Mauritius: Wild Southwest Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Mauritius is famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, but the Wild Southwest Full-Day Tour offers a different side of this island paradise. This experience takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, into the rugged, volcanic heart of the island where nature’s colors and local traditions shine brightest.

It’s a day that promises impressive landscapes, tasty local rum, and engaging cultural stops—all for around $129 per person. Whether you’re after eye-catching scenery, a taste of Mauritian life, or just a well-organized adventure, this tour has plenty to offer.

What we love most? The knowledgeable guides who sprinkle in fun facts, the chance to see the 7-Colored Earth in all its vibrancy, and the delicious, authentic lunch that leaves you full and satisfied.

One thing to consider? The tour involves quite a bit of driving on winding roads, so it’s not ideal if your travel companions are prone to motion sickness. Still, for those seeking a comprehensive taste of Mauritius’ natural beauty and local culture, this trip hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded day with a mix of nature, culture, and flavor, especially if you’re comfortable in a relaxed group setting or enjoying a private tour with tailored stops.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Dive into lesser-known spots showcasing the island’s volcanic origins and vibrant landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Jay and Mathieu enhance the experience with interesting stories and local tips.
• Stunning Sights: The 7-Colored Earth, Chamarel Waterfall, and Trou aux Cerfs are highlights that truly impress.
• Cultural Insights: Visit Grand Bassin’s sacred lake and learn about local religious traditions.
• Delicious Lunch: Enjoy a Mauritian feast with stunning views, plus rum tasting at La Rhumerie de Chamarel.
• Flexible Options: Available as shared or private tours, with full hotel pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This full-day tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, ensuring a smooth start to what will be a day packed with sights and stories. The first stop is at the volcanic crater of Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano offering panoramic views across Mauritius. As some reviewers mention, the drive up is along winding roads—an adventure in itself—but the payoff is the sweeping vista that makes it all worthwhile.

Next, you’ll visit the Chamarel Waterfall, a stunning 90-meter cascade tumbling into lush greenery. It’s a picture-perfect spot for photos, and you’ll be glad you brought your camera. Just a short drive away is the 7-Colored Earth, a natural geological phenomenon where volcanic minerals create vibrant stripes of red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow.

Travelers consistently rave about how impressive this site is, with one reviewer noting that the clay’s shifting hues in daylight are simply mesmerizing. The color variations are a result of basaltic lava rocks transforming over time, creating a surreal landscape that’s both fun and fascinating to explore.

Cultural Highlights and Unique Stops

The tour doesn’t just focus on natural beauty—it also offers cultural insights at Grand Bassin, a sacred Hindu lake believed to be a spiritual gateway. Visitors find this site peaceful, and it provides a glimpse into the religious life of many Mauritians. The religious significance and tranquility of the location often resonate with visitors, as one reviewer pointed out it’s the most important place of worship for Hindus on the island.

The Ship Model Factory in Curepipe adds a quirky touch, showcasing intricate miniatures crafted with precision. Those interested in craftsmanship and detailed work will find this visit a fun detour, and it offers a peek into local artisanal skills.

Rum Tasting and Lunch

A highlight for many is the rum tour at La Rhumerie de Chamarel. Here, you’ll learn about the stages involved in making the local rum, with tastings of their signature products. It’s a flavorful, educational stop that offers a true taste of Mauritian craftsmanship.

Following the rum experience, a delicious gourmet lunch awaits in a local restaurant. Reviewers frequently praise the meal—often highlighting Mauritian curry or local specialties—paired with stunning views. It’s a well-deserved rest amidst a busy day, and many find the food to be among the best of their holiday.

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Scenic Drive and Final Stops

After lunch, the journey continues through scenic routes, including the Macondé Bridge, which offers sweeping views over the Baie du Cap River. The drive itself becomes an attraction, thanks to the lush landscape, endemic flora and fauna, and the winding roads that keep the day lively.

