South of Mauritius :Full day package including Chamarel Coloured earth & lunch

If you’re looking to experience the vibrant landscapes and cultural gems of southern Mauritius without the fluff, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and local lifestyle. While we haven’t tested it ourselves, the itinerary and reviews suggest a carefully curated adventure that balances sightseeing, authentic encounters, and comfort.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its coverage of more than nine points of interest, from the famously colorful Chamarel earth to the tranquil Ganga Talao sacred lake. We love that it’s all-inclusive—entry fees, lunch, snacks, and water are covered—making it a convenient way to explore without constantly reaching for your wallet. The short driving distances (15 to 45 minutes between stops) mean you’ll spend more time exploring and less time in transit.

However, one consideration is that it’s marketed as a “full-day” experience, but some reviews mention it can be shorter than advertised—about two hours less in some cases. If you prefer a relaxed pace or more detailed guided commentary, this might be something to discuss with the operator beforehand.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, natural beauty, and cultural sights but don’t want to spend the entire day in a bus. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of nature and local flavor, paired with a good-value price point.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with entry fees, lunch, snacks, and water included.
• Short transfer times between stops maximize sightseeing and minimize boredom.
• Diverse stops: from waterfalls and viewpoints to sacred lakes and local villages.
• Guided experience with a knowledgeable driver who also shares local insights.
• Flexibility and comfort with pickup service and private tour options.
• Potential for shorter duration than advertised, so plan accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Discovering the Colours of Chamarel

Starting the day at Chamarel, you’ll visit the famous 7-coloured earth, a spectacle of mineral-rich sands that showcase a palette of vivid hues. It’s a natural wonder you’ll want to photograph from every angle. Our source notes that the local guide makes the visit lively and informative, sharing insights into how these sands formed and their geological significance.

You’ll also get a chance to see the Chamarel waterfall, a stunning cascade that’s often featured in travel photos. Visitors have praised the beautiful scenery, with one reviewer mentioning it as a perfect spot for pictures. The admission to the coloured earth and waterfall is included, so there’s no extra fuss or fees.

Sacred Ganga Talao: The Spiritual Heart of Mauritius

Next, the tour moves to Grand Bassin, a serene Hindu pilgrimage site. The colorful temples and peaceful waters of Ganga Talao are a highlight, providing a glimpse into Mauritius’s spiritual side. Expect some monkey encounters—they’re quite accustomed to visitors, friendly, and part of the experience according to reviews. A reviewer mentioned the “close encounters with monkeys,” which adds a fun, if unpredictable, element to the visit.

Alexandra Falls & Nature Reserves

A half-hour stop at Alexandra Falls offers spectacular views of the southern part of the island. Nestled in a protected nature reserve, this spot is perfect for nature lovers wanting to snap pictures of endemic trees and the waterfall. Reviewers loved the breathtaking vistas and highlighted it as a “great spot for picture lovers.”

The Iconic Chamarel Waterfalls

In the same area, you’ll visit the Chamarel Waterfalls, a powerful cascade that tumbles over volcanic rock. It’s one of the most famous waterfalls in Mauritius and often praised for its raw beauty. Entry is included, and it’s a quick stop—around 15 minutes—so don’t expect a lengthy hike but do bring your camera.

Ile aux Benitiers Viewpoint

The tour includes a viewpoint of Ile aux Benitiers, where you get a panoramic view of the island’s blue lagoon. Although the name suggests a trip to the island, it’s simply a photo op. A reviewer emphasized that they did not go onto the island but enjoyed the spectacular scenery from the viewpoint.

Black River Gorges & Maccabe Viewpoint

One of the tour’s crown jewels is the Black River Gorges National Park, where you’ll visit the Maccabe viewpoint. Here, views of the gorges valley are breathtaking and—if lucky—you might see local wild monkeys being fed by visitors. Reviews mention that the viewpoint offers a “breathtaking view,” and it’s a must-see for landscape fans. The driver’s advice about weather conditions is appreciated, as the view can be obscured during rain.

Central Mauritius Highlights: Floreal & Trou aux Cerfs

The tour also takes you to Floreal, a lively spot in the heart of the island, offering a taste of local life and bustling markets. Following that, Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano crater, provides a panoramic view of Mauritius’s lush interior. Entry is included, making these stops both scenic and practical.

