Mauritius: Private South Tour with Pickup

Travelers often seek a balance of comfort, authenticity, and unforgettable scenery when exploring a new island. This Mauritius Private South Tour offers just that. It combines expert-guided insights with visits to some of the island’s most iconic sights, all wrapped in a convenient private vehicle experience. With a stunning 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 677 reviews, this tour clearly strikes a chord with many who’ve experienced it.

What sets this experience apart? First, the personalized attention from guides like Feroz or Nishal, who are repeatedly praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Second, the stunning variety of sights, from volcanic craters and lush waterfalls to vibrant geological formations. Third, the value for the price, especially considering the inclusion of multiple major attractions and private transportation. The only thing to bear in mind might be the fixed itinerary—if you’re looking for a very flexible schedule or a completely off-the-beaten-path experience, this might feel a little structured.

This tour suits travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided overview of the south of Mauritius, especially those who value local insights and hassle-free logistics. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or couples who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Contents show

Key Points

Comfortable private transport: Tailored for up to 4 people, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed experience.
Expert guides: Known for their friendliness and extensive knowledge, guides like Feroz and Nishal make every stop engaging.
Diverse sights: From volcanic craters and waterfalls to sacred temples and colorful earth formations, there’s plenty to see.
Cultural insights: Learn about Hindu traditions at Grand Bassin and enjoy the scenic beauty of the island’s interior.
Value for money: At $117 per group, the tour offers a lot of top attractions with included transport and guiding.
Weather considerations: Tour depends on weather conditions, so flexibility may be necessary during bad weather days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Looking for more options in Chamarel? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, giving you the convenience of starting your day hassle-free. The average duration is about 7 hours, ending around 4 PM, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The price of $117 per group (max 4 persons) makes it a very reasonable option for small groups, offering good value considering the private transport and guided service.

First Stop: Curepipe and Floreal

Your journey begins in the colonial French-style towns of Curepipe and Floreal, which are well worth a quick visit to appreciate their architecture and local charm. This initial part sets a relaxed tone and helps you get a feel for the island’s historical style before heading into more natural attractions.

Trou aux Cerfs: The Dormant Volcano

The highlight for many is the Trou aux Cerfs crater, an overgrown extinct volcano offering sweeping panoramic views. From the top, you can see the city of Curepipe and the surrounding mountains. Reviewers like Emma mention that guides are very informative here, sharing insights into the volcano’s history and current state. The fact that nature has reclaimed this extinct volcano gives it a peaceful, untouched vibe—perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.

More Great Tours Nearby

Grand Bassin Hindu Temple and Lake Ganga Talao

Next, you visit the Grand Bassin Hindu Temple, a site revered by locals and surrounded by the lake of Ganga Talao. It’s a place of spiritual significance, and guides often share intriguing cultural stories, like in Sandra’s review, who appreciated learning about Hindu traditions from her guide. Expect vibrant decorations, offerings, and a serene atmosphere that makes this stop more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersion in local faith and customs.

There's plenty more to explore in Chamarel

Black River Gorges and Alexandra Waterfall

Nature lovers will be drawn to the Black River Gorges National Park and Alexandra Waterfall. These spots offer breathtaking vistas of lush greenery and cascading water. Many reviewers, such as Susie, loved how guides tailored the stops in rain or shine, ensuring everyone still had a memorable experience. Expect cool mountain air, panoramic views of the mountains, and the soothing sound of waterfalls—perfect for photography and quiet moments.

La Vallée des Couleurs and the 23 Colored Earth

One of the most unique attractions on the island, La Vallée des Couleurs, is renowned for its vibrant, multi-hued geological formations. Reviewers like Liliana and Noorani describe it as a “marvel” that’s worth the visit. The site even offers extra activities, making it a fun, interactive finale to your day. Take a moment to marvel at the rolling mounds of multi-colored earth—a genuinely otherworldly experience.

