Travelers looking to explore the natural beauty and unique sights of Mauritius often seek out tours that balance breathtaking scenery with authentic local experiences. The South Island Tour with Winery & Waterfall offered by Destination Soleil promises just that—an 8-hour journey into the island’s most impressive landscapes, complemented by a visit to a boutique winery.
Our review isn’t from personal experience but is based on detailed descriptions, traveler feedback, and the thoughtful crafting of this trip’s highlights. What makes this tour stand out? We particularly love the panoramic views that give you a real sense of Mauritius’s diverse geography, the chance to see the country’s tallest waterfall, and the opportunity to taste local litchi wines.
One potential consideration might be the cost—at $150 per person, it’s an investment. However, when you factor in the variety of sights, expert guides, and included attractions, it offers solid value for those eager to make the most of a single day on the island. This tour best suits travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, cultural touches, and a relaxed pace to soak in the island’s natural assets.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from Trou aux Cerfs and other scenic points give you a broad perspective of Mauritius.
- Iconic Waterfall: Chamarel Waterfall’s impressive 328-foot cascade is a highlight.
- Colorful Earth: The Seven Coloured Earth offers a vibrant display of volcanic mineral strata.
- Wine Experience: Sampling litchi wines at Takamaka Boutique Winery provides a taste of local terroir.
- Expert Guides: Friendly guides, like Mr. Ebrahim and Raj, help bring the experience alive with stories and personalized care.
- Flexible Booking: Options to reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available up to 24 hours prior.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary
The South Island Tour kicks off with a hotel or accommodation pickup, making it straightforward for travelers staying anywhere on the island. The exact timing varies based on your location, but the goal is to maximize your sightseeing while keeping the day relaxed and enjoyable.
Looking for more options in Mahebourg? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Ship Models Shop: A Unique Introduction
The first stop is the Shop of Ship Models, where skilled artisans craft miniature ships. This is a charming, unexpected start—seeing craftspeople meticulously working on models that can take months to complete offers a glimpse into the island’s artisanal side. It’s a quiet, contemplative beginning that sets a leisurely tone for the day.
Trou aux Cerfs: Breathtaking Panoramic Views
Next, you’ll visit Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcanic crater offering 360-degree views over Mauritius. From this vantage point, you’ll get a sense of the island’s varied terrain—coastal plains, lush forests, and distant mountains. Travelers rave about the vistas, with one review highlighting how guides make the experience engaging by sharing insights about the terrain and history.
Grand Basin Lake & Black River Gorges Viewpoints
Following that, the tour takes you to Grand Basin Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for photos and relaxing moments. Then, the journey continues with a view over the Black River Gorges National Park, a lush, protected area known for its biodiversity. While the guide might not dive into detailed ecology, the scenic overlook gives you a taste of Mauritius’s natural richness.
More Great Tours NearbyTasting Local Litchi Wines at Takamaka Boutique Winery
A highlight for many guests is the visit to the Takamaka Boutique Winery, where you’ll sample local litchi wines. Crafted from the island’s unique terroir, these wines offer a different perspective on Mauritius’s agricultural side. Travelers like Biljana have praised the guides for their storytelling and warm hospitality—she specifically appreciated how guides like Mr. Ebrahim and Raj shared stories about the island’s history and made sure everyone felt comfortable.
Chamarel Waterfall: The Tallest in Mauritius
The tour’s pièce de résistance is the Chamarel Waterfall, plunging a stunning 100 meters (328 feet). Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall makes for fantastic photos and offers a real sense of raw power and beauty. The natural backdrop enhances this experience, making it a favorite stop for visitors who enjoy dramatic landscapes.
The Seven Coloured Earth: Nature’s Rainbow
Finally, you’ll witness the Seven Coloured Earth, a natural phenomenon of vibrant, striped volcanic rocks. The site’s striking colors—ranging from red and brown to purple and green—are caused by mineral-rich volcanic sands. It’s a playful, almost surreal stop that captures the island’s volcanic past and is perfect for memorable photos.
Return and Drop-off
After a full day exploring, your guides will ensure a comfortable return to your hotel. The entire experience spans approximately 8 hours, balancing sightseeing with plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos.
Why This Tour Offers Good Value
At $150 per person, this tour covers a lot of ground—6 key stops, a knowledgeable guide, hotel pickup, and drop-off. While it does exclude entrance fees for Chamarel’s waterfall and colored earth, the overall experience offers a well-rounded introduction to Mauritius’s natural wonders with the convenience of organized transportation and expert guidance.
The inclusion of local wine tasting adds a culinary dimension that many travelers find memorable, especially given the authenticity of the boutique winery. The personalized attention from guides like Mr. Ebrahim and Raj, who are praised for their storytelling and safety-conscious approach, enhances the experience further.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Mauritius’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic views, natural landscapes, and cultural touches like local wine. It’s also suitable for those traveling with family or friends, as the pace is relaxed and the stops are engaging.
Practical Details & Tips
- Timing: The pick-up varies depending on your location, so confirm with the provider. Expect an 8-hour day.
- Inclusions: Personal guide speaking French, English, or Hindi, plus hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Extras: Be prepared for additional costs for entrance fees and meals, as these are not included.
- Booking: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—flexibility is key.
- Comfort: Expect a comfortable vehicle with a small to medium group size, making it easy to ask questions and stay close to your guide.
FAQs
What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a personal guide speaking your preferred language, and all scheduled stops. Entrance fees for Chamarel Waterfall and the colored earth, as well as winery entry, are extra.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Can I customize the tour?
While the itinerary is fixed, your guides may accommodate minor adjustments—simply ask at booking or during the tour.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in a comfortable vehicle suitable for small or medium groups.
Are meals included?
No, lunch and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at stops.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It is generally suitable for families, especially since the pace is relaxed, but check with the provider if traveling with very young children.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
Final Thoughts
The Mauritius South Island Tour with Winery & Waterfall delivers a solid mix of nature, adventure, and culture, wrapped into a well-organized day. It’s ideal for those who want a rundown of the island’s highlights without the hassle of extensive planning. Expect stunning vistas, impressive waterfalls, colorful volcanic earth, and a taste of local wine—all guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about your experience.
While the price may seem steep, the value is reflected in the variety of sights, ease of logistics, and authentic storytelling. Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone eager to capture the essence of Mauritius in a single day.
If you’re after a memorable, scenic day with a touch of local flavor, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for beautiful landscapes.
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