Private Full Day Tour in Mauritius

Exploring Mauritius’ Natural Beauty: A Detailed Look at the Private Full Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of soaking in the lush landscapes and striking sights of Mauritius, this private full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s most iconic natural attractions. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it’s a journey packed with scenic vistas and memorable moments—ideal for those who love nature and want an authentic experience.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the stunning variety of stops—from volcanic craters to vibrant beaches—means you’ll see a broad spectrum of what Mauritius has to offer. Second, the flexible private transport and guide give you the chance to explore at your own pace, without the hustle of larger groups. Third, the free admission to several key sites helps keep costs down, making this a good value for the full-day experience.

That said, one potential drawback is that despite being marketed as a guided tour, some travelers have noted that the experience feels more like a taxi service than a traditional guided adventure. If you’re expecting a dedicated guide explaining every detail, you might be disappointed. It’s a flexible option for those who prefer a personalized, private trip with the option for some self-guided exploration.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Mauritius’ natural highlights without the fuss of large-group tours. Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting a relaxed yet informative day should find this experience quite appealing.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Several iconic spots like Trou aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin, Alexandra Falls, and Chamarel are included.
• Cost-Effective: The $160 fee covers transportation and a guide in multiple languages, with some entrance fees extra.
• Flexible Timing: The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, including travel, with pickup and a mobile ticket for convenience.
• Natural Wonders: The stops offer diverse scenery—volcanoes, waterfalls, lakes, and colorful sands—that showcase Mauritius’ natural diversity.
• Mixed Feedback: While some reviews praise the stunning views, others mention the lack of a dedicated guide, so manage expectations accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Trou aux Cerfs
A prime snapshot of Mauritius’ volcanic origins, Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano with a perfectly formed cone and crater. Sitting at 605 meters, the crater itself measures roughly 300-350 meters across and drops about 80 meters deep. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular; on a clear day, you can see across the island.

You won’t need an admission ticket here, which is great for cost savings, and the photo opportunities are plentiful. The volcanic landscape provides a sense of geological history that’s quite captivating. One reviewer appreciated the “well-defined crater and peaceful atmosphere,” though some noted the stop lasts only about 30 minutes—enough for a quick look and some photos.

Stop 2: Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)
This sacred crater lake is a spiritual hub for Hindus on the island. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a place where pilgrims come to pray, find tranquility, and celebrate religious festivals. The vibrant statues and temples around the lake add cultural depth to this stop, which is free to visit.

Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, enough to take in the peaceful vibe and snap some photos. Reviewers mention the “vibrant religious festivals” and the spiritual ambiance that makes this spot special, even if you’re not participating in a ceremony.

Stop 3: Alexandra Falls
Positioned at 700 meters above sea level, Alexandra Falls is one of Mauritius’ most photogenic natural sites. It’s a wide, cascading waterfall that delivers an impressive rush of water amidst a backdrop of dense greenery. The cool mist and the roar of the falls make it an invigorating stop.

This 30-minute visit offers a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy nature’s power. Visitors have described the views as “breathtaking” and “a must-see for waterfall lovers.” It’s an excellent spot for photos and appreciating the island’s rugged terrain.

Stop 4: Black River Gorges National Park
This expansive national park is a treasure trove of lush forest, dry lowlands, and marshy areas. Covering over 67 square kilometers, it’s managed by the National Parks and Conservation Service, emphasizing ecological preservation.

While the tour only spends about 30 minutes here, the park’s true appeal lies in its natural diversity. Expect to see dense forests and maybe even some endemic bird species. Reviewers highlight the “forest scenery and peaceful walk,” making it perfect for nature enthusiasts looking for a quick yet immersive visit.

Stop 5: Chamarel Waterfalls
Standing at approximately 100 meters high, this waterfall is the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius. It’s fed by three streams flowing into the Saint Denis River, creating a very powerful cascade—especially after heavy rains when the flow peaks over 40,000 m3 per minute.

