Best of the South-West, Instagram PhotoShoot Tour with Mauritian Lunch on the go

Exploring the Best of Mauritius’ South-West: A Practical Guide to the Instagram PhotoShoot Tour with Mauritian Lunch

If you’re looking for a day that combines breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and some of the best photo opportunities Mauritius has to offer, then the Best of the South-West tour might be exactly what you need. Marketed as a private experience, this roughly 7-9 hour journey takes you along the island’s rugged southwestern coast, revealing hidden gems and iconic spots with a touch of local flavor.

What we love about this tour is its personalized approach—a private SUV whisks you around comfortably while your guide shares stories and insights about each site. Plus, the inclusion of an authentic Mauritian lunch on the go adds a delicious, local touch. The stunning landscapes, from volcanic craters to colorful earth formations, are perfect for photography and memorable sightseeing.

One potential consideration is the itinerary’s pace. With so many stops packed into a single day, you’ll want to be prepared for a fairly busy schedule. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and scenic views without feeling rushed. This tour works well for those craving an in-depth look at Mauritius’ diverse southwestern scenery, especially if you appreciate a private, flexible experience over large group tours.

Who will love this tour?

Travelers seeking a rundown of Mauritius’ southwestern highlights, photographers craving scenic spots, and those curious about local culture and cuisine will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s ideal for visitors who prefer a personalized, well-curated experience rather than a crowded bus ride.

Key Points

• Private tour offers flexibility and intimacy, with a dedicated SUV and guide.
• Includes entrance tickets to major sites like Chamarel Waterfalls and Seven Colored Earth Geopark, providing excellent value.
• Authentic Mauritian lunch adds a tasty, cultural dimension to the day.
• Stunning landscapes like volcano craters, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints make for great photos.
• Diverse stops cover natural beauty, history, and local life, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Timing and pace are active but manageable, perfect for those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Trou aux Cerfs: The Dormant Volcano with a View

We start the day at Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano crater that offers one of the most impressive vantage points on the island. With a depth of about 85 meters and a width of 300 meters, this volcanic feature reveals the island’s fiery past. The best part? The panoramic views over Curepipe and the surrounding landscapes.

The walk around the crater takes roughly 20 minutes and is quite accessible. The site is free to visit, making it an excellent way to start your day with a dose of natural wonder. Visitors frequently comment on the “stunning views” and how peaceful the area feels—perfect for photos and a moment to appreciate Mauritius’ geological history.

Curepipe: A Charming Town with Local Flavors

Next, we explore Curepipe, a town known for its colonial architecture and lively market scene. Here, you can sample some local street food—an authentic taste of Mauritius. The Royal College Curepipe, a historic institution, and the Curepipe Botanical Garden are also worth a quick visit, especially for nature lovers.

The garden, with its large pond and endemic trees, offers a peaceful retreat and great photo opportunities. This stop roughly lasts 30 minutes and provides a glimpse into everyday Mauritian life beyond the beaches. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s local knowledge greatly enhances the experience, making these stops both informative and enjoyable.

Mare aux Vacoas: The Reservoir and Surrounding Rainforest

Built in 1885, Mare aux Vacoas is the island’s largest reservoir, holding nearly 26 million cubic meters of water. Surrounded by dense rain-forest with eucalyptus, pine, and casuarinas trees, it’s a perfect spot to appreciate Mauritius’ lush greenery—and the cool breeze is a welcome break.

A quick 10-minute stop, this site isn’t just about the water; it’s about the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see nature in action. Although brief, it provides excellent photo opportunities of the reservoir framed by tropical trees, as well as a moment to breathe in the fresh air.

Grand Bassin: The Sacred Lake and Spiritual Hub

No visit to Mauritius is complete without a trip to Grand Bassin, the island’s most revered Hindu pilgrimage site. The tranquil lake and the towering Hanuman Statue are awe-inspiring—especially with devotees praying, offering fruits, and lighting incense.

The climb to the statue is a bit of a hike, but the view of the lake below and the spiritual ambiance make it worthwhile. The monkeys, often seen snatching fruits during prayers, add a humorous touch to the serene setting. This stop, roughly 30 minutes, is a highlight for its cultural and scenic significance.