The last major stop is at the Black River Gorges View Point, where visitors can soak in the island’s native greenery and perhaps even spot some endemic species. The black river gorges are a protected area, and the viewpoint provides a perfect photo opportunity to end the day.

What the Reviews Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that guides make a big difference. Jay, in particular, is praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating—making sure everyone feels comfortable and engaged. One reviewer appreciated how the guide adjusted the tour to suit their preferences, turning a good experience into a memorable one.

Many travelers mention the value for money—the tour includes all entry fees, rum tastings, and a delicious lunch, which collectively make the $129 price tag a fair deal. The internal transport is comfortable, and the group sizes, especially for private options, are flexible enough to provide a personalized experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of some stops and terrain.
• Comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable, as you’ll be walking at certain sites and spending time outdoors.
• Bringing water and insect repellent ensures you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
• The tour offers flexibility—you can book a private or shared experience, and can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

For travelers seeking a well-rounded day of natural beauty, cultural insights, and tasty local flavors, this tour delivers. It covers the highlights of Mauritius’ southwest corner, where volcanic landscapes and vibrant earth meet local traditions. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch and rum tasting elevates the experience, giving you a taste of authentic Mauritian life rather than just ticking off sightseeing spots.

The guides’ reputation for being friendly and knowledgeable means you’ll learn more than just names and dates—you’ll understand the stories behind the sights. Reviewers talk about how their guides, like Jay and Mathieu, made the day both enjoyable and educational, adding personal touches that often turn a good tour into a memorable adventure.

While the drive can be lengthy and winding, it’s part of the fun—offering excellent opportunities to relax and enjoy the changing scenery. And even if the weather isn’t perfect, many reviews note that the guides are prepared, with umbrellas and flexible plans.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience is ideal for those who want a rundown of Mauritius’ southwest, with a mix of nature, culture, and local craftsmanship. It’s perfect for first-timers or travelers who prefer a structured day led by experts. If you’re comfortable with some driving and outdoor exploration, and enjoy learning about local traditions, this tour will suit you well.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a personal guide (in English, French or German), entry fees to all sights, rum tasting and tour at La Rhumerie de Chamarel, and a full lunch.

Are beverages during lunch included?
No, beverages during lunch are not included, so you might want to bring some water or extra drinks if desired.

How long does the tour last?
Officially, the tour is around 10 hours, but some travelers report it can be slightly shorter, typically around 8.5 hours, depending on weather and group pace.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to terrain and walking at certain sites. Children who can manage the walking and long day should be fine.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, water, and insect repellent are advised. A camera or phone for photos is also recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The company may offer full refunds if bad weather causes cancellation.

Is this tour private or shared?
It’s available as both shared and private options, giving you flexibility based on your preferences or group size.

What if the weather turns bad?
You’ll get a full refund if the tour is canceled by the operator due to bad weather. If weather causes a partial curtailment, a partial refund may be given.

Do I need to advise about food allergies or vegetarian options?
Yes, it’s recommended to inform the tour operator beforehand to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions.

Final Thoughts

The Mauritius Wild Southwest Full-Day Tour offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and local flavors, all wrapped into one well-organized day. From the striking colors of the 7-Colored Earth to the peaceful sacred lake of Grand Bassin, it’s a journey that will leave you with lasting memories of the island’s diverse charms.

The guides’ friendly and knowledgeable approach transforms what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a more meaningful experience. The included lunch and rum tastings add value, making the day feel complete and satisfying.

While it involves some travel on winding roads and a busy schedule, the variety of sights and stories make it worth every minute. This tour is especially suited for curious travelers who want to see the best of Mauritius’ southwest in a single day—perfect for first-timers eager to get a taste of the island’s natural and cultural gems.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and memorable day out, this experience will likely be a highlight of your Mauritius visit.

In brief, this tour is a fantastic choice for those who value expert guidance, stunning scenery, and a true feel of local culture—all at a fair price. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it promises a day full of discovery and delight.

You can check availability for your dates here: