The Picturesque South Tour of Mauritius promises a captivating journey through the island’s diverse natural wonders. From the volcanic crater of Trou aux Cerfs to the mesmerizing ‘7 Coloured Earth‘ dunes, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience that showcases Mauritius’ stunning southern landscape. Accompanied by a knowledgeable driver/guide, travelers can expect an afternoon filled with awe-inspiring sights, rich cultural insights, and a delectable 3-course lunch. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking to uncover the hidden gems of this enchanting island, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories. But what lies beyond the tour’s highlights? The true wonder of this experience may just surprise you.
Key Points
- A full-day private tour of the picturesque south of Mauritius, including transportation, lunch, and admission fees.
- Highlights such as the volcanic crater of Trou aux Cerfs, the sacred Hindu lake of Ganga Talao, and the mesmerizing ‘7 Coloured Earth’ dunes in Chamarel Geopark.
- Opportunity to witness the powerful cascade of Alexandra Falls and enjoy panoramic views from the Gorges Viewpoint.
- Pickup and drop-off service from hotel or accommodation, with a certified, knowledgeable driver/guide.
- Exploration of the geological and ecological significance of the tour’s landmarks, with an emphasis on the unique natural formations.
Tour Overview
What does this full-day private tour of the picturesque south of Mauritius entail?
Guests will be transported in an air-conditioned private vehicle and provided with bottled water, a 3-course lunch (vegetarian, non-vegetarian, or Halal), and non-alcoholic beverages as part of the tour.
The highlights include visiting the volcanic crater of Trou aux Cerfs, the sacred Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin), the scenic Alexandra Falls, the breathtaking Gorges Viewpoint, and the renowned Chamarel Geopark, home to the captivating 7 Coloured Earth.
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, along with the services of a certified driver/guide and admission fees, are all included. This private tour ensures a personalized and enjoyable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chamarel.
Highlights of the Tour
The tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the picturesque south of Mauritius, showcasing a diverse array of natural wonders.
Visitors will first explore the volcanic crater of Trou aux Cerfs, marveling at its serene beauty and learning about the island’s geological history.
Next, they’ll visit Ganga Talao, also known as Grand Bassin, a sacred Hindu lake surrounded by temples and statues.
The tour then leads to the stunning Alexandra Falls, where guests can witness the powerful cascade plunging into a lush, verdant ravine.
Afterward, the Gorges Viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the dramatic gorges carved by nature.
The highlight is the Chamarel Geopark, home to the mesmerizing ‘Seven Coloured Earth‘ dunes, a true testament to Mauritius’ geological diversity.
Pickup and Dropoff
The tour provides convenient pickup and drop-off services, with guests being transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to and from their hotel or accommodation in Mauritius.
The tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM, ensuring a punctual and efficient start to the day’s activities.
This personalized service ensures that guests don’t have to worry about navigating their way to the tour’s starting point, allowing them to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
The driver/guide is certified and knowledgeable, providing a seamless and informative journey throughout the day.
At the end of the tour, guests are returned to their initial pickup location, completing the convenient door-to-door service.
Trou Aux Cerfs
After being picked up from their accommodation, the tour’s first stop is at Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcanic crater that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors can stroll along the rim of the crater, taking in the panoramic vistas and appreciating the serene natural setting. The crater’s diameter measures approximately 300 meters, and its depth reaches 80 meters, providing a sense of scale and perspective.
Trou aux Cerfs is considered an important geological and ecological site, with its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. Guests can explore the crater’s interior, learning about its volcanic history and the unique ecosystem that has developed within its confines.
Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin)
Next, the tour proceeds to the sacred Ganga Talao, also known as Grand Bassin, a high-altitude lake nestled within the crater of an extinct volcano.
This revered Hindu pilgrimage site is home to an impressive Lord Shiva statue and several temples, attracting devotees from around the world who come to offer prayers and seek spiritual enlightenment.
Visitors can stroll through the serene grounds, admire the ornate religious structures, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere that permeates this important cultural landmark.
