Full-Day Tour of South West Mauritius

Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 263 reviews)
Recommended by: 90% of travelers
Location: Mauritius
Price: $127.45 per person
Duration: About 7 hours
Features: Pickup from hotel, mobile ticket

A Quick Look at This Tour Experience

This full-day tour promises a comprehensive look at Mauritius’ southwestern wonders. It covers iconic spots like the Seven Colored Earth, Chamarel Waterfall, and Grand Bassin, with plenty of opportunities for photos, cultural insights, and local flavors. The inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup makes it a hassle-free way to see the best of this part of the island.

What we particularly like about this experience are the knowledgeable guides, the stunning panoramic views, and the local rum tasting that feels like a genuine taste of Mauritius. The group size is kept small (max 8 travelers), ensuring plenty of personal attention and a relaxed, friendly vibe.

However, one potential consideration is that some reviews mention the experience can feel somewhat rushed at times, especially if you’re expecting a detailed guide rather than just a driver. It’s ideal for those who want to tick off the main sights without spending their whole day on logistics. Perfect for travelers craving a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural stops, and local indulgence.

This tour suits visitors eager to see diverse highlights in a comfortable, organized manner, especially if you’re new to Mauritius or short on time but want a full overview of its southwestern beauty.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers major sights like the Seven Colored Earth, waterfalls, and sacred sites in one day.
• Expert guides and small groups: Maximize your experience with personalized attention and insightful commentary.
• Cultural immersion: Includes visits to a Hindu temple and local craft workshops, adding authentic flavor.
• Taste of local spirits: Rum tasting at the Rhumerie de Chamarel makes for a fun, flavorful stop.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off save hassle, plus included lunch and beverages.
• Good value: At around $127, it packages transportation, entrance fees, tastings, and a substantial sightseeing itinerary.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start with Trou aux Cerfs

The day begins with pick-up from your hotel, usually around 8:30 am, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. First stop: Trou aux Cerfs, a massive volcanic crater offering sweeping views of the island. From the edge, you look out over Mare aux Vacoas, Rose Hill, and Curepipe. The crater itself is 656 feet wide and 279 feet deep, a natural highlight that feels like a mini-visit to the moon.

Reviewers mention that the panoramic views are unforgettable, with one describing it as “wonderful from all directions.” Since it’s free to enter, it’s a quick but impactful start that sets the tone for the day.

Black River Gorges National Park

Next, you’ll head to Black River Gorges, where a viewpoint and nature walk await. Expect 15 minutes to enjoy the vistas and possibly spot some local fauna or lush greenery. The park is a protected area known for its pristine forests and waterfalls, with reviews praising the great views over the southern part of the island.

While not a lengthy stop, it offers a taste of Mauritius’ biodiversity and natural charm, perfect for snapping some photos or just soaking in the peaceful scenery.

The Majestic Chamarel Waterfalls

Then comes a 15-minute visit to the Chamarel Waterfalls. These stunning cascades tumble into lush green surroundings, a classic photo opportunity. The entrance fee is included, and visitors often comment on how impressive the falls are despite their modest stop length.

The waterfalls are also a gateway to the famous Seven Colored Earth nearby—a true must-see. The scene here is surreal: vivid earth tones swirling in the landscape, formed by volcanic activity and weathering. It’s a geopark, so expect a short walk and plenty of opportunities to marvel at nature’s artistry.

The Sacred Grand Bassin

At Grand Bassin, you’ll visit a sacred lake and Hindu temple. It’s a spiritual hub and a significant pilgrimage site, especially during Maha Shivaratri. Around 30 minutes are allocated here for exploring the rich cultural and religious significance.

Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the spectacular views over the lake, where locals come to pray and travelers get a glimpse of Mauritius’ spiritual side.

The Colored Earth of Chamarel

Next, you’ll visit the Seven Colored Earth Geopark, which takes about 20 minutes. This site is renowned for its multicolored sand dunes, a geological phenomenon that draws visitors from all over. Expect to walk around the landscape, take photos, and learn about how volcanic activity created this unique environment.

