Exotic South: Journey into the Nature (Full-Day Tour incl Lunch & Ebony Forest)

Getting around Mauritius’s best natural sights in a single day sounds ambitious, but this Exotic South: Journey into the Nature tour manages to do just that. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it offers a compelling mix of scenery, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re a landscape lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply want a taste of the island’s most iconic sights, this tour promises a comprehensive experience.

What we like most about this adventure is the personalized guided approach, the chance to explore diverse landscapes like waterfalls and forests, and the inclusion of a delicious local lunch. It’s a great way to see the southern part of Mauritius without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Of course, one thing to consider is the long day’s duration, which might feel a bit rushed for some travelers. Still, if you’re eager to maximize your time and see many highlights, this tour is probably a good fit.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate organized full-day excursions, want to see multiple attractions with minimal hassle, and enjoy learning about the island’s ecological and cultural gems. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but eager to cover the key sights efficiently.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour with a knowledgeable guide for a tailored experience
• Diverse stops including waterfalls, forests, viewpoints, and cultural sites
• Includes a generous 3-course lunch, with vegetarian options available
• Highlights nature’s colors at the Seven Coloured Earth and scenic viewpoints
• A mix of adventure and culture, perfect for those who want variety in one day
• Long but rewarding, best for travelers prepared for a full day outdoors

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

How the Day Starts: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off with hotel pick-up anywhere in Mauritius at 8:30 am, which is a real bonus for travelers who want to skip the logistics. The transportation is in a fully air-conditioned private vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the day. The guide, who is a certified professional, will meet you at your hotel, setting the tone for a relaxed yet engaging day.

First Stop: Trou aux Cerfs

Your journey begins at Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano with a crater rim sitting at around 605 meters above sea level. The crater itself is about 350 meters wide and roughly 100 meters deep, offering fantastic panoramic views of the island’s interior. Reviewers mention the surrounding indigenous plant species and giant pine trees that add lushness to the scene.

Expect to spend about 40 minutes here. One reviewer pointed out the significance of the site—it’s not just a pretty view but a geological feature worth appreciating. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the lush forest, makes this a calming yet impressive start.

Mare aux Vacoas Reservoir

Next, you’ll visit Mare aux Vacoas, Mauritius’s largest reservoir with a capacity of nearly 26 million cubic meters. While it might not be as flashy as other stops, plenty of reviewers appreciate the serene atmosphere and photo opportunities. It’s the perfect place to pause and breathe amidst the natural beauty, away from tourist crowds.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes, and the view over the water with the forest backdrop tends to impress those looking for a tranquil moment.

The Sacred Ganga Talao: Grand Bassin

The tour then moves to Ganga Talao, or Grand Bassin, a sacred lake set in a volcanic crater at 550 meters elevation. Here, a towering 33-meter-high Lord Shiva statue greets visitors, along with smaller shrines dedicated to other Hindu gods. Many guests mention feeling a sense of serenity at this spiritual site, and the beautifully maintained surroundings add to its allure.

Expect 40 minutes here. One reviewer highlighted the “absolutely gorgeous and serene” atmosphere, describing it as a highlight of the day.

Alexandra Falls: Nature’s Power and Beauty

Next, the journey takes you to Alexandra Falls, perched 700 meters above sea level. This site is easily recognizable from postcards, thanks to its stunning cascade and panoramic views. Visitors love the opportunity to photograph the turquoise coast from above and the chance to walk around the falls.

Plan on about 30 minutes. Reviewers have called it one of the most emblematic sites of Mauritius and praised the breathtaking scenery.

Black River Gorges National Park: Unspoiled Wilderness

Midway between Chamarel and Alexandra Falls lies the gorge viewpoint, a highlight for nature lovers. The short walk (about 3-5 minutes from the road) delivers a spectacular panoramic view of the unspoiled rainforest, rolling hills, waterfalls, and deep valleys. Nearly 17,000 acres of untouched nature make this a must-see.

Guests love the views of waterfalls and the sense of being amid real wilderness. Expect a 30-minute stop, a chance to appreciate Mauritius’s native flora and fauna.

The Village of Chamarel and Its Viewpoints

Driving through Chamarel village feels like stepping into a different world. The tour then takes you to Chamarel viewpoint, where you can admire the lush green hills, Le Morne Brabant, and La Tourelle du Tamarin. With sweeping vistas, this spot is perfect for photos, especially with the bright sunlight.

You’ll spend around 2 hours exploring this area, which includes a visit to the Seven Coloured Earth and the Waterfalls.