The lake itself is considered sacred, and many Hindus believe it to be connected to the Ganges River in India, making it a site of great significance in the Hindu faith.
Alexandra Falls
Leaving the sacred Ganga Talao, the tour then proceeds to the picturesque Alexandra Falls, a magnificent cascading waterfall nestled amidst lush, verdant surroundings.
Tumbling down a steep cliff, the falls create a mesmerizing display of power and beauty. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views from various vantage points, marveling at the sheer force of the water as it crashes into the pool below.
The soothing sound of the falls and the cool, mist-filled air create a serene, peaceful atmosphere, inviting travelers to pause and appreciate the natural wonder before them. This captivating natural attraction is a highlight of the Picturesque South Tour, offering a chance to connect with Mauritius’ stunning landscapes.
Gorges Viewpoint
The Gorges Viewpoint offers visitors a stunning panoramic vantage point to gaze upon the picturesque Mauritian landscapes. Perched atop a hill, this scenic overlook provides sweeping views of the island’s deep, dramatic gorges carved by the island’s rivers over centuries. Gazing out, visitors can see the lush, verdant vegetation that lines the steep canyon walls, contrasting with the crystal-clear waters flowing below. The viewpoint itself is an ideal spot to pause, take in the breathtaking scenery, and snap photos to capture the beauty of this natural wonder. It’s a must-visit stop on any Mauritian South Tour, providing a chance to appreciate the island’s incredible geological formations.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Elevation | Perched atop a hill for sweeping views |
| Vegetation | Lush, verdant canyon walls |
| Water | Crystal-clear river waters flowing below |
| Geology | Dramatic, steep gorges carved over centuries |
| Photography | Ideal spot to capture the natural beauty |
Chamarel Geopark (7 Coloured Earth)
Nestled within the Chamarel Geopark, the unique and vibrant 7 Coloured Earth formation captivates visitors with its mesmerizing display of distinct hues. This geological wonder, sculpted over centuries by wind and rain, showcases a stunning palette of colors including red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow, all seamlessly blended together in undulating dunes.
Visitors can explore the trails and marvel at the natural phenomenon, which is believed to have formed due to the weathering of volcanic ash deposits. The site also features an educational visitor center, providing insights into the formation and history of this extraordinary landscape.
Witness the stunning array of vibrant colors in the 7 Coloured Earth dunes.
Explore the trails and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Chamarel Geopark.
Visit the informative visitor center to learn about the geological history of the site.
Capture the mesmerizing beauty of this natural wonder through photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Custom Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour operator typically offers the flexibility to customize the itinerary based on the traveler’s preferences. Customers can request changes to the attractions, duration, or dining options to personalize the tour experience.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks?
No, you don’t need to bring your own snacks or drinks on this tour. The tour includes complimentary bottled water and a 3-course lunch with non-alcoholic beverages. All meals and refreshments are provided for you during the full-day private tour.
Is the Tour Guide Available to Answer Questions in Multiple Languages?
The tour guide is available to answer questions in multiple languages. Guests can expect the guide to be knowledgeable and accommodating, providing explanations in the language most comfortable for the group.
Can the Tour Be Extended or Shortened Based on My Preferences?
The tour can be customized based on the traveler’s preferences. They can extend or shorten the duration of the tour, add or remove stops, and adjust the itinerary to suit their needs. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate individual requirements.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?
Yes, there are often discounts and special offers available for this tour. Customers should check with the tour operator, Paradise In Your Palm Tours, for any current promotions or package deals that could provide savings.
Recap
The Picturesque South Tour of Mauritius offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the island’s natural wonders.
From the volcanic crater of Trou aux Cerfs to the mesmerizing ‘7 Coloured Earth‘ dunes, this comprehensive tour showcases Mauritius’ stunning southern landscape.
With transportation, a delectable lunch, and knowledgeable guidance, this experience promises an unforgettable journey through the picturesque southern regions of this remarkable island nation.