Mauritius: Private South West Tour with Lunch

Planning a trip to Mauritius? If so, chances are you’re looking for an experience that blends natural beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food—all in a day. This Private South West Tour with lunch from Turquoise Voyages / Samtours promises just that, with a carefully curated itinerary that takes you through the island’s most iconic sights on the southern coast. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews show that many travelers find it a fantastic way to explore Mauritius with a knowledgeable guide, at a relaxed pace, and for a reasonable price.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides—reviewers praise guides like Vikash, Robin, and Baboo for their passion, knowledge, and friendliness. Second, the breathtaking natural scenery including waterfalls, colored earths, and mountain views keeps everyone captivated. Third, the authentic cultural stops such as Grand Bassin’s sacred lake and Hindu temples add depth to your visit.

One potential consideration is that the full day can include quite a few stops, so if you’re looking for a more leisurely or flexible schedule, you might find it a bit packed. But overall, this tour is best suited for those wanting a comprehensive, engaging overview of Mauritius’ highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

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Key Points

Expert guides make the experience engaging and informative, often sharing personal insights and stories.
Natural wonders like Chamarel Waterfalls and the 7-Colored Earth are the visual highlights that wow visitors.
Cultural stops such as Grand Bassin and the Shiva statue provide meaningful context about local traditions.
Delicious included lunch offers a taste of authentic Mauritian cuisine at a local restaurant.
Great value for money—the tour covers transportation, entrance fees, guide, and meals for $116.
Flexibility and personalization—the private tour lets you explore at your own pace and ask questions freely.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The tour begins with your hotel pickup around 9:30 am. From the moment you’re in the vehicle, you’ll notice the comfort and cleanliness of the transportation, which is often described as spacious and well-maintained. The journey itself is part of the experience, with guides sharing stories about Mauritius’ landscape and culture.

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First Stop: Curepipe’s Dormant Volcano

Your first destination is the town of Curepipe, located centrally on the island. Here, you’ll visit the Curepipe crater, a dormant volcano that offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Many reviews highlight the scenic drive up and the interest of seeing a volcanic formation that’s now quiet but still dramatic. It’s a good introduction to the island’s geological features and sets the tone for the day’s exploration.

The Sacred Lake and Grand Bassin

Next, you’ll head to Grand Bassin (or Ganga Talao), a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. Here, you’ll encounter the old Shiva statue, noted as the oldest in the Indian Ocean region—something that many visitors find particularly touching. The Sacred Lake is surrounded by temples and statues, and guides often share stories about local religious practices. One reviewer, who was moved by the experience, appreciated how the guide Robin shared his personal faith during the visit, enriching the visit far beyond just sightseeing.

Alexandra Falls and Black River Gorges

From Grand Bassin, the tour continues westward to Alexandra Falls, a scenic waterfall that provides a refreshing stop and photo opportunity. Reviewers mention the lush surroundings and the calming sound of cascading water. Following that, the drive takes you through Black River Gorges National Park, where spectacular mountain views and lush greenery are on full display. Visitors often comment on how these stops showcase the island’s varied terrain and natural beauty.

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The Highlight: Chamarel and the Seven-Colored Earths

The highlight for many is the visit to Chamarel, home to the famous 7-Colored Earths. This unique geological formation features dunes of sand in seven distinct shades, creating a striking visual. Many travelers describe it as a must-see, with one reviewer noting that the experience of walking on the multicolored sands is truly unforgettable.

At Chamarel Waterfalls, you’ll get a chance to stand near the roaring cascade and appreciate the lush rainforest setting. Visitors often mention the excellent views and the feeling of being immersed in untouched nature. Plus, in the park, you’ll meet Giant turtles, adding an adorable and interactive element to the visit.

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Local Cuisine: Lunch Break

Midday, the tour makes a stop at a local Mauritian restaurant. Here, you’ll sample a variety of traditional dishes—often praised for their flavor and authenticity. Reviewers mention that the food is full of local spices and that the included drinks add a nice touch. It’s a chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy the flavors of the island without any hidden extras sneaking in.

Optional: Rhumerie de Chamarel

The tour includes entrance to Chamarel Waterfalls and the 7-Colored Earths but notes that entry to Rhumerie de Chamarel is not included. If you’re interested in Mauritius’ rum culture, you might want to visit this distillery separately, but it’s not part of this package.

The Experience: Why It Works

Transport and Flexibility: The private nature of the tour means you’re not stuck with a large group. The vehicle is described as spacious and clean, making long drives comfortable. Many reviewers appreciate the ability to spend as much time as they want at each stop, which is a perk of private tours.

Guides Who Know Their Stuff: Guides like Vikash, Robin, Baboo, and others are consistently praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and local knowledge. Several reviewers mentioned how guides shared personal stories and cultural insights, making the experience more meaningful.

Cost-Effective and Inclusive: At $116 per person, the tour includes transportation, entrance fees, a guide, and a delicious lunch, which many reviewers see as excellent value. The fact that you pay nothing upfront and can cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds a layer of flexibility, especially if your plans are still fluid.

Visual and Cultural Highlights: From the stunning waterfalls and colorful earths to the sacred Hindu temples, the tour balances natural beauty with cultural depth. Many travelers mention the impressive views and authentic cultural elements as the best parts of their day.

Food and Rest: The included lunch is often highlighted as a tasty, full-flavor meal that offers a real taste of Mauritian cuisine. Plus, the stops at scenic spots provide plenty of opportunities to stretch, take photos, and just enjoy the surroundings.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized, informative day that covers a lot of ground without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty, cultural insights, and authentic local food. Since it’s private, it suits couples, families, or small groups who want a personal experience with a guide who can customize a bit along the way.

If you’re not a fan of long drives or want a more flexible or leisurely pace, you might prefer a different option. However, for most visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Mauritius’ southern highlights, this tour delivers solid value and memorable moments.

FAQ

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, a knowledgeable guide (English and French speaking), entrance to key sites like Chamarel Waterfalls, Black River Gorges, Trou aux Cerfs, Alexandra Falls, and Sacred Lake, plus lunch and drinks. Entry to Rhumerie de Chamarel is not included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the sites. Given the outdoor stops, sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses could also enhance the experience.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
Since this is a private tour, you have some flexibility to spend more or less time at each location, depending on your preferences and your guide’s suggestions.

Is the tour suitable for kids or older travelers?
Many reviews mention that the pace is manageable, and the stops are family-friendly, including meeting giant turtles and exploring waterfalls. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

How long does the tour last?
Most of the day, starting at 9:30 am and returning to your hotel afterward. The itinerary is designed for a full day of sightseeing.

What about weather considerations?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but heavy rain might limit some outdoor activities. The guides are experienced and can adapt the schedule if needed.

The Bottom Line

This Private South West Tour from Mauritius offers a well-rounded mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and local flavor at a fair price. The positive reviews underline the quality of guides—who bring the sights to life—and the convenience of having transportation and entrance fees taken care of. You’ll love the scenic waterfalls, vibrant earths, and meaningful temples, all complemented by a delicious Mauritian lunch that makes the day even more memorable.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see the best of Mauritius’ south coast with the comfort of a private guide and the flexibility to explore at their own pace. If you’re after a comprehensive, authentic, and value-packed day tour, this is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera!