Mauritius: Private South Tour with Ebony Forest & Lunch

Summary

Explore Mauritius’ wild south, waterfalls, forest & sacred lake

You’ll travel through Mauritius’ wild southwest with a private guide—walking volcanic rims at Trou aux Cerfs, breathing incense at Grand Bassin temple, tasting local curry in Chamarel village, and riding by jeep through ancient Ebony Forest. Expect moments of silence broken by birdsong or laughter over lunch—a day that lingers long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Curepipe just after sunrise, windows down because the air felt different—cooler, almost mossy. Our driver, Rajesh, pointed out the rim of Trou aux Cerfs before I even spotted it. The crater’s edge was soft underfoot and the trees around us were thick with birdsong (and some kind of spicy scent I couldn’t place). I tried to imagine the volcano waking up after 700,000 years—Rajesh just grinned and said not to worry.

We stopped at Mare Aux Vacoas for a few minutes. It’s not flashy but there was something calming about the water stretching out behind those old pines. Then Grand Bassin—Ganga Talao—where incense drifted over the lake and women in bright saris left offerings by the temple steps. The statue of Shiva is massive up close; you sort of feel watched but in a gentle way. I asked if we could linger and our guide didn’t rush us.

Somewhere between Alexandra Falls and Black River Gorges National Park, the road started winding tighter. We got out at a viewpoint—wind whipping my hair everywhere—and looked down into this green tangle that seemed to go on forever. There were monkeys in the trees (one tried to steal my snack). Lunch came later in Chamarel village: rice, chicken curry, fresh salad—the chef explained every dish and laughed when I mixed up “dholl puri” with “farata.”

The Seven Colored Earth looked unreal—like someone spilled paint on sand dunes—but it’s all natural. Chamarel Waterfall was louder than I expected; you can feel the spray if you stand close enough. The highlight for me was bouncing through Ebony Forest in an open jeep, branches brushing past as our local guide pointed out rare birds (I only caught a glimpse). By Maconde viewpoint, late afternoon light made everything gold. I still think about that drive back—quiet except for the sound of tires on old roads.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Southwest Mauritius nature and views

• Hotel pick-up and meet guide
• Visit Trou Aux Cerfs volcano
• Stop at Mare Aux Vacoas reservoir
• Visit Grand Bassin Hindu temple
• See Alexandra Falls and valley
• View panorama at Gorge viewpoint
• Explore Chamarel village and viewpoint
• Enjoy 3-course Mauritian lunch
• Visit Seven Colored Earth dunes
• See Chamarel Waterfall
• Tour Ebony Forest by 4x4 jeep
• Admire views at Maconde viewpoint
• Pass Riviere des Galets stone rock
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does this private south Mauritius tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours including all stops.

Is lunch included on the day trip from Curepipe to Chamarel?

Yes, a 3-course Mauritian lunch is included with vegetarian options available.

Does this tour visit Seven Colored Earth Geopark?

Yes, you’ll visit Seven Colored Earth as part of the itinerary.

Are entrance fees for Ebony Forest Reserve included?

Yes, entry to Ebony Forest Nature Reserve is included in your booking.

Is hotel pickup provided anywhere in Mauritius?

Pickup and drop-off are available from any hotel or accommodation on the island.

Can children join this full-day Mauritius nature tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages; infant seats are available if requested.

What should I wear for visiting waterfalls and forest trails?

Wear non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing for walking on uneven paths.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel anywhere in Mauritius, all entry fees (including Ebony Forest Reserve and Seven Colored Earth), a guided jeep safari through ancient forest trails, bottled water on arrival, plus a traditional 3-course Mauritian lunch—with both vegetarian and halal options—before returning comfortably by private vehicle in the evening.