Optional Lunch and Additional Activities

Many guides recommend local restaurants for lunch, often highlighting fresh seafood or traditional Mauritian dishes. The flexibility in scheduling allows you to choose what suits your palate, and guides are usually happy to suggest good spots. Reviewers frequently mention that guides are flexible and attentive to personal preferences, which enhances the overall experience.

What to Expect: The Practical Details

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle means you won’t be crammed in a bus or share space with strangers. The reviews consistently praise the luxe car quality and the driver’s professionalism, such as Noorani’s friendly manner or Deeraj’s safe driving. This setup is great for those who want a relaxed, personalized journey.

Guides and Local Knowledge

Guides like Feroz, Nishal, Deeraj, and Victor are repeatedly described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. They often share interesting stories and cultural insights—sometimes even pointing out wildlife or local traditions specific to the area. Many reviews highlight how guides adapt the itinerary based on weather or group preferences, which is especially valuable when unpredictable weather hits.

Sightseeing and Timing

The stops are well-paced; you get enough time to explore each attraction without feeling hurried. Reviewers like Emma and Susie appreciate the ample time at each site, which allows for good photography and questions. If you’re a keen photographer or a curious traveler, this flexibility is a key advantage.

Price and Value

At $117 per group, the tour offers excellent value for a full day with private transportation, multiple top sights, and expert guiding. Remember, food and entrance fees at La Vallée des Couleurs are extra, but the overall experience justifies the cost, especially considering the convenience and depth of insight provided.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Reviewers

Knowledgeable Guides: Many guests praise guides like Feroz and Deeraj for their friendly nature and wealth of information. Sandra mentions how patient and well-informed her guide was, “making the whole experience enjoyable.”
Stunning Views: The panoramic vistas from Trou aux Cerfs and the vibrant geological formations at La Vallée des Couleurs are described as “spectacular,” with some reviewers noting photos that look almost surreal.
Cultural Insights: Visiting Grand Bassin and learning about Hindu traditions gave visitors a deeper understanding of local culture, as highlighted by Sandra and Pat.
Wildlife Encounters: Some reviewers mention seeing monkeys and local flora, adding an authentic, natural touch to the trip, as noted by Svajune and others.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private south Mauritius tour offers a great balance of natural beauty, cultural exposure, and comfort. It’s especially suited for those who want a stress-free day with a knowledgeable guide, seeing the island’s iconic sights without the hassle of self-driving or navigating complex public transport. If you’re seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed experience that covers volcanoes, waterfalls, temples, and vibrant earth formations, this tour hits the mark.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction to the south of the island, small groups or couples craving intimacy, and anyone eager to see the most photogenic spots Mauritius has to offer. The guides’ attentiveness and flexible approach shine through in every review, making it a dependable choice for a memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 7 hours, with hotel drop-off by 4 PM, offering plenty of time to visit all the key sights at a comfortable pace.

What is included in the price?
The fee of $117 per group covers private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and guided visits to major attractions like Trou aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin, Alexandra Waterfall, and La Vallée des Couleurs.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entry ticket to La Vallée des Couleurs is not included and must be paid separately. Other attractions like temples and waterfalls are free to view.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. Guides often recommend local restaurants for lunch, and guests are free to choose their preferred spot.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
While the tour isn’t specifically designed for mobility-impaired guests, it’s generally suitable for most ages, with some flexibility from your guide. Note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility scooters.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, cash for extras, and biodegradable insect repellent are recommended for a smooth day.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If a severe weather warning is issued, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled to ensure safety.

Can I customize the itinerary?
You should notify the provider 24 hours in advance for any special requests or changes, as rerouting or modifications are subject to approval.

Final Verdict

This private Mauritius tour offers exceptional value and a thoughtfully curated experience through the island’s southern highlights. The guides’ warmth and knowledge, combined with stunning scenery, make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting an all-in-one day trip with minimal stress. Expect a well-paced itinerary, breathtaking views, and plenty of insights—perfect for travelers eager to make the most of their Mauritius visit.

If you love natural beauty paired with cultural stories and prefer the comfort of private transport, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s a good fit whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small family. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash, and an adventurous spirit!