Mauritius: South of the Island Private Full-Day Tour

If you’re eyeing a comprehensive way to soak in Mauritius’s southern charms, this private full-day tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience. From volcanic craters and tea plantations to sacred temples and panoramic vistas, it promises a blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food—all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation.

What we love about this tour is its coverage and flexibility: you get a personalized guide, seamless hotel transfers, and enough stops to truly appreciate the island’s diversity. The rum tasting at Rhumerie St. Aubin and the viewpoints of Chamarel and Maconde stand out as highlights. However, a potential drawback is the pace—covering so many spots in one day can feel rushed for some travelers. Still, if you want a deep, authentic snapshot of the south, this trip is a strong choice. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and good food with a personal touch.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Private pickup and drop-off at your hotel make logistics effortless.
• Diverse Highlights: From a volcanic crater to a sacred lake, the tour packs in a variety of scenery and culture.
• Food & Drink: Tasting sessions for rum and tea, plus a 3-course lunch, add flavorful local experiences.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with insights and flexibility.
• Comfort & Value: Fully air-conditioned transport and thoughtful planning provide comfort and good value.
• Limited Time Frame: The 7-8 hour schedule means some stops might feel brief, especially for photography and exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup & Introduction

The tour begins with convenient hotel pick-up anywhere in Mauritius, which means no fuss about transportation. After greeting your guide (most reviews mention friendly, attentive guides like Jeev and Sahil), you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ready for a day of sightseeing. This tailored start sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Trou Aux Cerfs: The Dormant Volcano

Your first stop is the famous Trou Aux Cerfs, a volcanic crater perched at 605 meters above sea level. The views here are impressive—a lush crater ring encircles a vibrant green landscape, and from the top, you get a sweeping perspective of the island’s interior. The calm, forested surroundings make it an ideal place for photos and momentary reflection. As one reviewer noted, the location’s “indigenous plants and giant pine trees make it a lovely spot,” perfect for stretching your legs after the drive.

Mare Aux Vacoas Reservoir: Nature’s Hidden Treasure

Next, you’ll visit Mare Aux Vacoas, the largest reservoir on the island with an impressive capacity of nearly 26 million cubic meters. Surrounded by forests, this spot feels surprisingly untouched, offering a peaceful break amid natural beauty. It’s a favorite among travelers for its tranquility and scenic panorama, with one reviewer describing it as “a gem hidden between thick forests.”

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Rum Tasting at Rhumerie St. Aubin

The afternoon includes a visit to Rhumerie St. Aubin, housed in a charming colonial building with tropical vibes. Here, you’ll learn about the art of rum making and get to sample a variety of flavors. Several reviews highlight this as a fun, boozy highlight—”a boozily delicious rum tasting” that reveals the local craft. The guided experience adds educational value, giving you insight into Mauritius’s rum culture.

Bois Chéri Tea Factory & Panoramic Tea Tasting

Afterward, the journey continues to Bois Chéri Tea Factory, where a guide will lead you through the tea plantation and factory. The tour offers a glimpse into Mauritius’s tea production history and cultivation techniques. The highlight for many is the tea tasting at the Le Bois Chéri restaurant, which boasts a 360-degree panoramic view. Travelers report that sipping tea here while admiring the lush landscape is a serene, memorable moment.

Ganga Talao & Lord Shiva Statue

Moving to Ganga Talao, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring 33-meter-high Lord Shiva statue overlooking a sacred lake. This site is a spiritual hub where visitors often pray and meditate. The serene waters and monumental statue evoke feelings of reverence and admiration, with some reviewers mentioning it as “a must-see for its spiritual significance and breathtaking views.”

Alexandra Falls & Gris-Gris

Next, Alexandra Falls offers a splendid photo opportunity—set at about 700 meters elevation, the falls flow amid verdant surroundings, and the views of the south-east coast are simply stunning. Many mention how peaceful and beautiful the scenery is here, perfect for a quick walk and picture-taking.

Then, your visit moves to Gris-Gris, known for its dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. The high cliffs and the wind-blown atmosphere make it a dramatic spot to appreciate nature’s power. The scenery here is often described as “refreshing,” and it’s a favorite for those who love rugged coastal views.

