Embark on a full-day exploration of southwest Mauritius, visiting popular attractions such as Trou Aux Cerfs volcano, Seven Colored Earth, and Chamarel waterfall. Indulge in local cuisine and visit a rum distillery for a taste of Mauritian culture.
- 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 boarding your comfortable vehicle, you’ll head to your first stop.
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 area 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, head to 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 visiting the south of the island.
Though not as extravagant as other attractions in Mauritius, Mare aux Vacoas is a hidden gem nestled between thick forests. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few relaxing minutes away from the usual hustle and bustle. The reservoir also offers a stunning view worth capturing.
- Grand Bassin - Continue to Ganga Talao, commonly known as Grand Bassin, a crater lake about 550 meters above sea level in the mountainous southwest of Mauritius. On its shore sits a temple and several small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other gods.
During your visit to this sacred site, you’ll be awestruck by the gigantic statue of Lord Shiva. However, there’s no need to fear; at Grand Bassin, you’ll find Lord Shiva smiling and peaceful. The statue stands 33 meters high, making it the tallest statue in Mauritius. Ganga Talao attracts many visitors who come to pray, meditate, or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The lake is about 18 meters deep and home to a healthy population of fish.
- Alexandra Falls - Your next stop is Alexandra Falls, situated about 700 meters above sea level and one of the most popular nature sites in Mauritius.
You’ve likely seen its pictures on postcards or in videos showcasing the beauty of Mauritius. Alexandra Falls is not only famous for its breathtaking beauty but also offers visitors a unique experience with nature.
Don’t miss the chance to capture the panoramic view of the South-East Coast with its turquoise ocean. You can climb a wooden platform for a full view. To your right is Alexandra Falls, appearing as a silent white stream cascading over rocky outcrops. You’ll also get a view of Mauritius’s untouched green valley, home to many endemic bird species and flora. It’s a sight that will soothe your eyes.
- Black River Gorges National Park - Next, head to Gorge Viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view of endless green stretches. Amidst the unspoiled rainforest of Mauritius, you’ll find nearly 17,000 acres of rolling hills, deep valleys, spectacular waterfalls, and unparalleled flora and fauna in the southwestern region. The viewing area is quite high, offering a breathtaking view of a waterfall to the right. The path to the viewpoint has a unique ambiance with some souvenir stalls. The Black River Gorges Nature Reserve was created 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.
- La Vallee des Couleurs - Next, visit the Twenty-Three Colored Earth, a natural phenomenon and prominent tourist attraction. The colors evolved through the conversion of basaltic lava to clay minerals. This almost surreal, lunar-like spectacle of rainbow-hued sand dunes will leave you mesmerized. Set amidst lush green vegetation, this unique geological oddity is one of nature’s amazing creations that will make you say “Wow”.
The area comprises sand dunes of seven distinct colors: red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. Fascinatingly, if you mix the colored earth together, they’ll eventually settle into separate layers. The colors might even play tricks on you, appearing as shadows.
There’s also a Tortoise Park and Souvenir Shop offering a variety of memorabilia, including local products, while the Coffee Shop provides a delightful cafe experience.
- La Vallee des Couleurs - After some time, visit the beautiful Chamouny Waterfall, a striking natural feature amid dense vegetation.
The Chamouny Falls are among the most famous and recognized waterfalls in Mauritius, making them a must-see for tourists. You simply cannot miss these magnificent falls, often considered the best in Mauritius.
- Rhumerie de Saint Aubin - Next, head to Rhumerie De St Aubin to learn all about rum making on this paradise island. Enjoy a delicious rum tasting session, discovering the different flavors produced by the distillery.
Highlights of this site:
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Experience the warmth and authenticity of the Rhumerie de St Aubin Distillery
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Take a guided tour of the distillery
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Enjoy a delicious and boozy rum tasting session
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Discover the exclusive rum-making process using sugar cane
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Try a selection of agricultural rums produced by the distillery
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Gris Gris Beach - After a short drive, pass through the village of Souillac, where you can experience the local culture.
The appeal of Gris Gris lies in its scenery, with high cliffs dropping abruptly to the sea and refreshing winds blowing year-round.
You’ll have a great viewpoint of the cliffs and see the waves crashing against them. There’s a small garden with quiet spots to relax on benches while enjoying views 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.
Afterward, head to a local restaurant to savor 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 explain the options and ask for your preference.
- Bois Cheri Tea Factory - Enjoy a visit to a tea estate and learn about the history of the tea industry on the island. Discover the art of tea making and taste purely Mauritian tea at the end of your visit.
Bois Chéri now produces a range of flavored teas, green teas, and herbal teas, which you can taste during your visit. Be prepared to be amazed by the richness and freshness of the flavors.
Bois Chéri offers a great panoramic view of the south of the island. Have your camera ready to capture this marvelous view to take home with you.
Your southwest full-day scenic tour ends with return transport to your hotel.
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- Pick-up and drop-off at any hotel or accommodation in Mauritius
- Private transportation in a fully Air-conditioned vehicle
- Services of a fully qualified certified private Guide/Driver
- Entrance at the Twenty-Three Coloured Earth & Chamouny Waterfall
- Entrance at the Bois Cherri Tea Factory
- Entrance at Rhumerie De St Aubin
- 3-course Lunch (Veg and Non-veg) Note: Halal Food
- Beverages during lunch (Non- Alcoholic)
- Bottled water upon arrival
- Gratuities (Optional)
In this 8-hour private tour, you’ll explore the southwest of Mauritius, starting with a visit to the popular Green Dormant Volcano, Trou Aux Cerfs. Next, you’ll stop at the Mare Aux Vacoas reservoir.
Afterward, head to the Maconde viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view of the sea. Then, visit the Twenty Three Colored Earth, known for its unique multi-colored sand. Continue to the Chamouny waterfall, a beautiful single-drop waterfall. Next, visit the Bois Cherri Tea Factory to learn about tea production and plantation.
Later, enjoy a Mauritian 3-course lunch and head to Rhumerie De St Aubin to tour the rum distillery and learn about rum making. Then, continue to Gorge Viewpoint for an unparalleled view of the deep, dense forest and its valley.
Afterward, visit Alexandra Fall to experience the beauty of nature and its waterfalls. Finally, stop at Grand Bassin to see the gigantic statue of Lord Shiva.
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is 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.