast.

If you’re craving a half-day of adrenaline, fresh air, and jaw-dropping views, the Wild Southern 18km quad tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but the meeting point at Big Foot Adventure is easy to find in Rivière des Anguilles.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Children from 6 years old can ride as passengers, while drivers must be at least 16 years old with parental approval.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes, especially since dusty tracks are common. Comfortable clothing and closed shoes are recommended.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours, including scenic stops and safety instructions.

Are the quads suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides provide detailed instructions, and many reviewers found the bikes easy to handle, even for first-timers.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour makes a solid pick for anyone looking to combine adventure with sightseeing in Mauritius. With a little bit of dust, a lot of scenic beauty, and guides who genuinely care, it’s a memorable way to see a different side of this island paradise.