Explore The Wild South

Exploring the Wild South of Mauritius: A Journey of Natural Beauty and Adventure

If you’re looking for an authentic way to experience Mauritius beyond the typical beaches and resorts, Explore The Wild South offers a compelling option. This 3-hour guided trek takes you through the island’s rugged southern terrain, revealing hidden waterfalls, striking rock formations, and secluded natural pools. With a focus on nature, local flora and fauna, and a touch of adventure, it’s perfect for travelers craving active exploration.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour are its personalized nature, the chance to spot endemic species, and the stunning scenery along each step. However, keep in mind that parts of the hike involve steep and rugged paths, which require a moderate level of fitness and comfort with uneven terrain. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are ready to get a bit adventurous.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and travelers who want a memorable outdoor activity that combines scenic beauty with physical movement. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find this tour offers genuine value and a unique perspective on Mauritius’ wild south.

Key Points

Authentic Adventure: The tour offers an active way to explore Mauritius’ less-traveled southern paths.
Scenic Highlights: Expect breathtaking views of rock formations and natural pools.
Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with fascinating insights.
Authentic Encounters: Increased chances of spotting endemic flora and fauna.
Value for Money: At only $59, it provides a rich, memorable outdoor experience.
Family Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with some challenging sections for those with limited mobility.

Uncovering the Mysteries of the Wild South

The Explore The Wild South tour is a perfect way to get off the beaten track of Mauritius. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling the rugged, untouched beauty of the island’s southern coast. The journey begins at Gris Gris Beach, a renowned spot famous for its powerful waves and dramatic cliffs. Here, you’ll start your adventure with a gentle walk along the coastline, soaking in the cool sea breeze and the calming sound of the waves. Our guide, Kevin, was praised for his excellent storytelling, sharing insights about the island’s history and natural environment, which added a lot of depth to the experience.

As you move into the interior, the trail ascends into more challenging terrain. The tour involves hiking rugged paths, which some reviewers described as including difficult and steep sections. Those comments highlight the importance of being comfortable with uneven surfaces and moderate physical exertion. Yet, for many, the effort is rewarded with spectacular views and the thrill of discovering secret waterfalls and natural basins. These spots are perfect for cooling off or snapping photos that capture the raw beauty of the region.

From Beach to Wilderness: The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Gris Gris Beach
The starting point combines relaxation with exploration. We loved how the guide encouraged us to take our time, enjoy the scenery, and learn about the local environment. The beach itself is a tranquil place where you can unwind before heading inland. It’s a great way to ease into the adventure while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Admission here is free, giving you a good value for a scenic start.

Hidden Waterfalls and Natural Basins
Moving away from the beach, the trail leads to hidden waterfalls and natural basins. These are some of the tour’s highlights, especially because they’re often secluded spots that feel like secret treasures. One reviewer mentioned discovering “hidden waterfalls,” which really captures the sense of uncovering untouched corners of the island. These areas are perfect for a quick dip or just admiring the raw power of nature.

Rock Formations of La Roche Qui Pleure
One of the main attractions is the impressive rock formations, notably La Roche Qui Pleure, which translates to “The Crying Rock” due to the water drips that create a haunting visual. These geological features are striking, and standing beside them makes you appreciate the natural forces that shaped the landscape over millennia.

Cascade Mamzelle
Another highlight is the secluded Cascade Mamzelle, a peaceful waterfall where you might get lucky spotting some of Mauritius’ endemic flora and fauna. The natural pools here provide a refreshing break after some of the more strenuous sections, and the scenery is nothing short of majestic.

Expectation vs. Reality: What’s Included

The tour price of $59 per person represents excellent value given the inclusion of snacks, photo and video coverage, and aquashoes. These extras enhance your comfort and memories—those aquashoes are particularly useful for navigating rocky or slippery areas safely. You’ll need to bring your own bottled water, which is not included, so packing a refillable bottle is advisable.

The tour’s small group size (maximum 20 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of room for questions and individual attention from your guide. Many travelers, like Yordan, appreciated Kevin’s extensive knowledge and encouragement, especially during the more challenging parts.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear sturdy footwear suitable for rocky, uneven terrain.
• Bring a refillable water bottle, even if not included.
• Pack a small backpack with sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a light rain jacket depending on the weather.
• Expect some physical exertion; the tour is suitable for most travelers but involves some steep and rugged paths.
• The tour operates in good weather; in case of rain, the experience might be canceled or rescheduled.

The Experience: What You’ll Really Take Away

Beyond the stunning scenery, what makes this tour stand out is the chance to see endemic plants and animals that are unlikely to be found elsewhere. Mauritius is famous for its unique biodiversity, and a guide like Kevin can point out plants and bird species that you might overlook on your own.

The timing of around 3 hours makes it an ideal half-day activity—long enough to explore and appreciate the sights, but not so long as to tire out. The pace is flexible, with plenty of opportunities to pause and take photos or just soak in the surroundings.

Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the guides and the stunning views as the main draws. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor help create an engaging atmosphere, making the experience both educational and fun.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers with a moderate fitness level who enjoy hiking and discovering natural landscapes. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to see a lesser-known side of Mauritius, away from crowded beaches and resorts. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences will all find value here.

Please note, the rugged terrain isn’t ideal for anyone with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing style. But if you’re up for a physical challenge and love stunning scenery, this tour offers an authentic taste of Mauritius’ wild south.

Final Thoughts

Explore The Wild South offers a genuine adventure into one of Mauritius’ most scenic and lesser-explored regions. The combination of impressive geological formations, waterfalls, natural pools, and endemic flora creates an experience that’s both visually stunning and deeply engaging. The knowledgeable guides, especially Kevin, help bring the landscape to life with their stories and insights, making the journey more meaningful.

At $59, this tour provides excellent value for a memorable outdoor outing—especially when you consider the included snacks, photo coverage, and footwear. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of physical activity, natural beauty, and authentic local encounters.

While some parts of the hike may be challenging, they’re well worth the effort for the stunning views and unique discoveries. Whether you’re visiting Mauritius for a short stay or are a repeat traveler eager to see more of its natural charms, this experience is a compelling addition to your itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the rugged, steep sections may be challenging for very young children or those with limited mobility. Older children who enjoy outdoor activities should be fine.

What should I wear for the tour?
Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes are recommended due to the rugged terrain. Light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are also advisable to stay protected and comfortable.

Does the tour include transportation?
The meeting point is at Gris Gris Public Beach parking in Souillac, Mauritius. It is near public transportation, making it accessible without needing a private vehicle.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience with personalized guide attention.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, photo and video coverage, and aquashoes are included. You’ll need to bring your own bottled water.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if you prefer.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to explore Mauritius’ rugged landscapes and enjoy some active outdoor fun, Explore The Wild South offers incredible value and authentic adventure. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the island’s natural beauty, learn from knowledgeable guides, and experience some of its most stunning geological features. Perfect for those who love hiking, photography, and discovering hidden gems.