Though the stop is brief—just 15 minutes—the view of the rushing water against the dense greenery is unforgettable. Entrance fees aren’t included, but at around $15 USD, it’s a small investment for such a striking sight. Travelers often comment on the “tremendous rush of water” and the feeling of being close to nature’s raw power.

Stop 6: Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark
One of the most unique sights in Mauritius, these sands showcase seven vibrant colors, from reds and browns to purples and greens. The geological phenomenon is stunning; the sands are believed to be the result of volcanic activity and mineral deposits.

The 30-minute stop allows visitors to walk among the sands and marvel at nature’s palette. Although the entrance fee isn’t included, many find it worth the extra $15 USD for the chance to photograph this colorful natural wonder. Reviewers have said the “vibrant hues and unusual terrain” make it a highlight of the tour.

Transport and Convenience

The tour provides private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a real plus considering the island’s warm climate. The driver also acts as a guide, offering insights in multiple languages—English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian—making it accessible for international travelers.

Given the total tour duration is roughly 8 hours, including travel, expect some time on the road between locations. The flexibility of a private setup means you can enjoy a relaxed pace and even request more time at certain stops if desired.

Cost Breakdown and Value

For $160 per group (up to four people), this tour offers a reasonable price point, especially considering the private transport and the ability to customize your experience. While some site admissions are extra—$15 for Chamarel Waterfalls and the Seven Coloured Earth—the overall cost is quite manageable.

As the reviews note, the experience may lack a dedicated guide explaining every detail, but you gain the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s a good balance of value and convenience, particularly for those who prefer a personalized experience over large group tours.

Authentic Traveler Insights

A notable review pointed out that “there is no guide involved. It is a taxi service,” which suggests that some travelers might want to manage their expectations regarding guided commentary. However, others appreciated the flexibility, stating they enjoyed the “breathtaking views” and “peaceful atmosphere” at each stop.

The short stops mean this is a whirlwind tour, but it’s packed with the key sights that showcase the island’s natural charm. The spots are well-chosen, offering both scenic beauty and cultural insights, especially at Grand Bassin.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet flexible introduction to Mauritius’ main natural attractions without the constraints of a large group. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a bit of independent exploration, as some stops are more about viewing than guided storytelling.

Adventure lovers and photographers will appreciate the stunning vistas and photo opportunities at each site. Those interested in cultural sites like Grand Bassin will also find this tour rewarding.

If you value comfort, privacy, and the freedom to see a variety of sites on your schedule, this tour offers a practical way to experience the best of Mauritius’ outdoors. Those seeking deep, guided historical insights might prefer a different option, but for a scenic overview, it hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?

The price covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a guide in multiple languages. Some entrance fees are extra.

• Are all the sites free to visit?

Most of the sites like Trou aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin, Alexandra Falls, and Black River Gorges are free. Entrance to Chamarel Waterfalls and the Seven Colored Earth is around $15 USD each.

• How long does the tour last?

The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, including travel time between stops.

• Is this a guided tour?

It’s a private experience with a driver who may offer commentary, but reviews suggest it functions more like a taxi service. No dedicated guide is provided.

• Can I customize the stops or timing?

As a private tour, you may have some flexibility in timing, but the itinerary is fixed in the description.

• What should I bring?

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and camera gear are recommended.

• Is food included?

No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat at your own pace during the day.

• Will I get enough time at each stop?

The stops are relatively short—about 15 to 30 minutes—so plan for quick visits rather than in-depth exploration.

• Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?

Generally, yes, but consider the walking involved at some stops like Alexandra Falls and the national park.

• What if the weather is bad?

The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this private full-day tour offers a practical way to see the natural highlights of Mauritius in comfort. It’s best suited for those who value flexibility, scenic beauty, and efficient travel between key sites. While it may lack detailed guiding at each stop, its curated selection of sites provides an authentic taste of the island’s stunning landscapes and cultural spots.