Mauritius: Vanilla Park & Beaches Tour with Extra Option

Travelers often find themselves drawn to Mauritius for its picture-perfect beaches, lush landscapes, and fascinating wildlife. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into all three, combining visits to Vanilla Park, a wild coastline, and the famous 23 Colored Earth. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a thoughtful experience packed with stunning views, engaging animal encounters, and options for adrenaline and exploration.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see Mauritius’s diverse fauna, from giant tortoises to monkeys and crocodiles. The scenic drives along top five routes in Mauritius and the breathtaking Maconde viewpoint provide ample photo opportunities. Plus, the optional visit to 23 Colored Earth adds an extra dash of geology and adventure, making this a versatile day out.

One potential consideration is that entrance fees to Vanilla Park and the Colored Earth are not included, so you’ll need to plan for those. That said, at a competitive price of $123 for up to three people, the value here is clear—especially given the guided insights and the chance to visit multiple highlights in one day.

This experience suits nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and families looking for an authentic, flexible tour with a knowledgeable guide. If you prefer fully organized, all-inclusive experiences, you might find it better to pre-arrange tickets or a more curated package.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Walk among giant tortoises, see crocodiles, and spot monkeys and lemurs.
Scenic Views: Expect breathtaking vistas at Maconde and along Mauritius’s top scenic routes.
Flexible Experience: Optional visits like the Colored Earth and beaches add variety.
Guided Knowledge: Guides like Atish and Dhirahj are praised for their friendliness and expertise.
Value for Money: At $123, the price covers transport, guide, and multiple stops, offering good value.
Not Fully Inclusive: Entrance fees are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour

Looking for more options in Mauritius? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup around 8:30 a.m., which is convenient for early risers eager to maximize their day. The first major stop is La Vanille Nature Crocodile Park, where you can stroll through a lush setting filled with hundreds of Nile crocodiles. Reviewers mention that the entrance isn’t included, but many consider it a worthwhile expense.

You’ll get the chance to see Domino, the centenarian tortoise tipping the scales at around 275 kg. The presence of giant Aldabra tortoises roaming semi-freely is a highlight, especially for animal lovers. Multiple reviews note that guides like Atish make this part of the trip especially memorable, providing insight into the animals’ backgrounds and behaviors. One traveler shared that Atish’s careful handling and friendly demeanor made the experience even better, which we believe is key to enjoying wildlife encounters.

Next, the tour moves on to the fauna-rich environment of the park, where monkeys, lemurs, deer, and even Japanese carp can be observed. The diversity of animals—geckos, turtles, bats, eels, and chameleons—means there’s plenty for nature enthusiasts to marvel at. A review from Melany highlights that the value of the trip was significantly boosted by the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, transforming a simple animal encounter into a lively educational experience.

The Scenic Coastal Drive and Maconde Viewpoint

After exploring the park, the tour heads south to the charming village of Baie Du Cap. This region’s natural beauty is unmistakable, with rugged coastlines, lush forests, and colorful earth. The Maconde viewpoint, perched on a rocky cliff, offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Indian Ocean. Reviewers describe it as a “breathtaking” spot where you can really appreciate Mauritius’s rugged elegance.

The Optional 23 Coloured Earth Experience

For those who opt in, the 23 Colored Earth at Vallé Advenature Park is a colorful highlight. It’s a geologically fascinating site where vibrant earth formations create a rainbow of hues. Beyond the geology, the park offers adventurous activities like zip lining, quad biking, and suspension bridge walks.

While the entrance isn’t included in the tour price, many guests find that paying online ahead of time provides a discount, plus the peace of mind of avoiding queues. The park combines natural beauty with adrenaline fun, appealing to families and thrill-seekers alike.

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The Beaches & Coastal Stops

The tour also includes stops at Gris Gris Beach and Maconde, giving you a chance to relax or snap photos of Mauritius’s wild coastal scenery. Reviewers like Diana appreciated the friendly driver Ravin, who took them to beautiful beaches and viewpoints.

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Transport and Group Size

Transport is typically in a comfortable vehicle suited for small groups, which helps facilitate a personalized experience. With a maximum of three people per booking, you can expect a more intimate and flexible outing, with guides happy to answer questions and adapt the pace.

Overall Value

At $123 for up to three people, this tour offers a comprehensive day that covers wildlife, scenic views, and optional adventures. Since entrance fees are separate, budget an additional $10–$20 depending on what you choose to visit. Many reviewers consider this a very good deal, especially given the guide’s friendliness and knowledge.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes for walking around parks and viewpoints.
Carry a camera—the scenery and animals are photo-worthy.
Apply sunscreen before heading out, especially since much of the day is outdoors.
Plan for extra expenses for entrance fees and optional activities.
Book ahead for the Colored Earth to secure discounts and avoid disappointment.
Be prepared for a full day—the itinerary can last around 8 hours, so pack water and snacks if desired.
Not suitable for wheelchair users, as some terrain may be challenging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want to see Mauritius beyond the beaches and get a taste of its wildlife, geology, and breathtaking coastlines. It’s especially suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers looking for an active day with plenty of photo opportunities.

If you enjoy guided explanations and meeting animals like giant tortoises and crocodiles, you’ll appreciate the insightful commentary from guides like Atish and Dhirahj. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, customizable day that combines scenic drives with wildlife encounters and optional adrenaline activities.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a rich day full of Mauritius’s natural wonders. From animal encounters at La Vanille to the spectacular views at Maconde and colorful earth formations, it offers a genuine and engaging experience that won’t break the bank. While some attractions require separate entry fees, the overall value, guided insights, and variety of stops make it a compelling choice.

Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure junkie, or simply seeking a memorable way to explore Mauritius’s diverse landscapes, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to plan for the extras and bring your sense of curiosity—and perhaps a good pair of walking shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees for Vanilla Park and the Colored Earth are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

What time does the tour start?
Pick-up is generally around 8:30 a.m., providing a full day of exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, especially with the opportunity to see animals and enjoy the scenic beaches, though some terrain may be challenging for very young children.

How large are the groups?
Most bookings are for small groups of up to three people, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and sunscreen are recommended for enjoying outdoor activities comfortably.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is flexible, with optional stops like the Colored Earth and beaches, allowing some tailoring to your interests.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, and Hindi, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It typically runs around 8 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the terrain and nature of the sites may not be wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, friendly guides, and optional adventures offers a well-rounded, memorable day in Mauritius.

To sum it up, this Vanilla Park & Beaches tour is a fantastic way to see some of Mauritius’s most captivating natural spots while enjoying the company of friendly, knowledgeable guides. It strikes a good balance between wildlife, scenic beauty, and adventure, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to experience the island’s authentic side.