Mauritius: La Vanille Nature Park tour with local guide

Summary

Walk among giant tortoises & crocodiles in Mauritius’ wild south

You’ll wander shaded paths past giant tortoises and Nile crocodiles at La Vanille Nature Park in southern Mauritius, guided by locals who know every story behind each animal. Explore the famous insectarium’s dazzling collection, watch monkeys play overhead, and catch the scent of Mauritian food drifting from the restaurant — all moments you’ll remember long after leaving.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely stepped through the gate at La Vanille Nature Park when a low, earthy smell hit me — kind of like wet leaves and something older, maybe the vines they named the place after. Our guide, Ashvin, waved us over to where a slow parade of giant tortoises was happening (no exaggeration, they really do move like old men on a Sunday). Domino, the biggest one, looked ancient enough to have seen the island change shape. I tried to count his rings but lost track — he blinked at me anyway.

I didn’t expect to see so many Nile crocodiles here in Mauritius. Ashvin explained how they raise them from tiny snappers up to these huge prehistoric-looking adults. The crocs barely moved except for their eyes — you get this weird feeling they’re watching you more than you’re watching them. There were kids laughing nearby at some monkeys swinging around; I caught a whiff of fried spices drifting from the restaurant and my stomach growled embarrassingly loud. Nobody seemed to notice (or maybe they were just polite).

The insectarium was honestly wild — 23,000 beetles and butterflies, all pinned and shimmering under glass. Jacques Siedlecki’s collection is famous here; Ashvin said even schoolkids come just for that part. I found myself staring at a blue morpho longer than I meant to. There’s also an aquarium and a play area for kids if you need a break from reptiles and bugs. The whole place feels like it’s breathing with life — not perfect or manicured, but real.

On the way out, I bought a postcard with Domino on it (he’s kind of a local celebrity). The park isn’t fancy but there’s something about seeing these animals up close that sticks with you. Maybe it’s just knowing someone cares enough to protect them here in southern Mauritius — or maybe it’s that slow blink from Domino that I still think about sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore La Vanille Nature Park

• Visit turtle colony and crocodile habitats
• See monkeys, bats, deer, geckos, wild boars, and carp
• Explore the insectarium collection
• Enjoy aquarium, children's play area, restaurant, and souvenir shop

Top questions

How do I get to La Vanille Nature Park from my hotel?

If your booking includes transfers, hotel pickup is available; otherwise, you’ll need your own transport.

What animals can I see at La Vanille Nature Park?

You can see giant tortoises (over 1,000), Nile crocodiles (about 2,000), monkeys, bats, deer, geckos, wild boars, carp, and more.

Is there a guide during the visit?

Yes, tours are led by local guides who share information about the animals and conservation efforts.

Are there activities for children?

Yes, there is a children’s play area inside the park.

What is special about the insectarium?

The insectarium houses Jacques Siedlecki’s collection of 23,000 beetle and butterfly species.

Can I enter animal enclosures?

No entry into any enclosures is allowed for safety reasons.

Is food available inside La Vanille Nature Park?

Yes, there is a restaurant on site serving local dishes.

Are tickets included in the price?

All entry fees and taxes are included with your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes all entry fees and taxes for La Vanille Nature Park in Mauritius; if you choose transfers when booking, hotel pickup is arranged as well so you don’t have to worry about getting there yourself.