Gorge Viewpoint & Chamarel

The Gorge Viewpoint presents sweeping vistas of lush greenery and endless horizons—a peaceful spot to take it all in. From there, the tour proceeds to the Chamarel viewpoint, famous for its 7-colored earth and stunning island vistas. Many travelers find this to be a “family-friendly” highlight, with panoramic views of the West Coast and the islet Ile Aux Benitier.

Lunch Break

A key part of the tour is a 3-course lunch at a local restaurant, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The reviews point to tasty, authentic dishes served in a relaxed setting, giving you a chance to rest and enjoy the flavors of Mauritius.

Maconde Viewpoint & Final Scenic Stops

The last scenic stop is the Maconde viewpoint, where you can admire the vast ocean and feel like you’re “in the middle of the sea.” It’s an ideal place to reflect on the day’s sights and capture final photos before heading back.

Return & Drop-Off

The journey wraps up with your guide returning you to your hotel, ending a day packed with diverse experiences ranging from geological wonders to spiritual sites.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation & Comfort

Most reviews highlight the comfort of private transportation—an air-conditioned vehicle that makes the long day manageable. This setup is especially appreciated when covering multiple stops, as it reduces stress and fatigue. The tour is designed to cover the entire south-west in about 7 hours, which is quite efficient given the variety of destinations.

Guided Experience

Having a certified, knowledgeable guide (like Jeev and Sahil, according to reviews) enriches the experience. They adapt the pace and focus on what interests you most, making the trip more engaging. Reviewers mention guides being attentive, friendly, and well-informed.

Food & Tastings

Including rum and tea tastings adds depth to the experience, rooting it in local culture. The 3-course lunch boosts value, offering a satisfying break with quality food. The inclusion of beverages during lunch and bottled water on arrival keeps you refreshed.

Cost & Value

At $126 per person, the tour’s price is quite reasonable considering the inclusions and personalized service. Entry fees to attractions like the rum distillery and tea factory are included, which saves you from extra costs. For travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided day with diverse highlights, this offers good value.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour covers a wide array of sights, the schedule might feel a bit rushed for some. Reviewers note that the stops are brief, particularly at scenic viewpoints and cultural sites—perfect if you prefer a quick snapshot rather than in-depth exploration. Also, the pace may not suit travelers seeking a slow, contemplative experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to visitors who want to see a broad slice of southern Mauritius without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural discoveries, and food tastings all in one day. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the flexible, private setup.

Travelers who value comfort, authentic experiences, and efficient itineraries will find this tour a worthwhile investment. However, if you’re after a more relaxed pace or in-depth exploration of fewer sites, you might consider spreading out your sightseeing over multiple days.

The Sum Up

This Mauritius South of the Island Private Full-Day Tour offers a solid mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and tasty local flavors. The private guide and door-to-door service simplify logistics, while the scenic stops and tastings make for a memorable day. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a rundown of the south’s highlights without the stress of self-planning.

The tour’s main strength is its versatility—covering iconic sites like Trou Aux Cerfs, Ganga Talao, and Chamarel while also allowing time for meaningful tastings and picturesque vistas. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of everything, from nature walks to spiritual sites, with the convenience of a private guide.

If you’re after a day that balances sightseeing, culture, and comfort, this trip delivers. Just keep in mind the quick pace and plan to savor each stop as much as possible.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 7-8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 years and under are free. Be sure to notify in advance if you need an infant seat.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, a 3-course lunch, beverages during lunch, bottled water, and entrance fees to the attractions such as the rum distillery and tea factory.

Can I choose vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available. You should advise at booking to ensure your dietary needs are met.

What kind of guide will I have?
You’ll be accompanied by a fully qualified and friendly guide/driver who is knowledgeable about the island’s highlights.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
No, all entry fees to the included attractions are covered. Extra purchases are at your discretion.

Is the tour customizable?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are known for being flexible and accommodating within the schedule.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, non-slippery shoes, especially for walking around viewpoints and scenic spots.

How many stops are there?
The tour includes around 8-10 stops, but the pace is designed to keep the day balanced and enjoyable.

Would this tour suit someone interested in cultural sites?
Absolutely. The visit to Ganga Talao, the tea factory, and the rum distillery provides a rich cultural perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: