Mauritius: Sights of the South Private Tour with Rum Tasting

If you’re looking to get a true taste of what makes Mauritius special, this private tour of the south offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and cultural treasures. With personalized service, you’ll enjoy a full day exploring some of the most iconic sights while learning about local traditions and craftsmanship.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it combines breathtaking landscapes like the Seven Coloured Earth and Chamarel Waterfall with meaningful cultural stops such as Grand Bassin. Second, the rum tasting at Chamarel Distillery adds a delicious twist to your adventure. Lastly, the tour’s flexible, private setup means you can soak in these sights at your own pace.

One thing to consider is the full-day duration (about 7-8 hours), which might be a long day if you prefer more relaxed itineraries. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see a variety of sights without rushing, especially those who appreciate nature, scenery, and local culture in one package.

If this sounds like your kind of exploration, you’ll likely find this tour offers great value and authentic experiences for a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: A private tour with flexible scheduling and direct guiding makes for a tailored day.
• Stunning Natural Sights: Includes renowned spots like Seven Coloured Earth, Chamarel Waterfall, and Alexandra Falls.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Grand Bassin and local craftsmanship centers enrich your understanding of Mauritian culture.
• Rum Tasting: A guided visit to Chamarel Distillery introduces you to local rum-making traditions and flavors.
• Scenic Views & Photo Opportunities: Expect breathtaking landscapes and viewpoints perfect for memorable photos.
• Full-Day Itinerary: Around 7-8 hours, ideal for those wanting an immersive experience without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive snapshot of southern Mauritius, blending natural wonders with cultural insights. It starts with a convenient pickup from your accommodation, with transportation tailored to your group size—whether a sedan, SUV, or mini bus—ensuring a comfortable journey.

Morning: Craftsmanship & Volcano Views

Your adventure begins in Floreal, where visits to the Ship Model Factory and Diamond Factory allow a glimpse into local craftsmanship and jewelry-making. These stops are perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and understanding local artistry. The souvenir shops offer a chance to browse Mauritian crafts, often noted by travelers for their quality and authenticity.

Next, you’ll head to Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcanic crater offering panoramic views of the central plateau. From here, you can appreciate the island’s volcanic origins and snap some impressive photos of the lush landscape below.

Midday: Natural and Spiritual Sights

The tour continues with a visit to Mare aux Vacoas, the largest reservoir in Mauritius. Surrounded by green forests and tranquil waters, it’s a peaceful spot that offers a break from the busier tourist areas. Travelers often comment on the serenity of this site, making it an ideal moment to breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the island’s natural resources.

From there, the sacred Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao) takes center stage. This mountain lake, home to the third-largest Shiva statue in the world, is a deeply revered site for Hindus. Visitors have described the atmosphere as spiritually charged, and many find the view of the towering statue against the mountain backdrop truly moving.

Afternoon: Waterfalls and Unique Geological Marvels

Next, you’ll explore Black River Gorges National Park, where the Alexandra Falls provide a stunning display of flowing water against lush greenery. The viewpoints here are often praised for their breathtaking scenery, perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.

Afterward, the highlight for many is the Seven Coloured Earth, a geological formation of dunes where the sands display seven distinct colors naturally. Visitors frequently mention how surreal and vibrant this site appears, making it a must-see for nature lovers.

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Late Afternoon: Rum Tasting & Cultural Deep Dive

The tour culminates at Chamarel Village, where you’ll visit the Chamarel Rum Distillery. Here, you’ll learn about the rum’s production process and taste a variety of locally crafted rums. Multiple reviews highlight the informative nature of the distillery tour and the quality of the tastings, making it a delightful end to your day.

Practical Details & Tips

• The entire journey lasts around 7-8 hours, so come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and your camera.
• The tour guide is bilingual (English and French) and knowledgeable, often sharing insights that go beyond the standard script.
• Entrance fees to attractions like Seven Coloured Earth, Chamarel Waterfall, and the Rum Distillery are paid on-site, so bring some cash.
• Lunch isn’t included but can be arranged for an extra fee at a local restaurant, giving you the choice to customize your meal.

What Travelers Say

Reviews often mention the breathtaking views at each stop, especially at Alexandra Falls and the Seven Coloured Earth. One traveler shared, “The colors of the earth are even more impressive in person than photos can show,” which perfectly captures the site’s visual impact.

Others appreciated the personalized attention from the guide, noting that the private nature of the tour meant flexibility and a relaxed pace. A common highlight was the rum tasting experience, described as both fun and educational, with many noting the high quality of the local rums.

Some travelers also pointed out that the duration is quite full, so a good level of energy and comfortable footwear are recommended. A few reviewers mentioned that the vehicle seating was comfortable, which made the long day easier.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a balanced blend of Mauritius’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and local craftsmanship. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a guided, intimate experience without the chaos of group tours. The scenic stops are genuinely impressive, and the rum tasting provides a taste of local tradition that travelers love.

If you’re after a comprehensive day trip with varied sights and meaningful cultural insight, this tour delivers solid value for its price. The flexibility, expert guiding, and stunning views make it a reliable choice—especially for first-time visitors eager to tick off some of Mauritius’s most iconic spots.

It’s a fantastic way to explore the island’s South without the hassle of organizing multiple stops on your own, and the personal touch makes all the difference.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and child seats can be provided upon request. Keep in mind the full-day duration might be long for younger kids.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7-8 hours, making it a full-day experience ideal for those wanting to see a lot.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a camera are recommended. A light jacket is also advised as the highlands can be cooler.

Are entrance fees included?
No, fees for attractions like the Seven Coloured Earth, Chamarel Waterfall, and Rum Distillery are paid on-site.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from your Mauritius accommodation, with vehicle options based on your group size for maximum comfort.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can accommodate some preferences, but the itinerary generally covers these key sites.

This tour promises a day full of visual marvels, cultural insights, and unique experiences — perfect for travelers wanting to see the best of Mauritius’s south with ease and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: