The South of Mauritius: 23-Colored Earth & Rhumerie de St Aubin

Embark on an 8-hour private tour of South-West Mauritius, visiting attractions such as the Seven Colored Earth, Rhumerie de Chamarel, and more. Experience stunning panoramas, waterfalls, and the beauty of flora and fauna.

Duration: 9 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Trou aux Cerfs - Start your 7-8 hour scenic tour of the southwest with a hotel pick-up from anywhere in Mauritius. You’ll be welcomed by our certified guide and, after boarding your comfortable 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 become active again.

One of the main highlights here is the 360-degree view of Curepipe town and the stunning vistas of Rempart Mountain, Trois Mamelles, and the Port-Louis-Moka mountain range.

  • Reservoir Viewpoint - Next, 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, 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 fantastic view 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 amazed by the towering statue of Lord Shiva. Standing 33 meters high, it is the tallest statue in Mauritius. Ganga Talao attracts many visitors who come to pray, meditate, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings. The lake is approximately 18 meters deep and teeming with fish.

  • Alexandra Falls - Your next stop is Alexandra Falls, located about 700 meters above sea level and one of the most popular natural sites in Mauritius.

You’ve likely seen its beauty captured in postcards or videos showcasing Mauritius. Alexandra Falls is not only breathtaking but also offers a unique experience with nature.

Don’t miss the chance to capture the panoramic view of the South-East Coast and its turquoise ocean from a wooden platform. The waterfall appears as a silent white stream cascading over rocky outcrops, and you’ll also get a view of Mauritius’s untouched green valley, home to many endemic bird species and plants.

  • Black River Gorges National Park - Next, head to the gorge viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view. Located midway between Chamarel and Alexandra Falls, this spot offers a spectacular vista just a 3-5 minute walk from the road. It’s a must-visit during a road trip from Grand Bassin to Le Morne. The park spans nearly 17,000 acres of unspoiled rainforest, rolling hills, deep valleys, and stunning waterfalls.

You’ll be amazed at the elevation of the viewing area above the gorge. The national park is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, and the viewpoint provides an excellent overview of its natural beauty.

  • La Vallee des Couleurs - Next, visit the Twenty-Three Colored Earth, a natural phenomenon and major tourist attraction. The colors result from the conversion of basaltic lava to clay minerals, creating a surreal, lunar-like landscape of rainbow-hued sand dunes. Set amidst lush green vegetation, this geological wonder is truly mesmerizing.

The area features sand dunes in seven distinct colors: red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. Interestingly, if you mix the colored sands, they will eventually separate into layers again. The colors may even appear to shift and play tricks on your eyes.

There is also a Tortoise Park and a Souvenir Shop offering local products, as well as a Coffee Shop for a pleasant cafe experience.

  • Chamouny Waterfall - After some time, visit the Chamouny Waterfall, a striking natural feature amid dense vegetation. This single-drop waterfall is one of the most famous and recognized in Mauritius, making it a must-see for tourists.
  • Gris Gris Beach - After a short drive, pass through the village of Souillac, where you can experience the unique culture of this charming village, different from others in Mauritius.

At Gris Gris, you’ll find a great viewpoint overlooking the cliffs and crashing waves. A small garden offers quiet spots to relax and enjoy the sea views. A path from the garden leads to a small beach where you can admire the ocean up close. While the beach is beautiful, the strong waves and currents make it unsuitable for swimming, but it’s perfect for a stroll and taking in the scenery.

Afterward, enjoy a 3-course Mauritian lunch at a local restaurant, featuring fresh salads, rice, soups, chicken curry, or fish and vegetables. The chef will explain the menu and help you choose your preferred dishes.

  • Rhumerie de Saint Aubin - Finally, visit Rhumerie de St Aubin to learn about rum making on the island. Enjoy a delicious rum tasting session and discover the different flavors produced by the distillery.

Highlights of this site:

  • Experience the warmth and authenticity of the Rhumerie de St Aubin Distillery

  • Take a guided tour of the distillery

  • Enjoy a boozy rum tasting session

  • Learn about the rum-making process using sugar cane

  • Try a selection of agricultural rums produced by the distillery

Your full-day scenic tour of the southwest concludes with transport back to your hotel.

What's Included
  • Entrance to Seven colored Earth and Chamarel waterfall
  • Beverages during lunch (Non- Alcoholic)
  • 3-course Lunch (Veg and Non-veg) Note: Halal food
  • Entrance to Rhumerie de Chamarel
  • Private transportation in a fully Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Bottled water upon arrival
  • Services of a qualified Guide/Driver
  • Pick-up and drop-off at any hotel or accommodation in Mauritius
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities (Optional)
Additional Information

You will explore the South-West of Mauritius on this 8 hours private tour including a visit to the dormant volcano Trou Aux Cerfs which is a highly popular attraction & Mare Aux Vacoas Reservoir for a stunning panorama view of the lake.

Next, drive to Grand Bassin to visit the crater lake & see the gigantic statue of lord shiva. Then, head to Alexandra fall where you will live a unique experience with nature, waterfalls & its deep valley. Afterward, continue to the Gorge Viewpoint to see the panoramic unparalleled beauty of flora & fauna.

Afterward, continue to 23 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, you will enjoy a Mauritian 3-course lunch & Then continue to see the Gris-Gris viewpoint. Finally, head to Rhumerie de St Aubin to know about Rum making in Mauritius.

  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking
  • 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
Location
Trou aux Cerfs
Curepipe,
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.1
(42 Ratings)
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Sandrae934
Jul 25, 2024
26yrs anniversary - From booking to communication, Agi was amazing. Arrived on time. The whole day was very comfortable in a lovely air-conditioned car. Everything was explained and understood how our day was going to proceed. Agi's driving was amazing. His knowledge of Mauritius was fabulous. My husband asked many questions and Agi didn't get frustrated at all. Stayed calm and pleasant the whole journey. Wonderful experience and we created so many memories on camera. Amazing day indeed
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Danj1993
Jul 11, 2024
Great tour - Agi was a great tour guide, he was very knowledgable and took us to places we wouldn’t have otherwise known about in the south. We had plenty of time at each stop and didn’t feel rushed to move on. We highly recommend booking this tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sachindaga2020
May 20, 2024
Agi is proactive. Was on time. Responsive to every query. Helpful. Professional. Car was good. Drive very nicely. - It was a well designed excursion. Agi was on time . Helpful , responsive to queries. Professional. Car was good. Neat and clean.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Pedrojohnharris
Apr 23, 2024
A must-do experience in Mauritius - We had a great day taking in the tour with our driver and guide, Mangesh. All tickets were paid for in advance and we were shown round some of the lovely sights in the south of the island - Alexandra Falls, the Bois Cheri Tea Factory and Grand Bassin were particular favourites! Would highly recommend
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Claudiavc6875ck
Mar 31, 2024
Amazing - We got a very good experience.Our guide Yash was excellent and we enjoyed time with him.We recommend that company for everyone.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sarah_d
Nov 26, 2023
A great tour of southwest mauritius - An enjoyable day out with a varied itinerary. Our huge as knowledgeable and answered all our questions
Review provided by Viator
421stefanw
Mar 8, 2024
Worthwhile - Nice tour, which was modified due to the Shive Festival (otherwise it would have consisted mainly of “Mauritius’ most beautiful traffic jams”). So the focus was on the east of the island, so I missed the volcano and the Shiva statue. But there was more time at various stops - I thought that was good. There was more time for the impressive waterfall and also enough space for the turtles at the colored earth - there was also a relaxed iced coffee there. There was also enough time in the (very beautiful but also touristy) rum distillery for a cocktail in the beautiful garden after the rum tasting (recommendation: Golden Mojito!). The last spot was really great again before we headed back to the hotel. The car was good (Duster), the driver was also great, even if he could have said a bit more about the individual points and the country and people. In addition, the tour was in English instead of German. All in all, a very good tour at a fair price.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Fearless822030
Feb 19, 2024
Perfect start to the holiday - Excellent trip, where Agi provided lots of background information not only about the site’s visited but also life in Mauritius. He also demonstrated that he was a very driver given the tree clearing operations taking place following the recent stormy weather.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Vdsvk
Nov 26, 2023
Beautiful tour of the South of the island - Well chosen and organized tour. Magnificent views and interesting activities It's a shame that the driver was not considered competent and motivated.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
502kayeg
Nov 17, 2023
Natural Beauty of South West Mauritius - This was a day trip to give us an overview of the natural beauty of Mauritius. We visited many different sites on our whistle stop tour. The day had been planned well by our guide Mangesh. We were collected at the arranged time and the sights were well chosen. It was a very full but wonderful day with memorable experiences.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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September 2024
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