Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of South-West Mauritius on this full-day tour. Explore dormant volcanoes, visit a Hindu temple, and marvel at stunning waterfalls.
- Trou aux Cerfs - Start your 7-8 hour southwest scenic tour with a hotel pick-up from anywhere in Mauritius. You’ll be welcomed by our certified guide and, after getting comfortable in your vehicle, you’ll head to your first destination.
Your journey begins at Trou Aux Cerfs, a renowned natural attraction in Mauritius. This dormant volcanic crater stands about 605 meters above sea level, with a diameter of 350 meters and a depth of around 100 meters.
Unlike typical volcanic landscapes, the crater of Trou aux Cerfs is encircled by a vast forest filled with indigenous plants and towering green pine trees. It is believed that Trou aux Cerfs erupted once and has been dormant for the last 700,000 years, though experts think it could potentially become active again.
One of the main highlights here is the 360-degree view of the town of Curepipe, along with the majestic Rempart Mountain, Trois Mamelles, and the Port-Louis-Moka mountain range.
- Mare aux Vacoas - Next, you’ll visit the Mare Aux Vacoas reservoir, the largest on the island with a capacity of nearly 26 million cubic meters. It’s a popular stop for tourists exploring the south of the island.
While it may not be as glamorous as other attractions in Mauritius, Mare aux Vacoas is a hidden gem nestled among thick forests. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few relaxing minutes away from the hustle and bustle. The reservoir also offers a stunning view that’s worth capturing in photos.
- Grand Bassin - Continue your journey to Ganga Talao, also known as Grand Bassin, a crater lake situated about 550 meters above sea level in the mountainous southwest of Mauritius. The lake’s shoreline features a temple and several small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities.
During your visit to this sacred site, you’ll be awestruck by the gigantic statue of Lord Shiva. Standing 33 meters high, it is the tallest statue in Mauritius. Grand Bassin attracts many visitors who come to pray, meditate, or simply enjoy a walk by the lake and its beautiful surroundings. The lake is about 18 meters deep and is home to a healthy population of fish and eels.
- Alexandra Falls View Point - Next, you’ll travel to Alexandra Falls, where you can admire the cloud forest of Mt Cocotte and the waterfall, along with views down to the south coast.
If you love waterfalls, this is a must-see! Alexandra Falls is hidden in the dense jungle of the Black River Gorges and looks like something out of a movie. Walking around this enchanting setting is a unique experience. The sight of the falling water, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of local birds and other wildlife, is incredibly relaxing. Don’t miss the chance to capture the panoramic view of the South Coast with its turquoise ocean. The area around the waterfalls resembles a real jungle book and promises tranquility and peace.
- Black River Gorges National Park - Next, you’ll head to Gorge Viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view of the endless green landscape. This unspoiled rainforest in the southwestern region of Mauritius covers nearly 17,000 acres of rolling hills, deep valleys, spectacular waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. You’ll be amazed at how high the viewing area is from the gorge. To the right of the viewpoint, you can see a breathtaking waterfall. The path to the viewpoint has a unique ambiance with some souvenir stalls. You might even encounter a group of monkeys welcoming you along the way. The Black River Gorges Nature Reserve was established to preserve the island’s natural vegetation and is one of the most important sights in Mauritius.
The park protects most of the island’s remaining rainforest and is home to many species of wild animals and birds.
- Bassin Blanc - The scenic route to Bassin Blanc in Mauritius is a breathtaking journey through lush forests. The road winds through dense vegetation, offering stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. One of the most impressive features is an almost 180-degree bend, providing a dramatic and exhilarating experience for travelers.
Photographs of this route capture the essence of Mauritius’ natural beauty. The dense forest creates a canopy of greenery over the road, offering a sense of serenity and tranquility. The tall trees and thick underbrush provide glimpses of vibrant wildlife, with birds chirping and small mammals scurrying about.
- La Vallee des Couleurs - Next, you’ll visit the Twenty-Three Colored Earth, a natural phenomenon and prominent tourist attraction. The colors formed through the conversion of basaltic lava to clay minerals. This almost surreal, lunar-like landscape of rainbow-hued sand dunes is mesmerizing. Set amidst lush green vegetation, this unique geological feature is one of nature’s amazing creations.
The area consists of sand dunes with seven distinct colors: red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. Fascinatingly, if you mix the colored earth together, they eventually separate into layers. The colors might even play tricks on your eyes, appearing as shadows.
There is also a Tortoise Park and Souvenir Shop offering various memorabilia, including local products, while the Coffee Shop provides a pleasant cafe experience.
- Chamouny Waterfall - Undoubtedly the most beautiful single-drop waterfall in Mauritius, Chamouny Waterfall is a striking natural feature surrounded by dense vegetation.
Chamouny Falls is one of the most famous and recognized waterfalls in Mauritius and is a must-see for tourists. You simply cannot miss this magnificent waterfall, often considered the best in Mauritius.
- Souillac - Located in the middle of the south coast, Souillac is surrounded by wild and preserved nature, perfect for hiking. Unlike the calm waters of the lagoons, Souillac’s coastline is known for its waves, offering a unique experience in Mauritius.
Afterward, you’ll head to a local restaurant to enjoy a 3-course Mauritian lunch, including fresh salads, rice, soups, chicken curry, or fish and vegetables. You’ll have a choice, and the chef will discuss your preferences with you.
- Gris Gris Beach - The appeal of Gris Gris lies in its scenery, with high cliffs that drop abruptly to the sea and refreshing winds from the Indian Ocean blowing year-round.
Gris-Gris is famous for its sea cliffs, offering visitors a magnificent view from the top. Without coral reefs to protect this part of the island, large waves crash directly onto the cliffs, creating spectacular splashes.
You’ll have a great viewpoint of the cliffs and can watch the waves crash against them. There is a small garden with many quiet spots to relax on benches while enjoying the view of the sea, waves, and rock cliffs. A path from the garden leads to a small beach where you can admire the sea up close. Despite the white sandy beach, the waves and currents are very strong, so swimming is not advised. Instead, take a stroll and enjoy the view.
Your southwest full-day scenic tour concludes with transport back to your hotel.
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- 3-course traditional Mauritian Lunch (Veg or Non-veg)
- Beverages during lunch (Non- Alcoholic)
- Pick-up and drop-off at any accommodation in Mauritius
- Entrance to Twenty-Three Colored Earth and Chamouny Waterfall
- Certified private Guide/Driver
- Private transportation in a fully air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water upon arrival
- Gratuities (optional)
You will explore the southwest of Mauritius on this 7-8 hours scenic tour. With your guide, you will visit Lush Green Dormant Volcano named Trou Aux Cerfs which is a highly popular attraction.
Next, you will stop at Mare Aux Vacoas reservoir. Then, continue to Grand Bassin, where you will visit the Hindu temple. Afterward, continue to Alexandra falls, the surroundings of the waterfalls depict a real jungle book. Next, you’ll visit the Gorge viewpoint which provides stunning views of this ancient primeval forest.
Afterward, you will enjoy a traditional Mauritian 3-course lunch. Then you’ll head to visit the twenty- Three colored earth which is unique because of its multi-colored sand. Next, head to the Chamouny waterfall which is undoubtedly the beautiful single-drop waterfall. Later on, you’ll be heading to see the Bassin Blanc viewpoint. Finally, heading to Gris-Gris viewpoint, to see the big waves crashed upon the big rock.
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking (if required)
- Children ages 3 years and under are free. Please notify of CHILD/ INFANT SEAT at the time of booking
- Please advise of any food allergies or illness
- Please wear non-slippery shoes
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.