Reviewers rave about the breathtaking scenery here and appreciate that it’s included in the tour fee, making this stop a highlight for many.

Alexandra Falls and Scenic Views

Before heading to the rum distillery, there’s a 15-minute stop at Alexandra Falls for more panoramic views. It’s a quieter spot that offers the chance to see the waterfall cascade and enjoy the lush surroundings. Many reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides who take the time to explain the site and help you get the best shots.

Rum Tasting at Rhumerie de Chamarel

The culinary highlight is the 45-minute visit to the Rhumerie de Chamarel, where you can sample Mauritius’ native rum. This stop is often praised as a fun, flavorful experience. You get to see the distillery in action, learn about the rum-making process, and enjoy tastings that include a variety of local spirits.

Reviews mention that the rum tasting is a major plus, and many find it a great way to connect with the island’s local traditions. Plus, the lunch served here or nearby is often described as satisfying and authentic, with some reviewers noting the availability of vegetarian options if requested.

Wrapping Up the Day

After the last stop, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel, usually feeling like you’ve packed a full, enriching day into about 7 hours. The tour ends with a sense of accomplishment, having seen the key sights, learned about local culture, and sampled some of the island’s best spirits.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of southwestern Mauritius without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s also a great value—combining transportation, entrance fees, tastings, and a guided experience for a reasonable price.

Those interested in nature, culture, and local flavors will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer small groups and personalized attention—the max group size is 8, fostering a friendly, intimate vibe.

However, if you’re expecting a guide to deeply explain every site, keep in mind that some reviews suggest the guide mainly acts as a driver with commentary rather than a detailed historian. It’s a balanced experience, but those craving extensive historical insights might want to supplement with a more specialized tour.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance—most travelers book about 27 days ahead, indicating high demand.
• Arrive early for the 8:30 am start to maximize your day.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water—the stops are mostly outdoors and sunny.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around sites like the Seven Colored Earth and waterfalls.
• Inform the guide if you have dietary restrictions—vegetarian options are available if booked ahead.
• Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photos and short explorations.
• Bring cash or card for souvenirs at craft workshops or personal purchases, as some stops may not accept cards.

Pricing and Value

At $127.45, this tour offers a well-rounded package that includes entrance fees, a local lunch, rum tasting, and transportation. When you consider the convenience of hotel pickup and the chance to visit multiple highlights without the stress of self-planning, it’s quite reasonable.

Some reviewers note that it might feel slightly overpriced for a “whistle-stop” tour if you prefer more in-depth guides or tailored routes. Yet, for most, the value lies in the effortlessness and variety—covering significant sights in one day with friendly guides and small groups.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Tour of South West Mauritius combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and local flavors into a manageable, enjoyable package. It’s perfect for travelers who value convenience, good value, and authentic experiences without sacrificing the beauty and spirit of Mauritius.

If you’re eager to tick off major attractions like the Seven Colored Earth, Chamarel Waterfall, and Grand Bassin, while also sampling Mauritian rum and exploring local crafts, this tour strikes a nice balance. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a friendly, informative way to spend a day.

While it may not satisfy those seeking an in-depth guided history tour, it’s ideal for those looking for a fun, scenic, and culturally rich overview of southwestern Mauritius.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, from pickup in the morning to hotel return.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included, with beverages during lunch (non-alcoholic). Vegetarian options are available if requested.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, for a full refund.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, a minimum of 2 people is required, but most travelers are able to join a small group of up to 8.

What is the recommended age for participants?
The minimum drinking age is 18, and most travelers of all ages can participate.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to allow enough time to explore each stop without feeling rushed, according to many reviews.

To sum it up, this tour offers a solid way to experience some of Mauritius’ most beautiful and meaningful sights comfortably and affordably. It’s particularly suited for those who want a well-organized, small-group adventure that balances scenic views, cultural stops, and local indulgence. Pack your camera, wear comfy shoes, and enjoy a day exploring one of the world’s most charming islands.