Maconde Viewpoint & More Gorges Views

The Maconde viewpoint is famous for scenic vistas—ideal for memorable photos—and offers a sense of the island’s rugged beauty. A second glance at Black River Gorges gives you a different perspective, rounding out the day’s sightseeing with another spectacular view.

Bonus: Serene Reservoir and Scenic Drives

Finally, a peaceful drive past a beautiful reservoir offers a quiet moment to appreciate the unspoiled landscapes. The scenic routes are complemented by the driver’s local knowledge, which adds depth to the experience.

What You Can Expect From the Experience

Transportation & Timing

The tour uses private transportation, with the driver acting as both driver and guide. Many reviewers highlighted the short drives between stops—just 15 to 45 minutes—so you spend more time exploring than sitting in traffic. Starting at 8:30 am, it’s a well-timed day that allows plenty of daylight for sightseeing.

Guide & Commentary

The level of guidance appears to vary—some reviews describe a friendly, knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the sites and local culture, while others note the tour is more of a driver-led experience. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Hans, was fantastic and tailored the experience for them, which adds a personal touch many travelers will appreciate.

Food & Refreshments

The included lunch is a highlight, providing a taste of local cuisine along with non-alcoholic beverages. Snacks and bottled water are available upon request, so you can stay refreshed during the day. Reviewers emphasized the deliciousness of the food and appreciated the opportunity to try Mauritian flavors.

Entry Fees & Costs

All entry to attractions like the Coloured Earth, waterfalls, and viewpoints are included, which simplifies planning and budgeting. Be aware that the tour price is around $122.99 per person, which we find reasonable given the number of sites visited and inclusions.

The Review from Guests: Authentic Insights

One reviewer called it an “amazing tour”, praising the driver Hans for his expertise and friendliness, and highlighted that they saw monkeys and enjoyed street food—adding authentic local flavor. Another shared that despite cyclone damage causing some site closures, their guide found creative alternatives, showing flexibility.

On the flip side, some mention a shorter duration than planned, with one reviewer noting that the tour was about 2 hours less than advertised, so if you’re expecting a leisurely day, it’s worth confirming the exact timing with the provider.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience fits travelers who value scenery and nature but prefer to limit their time in transit. If you enjoy photo opportunities, waterfalls, and cultural sites, and want everything taken care of—entry, lunch, transport—it’s a good option. It’s also particularly suited for those who appreciate guided insights (if you get a good guide) and authentic local encounters.

Who Might Want More?

Those seeking a deep, guided narration at every stop or a more relaxed pace might find this tour a bit rushed. Plus, if you’re eager to spend more time learning about each site’s history or culture, this may feel somewhat surface-level. The shorter-than-advertised duration could also be a drawback for some.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of southern Mauritius offers incredible value for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free exploration of key sights. By combining scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, sacred lakes, and local flavors into one day, it provides a balanced glimpse into the island’s natural and cultural charms.

The short transfer times and all-inclusive pricing make it accessible and convenient, especially for those on a tight schedule. The quality of the guide can make or break the experience, but many reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly drivers who add personality to the trip.

While it may be shorter than expected, the variety of stops and the chance to see Mauritius’s diverse landscapes make it a worthwhile choice. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a snapshot of Mauritius’s southern treasures.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, and the tour starts at 8:30 am, making it convenient for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It varies between 1 to 8 hours, but some reviews mention it being about 2 hours shorter than scheduled, so it’s wise to confirm the timing.

Are entry fees to sites included?
Yes, entry fees to Chamarel coloured earth, waterfalls, and viewpoints are included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, camera, and any personal essentials. Snacks and water are available on request.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a typical local lunch with non-alcoholic beverages is included in the package.

Can I expect guided commentary?
The experience varies; some guides offer detailed explanations, while others are more driver-led. It’s worth requesting a guided experience if that matters to you.

What if it rains?
Weather can impact the view at some viewpoints. Drivers are advised to suggest alternative plans if the weather conditions are poor.

Are there opportunities for photos?
Absolutely. Stops at viewpoints, waterfalls, and scenic spots are perfect for capturing memories.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, but consider the walking involved at sites like Alexandra Falls and Trou aux Cerfs.

How do reviews rate this experience?
With an overall 4.4/5 from 26 reviews, most travelers find it offers a good balance of sightseeing, comfort, and local flavor.

In summary, if you’re after an efficient, varied, and authentic introduction to Mauritius’s south, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s best suited for those who want a packed day with minimal stress, eager to see the highlights and taste the island’s natural beauty.