Mauritius: Full Day Private Tour of the South

If you’re planning a day to explore Mauritius’ southern charm, this private tour promises to showcase some of the island’s most stunning natural sights and cultural highlights. While we haven’t personally been, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that balances breathtaking scenery, local crafts, and cultural insights—all within an 8-hour window.

What we love about this tour is the intimate setting with a dedicated guide, the chance to see iconic natural features like waterfalls and volcanic craters, and the opportunity to learn more about the island’s cultural tapestry through visits like the Hindu temple with the oldest Shiva statue in the Indian Ocean. The only potential downside? It’s not a tour for those with mobility issues, given the walking involved and the focus on outdoor sites.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day, with the flexibility of a private guide to tailor the journey. If you appreciate natural beauty, cultural sites, and comfortable, personalized transportation, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private Guide & Customizable Experience: Personalized attention and flexible itinerary.
• Natural Wonders: Waterfalls, volcanic views, and panoramic island vistas.
• Cultural Insights: Hindu temple visit with historic Shiva statue.
• Scenic Highlights: Trou aux Cerfs crater, Chamarel waterfalls, and Seven Coloured Earth.
• Value for Money: $150 for up to 4 people delivers a lot of sights in one day.
• Weather Considerations: Inclement weather can impact certain outdoor stops, but guides adapt as needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the South of Mauritius: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Mauritius is famous for its stunning beaches, but the southern part of the island offers a different kind of beauty—lush landscapes, volcanic formations, and intriguing cultural sites. This private tour provides a curated experience that covers these highlights comfortably, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which means you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads—you’ll be picked up from your hotel or cruise ship, wherever you’re staying. Expect a full 8-hour adventure, which provides plenty of time to soak in the scenery, learn some local history, and take photos without feeling rushed.

The Value of a Private Guide

One of the biggest benefits of this experience is the guide, who speaks English, French, or Hindi—whichever you prefer. Several reviews mention guides like Sailen, Ibrahim, or Dave, noting their friendliness, knowledge, and the ability to share local stories without overloading visitors. Guides make a difference, especially when they adjust the storytelling based on your interests and weather conditions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Let’s walk through what you’ll see and do during this day:

Ship Model Shop
Your day begins with a stop at a craft shop where artisans spend months perfecting miniature ship models. It’s a small but fascinating glimpse into local craftsmanship, and a good place to stretch your legs before heading into the scenery.

Trou aux Cerfs
Next, you’ll visit this dormant volcanic crater. The views from the top are spectacular, offering a 360-degree outlook over the island’s lush landscape and coastline. Several reviewers mention how the panoramas are truly breathtaking—perfect for snapping a few memorable photos.

Grand Basin Lake and Black River Gorges Viewpoints
From Trou aux Cerfs, the driver takes you to nearby vantage points over Black River Gorges National Park and the scenic Grand Basin Lake. These spots showcase the island’s lush greenery and dramatic mountain backdrops.

Chamarel Waterfall
No visit to the south is complete without seeing the tallest waterfall in Mauritius—an impressive cascade that drops 328 feet (100 meters). It’s a sight that truly captures the island’s raw natural power, and the surroundings make for impressive photos.

Seven Coloured Earth
Finally, you’ll visit the famous Seven Coloured Earth, a geological marvel. The vibrant, rainbow-hued volcanic sands are a wonder to behold and make for some fun, colorful photos. Reviewers frequently mention this as a highlight, often describing it as “a rainbow of striated volcanic rocks.”

Cultural Site: Hindu Temple & Shiva Statue
The tour concludes with a visit to a Hindu temple housing the oldest Shiva statue in the Indian Ocean. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the spiritual and cultural roots of the island, with many visitors noting the peaceful atmosphere and impressive craftsmanship.

What to Expect and Practical Details

The entire day runs smoothly, with transportation in a comfortable vehicle that accommodates up to four people. The tour is designed for small groups, which means more personalized attention and flexibility.

Timing & Pacing
Given the 8-hour length, you’ll have enough time at each stop to explore, take photos, and ask questions. The pick-up times vary depending on your hotel location, but the schedule typically allows a relaxed pace.

Cost & Value
At $150 for up to four people, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the curated experience, private guide, and transportation. Entrance fees for the Waterfall and Seven Coloured Earth are not included, but these are generally modest and manageable.

What to Bring
Comfortable shoes are essential—expect some walking and uneven terrain. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also recommended, especially since much of the day involves outdoor sightseeing. Swimwear isn’t allowed, as the stops focus more on land-based attractions.

Language & Flexibility
Guides are fluent in English, French, Hindi, and even Arabic. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers seeking a tailored experience. You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

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Authentic Experiences & What Travelers Love

Reviews highlight how guides like Sailen, Ibrahim, and Dave make the day special with their friendly demeanors and local knowledge. One reviewer mentions Dave’s skill in storytelling and the ability to time explanations perfectly, making the sightseeing more meaningful.

Many travelers appreciate the stunning views from Trou aux Cerfs and Black River Gorges, describing them as “breathtaking” and “impressive,” which shows how impactful these natural sights are. The Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Coloured Earth receive praise for their uniqueness and photographic appeal.

Some reviewers note minor annoyances, like the pressure at souvenir shops, but overall, the guides’ professionalism and the itinerary’s diversity outweigh these small issues. The fact that guide Ibrahim took care of vegan lunch requests demonstrates the tour’s flexibility and attention to individual needs.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This private day trip is best suited for travelers who value personalized attention, want a mix of natural beauty and cultural insight, and prefer a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for small groups or couples up to four, offering excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.

If you’re after iconic waterfalls, volcanic views, and spiritual sites with a knowledgeable guide by your side, this tour ticks all those boxes. Plus, it’s a smart choice for those who want a flexible, hassle-free experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer more active adventures like swimming or hiking long distances, you might want to consider other options. Still, for most, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable glimpse into southern Mauritius’s natural and cultural riches.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable walking outdoors and don’t have mobility issues. The sights are mostly outdoor and scenic, making it family-friendly.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, with enough time at each site for photos and exploration.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Chamarel Waterfall and the Seven Coloured Earth are not included, but they are generally affordable.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can adapt based on your interests and weather conditions, making for a personalized experience.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak English, French, Hindi, and Arabic, allowing for easy communication.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and beverages are not included, but guides can offer recommendations or accommodate special requests like vegan options.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Swimwear is not permitted during the stops.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $150 per group of up to 4 people, offering great value for a full-day private experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This full-day private tour of southern Mauritius offers a wonderful balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and personalized service. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views from Trou aux Cerfs, admiring the volcanic sands at Seven Coloured Earth, or soaking in the serenity of a Hindu temple, you’re sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the island’s diverse charm.

Designed for small groups and led by guides praised for their friendliness and expertise, it’s a practical choice for travelers who want an authentic, hassle-free exploration. If you’re eager to see Mauritius’s iconic sights without the hassle of navigating yourself, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: