Explore the diverse landscapes of Mauritius on this captivating guided tour. Traverse the volcanic crater of Trou-aux-Cerfs, bask in the spiritual ambiance of Grand Bassin, and marvel at the vibrant hues of the Seven Colored Earths. Venture into the Wild South, where wildlife spotting and rum tasting await. Enjoy local craftsmanship at a glass-blowing factory, and uncover the island’s rich culture. This comprehensive experience promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders and cultural heritage of this enchanting destination.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Guided Tours In Grand Baie.
Good To Know
- Guided tour of Mauritius’ natural wonders, including the volcanic crater Trou-aux-Cerfs, the sacred Hindu lake Grand Bassin, and the geological marvel Seven Colored Earths.
- Exploration of the island’s rugged southern landscapes, with wildlife spotting in Black River Gorges National Park and a visit to a rum distillery.
- Opportunity to observe traditional glass-blowing techniques and learn about Mauritian craftsmanship.
- Knowledgeable guide provides insights on the cultural, geological, and historical significance of the tour’s destinations.
- Includes round-trip transportation, lunch, and rum tasting, making it a comprehensive and immersive experience.
Tour Overview
The guided tour provides an opportunity to explore Mauritius beyond its renowned beaches, focusing on the island’s natural beauty, rich culture, and local rum production.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 42 travelers, the tour is recommended by 91% of visitors.
The experience takes guests to iconic sites like the Trou-aux-Cerfs volcanic crater, the Grand Bassin crater lake, and the vibrant Seven Colored Earths.
Other highlights include a visit to a glass-blowing factory and a guided tour of La Rhumerie de Charamel, where travelers can indulge in a rum tasting.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, lunch, and a professional guide, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive exploration of Mauritius’ diverse wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Grand Baie.
Highlights of the Tour
Highlights of the tour include wildlife watching at the Black River Gorges National Park, where travelers can spot a variety of indigenous species.
The tour also features a guided visit to La Rhumerie de Charamel, a local rum distillery, where guests can sample the island’s renowned rum.
At a glass-blowing factory, visitors can witness the intricate process of crafting unique glass pieces.
The tour showcases the stunning natural landscapes of Mauritius, including the volcanic crater of Trou-aux-Cerfs and the serene Grand Bassin crater lake.
The highlight for many is the visit to the Seven Colored Earths and the majestic Chamarel Waterfalls, showcasing the island’s diverse geology and natural beauty.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes hassle-free round-trip transport from coastal hotels, a delicious lunch, and a guided rum tasting.
A professional guide accompanies travelers throughout the day, sharing insights and providing an air-conditioned vehicle. Snacks and drinks are also provided.
However, the tour doesn’t include pickup from guest houses, apartments, or lodges outside the coastal areas, and there are extra charges for those.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, although most travelers can participate.
Meeting and Pickup Details
According to the provided information, pickup for the tour is available from all coastal hotels, including those on the North, South, East, and West coasts.
The tour starts at 9:00 AM, and the maximum group size is 14 travelers. However, there are additional charges for hotels outside the coastal areas, and guest houses, apartments, and lodges aren’t included in the pickup service.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking.
Exploring Trou-aux-Cerfs
One of the first stops on the guided tour is the Trou-aux-Cerfs, a captivating volcanic crater located just outside the town of Curepipe. Formed over 8,000 years ago, this 85-meter deep crater offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the crater’s rim, taking in panoramic vistas that span the island. The tour guide shares insightful details about the crater’s geological origins and the local flora and fauna found within.
| Trou-aux-Cerfs Key Facts | |
|---|---|
| Volcanic Crater Depth | 85 meters |
| Crater Formation | Over 8,000 years ago |
| Location | Near Curepipe town |
| Views | Panoramic landscape |
| Guided Tour Highlights | Geological history, local wildlife |
Discovering Grand Bassin
After exploring the volcanic Trou-aux-Cerfs crater, the tour ventures to the serene Grand Bassin, a sacred Hindu lake nestled within the mountains.
Visitors are captivated by the tranquil waters and the towering statue of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The guide shares insights into the cultural and spiritual significance of the site, encouraging participants to observe the rituals and practices of the local Hindu community.
With its peaceful ambiance and stunning natural setting, Grand Bassin offers a meaningful contrast to the earlier volcanic exploration, providing a deeper understanding of Mauritius’ diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Visiting the Seven Colored Earths
The tour then journeys to the captivating Seven Colored Earths in Chamarel.
This unique geological formation features dunes of sand in seven distinct colors – red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. The colors are the result of the oxidation of different minerals in the soil.
Visitors can stroll along wooden paths and marvel at the striking contrast of the vibrant hues. The tour guide provides insights into the site’s history and the science behind the multicolored dunes.
After exploring the Seven Colored Earths, the group continues to the nearby Chamarel Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder cascading down lush green cliffs.
Experiencing the Wild South
Moving on from the captivating Seven Colored Earths, the tour ventures into the wild and rugged landscapes of the island’s south.
The highlight of this part of the journey is a visit to the Black River Gorges National Park, where guests can expect to spot an array of endemic wildlife.
The tour also includes a guided visit to a local rum distillery, La Rhumerie de Charamel, allowing travelers to learn about the island’s rum-making traditions.
Plus, the tour takes visitors to a glass-blowing factory, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of Mauritian artisans.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring a truly immersive and memorable Wild South adventure.
- Black River Gorges National Park
- La Rhumerie de Charamel rum distillery
- Glass-blowing factory
- Knowledgeable local guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Pictures During the Tour?
Yes, you can take pictures during the tour. The tour overview states that photography is allowed, and travelers are encouraged to capture the natural beauty and cultural experiences throughout the day.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
For this tour, you don’t need any special equipment. The guide will provide all necessary gear like binoculars for wildlife viewing. Just bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and your camera to capture the stunning natural landscapes.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?
The tour does not specify any dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Travelers should inform the tour operator in advance of any special dietary needs so accommodations can be made.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. However, guests can inquire about adding extra time or activities for an additional fee. The standard tour itinerary and length are fixed.
Can I Buy Souvenirs During the Tour?
Yes, you can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The tour includes a visit to a glass-blowing factory, where you’ll have the opportunity to browse and buy handcrafted glassware and other local crafts as souvenirs.
The Sum Up
This guided tour offers a captivating exploration of Mauritius’ diverse landscapes and rich culture. Visitors will marvel at the stunning volcanic crater of Trou-aux-Cerfs, experience the spiritual ambiance of Grand Bassin, and witness the vibrant hues of the Seven Colored Earths. The tour also includes wildlife spotting, rum tasting, and insights into local craftsmanship, all guided by knowledgeable professionals, making it an unforgettable experience.