Mauritius: Private South West Tour with Lunch

If you’re thinking about exploring the southern part of Mauritius, this Private South West Tour with included lunch offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and cultural depth. It’s a package designed for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, authentic experiences, and the comfort of private transportation.

From waterfalls to sacred lakes, this tour covers some of the most iconic sights — plus a taste of local cuisine — all guided by knowledgeable locals who seem to treat their guests like friends. Two things we particularly like are the personal attention from the guides and the chance to see Mauritius’s stunning landscapes up close, without the crowds.

A possible drawback is that, like any guided tour, your experience hinges somewhat on the weather and the guide’s expertise. However, based on the rave reviews, most travelers find this tour to be a worthwhile, flexible, and scenic adventure. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive peek at the island’s highlights while enjoying the comfort of a private trip.

If you’re after a day that mixes natural wonders with cultural highlights, and don’t mind paying around $116 per person for a personalized experience, this tour might be just right.

This experience made our article of 16 Best Tours & Things To Do In Mauritius (With Prices).

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tours mean flexibility, with ample time at each stop.
• Natural & Cultural Highlights: From waterfalls to Hindu temples, it combines nature and tradition.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their local knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• Delicious Local Food: Included lunch features authentic Mauritian dishes, often highlighted as a tour highlight.
• Value for Money: Considering the all-in price, many reviews mention it’s more than worth it.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a hassle-free day without logistical worries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

This Mauritius private tour kicks off with hotel pickup around 9:30 am, giving you a comfortable start to what will be a full day of sightseeing. The first stops are the towns of Curepipe and Floreal, where you’ll get a taste of local life and scenery.

Curepipe & Floreal

We love the way these towns set the tone for the day — quiet, charming, and less touristy. It’s the perfect introduction to the island’s everyday rhythm, with some local insights from your guide.

Trou aux Cerfs – The Dormant Volcano

Next, you’ll visit Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano with a crater that offers sweeping views of Mauritius. It’s a popular spot, but not overcrowded, giving you time to soak in the scenery and snap photos. Several reviews mention how special the viewpoints are, with Yoram noting the guide’s professionalism and the enjoyable explanations that brought the spot to life.

Grand Bassin – Sacred Lake & Hindu Temple

From here, the tour takes you to Grand Bassin, a serene lake and important Hindu religious site. Visitors often find the old Shiva statue here striking; it’s the oldest in the Indian Ocean region. You’ll have the chance to learn about Hindu traditions and see the religious processions or ceremonies, depending on timing. One review mentions how Robin, the guide, explained the significance of the temple and the statues in a way that added depth to the visit.

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Alexandra Falls and Black River Gorges

Your journey continues with stops at Alexandra Falls — a picturesque waterfall that’s appreciated for its tranquility and beauty. The drive through the Black River Valley offers magnificent vistas of mountains and lush landscapes. Reviews highlight how the guides’ local knowledge makes these stops more meaningful, sharing stories about the terrain and flora.

Chamarel – Waterfalls, 7-Coloured Earth, & Giant Turtles

The tour’s highlight is visiting Chamarel, home to the famous Seven Coloured Earths. This natural park showcases vibrant mineral-rich sands that form a surreal landscape. Visitors love how the guide explains the geology and history behind this phenomenon. The Chamarel Waterfalls are another breathtaking sight, with many reviews praising the views and the peaceful atmosphere.

While at Chamarel, you’ll also meet some Giant Turtles in the park, which kids and adults alike find adorable. Entrance to the waterfalls and the park is included, which many travelers appreciate as part of the overall value.

Lunch & Local Cuisine

Midday, the tour includes a stop at a local Mauritian restaurant, where the included lunch features dishes full of flavor and authenticity. Several reviewers mention the delicious food and friendly service as a highlight, with the meal being a perfect break amid sightseeing. Drinks are included, so no need to worry about extra expenses.

Optional Visit to Rhumerie de Chamarel

Note that the visit to Rhumerie de Chamarel is not included, which is a common question. For those interested in rum, this could be an additional activity, but it’s not part of the standard tour.

Transportation & Guide Experience

One common thread in reviews is praise for the comfortable, clean vehicle and friendly, knowledgeable guides. Guides speak both English and French, which helps a wide range of travelers.

The private nature of the tour means you can ask questions freely and spend as much time at each spot as you like. Many reviews point out how guides like Vikash, Robin, Baboo, and others go beyond just pointing out sights — they share stories, answer questions, and make the day more engaging.

Timing & Pacing

The tour typically starts at 9:30 am and ends back at your hotel, giving roughly a full day of exploration. Reviewers note that the pacing is flexible, with stops long enough to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Cost & Value

At $116 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of sights, the inclusion of lunch, entrance fees, and private transportation. Several travelers mention that it’s a good deal, especially compared to larger group tours, which often sacrifice personal attention.

Authentic Experiences & Highlights from Reviews

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ local knowledge, with many describing guides as friendly, professional, and enthusiastic about sharing stories. For example, Ravin was highlighted as very friendly and informative, making the day memorable.

The scenic stops at waterfalls and the 7-Coloured Earth are loved for the natural beauty and photo opportunities. One traveler, Nirav, appreciated how the guide shared insights about plants, history, and local traditions, making the experience more meaningful.

The lunch experience regularly appears as a highlight — authentic Mauritian dishes served in a welcoming setting. Reviewers rave about the flavorful food and friendly service, noting it’s a true taste of local culture.

Most reviews agree that the private format allows for more personalized attention and flexibility, which enhances the overall experience. You can linger longer at a favorite spot or skip something if you prefer, making it more tailored than a standard group tour.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking around the waterfalls, earth formations, and temple grounds.
• Bring sun protection — hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must, especially since parts of the tour are outdoors.
• The tour is available in both English and French, so specify your language preference when booking.
• Since the tour ends back at your hotel, plan for a relaxing evening afterward, especially if the day involved a lot of walking and sightseeing.
• The tour is pay later with flexible cancellation, making it easier to book with confidence.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive, flexible day that balances natural beauty with cultural insights. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more personal experience, especially with the highly praised guides.

It’s also ideal if you’re interested in Mauritius’s diverse landscapes — waterfalls, earth formations, and mountain vistas — combined with the chance to learn about local traditions and enjoy authentic cuisine.

While it’s a full-day adventure, it’s not overly strenuous, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Families, couples, or small groups looking for an immersive day with local flavor will find this trip rewarding.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
Pickup is around 9:30 am, giving you ample time to start your day comfortably.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Mauritian-style lunch with drinks is included in the tour price, offering a delicious break.

What sights are included in the tour?
Major highlights include Trou aux Cerfs crater, Grand Bassin Sacred Lake, Alexandra Falls, Chamarel Waterfalls, and the 7-Coloured Earth.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, entrance to Chamarel Waterfalls, Alexandra Falls, Black River Gorges, Trou aux Cerfs, and Sacred Lake are included.

Can I customize the stops?
The tour is private, so guides can adjust the schedule or spend more time at your favorite spots if desired.

Do guides speak both English and French?
Yes, guides are fluent in both languages, catering to a wide range of travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a hat or camera for photos.

How long is the drive between sites?
The drive through the scenic Black River Valley offers beautiful views, and the entire day typically covers a full itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the stops like the turtles and waterfalls are family-friendly, and private tours can be tailored to children’s pace.

What about weather?
The tour runs rain or shine. In case of heavy rain, guides often have flexible plans, and you might find some stops more enjoyable during sunny weather.

Final Thoughts

This Private South West Tour in Mauritius offers an excellent way to see the island’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites without the rush or crowds of larger groups. You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the comfortable private vehicle, and the authentic lunch — all at a reasonable price for a full day of exploration.

Whether you’re a nature lover eager for waterfalls and earth formations, or someone curious about local culture and religion, this tour provides a well-balanced, memorable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized attention and want to discover Mauritius through the eyes of someone who truly knows the island.

If you’re after a day that combines natural beauty with cultural richness, and you want the flexibility of a private guide, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera — you’ll want to capture every moment.

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