Ile d’Ambre & Ile Aux Bernaches Fday with Lunch & Snorkeling

When it comes to Mauritius, most travelers focus on the famous beaches, luxury resorts, and bustling towns. But for those craving a taste of untouched, quiet nature, a day spent exploring Ile d’Ambre and Ile Aux Bernaches can be a revelation. This tour promises a blend of serene beaches, vibrant underwater life, and authentic island charm – away from the crowds.

What we love about this experience is how it balances peaceful exploration with fun activities like snorkeling and a delicious BBQ lunch. The boat trip itself is an adventure, winding through mangroves and offering some stunning views. Plus, the chance to step onto two less-visited islands means you’ll get a more genuine, less touristy experience.

A possible consideration? The tour doesn’t include hotel transfers or snorkeling equipment, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Also, with a full 7 hours packed with activities, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and light adventure.

This day trip suits nature lovers, snorkelers, and anyone looking for a quiet escape in Mauritius’s northeast. If you value genuine natural beauty over crowds and commercialization, this experience will resonate deeply.

Key Points

• Authentic islands: Enjoy the non-touristic, pristine beaches of Ile d’Ambre and Ile Aux Bernaches.
• Scenic boat ride: The trip among mangroves and along the coast offers incredible views and photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling: Explore coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, making it perfect for underwater enthusiasts.
• Serene lunch: Relax with a BBQ picnic on Ile Aux Bernaches, far from busy tourist spots.
• Nature immersion: Discover endemic flora and bird species, including rare sightings like the pink pigeon.
• Full-day adventure: Expect approximately 7 hours of exploration, relaxation, and fun activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Islands: What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The experience begins at the Debarcadere jetty, where you’ll meet your guide holding a sign with your name. From there, a private boat takes you on a peaceful cruise across turquoise waters. The boat ride itself is a highlight, giving you spectacular views of mangroves and the coast. The group size is usually small, adding to the intimate feel of the trip.

Ile d’Ambre: A Sanctuary of Nature

Ile d’Ambre (sometimes called Amber Island) is the first stop. This island is famous for its lush vegetation, endemic plants, and the chance to spot rare bird species, including the pink pigeon. The dense foliage offers shaded trails perfect for light hiking, revealing secluded coves, panoramic viewpoints, and quiet spots ideal for a picnic or just soaking in the scenery.

Authentic experience: We loved how the guide pointed out endemic flora and fauna, emphasizing the island’s status as a sanctuary. Several reviewers mention the “beautiful, non-touristy beaches,” perfect for relaxing without the crowds. The snorkeling here, near coral reefs, promises a peek into vibrant underwater life—fish of various colors dart among the coral formations, making it a hit for underwater lovers.

The Boat Journey: Mangroves and Coastlines

The boat trip from Ile d’Ambre to Ile Aux Bernaches is more than just transportation. It’s a sightseeing excursion in itself. Navigating through impressive mangroves, which are colonies of strong roots forming natural tunnels, offers a different view of Mauritius’s marine ecosystems. Guests mention the boat being comfortable and well-organized, with enough time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

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Ile Aux Bernaches: Relaxation and Underwater Wonders

Ile Aux Bernaches is a tranquil haven with unspoiled beaches and shallow waters. It’s perfect for a laid-back day of sunbathing or strolling along the shore. The highlight here is the BBQ lunch, which is described as tasty and filling, with drinks included to keep everyone refreshed.

Snorkeling on this island is another favorite part of the trip. The coral reefs are thriving, providing a kaleidoscope of marine life. You might see schools of colorful fish, and if the weather cooperates, the water clarity makes for excellent viewing. The island’s interior also hosts various bird species, adding to the peaceful, natural ambiance.

Activities and Additional Highlights

• Visit to Trou Coco: Some reviews mention a stop at Trou Coco, a picturesque coastal area that offers great photo ops.
• Mangrove colonies: The boat’s route includes visits to large mangrove colonies, which are important for local biodiversity and give a sense of untouched eco-systems.

Timing and Practical Info

The tour lasts around 7 hours, giving ample time for each stop, snorkeling, lunch, and relaxing. Since snorkeling equipment isn’t provided, bringing your own mask and fins is advisable. The tour is offered in several languages including French, English, Hindi, and Urdu, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

Analyzing the Value

At $252 for a group of up to two people, the price might seem steep at first glance. But when you factor in boat transfers, visits to two islands, snorkeling, a guided boat trip, and a BBQ lunch with drinks, it actually offers excellent value. This is especially true for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences and scenic beauty over crowded tourist hotspots.

The fact that hotel transfers aren’t included means you’ll need to organize your own transport to the Debarcadere jetty, but this allows for flexibility depending on your Mauritius accommodation. Keep in mind, no snorkeling gear is provided, so packing your own is essential if underwater exploration is a priority.

Insights from reviews

One reviewer mentioned how the boat ride’s views of mangroves were “impressive and peaceful,” emphasizing how the journey itself was a highlight. Others appreciated the uncrowded beaches, saying they felt more like discovering secret spots than visiting typical tourist islands.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who love natural beauty and tranquility and aren’t fussed about luxury or large group tours. It’s an ideal choice for snorkelers, bird watchers, and those who seek authentic, off-the-beaten-path islands. If you’re looking for a full day of peaceful exploration, scenic boat rides, and unspoiled beaches, this is a wonderful option.

The Sum Up

This full-day adventure to Ile d’Ambre and Ile Aux Bernaches offers a rare chance to experience Mauritius’s quieter side. With pristine beaches, vibrant underwater life, and lush landscapes, it’s a peaceful escape from tourist crowds. The inclusion of snorkeling, a scenic boat trip, and a relaxed picnic makes it well worth the cost for those craving nature and serenity.

While it requires some planning (like bringing snorkeling gear and organizing transport to the meeting point), the effort pays off in authentic, memorable moments. It’s best suited for travelers who value natural landscapes, wildlife, and a slower pace—perfect for recharging and reconnecting with nature.

If you’re after a genuine, less commercialized taste of Mauritius’s wild beauty, this tour delivers in spades. Expect stunning views, peaceful beaches, and underwater surprises that will leave you with plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

Do I need to bring snorkeling equipment?
Snorkeling equipment is not provided, so bringing your own mask and fins is recommended if you want to explore under the water.

Are hotel transfers included?
No, hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transport to the Debarcadere jetty.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including boat rides, island visits, snorkeling, and lunch.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention the boat being well-organized and comfortable, suitable for relaxed sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, beachwear, and towels are advised. Don’t forget sunscreen for sun protection.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a guide on the tour?
There is a guide providing knowledge about the islands, though it’s mainly a boat and visiting experience rather than an island-guided tour.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Look out for endemic bird species, including the rare pink pigeon, and colorful marine life during snorkeling.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most ages, consider individual comfort with boat rides and snorkeling.

What makes this tour special?
The chance to visit virgin, non-touristy islands, combined with scenic boat rides and tranquil beaches, makes it a unique experience in Mauritius.

You can check availability for your dates here: