Full Day Private Tour in South of Mauritius

Travelers seeking a comprehensive snapshot of Mauritius’s natural beauty often turn to organized tours, and this Full Day Private Tour in the South of Mauritius promises to deliver some of the island’s most iconic sights. While reviews reflect a mixed experience, the tour’s focus on key highlights like Chamarel’s colorful earth and the towering waterfalls definitely make it an option worth considering—especially if you value guided comfort and flexibility.

What we love about this tour? First, the private transportation means your journey is tailored and smooth, avoiding the chaos of group buses. Second, the itinerary covers a broad range of natural wonders in a single day, from waterfalls to volcanic craters. Lastly, with friendly drivers and flexible timing, it offers a personalized experience that can fit into a busy schedule. The main downside? Some reviews mention logistical hiccups, like road closures and late pickups, which can dampen the experience. Still, if you’re looking for an accessible way to see the south’s highlights, this tour could be a good fit, particularly for those who appreciate a private, relaxed approach.

Key Points

• Flexible, private transportation offers comfort and tailored experiences
• Highlights include Chamarel, Alexandra Falls, and Trou aux Cerfs, all iconic sights
• Some reviews point to logistical issues, such as delays and road closures
• Entry fees are not included for some stops, which impacts overall value
• Tour duration of 6-8 hours balances sightseeing with relaxed pacing
• Suitable for travelers wanting an overview of southern Mauritius’s key attractions

What to Expect on the Tour

This private tour, priced at around $99.57 for a group of up to three, is designed for travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of the south’s natural attractions without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple entrances. It runs roughly 6 to 8 hours, with the flexibility of private arrangement, meaning your driver will aim to keep things on schedule but might face some unforeseen delays—as some reviews mention.

The tour is especially appealing because it is private, so you won’t be jostling with strangers. Plus, the pickup service makes it straightforward, especially if your accommodation is within Port Louis or nearby. The route touches several famous sites, each with its own appeal and some with free entry, but note that the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth requires an entrance fee that’s not included in the tour price.

Exploring Each Stop

Alexandra Falls

Our journey begins with Alexandra Falls, tucked away inside the Black River Gorges National Park. It’s a multi-tiered waterfall that offers a scenic view from the bottom, where the water cascades down a steep cliff. It’s a refreshing start, and visitors find the lush jungle setting breathtaking. From reviews, it’s clear that Alexandra Falls is a ‘hidden gem’—though some mention that the walk can be a little challenging, it’s well worth the effort for nature lovers.

Black River Gorges National Park

Next, you’ll visit Mauritius’s largest protected forest. Here, the views of rolling hills and dense foliage make for a relaxing break from the road. The park provides an excellent opportunity to glimpse the island’s flora and fauna, though with only 30 minutes allocated, it’s more a quick stop than a detailed exploration. Reviewers have noted that while the park’s natural beauty is undeniable, the limited time means you’ll only get a brief look.

Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark

This is arguably the most famous attraction on the tour. The seven shades of earth create a surreal landscape of moving sands with hues of red, brown, purple, and green. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and the way the colors shift with sunlight makes for brilliant photos. However, some reviews mention that the entrance fee (~not included) can feel like an added expense, especially if you’re on a budget. Visitors often remark on how unique this natural phenomenon is—something you won’t find in many countries.

Chamarel Waterfalls

Standing at about 100 meters tall, Chamarel Waterfalls are a powerful sight, especially when viewed from the designated lookout points. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a serene spot that provides a perfect backdrop for photos and a moment of reflection. One reviewer called it a “striking piece of nature,” emphasizing its height and beauty.

Grand Bassin

This sacred lake is a spiritual hub for locals and a peaceful place for visitors. With a vibrant temple nearby, it’s a cultural and religious site that offers insight into Mauritius’s diverse traditions. The 45-minute visit allows for photos and a quick walk around the lake, but don’t expect a long or in-depth tour—this is more about soaking in the atmosphere.

Curepipe

Known as the City of Light, Curepipe offers a different vibe—more urban but still with natural attractions. The Botanical Garden is a highlight, where you can enjoy tropical flora, and the city’s handicraft shops are perfect for picking up souvenirs. Reviewers appreciate the less hurried pace here, which offers a bit of local charm.

Floreal

This shopping district is ideal if you enjoy browsing markets and local goods. The central market is lively and full of colorful stalls. It’s a quick stop to stretch and perhaps buy some local crafts or snacks. Visitors often find it a laid-back way to experience Mauritian everyday life.

Trou aux Cerfs

This dormant volcano, dormant for over 700,000 years, offers panoramic views from its crater rim. The lake within the crater adds a scenic element, and the rare sight of a volcano in Mauritius makes it a popular stop. Many reviewers find the view from the top “exciting” and worth the slight uphill walk.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Value, and Experience

This tour’s private vehicle and driver are designed for comfort and flexibility. You’ll likely appreciate having a dedicated guide who can adapt the stops based on your pace, as some reviews suggest drivers are friendly and accommodating. However, be aware that logistical issues like late pickups and road closures have been reported. One reviewer mentioned that their driver was over an hour late—something to keep in mind, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or have flights to catch.

The cost of $99.57 for up to three people offers reasonable value considering the number of sites covered. However, entrance fees at Chamarel are extra, so budget accordingly if you want to go inside the geology park. The 6 to 8 hours duration strikes a balance, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The tour is suitable for those who want a broad overview of the south’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple transportations. It’s particularly good for travelers who prefer a private, relaxed experience over a large group or self-guided adventure. Keep in mind that some reviews mention the guide’s limited commentary—if you’re looking for in-depth historical or cultural insights, you might need a different type of tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an accessible way to see key southern Mauritian sights, this tour offers a straightforward, relatively affordable option. It’s best suited for those who value comfort and flexibility, perhaps with limited time on the island. It can also work well for families or small groups wanting a personalized experience.

However, if you’re an avid hiker or crave a highly detailed cultural tour, this might feel a bit superficial. The logistics hiccups could also be a concern if you’re on a tight schedule or highly particular about punctuality.

In summary, this tour is a decent introduction to Mauritius’s natural beauty, especially if you’re comfortable with some unpredictability and want a private, convenient way to tick off the main sights.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to plan to bring snacks or an early meal, especially if you want to maximize your sightseeing time.

Are entrance fees included?
No, certain sites like the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark require an entrance fee that is not covered in the tour price.

How long are the stops?
Stops range from about 20 minutes at Alexandra Falls to 1 hour at Curepipe, with most around 20-45 minutes. The total duration is approximately 6 to 8 hours, including travel time.

Will I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without additional logistics.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, most stops are outdoors and scenic, making it generally suitable for families, but consider individual children’s stamina and interest.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and walking shoes are recommended, especially for places like Alexandra Falls and Trou aux Cerfs.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s potential for some flexibility, but it’s best to confirm directly with the provider beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Private Tour in the South of Mauritius can be a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most photographed natural attractions without the stress of planning. Its private setting and broad itinerary appeal to travelers wanting comfort and convenience, especially those who prefer a relaxed pace. That said, a few logistical issues have been noted, so it’s wise to be flexible.

The tour offers a good balance of natural wonders and cultural sights, making it ideal for first-timers or those short on time. If you’re curious about the volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and colorful earth, this tour provides a solid, accessible introduction.

For travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free day with friendly guides and scenic stops, it’s worth considering—just keep your expectations flexible regarding timing and fees. Overall, it’s a practical way to fall in love with Mauritius’s natural side—fingers crossed the logistics cooperate!