Enchanting South of Mauritius: Full-day tour Incl CASELA Park, Lunch & Transfer

Planning a day in Mauritius that combines nature, wildlife, cultural sights, and adventure? This full-day tour offers an engaging itinerary packed with diverse experiences, all delivered with the help of an experienced guide, private transport, and included entry fees. It’s a well-rounded way to get a taste of the island’s natural beauty and local flavor without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this tour: First, the variety of stops, from waterfalls to cultural sites, keeps the day interesting. Second, the knowledgeable guides help bring each location to life, sharing insights you might not get on your own. Lastly, the included lunch and activities mean you get excellent value—plus, the chance to try Mauritian cuisine and enjoy some fun adventures.

However, a potential consideration is the pace of the day—covering so many spots might feel rushed, especially if you want to linger at certain sites. Also, some reviews mention organizational hiccups at Casela Park, so being flexible could make your experience smoother.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Mauritius’s southwest region, especially if you enjoy a mix of scenic views, wildlife, and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided experiences and value convenience, as everything from transportation to entry fees is taken care of.

Key Points

• Diverse Itinerary: Combines waterfalls, ocean views, wildlife, and cultural sites in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• All-Inclusive: Transport, entry fees, and a three-course Mauritian lunch are included, offering good value.
• Adventure and Wildlife: Highlights include the Tulawaka mountain coaster and African truck safari.
• Scenic Highlights: Expect breathtaking views from Alexandra Falls, Black River Gorges, and the Casela viewpoint.
• Potential for Rushed Feelings: Some travelers find the schedule packed, limiting time at each stop.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off at Trou aux Cerfs

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup, usually around 8:30 am, offering the convenience of door-to-door service. The first stop is Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcanic crater sitting at 605 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll admire the lush greenery surrounding the crater, which is quite different from the typical volcanic landscape many expect. Reviewers mention the area is surrounded by indigenous plant species, with some giant pine trees adding to the scenery. The vantage point provides sweeping views—perfect for those memorable photos.

Many describe Trou aux Cerfs as a peaceful start to the day, with about 40 minutes allocated to soak in the scenery and take photos. The admission to this site is included, so the only thing you need to do is enjoy the fresh air and expansive views.

Mare aux Vacoas Reservoir

Next, the tour heads toward Mare aux Vacoas, the largest reservoir on the island, with a capacity of nearly 26 million cubic meters. While it might not be as visually dramatic as waterfalls or mountains, visitors appreciate the calm, natural setting that offers a quiet moment away from the tour’s busier spots. Several reviewers comment that this stop is a hidden gem, perfect for a few peaceful minutes and some scenic photos.

This stop lasts around 30 minutes, and there’s no entrance fee. It’s a chance to appreciate the island’s water sources and the natural landscape that supports local life.

The Sacred Grand Bassin

From the reservoir, the journey continues to Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), an important Hindu pilgrimage site. The highlight here is the 33-meter-high statue of Lord Shiva, which many find impressive and peaceful. It’s a major cultural and spiritual landmark, surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to other gods. Visitors often describe feeling a sense of reverence at this sacred site, and the views of the crater lake nestled among the mountains are spectacular.

The site also features a temple and several shrines. About 30 minutes are allocated for this stop, allowing enough time to explore and take photos. Entry is included, making this a meaningful cultural stop.

Alexandra Falls: Nature’s Masterpiece

Known for its postcard-perfect scenery, Alexandra Falls is a highlight for many travelers. Sitting at around 700 meters above sea level, the waterfall offers a spectacular display of cascading water amid lush greenery. Visitors often mention the panoramic view of the south-east coast visible from the viewpoint, which is truly breathtaking.

Some reviewers note that the site offers opportunities to climb a wooden platform for a better view, making it a favorite for photography. About 35 minutes are spent here, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery and capture memorable shots.

Black River Gorges and Gorge Viewpoint

Next, the tour visits Black River Gorges National Park, specifically the Gorge Viewpoint. This spot offers a sweeping vista over the untouched rainforest, with deep valleys, waterfalls, and rolling hills. Reviewers describe it as a “must-see” for nature lovers—an ideal place for landscape photos and a breath of fresh air.

The park’s heritage is evident in its efforts to preserve the island’s native flora and fauna, making the viewpoint not just scenic but meaningful. Expect about 30 minutes here to appreciate the view and browse some souvenir stalls at the scenic spot.