Seven Coloured Earth: A Geological Marvel

The Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is one of the most famous natural phenomena in Mauritius. These rainbow-hued sands, formed from volcanic basaltic lava turning into clay minerals, create a surreal landscape. Reviewers describe the scene as “lunar-like” and “mesmerizing”.

Spending about 40 minutes here, you’ll find the dunes of red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. One reviewer even mentioned how the colors don’t mix when you combine the sands, making it a fun spot for photos and curiosity.

Chamarel Waterfalls: Nature’s Power

Not far from the coloured earth are the Chamarel Waterfalls, dropping about 100 meters into dense vegetation. Many reviewers note this as the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius. The thunderous rush of water and lush surroundings make it an ideal photo stop.

Allow about 25 minutes here. Visitors often comment on the powerful flow and how the waterfalls overhang basalt cliffs, creating a dramatic setting.

Ebony Forest Reserve: Wildlife and Conservation

One of the tour’s standout moments is the visit to Ebony Forest Reserve, where you take a jeep safari through an ancient, endemic forest. This part of the tour is highly praised for the guided nature walk and the chance to spot rare birds, like the Mauritius Paradise Flycatcher, or the Aldabra tortoises.

Expect around 1 hour at this site. Reviewers note the stunning views and the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts, making it both informative and scenic.

Final Stop: Baie du Cap & Maconde Viewpoint

The last scenic stop is at Maconde Viewpoint, where you look out over the ocean. It’s a fitting ending, offering a panoramic vista of the coast, with a chance to see fishermen at work or Riviere des Galets with its unique flat stones.

This 20-minute stop wraps up the day before returning to your hotel.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as the main attractions. Many mention that the Ebony Forest is a “must-see”, with some noting the importance of insect repellent due to bugs. One guest said, “Make sure to wear PLENTY of bug spray,” emphasizing that some stops, especially the forest, can be bug-prone.

The lunch is consistently praised as delicious, offering a 3-course meal with vegetarian options, which adds great value to the trip. Reviewers also appreciate the private transportation, which means no worries about strangers or group sizes.

However, some mention that the long duration can lead to a feeling of being rushed, especially at popular spots like Chamarel and the waterfalls. A few reviews suggest that the tour could be more cost-effective, but many agree that the convenience and variety justify the price.

Practical Tips from Reviewers

• Wear non-slippery shoes for walking and hiking, especially at Alexandra Falls and Ebony Forest.
• Bring camera gear to capture the vibrant sands and panoramic views.
• Expect a full day; it’s best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy nature and culture.
• If you have food allergies or preferences, notify the tour provider in advance.
• The tour is most suitable for those who enjoy a personalized experience, as it’s private with a guide dedicated to your group.

The Value of This Tour

At $147.50 per person, the price reflects a comprehensive package that covers many of Mauritius’s top natural sights. For those who want to see a large swath of the island’s diverse landscapes in one day, the all-inclusive nature — lunch, entrance fees, jeep safari — provides a good value.

While some reviewers feel the duration is long, the abundance of sights and the personalized guide make it worthwhile, especially considering the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off. The tour’s flexibility allows for a more tailored experience, which is highly valued.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour makes an excellent choice for travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sites, and adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to cover a lot of ground without the stress of driving or planning. The knowledgeable guides and private transportation ensure a smooth, informative, and comfortable journey.

If you’re after a rundown of Mauritius’s natural highlights in one day, this tour offers great value and a chance to make memorable discoveries. Keep in mind that it’s a long day, so packing some snacks and insect repellent is recommended. For those eager to explore Mauritius’s lush landscapes and sacred sites with a knowledgeable guide, this adventure hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider your comfort with long days and walking in nature. Wear suitable shoes and bring water.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, a 3-course lunch (vegetarian options available), bottled water, entrance fees to the Seven Colored Earth and Chamarel Waterfalls, and a jeep safari at Ebony Forest.

Are there any optional extras?
Gratuities are not included but are optional. You may also want to bring personal items like insect spray, sun protection, and a camera.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 25 to 40 minutes, with longer visits at key attractions like Chamarel and Ebony Forest.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or other weather issues, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, guides are often flexible and can modify parts of the itinerary if you have specific interests or time constraints.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious 3-course meal is part of the tour, with vegetarian options available. Be sure to inform the provider of any allergies.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 32 days in advance, so it’s wise to reserve early to secure your preferred date.

This full-day journey through Mauritius promises to showcase the island’s most striking landscapes, all with the comfort of a private guide and tailored experience. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it’s a rewarding way to understand one of the Indian Ocean’s most beautiful islands.