Mauritius: Highlights Tour with Tasting & Sunset in South is a day-long adventure designed for travelers eager to explore the diverse natural beauty and cultural richness of the island’s southern region. Offered at a reasonable price of $117 per group of up to four people, this private experience promises personalized attention and flexibility, making it appealing for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive snapshot of Mauritius’s southern treasures.
What instantly draws us to this tour are the stunning panoramic views, the chance to see the oldest Shiva statue in the Indian Ocean, and the opportunity to experience the famous 23 Colored Earth at La Vallée des Couleurs. The convenience of having a private driver means you can relax and focus on the sights without worrying about navigating or timing. However, the full 8-hour itinerary requires a fair amount of travel and walking, so it might not be ideal for those with limited mobility or tight schedules.
This tour suits those who love nature, cultural exploration, and scenic landscapes, especially if you’re visiting Mauritius for the first time and want a curated overview of the south’s unique spots. If you’re after a more relaxed, less busy day, this might feel a bit rushed, but overall, it offers a well-rounded experience.
Key Points
- Private transportation ensures comfort and personalized pacing.
- Stunning viewpoints like Trou aux Cerf and Alexandra Waterfall are highlights.
- Cultural insights at the Hindu temple (Grand Bassin) deepen the experience.
- Unique landscapes like the 23 Colored Earth and rolling mounds offer memorable photo opportunities.
- Cost-effective considering the inclusions like guided tours, hotel pickup, and major sights.
- Flexibility with booking, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
What to Expect from the Mauritius Highlights Tour
This full-day adventure is a thoughtful way to cover some of the island’s most spectacular sights, especially if you prefer exploring with a local driver and guide. The tour begins at your hotel, where your driver will greet you in a comfortable, luxurious vehicle, setting a relaxed tone for the day.
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Early Morning Pick-up and Curepipe
The journey kicks off with a scenic drive to Curepipe, a bustling town that offers a taste of everyday Mauritian life. You’ll have the chance to do some light shopping, picking up local crafts or souvenirs. We love the idea of starting here because it sets a casual, local tone before heading into the nature-focused activities.
Floreal Crafts Gallery
Next, a stop at Floreal Crafts Gallery introduces you to the island’s colonial French architectural influences, with handmade boat models that are both beautiful and interesting. One reviewer noted that it’s “fascinating to see the detailed craftsmanship,” and you might find some charming souvenirs here.
Trou aux Cerf Volcano
The highlight for many is the visit to Trou aux Cerf, an extinct volcano crater that’s now lush with greenery. The panoramic 360-degree views from the top are truly impressive, offering views of nearby mountains like Rempart Mountain, Trois Mamelles, and the Port Louis Moka Mountain Range. One traveler mentioned loving the “breathtaking birds-eye view,” making it a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the scenery. The volcano’s dormant state adds a quiet, almost mystical feel to the landscape.
More Great Tours NearbyGrand Bassin – The Hindu Temple and Lake
Later, the tour takes you to Grand Bassin, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site surrounded by the Ganga Talao crater lake. Here, you’ll learn about Hindu culture and see the oldest Shiva statue in the Indian Ocean, which is quite a sight. The tranquil atmosphere combined with the cultural significance makes this stop feel more meaningful than just sightseeing. Several reviews noted that the temple offers a peaceful respite and cultural insight that enriches your understanding of the island.
Alexandra Waterfall & Black River Gorges Viewpoint
Next, you’ll visit Alexandra Waterfall, where you can admire the cascading waters amid lush surroundings, and take in views from the Black River Gorges viewpoint. These spots showcase Mauritius’s rugged mountain landscapes and lush greenery. One reviewer appreciated the “breathtaking panoramas,” which underscore the island’s natural diversity.
La Vallée des Couleurs
The grand finale is the visit to La Vallée des Couleurs, famous for its 23 colored Earth formations. This spectacle of vibrant, rolling mounds is a true visual treat. The site also offers a variety of activities, and you might find yourself drawn into taking photos, exploring trails, or just marveling at nature’s artistry. The tour’s inclusion of a scenic drive back to your hotel wraps up the day comfortably, leaving you with memorable images of Mauritius’s landscape.
Practical Details and Value
The tour’s pricing of $117 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, guided visits, and entry to several key sites like Trou aux Cerf, Grand Bassin, Alexandra Waterfall, Black River Gorges, and La Vallée des Couleurs. We appreciate the transparency, but note that entry to La Vallée des Couleurs isn’t included, so budget for that separately if you want to explore further.
The trip is well-suited for those who want a full-day, guided experience that balances scenic views with cultural exploration. The private transport also ensures comfort, especially important on a busy or hot day. The flexible booking policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind for travelers unsure of their plans.
The tour lasts around 8 hours, so packing comfortable shoes and being prepared for a fair bit of walking and sightseeing is advisable. The inclusion of half a bottle of water per person is a thoughtful touch, but bringing extra hydration, especially in warm weather, might be wise.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights
While only one review is available, it highlights the stunning views as a standout feature, with one guest mentioning “the panoramic crater view was breathtaking.” The review also notes the organized nature of the trip and appreciation for the driver’s local knowledge, making the experience both relaxing and educational.
Some travelers might find the schedule slightly packed, but the flexibility of a private tour allows you to linger at your favorite spots if desired. It’s best for those who want an efficient overview rather than a slow-paced, in-depth cultural or nature exploration.
Final Thoughts
This Mauritius Highlights Tour offers a practical and scenic introduction to the island’s southern wonders. The combination of natural vistas, cultural sites, and colorful landscapes presents a balanced experience for those with limited time or travelers seeking a curated snapshot of Mauritius.
If you love big views, learning about local culture, and capturing memorable photos, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide.
However, if you prefer more leisure time at each site or have mobility concerns, some stops may feel rushed given the packed itinerary. Also, keep in mind that entry fees for some sites are not included, so budget accordingly.
This tour offers excellent value for money considering the inclusions, personalized approach, and the variety of sights covered. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a reliable, scenic overview of Mauritius’s south with a touch of cultural insight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off? Yes, the price covers both hotel pickup and drop-off from any hotel or other location on the island.
How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day activity.
What is included in the tour? The tour includes private transportation, guided visits to Trou aux Cerf crater, Hindu temple at Grand Bassin, Alexandra Waterfall, Black River Gorges viewpoint, and La Vallée des Couleurs, plus half a bottle of water per person.
Are there any additional costs? Yes, the entry ticket to La Vallée des Couleurs is not included in the price. Food and drinks are also not included.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers? While not explicitly stated, the itinerary involves some walking and scenic views, so it may be best suited for children comfortable with walking and adults of all ages with moderate mobility.
What languages are spoken? The guide speaks English and French, accommodating most travelers.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and extra water are recommended, especially in hot weather.
Is this experience good for photography? Absolutely—many stops offer panoramic and colorful landscapes perfect for photos. Bring your camera or smartphone fully charged.
In summary, this Mauritius Highlights Tour with Tasting & Sunset provides a well-rounded, scenic, and cultural experience at a fair price. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see the island’s most iconic sights comfortably, with the convenience of private transport and guided commentary. Expect breathtaking views, cultural insights, and memorable landscapes that truly showcase Mauritius’s south.
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