The South of Mauritius: 23-Colored Earth & Rhumerie de St Aubin

If you’re seeking a day packed with striking scenery and cultural flavor in Mauritius, this tour promises just that. It takes you through some of the most photogenic sites in the island’s southwest — from vibrant geological formations to sacred lakes, waterfalls, and a rum distillery.

We’ve looked into the reviews and itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect, the highlights, and some thoughtful considerations to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we especially like about this experience is its combination of scenic stops and cultural insights. You’ll get a good mix of nature, history, and local flavor, all in one day. Plus, with an included traditional Mauritian lunch, it offers a satisfying taste of local cuisine at a reasonable price.

On the flip side, a few reviews mention variable guide quality and some logistical hiccups, so it’s worth considering if you’re a traveler who prefers well-guided, seamless experiences.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Mauritius’ southwestern highlights without the hassle of planning each stop. It caters well to those who enjoy nature, geology, and cultural sites, and anyone keen to see the island’s varied landscapes in one go — especially if you like the idea of visiting seven-colored earth and tasting local rum.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary including geological marvels, waterfalls, and cultural sites
• Includes entrance fees and a hearty Mauritian lunch, offering good value
• Comfortable transportation and pickup from your hotel
• Guided experience that emphasizes storytelling and local insights
• Some reviews highlight variances in guide quality and trip execution
• Ideal for visitors wanting a full-day, all-in-one tour of Mauritius’ natural beauty

Exploring the Complete Itinerary

Starting Point: Trou aux Cerfs — The Volcano with a View

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, setting the stage for a scenic drive through the southwest. The first stop, Trou aux Cerfs, is a dormant volcanic crater that rises about 605 meters above sea level. The crater itself is about 350 meters wide, with lush greenery surrounding it, giving visitors a peaceful spot for panoramic views.

One of the things we loved about this stop is its contrast to typical volcanic sites — instead of a barren crater, it’s surrounded by indigenous plants and towering pine trees, making for a calming start. It’s a popular spot, and the view of the island from here is quite impressive. However, keep in mind that the actual crater is largely a natural park, so don’t expect extensive visitor facilities.

Reservoir Views and Nature’s Calm

Next, you’ll visit Mare Aux Vacoas, the largest reservoir in Mauritius. It’s a quiet spot, often overlooked but rich in tranquility. The view of the water against the backdrop of forested hills is surprisingly beautiful — a peaceful snapshot of island life. It’s a quick stop, but one that offers a breath of fresh air, especially appreciated by those seeking a break from busy sightseeing.

Grand Bassin — The Sacred Lake

Then, it’s on to Grand Bassin, a crater lake at about 550 meters elevation. This site is much more than scenery; it’s a spiritual hub for Hindus. The giant Lord Shiva statue, at 33 meters high, is a remarkable sight — an icon of peaceful devotion. You’ll have around 40 minutes here, plenty of time to admire the shrines, take photos of the statue, and soak in the atmosphere.

Reviews mention that many visitors find Grand Bassin to be a moving experience, especially due to its religious significance. It’s a lively spot, with locals and travelers alike paying homage. Expect some crowds, but the setting makes it worth the visit.

Alexandra Falls — Nature’s Spectacle

From there, the tour heads to Alexandra Falls, a favorite among visitors for its breathtaking natural beauty. Positioned around 700 meters above sea level, the falls are a postcard-worthy scene, with water cascading into the lush greenery below. You’ll be encouraged to take photos and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline from this vantage point.

Many reviews highlight the visual impact of Alexandra Falls and the opportunity to capture great pictures. It’s a spot that leaves a lasting impression, especially for those who love waterfalls and lush landscapes.

Black River Gorges National Park — The Wilderness

Midway between Alexandra Falls and Chamarel, you’ll stop at a gorge viewpoint within Black River Gorges National Park. Here, the view unfolds over a sprawling rainforest, deep valleys, and waterfalls. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but one of the highlights for nature lovers.

The park is an unspoiled slice of Mauritian flora, and the viewpoint offers a sweeping vista of the landscape below. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and provides a sense of the island’s verdant heart.

The Enchanting 23-Colored Earth

Now, onto the highlight for many visitors — the Seven Colored Earths at Valle des Couleurs. These sand dunes are a geological marvel, with colors that seem almost unreal — reds, purples, greens, blues, and yellows. The orange basaltic lava has transformed over time into clay minerals, creating a rainbow of hues.

