Planning a day trip in Mauritius that combines stunning scenery, fun activities, and a hearty meal? This Ile aux Cerfs, waterfalls, and BBQ boat tour offers a well-rounded experience that showcases some of the island’s best highlights. While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, it packs enough sights and tastes to leave you feeling like you really got a taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty and laid-back vibes.
What we love about this tour is its straightforward approach: a quick boat ride to a picture-perfect island, a scenic waterfall with monkeys, and an all-you-can-eat grilled feast. Plus, the price point—just $65 per person—makes it an accessible way to experience some of the island’s top sights without breaking the bank. The only caveat is that it’s a fairly full schedule for a few hours, so if you’re looking for a super relaxed, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit brisk.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything—beach, nature, and local cuisine—without too much fuss. It’s especially suited for those on a budget or visitors with limited time who want a well-organized, enjoyable outing that captures the essence of Mauritius.
Key Points
- Efficient Schedule: Combines island relaxation, waterfall visits, and a BBQ meal within a half-day trip
- Value for Money: At $65, includes boat rides, meals, and visits, providing a lot of bang for your buck
- Authentic Flavors: Enjoy a traditional grilled lunch with local fish, chicken, and tropical fruits
- Scenic Highlights: Ile aux Cerfs, GRSE waterfall, and local monkeys add natural charm
- Group Experience: Small group tours ensure a personalized vibe, guided by knowledgeable skippers
- Limited Extras: Snorkeling gear and alcohol are not included, so prepare accordingly
An Honest Look at the Tour Experience
Looking for more options in Trou D Eau Douce? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
How It All Starts: The Departure and Boat Ride
The adventure kicks off every day at 9:30 am from Trou deau Douce, a charming coastal village known for its bustling boat harbor. The transporter? A speedboat operated by Saeta, which whizzes you across the water in about 20-30 minutes. Traveling by speedboat adds an extra thrill—there’s nothing quite like zipping across the turquoise waves with the wind in your hair.
The boat ride itself is a highlight for many, offering stunning views of the coastline and the chance to feel the tropical breeze. Reviewers mention that the boats are comfortable and well-maintained, adding to the overall positive vibe. Nico, one of the reviewers, simply summed it up with “Preis Leistung Top” (value for money top).
Ile aux Cerfs: Relaxation and Photos
Once on Ile aux Cerfs, you’re handed the choice to relax, explore, or walk over to nearby Margenie Island. You’ll have until about 12:30 pm to enjoy the pristine sands and clear waters. The island is a classic postcard scene—white sand, palm trees, and gentle waves. It’s a good chance to take photos, soak up some sun, or paddle around.
Some guests like the opportunity to walk around and appreciate the island’s natural beauty without feeling rushed. Because it’s a free period, it’s ideal for those who want a quick dip or a quiet moment on the beach before moving on.
Visiting the Waterfall and Monkey Feeding
At around 12:30 pm, the boat departs again, heading to the GRSE waterfall, a lush spot where you can see the cascading water and, if you’re lucky, spot some playful monkeys. Several reviewers note the monkeys are quite social and eager for food, providing fun opportunities for photos and close encounters.
The waterfall visit isn’t just for sights—it’s also a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy some nature. Reviewers mention that the monkeys are fed, which adds a charming, interactive touch to the tour. It’s a simple but meaningful experience, especially for animal lovers or those seeking a break from the sun.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch: Grilled Goodness on the Beach
After the waterfall stop, the group heads to the designated lunch spot, where a barbecue lunch awaits. Expect a generous spread of fish, chicken, potatoes, salad, bread with garlic butter, and tropical fruit like pineapple. The meal is served buffet-style, and drinks—soft drinks, juice, water, beer, wine, and rum—are included.
Guests consistently praise the quality and quantity of food. Nico called it “Preis Leistung Top,” highlighting how good the value is for the price. The lunch is casual but satisfying, offering a taste of local flavors and the chance to relax before heading back into the water for the return trip.
Return Journey and Final Relaxation
Post-lunch, there’s some free time to enjoy the beach or have a quick swim before the speedboat picks you up again around 3:00-3:30 pm. The return trip offers one last opportunity to enjoy the sea views, with most guests feeling like the day was both active and leisurely enough.
The entire trip wraps up within about six hours, making it manageable even for those on tight schedules. It’s a good length—enough to see a variety of sights without feeling exhausted.
What’s Included and What’s Not?
The tour includes speedboat rides to and from Ile aux Cerfs, a visit to the waterfall and monkeys, and a BBQ lunch with drinks. It’s a straightforward package, offering great value for travelers wanting an all-inclusive experience for a set price.
However, there are some notable exclusions: snorkeling gear, towels, and hard alcoholic drinks are not included. If you’re keen on snorkeling, you’ll need to bring your own gear or rent locally. Also, keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as the itinerary involves some uneven terrain and boat transfers.
Flexibility and Booking
The tour offers the convenience of reserve-and-pay-later options, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment. Cancellations are flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—making it a low-risk booking choice.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
Nico’s quick comment, “Preis Leistung Top,” underscores how much value this experience offers for the price. Guests have appreciated the smooth organization, the friendly guides, and the opportunity to enjoy Mauritius’s highlights without feeling rushed.
Some travelers mention the small group sizes and the personalized attention from guides, which enhances the overall experience. Although snorkeling isn’t included, the tour’s itinerary ensures you see some of the island’s best natural sights in a convenient package.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want an authentic taste of Mauritius in a short time. If you enjoy a good balance of nature, beach, and local cuisine, you’ll find this day trip hits all the right notes.
It’s also suited for families or small groups who prefer structured activities with a professional guide. While it’s not designed for those with mobility issues, most other travelers will appreciate the straightforward, fun-filled itinerary.
The Sum Up
In summary, the Mauritius Ile aux Cerfs, Waterfalls, and BBQ Boat Day provides a solid, value-packed way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights. It combines the fun of a speedboat ride, the serenity of a tropical island, the playful antics of monkeys, and a delicious grilled lunch—all within a manageable timeframe.
For travelers after a hassle-free, well-organized day that showcases both the natural beauty and local flavors of Mauritius, this tour checks most boxes. It offers enough variety to keep everyone entertained, without overwhelming the schedule or the budget.
If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic experience that captures the essence of Mauritius—without a hefty price tag—this trip is definitely worth considering.
FAQ
What time does the tour start?
The tour departs every day at 9:30 am from Trou deau Douce, making it easy to plan your morning.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While the trip is generally family-friendly, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and involves some walking at the waterfall, so consider your children’s mobility.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and possibly some cash for optional extras. Snorkeling gear is not included, so if you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring or rent your own.
Are drinks included in the lunch?
Yes, soft drinks, juice, water, beers, wine, and rum are all included with your meal.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
How long does the entire trip last?
Expect about six hours in total—from departure at 9:30 am to return around 3:00-3:30 pm.
Is snorkeling available?
Snorkeling and snorkeling gear are not included, so if you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own or rent locally.
What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers love the combination of Ile aux Cerfs’ stunning beaches, the waterfall with playful monkeys, and the flavorful BBQ lunch—it’s a well-rounded taste of Mauritius.