Mauritius North: Private Taxi Tour with Beaches & Rum Tasting

Summary

Northern mauritius day trip with rum tasting and beach stops

You’ll ride in a private taxi through northern Mauritius with a local guide—exploring markets in Port Louis, climbing Citadel Fort for city views, tasting fresh rum at a colonial chateau, then relaxing on Grand Baie and Pereybere beaches before pausing at Cap Malheureux’s red-roof church. Expect surprises between each stop.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the north of Mauritius to feel so layered. Our driver—Ashwin, who seemed to know everyone in Port Louis—picked us up right on time. First stop was Caudan Waterfront; I could smell fried gateaux piment from a stall before we even parked. The harbor’s busy but somehow relaxed, and Ashwin pointed out the old sugar warehouses behind the craft market. We wandered for a bit, and I tried bargaining for a woven bag (not my strong suit).

The Citadel Fort sits above it all, watching over the city like an old uncle who’s seen too much. Wind up there is sharp, almost salty. You get this wide view of the Champs de Mars racecourse—I could hear distant cheers even though it wasn’t race day. Ashwin told us about Adelaide and the British days, but honestly I was distracted by some local kids playing football near the cannons.

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden was next. There’s this pond full of giant water lilies—bigger than dinner plates—and everything smells green, if that makes sense. Our guide explained how world leaders have planted trees here; I touched one trunk just because it felt like history under my hand. Lunch was at Chateau de Labourdonnais Rhumerie (the rum distillery). The air inside is sweet and boozy—tasted their vanilla-infused rum and maybe liked it too much. Li laughed when I tried to pronounce “Labourdonnais” in French—probably butchered it.

Grand Baie and Pereybere beaches are both lively but in different ways; Grand Baie is where everyone goes for photos and people-watching, while Pereybere feels softer somehow, more local families than tourists. Last stop: that red-roof church at Cap Malheureux—it looks almost painted against the sea. A couple was getting wedding photos taken there; we watched for a minute before heading back. I still think about that view sometimes, especially when things get noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore northern Mauritius highlights

• Visit Caudan waterfront mall
• Explore local craft market
• See Citadel Fort views
• Tour SSR Botanical Garden
• Visit Chateau de Labourdonnais rhumerie
• Photo stop at Grand Baie beach
• Stop at Pereybere beach
• Visit Red Roof Church at Cap Malheureux

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Mauritius north tour?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included.

Does this day trip visit Grand Baie beach?

Yes, you'll stop at Grand Baie beach as part of the itinerary.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible and infants can use strollers or sit on laps.

How long do you spend at each location?

The exact time varies by interest but you visit each main site in one day.

Do you get to taste rum on this tour?

Yes, there's a stop at Chateau de Labourdonnais Rhumerie for rum tasting.

Are entry fees or lunch included?

No mention of entry fees or lunch being included; check with operator if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transport with pickup and drop-off anywhere in Mauritius’ north. The car is wheelchair accessible and suitable for families with infants or strollers—just let them know what you need when booking.