The experience here is both visual and tactile; you can walk among the dunes, feeling the textured sands. Several travelers have expressed amazement at the lunar-like landscape, and some even enjoyed mixing the different colored earths to see the results.

Chamouny Waterfall — Nature’s Drop

Next, you visit the Chamouny Waterfall, the only single-drop waterfall in Mauritius. The lush surroundings and the roaring water make for a dramatic scene. It’s an iconic spot that feels like a secret discovery, thanks to its dense greenery and striking cascade.

However, a few reviews mention that access can sometimes be limited by weather or road conditions. While you might not get to see every waterfall listed in the promotional photos, the waterfall itself is well worth the visit.

Gris Gris Beach — Wild Coastal Beauty

After a scenic drive through the villages, you arrive at Gris Gris, known for its dramatic cliffs and powerful waves. The view of the crashing surf against the rocky coast is mesmerizing. There’s a quiet garden with benches, perfect for relaxing or taking photos.

Visitors often comment on the strength of the ocean currents, warning that swimming here is not advisable. Instead, it’s ideal for appreciating the raw power of nature and enjoying the wild coastal scenery — a fitting end to your day of natural wonders.

Rum Tasting at Rhumerie de Saint Aubin

The final stop is the Rhumerie de Saint Aubin for a guided tour of the rum-making process. You’ll learn how sugarcane is transformed into rum and get to taste some local varieties. Many reviews praise the friendly guide and the authentic atmosphere of the distillery.

The tasting session offers a chance to sample different flavors, making this a fun and flavorful end to your adventure. It’s an excellent way to connect with local craftsmanship and bring home a taste of Mauritius.

Evaluating the Experience

Value for money is a notable aspect of this tour. With an inclusion of entrance fees, a substantial three-course lunch, and transportation, the cost of around $131 per person seems reasonable, especially considering the variety of sites visited. Travelers have appreciated the generous stops and the chance to see many highlights in one day, saving the hassle of organizing multiple trips independently.

Transportation is in a fully air-conditioned vehicle, which is important given the tropical heat. The small-group setting (not explicitly stated but implied by the tour style) ensures a more personal experience, although some reviews suggest that the guide’s knowledge varies.

The itinerary’s pace is brisk, packed with stops. Some travelers loved the diversity and scenery, while others felt certain sites, like waterfalls, were missed or less spectacular than expected. Weather can impact some spots, especially the waterfall visits, so flexibility is key.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight friendly and knowledgeable guides, and others appreciate the variety of sights — from geological formations to religious sites and waterfalls. Reviewers also mention good value for money, especially with the included lunch and entrance fees.

However, some reviews point to disappointments with guide quality, noting that at times, the driver was not very communicative or knowledgeable. Access issues due to weather have also been mentioned, notably at waterfalls, which underscores the importance of flexible expectations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day experience suits adventurous travelers eager to see a broad slice of Mauritius’ natural beauty without the hassle of planning. If you’re interested in geological wonders like the seven-colored earth, enjoy nature photography, or want to experience cultural landmarks like Grand Bassin, this tour covers it all.

It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an informative, scenic, and taste-filled day. Keep in mind that the pace is fast, so if you prefer slower, more in-depth explorations, you might want to supplement this with individual visits.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at any hotel or accommodation in Mauritius, making logistics simple.

How long is the tour?
Expect around 8 to 9 hours from start to finish, giving you a comprehensive look at the southwest highlights.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees to the Seven Colored Earth and Chamarel Waterfall are covered. The rum distillery also includes a guided tour.

What should I wear?
Non-slippery shoes are recommended because some sites involve walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather is ideal.

Is lunch vegetarian?
Yes, the included 3-course lunch offers vegetarian options, with non-vegetarian choices also available. Halal food is provided upon request.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available with at least 24 hours’ notice.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Mauritius’ southwestern beauty — from surreal colored sands to sacred lakes and cascading waterfalls. While some reviews point out inconsistencies, the overall experience remains a value-packed way to see many of the island’s best-known sites.

If you love nature, culture, and a taste of local craftsmanship, and don’t mind a brisk pace and some variability, this tour could be a highlight of your Mauritius trip. It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize their sightseeing in one day without the stress of logistics.

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and local flavor — and a chance to taste the island’s famous rums — this tour hits most marks. Just be prepared for some unpredictable moments and a full day of exploration!

Remember, this tour is best for those who enjoy guided sightseeing with a touch of adventure. It’s not for someone looking for a relaxed, in-depth exploration of a single site, but rather a fast-paced, scenic overview of Mauritius’ southwestern jewels.