5 Islands Trip inc. Ile aux Cerfs, Lunch, Drinks & Transport

Planning a day out in Mauritius? This 5 Islands excursion promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and a taste of local history—all bundled into an all-inclusive package. We’ve looked into this tour to give you an honest, detailed rundown so you can decide if it’s right for your travel style.

What we love about this experience is how it balances offshore exploration with cultural insights and delicious food. You get to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, visit historic islands, see breathtaking waterfalls, and unwind on some of the island’s most iconic beaches. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and dropoff makes it feel like a true stress-free escape.

One thing to keep in mind is that the lunch quality and quantity might not meet every traveler’s expectations, as some reviews point out. It’s also worth noting that, while drinks and the BBQ are included, some extras—like lobster—cost extra and can be subject to miscommunication.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing and beach time without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a good mix of nature, history, and local flavor, especially if you’re visiting Mauritius for the first time and want a taste of everything.

This experience made our article of The 16 Most Popular Tours & Things To Do In Chamarel.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, dropoff, lunch, drinks, and transport included.
• Diverse Attractions: Snorkeling, waterfalls, historic islands, and pristine beaches.
• Authentic Experiences: Local drinks, barbecue lunch, and historical insights.
• Time Management: A full day (around 8 hours), with a well-paced itinerary.
• Value for Money: At $167 per person, the tour offers a lot of variety.
• Mixed Reviews on Food: Some find the lunch lacking, but others praise the traditional barbecue and drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting with Snorkeling at Ile aux Aigrettes

Your day begins with a snorkeling stop near Ile aux Aigrettes, close to Blue Bay. If you love marine life, this is a highlight. The waters here are said to be the best snorkeling spot in Mauritius, with clear visibility and tropical fish. The tour provides snorkeling gear, making it straightforward to jump in and explore. Based on reviews, travelers find this part of the trip quite exciting, with some mentioning the chance to see turtles and dolphins in the wild.

One reviewer appreciated the marine environment, noting that “the best snorkeling location in Mauritius” makes this stop well worth the early start. If you’re into underwater photography or just enjoy observing colorful fish, this is a good way to kick off the day.

Exploring Historic Islands: Ile de la Passe & Ile au Phare

Next, the boat heads towards Ile de la Passe and Ile au Phare. These islands hold historical significance, and your guide will tell you about their past. You’ll see ruins of old buildings and, on Ile au Phare, visit the iconic lighthouse. These islands offer a peek into Mauritius’ maritime history, making the trip more than just a beach day.

From the boat, you get a great view of the islands, and some reviews mention that the guides are knowledgeable, sharing interesting stories about the islands’ past. It’s a moment to appreciate both the natural beauty and the history that shaped the region.

Waterfall and Nature: Grand River Southeast

Before heading to Ile aux Cerfs, you’ll pass by the Grand River Southeast waterfall—a striking sight. It’s an excellent photo opportunity and a reminder of the island’s lush terrain. Some travelers mention seeing monkeys and fruit bats around the waterfalls, adding a wildlife element to the day. The waterfall’s spray, combined with the surrounding greenery, makes for a refreshing stop.

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Relaxing on Ile aux Cerfs and the Beachside BBQ

The highlight for many is Ile aux Cerfs, renowned for its white sandy beaches and calm waters. After a busy morning of sightseeing, you’ll have ample time on the island to relax or partake in optional activities. The tour includes a barbecue lunch on Ilot Mangerie, featuring chicken, fish, sausage, garlic bread, salad, and fruit. Drinks, including alcohol, are part of the package.

Several reviews praise the delicious traditional BBQ and the opportunity to soak up the sun on stunning beaches. Some mention that the “beach wasn’t very nice or clean,” which is worth considering, especially if your main goal is pristine sand and clear waters. Still, the overall beach experience is generally positive, with plenty of space to unwind.

Additional Activities and Free Time

After lunch, you’re free to explore the island further. Many travelers enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in the view. The island’s postcard-perfect scenery makes it a popular photo spot. Some reviews mention optional activities, but details are not specified in the tour description.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses speedboats to hop between islands, ensuring a quick and exhilarating ride. The trips are generally small to medium groups, which helps with personalized attention from guides and skippers. The hotel pickup and dropoff add a layer of ease that busy travelers will appreciate.

Duration and Pacing

The full-day trip lasts around 8 hours, a substantial but well-paced itinerary. Expect an early start, given the need to maximize your day, and a return in the evening. The schedule balances activity with relaxation—snorkeling, sightseeing, and lounging.

Cost and Value

At $167 per person, the tour offers good value considering the number of attractions and inclusions—snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and transport. However, some reviews point out that the food portion and quality could be better, and extras like lobster come at an additional cost. Still, the overall experience of visiting multiple islands and sights justifies the price for many.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

The reviews highlight guides as a strong point, with travelers praising their knowledge and friendliness. The inclusion of local drinks and a traditional BBQ adds cultural flavor. To get the most out of the tour, be prepared for some optional upsells, like lobster, which are not included but clearly communicated.

Note that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women and requires some physical mobility for snorkeling and walking. Cancellation policies are flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is great for first-time visitors seeking a broad taste of Mauritius—beaches, wildlife, history, and local cuisine in one day. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends interested in a mix of relaxation and adventure. If you prefer a quiet, solitary beach, keep in mind some reviews mention the beaches aren’t always pristine.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For the price, this 5 Islands trip delivers a busy, engaging day with diverse activities that showcase the best of Mauritius’ coastal charms. The snorkeling, waterfall, and historical sights provide a well-rounded experience. The included barbecue and drinks add a social, laid-back vibe perfect for those wanting to enjoy local flavors.

However, the experience hinges on your expectations around food quality and the honesty of vendors on Ile aux Cerfs. If you’re comfortable with these caveats, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day.

In summary, this tour suits travelers who want a full, active day out with a good mix of sights and tastes, especially if you’re keen on guided experiences with local flavor. It’s not the most exclusive or pristine beach day, but it’s a practical and enjoyable way to see some of Mauritius’ highlights in one go.

FAQ

How long is this tour?
The trip lasts around 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time on Ile aux Cerfs.

Is hotel pickup and dropoff included?
Yes, the tour provides convenient hotel pickup and dropoff, saving you the trouble of logistics.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, boat rides, visits to historic islands, a barbecue lunch, local drinks (including alcohol), and transportation are included.

Are there any additional costs?
Extras like lobster are not included and come at an extra charge. Also, some reviews mention tips and optional activities might cost extra.

Is the food good?
The barbecue lunch is generally considered tasty, but some find the portion size or quality lacking, so manage expectations accordingly.

Can I see wildlife during the trip?
Yes, travelers report seeing monkeys, fruit bats, dolphins, and turtles in the wild.

Is this trip suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women. The activities involve some physical mobility and water-based activities.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in English and French.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you might want to bring a camera or waterproof phone case for photos.

Will the beaches be crowded?
It depends on the time of year, but Ile aux Cerfs is popular, so expect some fellow travelers, especially during peak season.

This detailed review aims to help you assess whether this 5 Islands adventure aligns with your travel goals. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting a lively, scenic, and culturally rich day in Mauritius without the fuss of doing everything yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby