Sweet Scenic 30KM

If you’re seeking a way to explore Mauritius beyond the usual beaches and resorts, the Sweet Scenic 30KM tour offers a thrilling and authentic experience. This adventure takes you through southern Mauritius’ off-road tracks, promising glimpses of rural life, spectacular coastal vistas, and even a refreshing swim in a hidden waterfall. While the price might seem a bit steep at $198.66 per person, the combination of adventure, scenery, and local flavor makes it a compelling choice for those who love outdoor activities.

What sets this experience apart? Firstly, you get control of your own ATV, adding a sense of freedom and fun. Secondly, the tour features stunning viewpoints like Gris Gris Beach and Rochester Falls—ideal spots for photos and just soaking in the natural beauty. Lastly, the Mauritian lunch included provides a taste of local cuisine in a relaxed setting. A possible consideration? The tour’s small group size (max four travelers) might mean less social interaction but more personalized attention.

This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits, families with kids aged 6 and above, and anyone eager to see the island’s hidden gems at a relaxed pace. However, it’s not ideal for pregnant women or those unable to handle off-road terrain comfortably.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience with stunning scenic views
• Self-driven ATV ride offers independence and fun
• Highlights include secret waterfalls and dramatic cliffs
• Includes a delicious Mauritian lunch
• Small, intimate group for personalized attention
• Not suitable for pregnant women or travelers under 16 driving

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point: Big Foot Adventure at Andrea Lodges

The tour kicks off at Big Foot Adventure in Rivière des Anguilles around 10:00 am. This spot is your launchpad for the day’s adventures. You’ll check in here and get briefed about safety and riding instructions. Although reviews mention some confusion about the check-in location—due to the closure of L’Exil Lodges since October 2021—it’s worth confirming your meeting point before the day. The small group size (up to four) means you’ll likely receive focused guidance, which is helpful if you’re new to ATV riding.

First Stop: Gris Gris Beach

After the initial briefing, you’ll head to Gris Gris Beach, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views. The 15-minute stop offers a chance to marvel at the rugged coastline and La Roche qui Pleure—a rock formation resembling a weeping face. If you’re lucky, you’ll capture some memorable photos of the crashing waves against the cliffs, a scene that truly embodies the wild beauty of southern Mauritius.

Rochester Falls: A Natural Marvel

Next, the journey continues to Rochester Falls, often described as a must-see. The 15-minute stop allows you to appreciate the massive, smooth boulders and cascading waterfalls. Reviewers mention the falls as “magnificent,” and it’s easy to see why—standing beside these natural sculptures, you feel a sense of awe. The cool water might tempt you to take a quick dip, although swimming is not explicitly included in the itinerary.

Off-Road ATV Ride: The Heart of the Adventure

The core of the tour is your self-driven ATV ride through southern Mauritius’ rural terrain. The route includes dirt tracks, volcanic cliffs, and countryside scenery. Riders have described the experience as “fun and stress-free,” especially since you control the pace and direction. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of local life away from tourist crowds, with the landscape offering stunning views of the coast and lush greenery.

Secluded Waterfall Swim & Relaxing Lunch

One of the tour’s highlights, according to reviews, is swimming in a secluded waterfall. While specifics are sparse, travelers have shared that this part of the experience feels like a secret escape—an unspoiled spot perfect for cooling off and enjoying nature’s tranquility.

The lunch at Andrea Lodges caps off the day, served in front of volcanic cliffs. The meal is described as “delicious” and provides a hearty, local flavor that complements the outdoor adventure. The 45-minute break is enough to relax, refuel, and soak in the scenic surroundings.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The package covers all taxes, fees, and the Mauritian lunch, making it straightforward to budget for the experience. However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the starting point in Rivière des Anguilles.

Since the tour is limited to a maximum of four travelers, it offers a more intimate experience, but this small size means booking early is advisable. Also, note that most travelers can participate, but the minimum age to drive is 16, and children aged 6 and above can be passengers. Pregnant women are advised against joining, given the off-road nature of the ride.

Weather can impact the tour—bad weather may result in cancellation, with the option for rescheduling or refund. It’s wise to confirm the weather forecast and your plans accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer, Luke S., expressed disappointment mainly due to logistical issues, noting that the check-in location was unclear. However, this seems to be an isolated incident, and the experience overall was appreciated for its stunning views and adventure.

Many travelers appreciated the opportunity to control their own ATV, which added a fun, personalized touch to the journey. The stops at Rochester Falls and Gris Gris Beach consistently receive praise for their natural beauty, making the effort worthwhile.

Some travelers mentioned that the secluded waterfall swim was a memorable highlight—feeling like discovering a secret spot away from travelers—and the lunch provided a satisfying local touch.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Confirm the exact meeting point before your tour to avoid confusion, especially since the original lodge closed in 2021.
• Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and closed shoes suitable for off-road terrain.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—as you’ll spend time outdoors in the sun.
• If you want to capture the scenery, bring a waterproof camera or phone case.
• Consider your comfort level with off-road riding; the terrain can be bumpy but is described as accessible for most.
• Remember, only those aged 16+ can drive, but younger children can ride as passengers.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For those craving an active day immersed in Mauritius’s wild side, this tour offers value through its combination of scenic stops, adrenaline-pumping ATV riding, and authentic local cuisine. The small group aspect means more personalized attention, and the highlights—like Rochester Falls and the secluded waterfall—are genuine, Instagram-worthy moments.

However, if you’re sensitive to rough terrain or prefer a more relaxed, leisurely day, this might not be the best fit. Also, the logistical aspect (self-arranged transport) could be a hurdle for some travelers. Still, for adventure lovers and those eager to see parts of Mauritius that few travelers access, it’s a compelling option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits outdoor enthusiasts, families with older kids, and travelers seeking a hands-on experience. It’s ideal if you want a balance of scenic beauty, physical activity, and cultural flavor. The inclusion of an authentic Mauritian lunch adds a nice touch of local charm, rounding out the day.

If you’re after stunning views, a bit of thrill, and a chance to explore rural Mauritius, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for some bumpy rides and confirm your logistics beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

What is the minimum age to drive? The minimum age to drive an ATV on this tour is 16 years old. Children aged 6 and above can join as passengers.

How long does the tour last? The total experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including stops, riding, and lunch.

Are there any physical requirements? Most travelers can participate, but off-road terrain can be bumpy; comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.

Can pregnant women join? No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to safety concerns associated with off-road riding.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for riding and protective footwear. Sun protection is also recommended.

Is swimming in the waterfall included? Swimming is not explicitly included, but travelers have reported swimming in a secluded waterfall, which is a memorable part of the adventure.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; it may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor. Refund or alternative dates are offered in such cases.

To sum it up, the Sweet Scenic 30KM tour offers a lively blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor that appeals to outdoor lovers and those eager to explore Mauritius beyond the beaches. With control of your own ATV, you’ll enjoy the freedom to discover stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and quiet country roads, all topped off with a delicious Mauritian meal. While logistical considerations exist, especially regarding transport, the experience’s intimacy and authenticity make it a worthwhile pick for active travelers wanting a true taste of the island’s rugged charm.