Exploring La Marie Village

A brief drive takes you through La Marie village, which reviewers say provides a fascinating glimpse into local Mauritian life. It’s a chance to see a different side of the island, with traditional houses and local culture on display.

A Delicious Mauritian Lunch

One of the tour’s highlights is the two-hour stop for lunch at a local restaurant. A three-course meal, including options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians, is included in the price. Reviewers rave about the Mauritian dishes like chicken curry, fresh salads, and fish, with many mentioning the delicious flavors and attentive service.

Some reviews mention the chef explaining the dishes and asking for your preferences, adding a personal touch. This meal is a great way to refuel before continuing with the afternoon activities.

Casela Nature Parks: Wild Encounters and Adventures

The latter part of the day is dedicated to Casela Nature Parks, deemed the top attraction in Mauritius by many. Entry includes several activities—African safari truck tour, animal encounters, and the Tulawaka Gold Coaster ride.

Many reviews highlight the safari ride as a highlight, with visitors seeing zebras, ostriches, and even rhinos. However, some mention that the safari experience can be somewhat disorganized or rushed, with fewer animals seen than expected. One reviewer complained about the ticketing process at the park, so booking in advance might help avoid delays.

The park also features animal interaction areas where you can touch zoo animals, visit the petting farm, and see giraffes and pygmy hippos. The kids’ playground and the Pangia Kids Park add family-friendly options for children.

The Thrill of Tulawaka Gold Coaster

For adrenaline junkies, the Tulawaka Gold Coaster offers a 760-meter luge-style ride with a cable lift, steep descents, and sharp bends. It provides a fun and scenic way to end the day—some reviewers say it’s a “must-do” for thrill-seekers and offers an incredible view of the coast.

Wrapping Up and Return

After a full day of exploration, the tour ends with a return to your hotel, typically around 4 or 5 pm. Everyone agrees that the private transport and guide service make the day comfortable and stress-free, although some reviews mention organizational hiccups at the park or delays.

What the Reviews Reveal: Authentic Insights

• Guides like Kevin and Mangesh are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more enjoyable.
• Several reviewers highlight the delicious Mauritian lunch, often describing the dishes as flavorful and well-prepared.
• Some travelers found the schedule tight, feeling they had limited time at each stop, especially at Casela Park.
• A few reports mention disorganization or poor customer service at Casela, so managing expectations and being flexible are advisable.
• Safety concerns were raised in one review about a driver’s aggressive driving style, so this might be a consideration for nervous travelers.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable, non-slippery shoes, especially for walking and sightseeing.
• Arrive with some cash or tips for optional gratuities—you’re not obliged but appreciated.
• Keep hydrated; bottled water is provided on arrival, but extra bottles are a good idea.
• Be prepared for a full day—bring sun protection, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat for the outdoor stops.
• Book in advance, as this tour is popular and often booked about 28 days ahead.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Mauritius’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and wildlife, all wrapped in a convenient package with a friendly guide and included meals. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a diverse experience without worrying about logistics or transportation.

The combination of scenic waterfalls, cultural landmarks, and exciting activities like the safari and luge ride makes this a memorable day for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. While the schedule can feel packed, most reviewers appreciate the value and variety packed into one day.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see key highlights of Mauritius’s southwest, enjoy authentic local cuisine, and get some adrenaline pumping, this tour is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that a flexible attitude will help you make the most of the experience, especially at the more organized or busy spots.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at any hotel or accommodation in Mauritius.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting around 8:30 am.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fees to all sites, a three-course Mauritian lunch, bottled water, and activities like the safari and Gold Coaster ride are included.

Can I customize the lunch options?
The lunch offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices, and the chef asks about preferences during the meal.

Are activities suitable for children?
Yes, Casela features a children’s playground and petting farm, making it family-friendly.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, non-slippery shoes are recommended, especially for walking around waterfalls and viewpoints.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking, often on uneven terrain, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

What if it rains?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

How do reviews rate this experience?
The tour has a solid 4.0 out of 5 based on 100 reviews, with many praising the guides, scenery, and value, though some note organizational issues at Casela Park.

In short, this tour offers a vivid, well-rounded glimpse into south-west Mauritius’s natural and cultural treasures. Perfect for curious travelers eager to explore a variety of sights in one day, with the right mindset for a busy but rewarding adventure.