Alexandra Falls and Gorges Viewpoint: Nature’s Peaceful Retreats

Following the spiritual site, we visit Alexandra Falls, where the sound of rushing water and the dense rainforest create a calming environment. It’s a great spot to relax, listen to the falls, and take some nature photos.

The Gorges Viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of lush valleys and the chance to spot the Paille en Queue, Mauritius’ iconic bird. These quiet spots are about 15-20 minutes each, providing peaceful respites amid the busy itinerary.

Chamarel Waterfalls & Seven Colored Earth: Iconic Natural Marvels

The Chamarel Waterfalls, the tallest on the island, provide a spectacular view of water cascading into a lush landscape below. The sound of rushing water and the verdant backdrop make it a favorite for photographs.

Just across the road, the Seven Colored Earth Geopark showcases soil formations cooled at different temperatures millions of years ago. The multicolored hills, carved by rain, look like an earthen meringue—ideal for those memorable photos. Both sites are included in the ticket price, reflecting good value and allowing you to spend quality time admiring these natural wonders.

Viewpoint & Martello Tower Museum: Panoramas and History

The Chamarel Viewpoint offers sweeping views of the village, with vistas extending to Ile aux Benitiers. It’s a perfect spot for panoramic photos, especially if you bring sunglasses or a wide-angle lens.

For history buffs, the Martello Tower provides insight into Mauritius’ colonial past, built by the British as a defensive structure. The tower is open on specific days, but even a quick photo stop is informative.

Salt Pans at Tamarin: Local Industry and Culture

Our final stop, the Salt Pans of Tamarin, showcases traditional salt production—a craft that has persisted despite modern methods. The shallow basins filled with seawater evaporate, leaving salt behind, a process still practiced here.

A brief visit with photo opportunities, this site reveals a facet of local industry and culture often overlooked. It’s a fitting end to a day of diverse experiences.

What’s the Value for Travelers?

The main value of this tour lies in its comprehensive coverage of the south-west region’s highlights, combined with the comfort and flexibility of a private vehicle. The inclusion of admission tickets at major sites saves time and money, and the authentic Mauritian lunch adds a flavorful local touch that many travelers appreciate.

The guides’ local knowledge is frequently praised, making the experience richer than just a sightseeing list. Plus, the scenic stops—like Chamarel and Alexandra Falls—offer prime photo opportunities that will be treasured long after your trip.

The price of around $172 per person is reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, private transport, and included entries. For travelers who prefer a personalized experience over large groups, this tour offers excellent value and convenience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys natural beauty combined with cultural insights, this tour fits perfectly. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers keen on exploring Mauritius beyond the beaches. Photographers will love the variety of scenic spots, and those curious about island history and traditions will find the stops enriching.

However, be prepared for a full day with some walking and a busy schedule. It’s ideal if you want a broad overview of the island’s southwest, especially if you value comfort and personalized service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the itinerary is generally accessible and suitable for most ages. However, the climb at Grand Bassin may be challenging for some, so consider individual mobility.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private SUV transportation, a traditional Mauritian lunch, bottled water, and entrance tickets to key sites like Chamarel Waterfalls and the Seven Colored Earth.

Are there any additional costs?
Alcoholic beverages are not included, and any personal expenses or souvenirs are extra.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

Is the tour kid-friendly?
Most likely, yes, but keep in mind the full-day schedule and some uphill climbs, like at Grand Bassin.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, camera, sun protection, and comfortable footwear for walking and climbing.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
The itinerary is well-paced for a full-day tour, but some sites like Gorges Viewpoint or Alexandra Falls are brief stops—perfect for quick photos and views.

Final Thoughts

This Best of the South-West tour offers a well-rounded look at Mauritius’ natural landscapes, cultural sites, and local traditions. It balances scenic beauty with meaningful experiences, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to see the island’s diverse side without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The private setup and inclusive pricing make it especially appealing for those seeking comfort and flexibility, while the stops themselves—such as Chamarel’s colored earth and waterfalls—are sure to leave lasting impressions. The knowledgeable guide will help you appreciate each site’s story, ensuring a meaningful day out.

In essence, if you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and culturally rich day that covers some of Mauritius’ most photogenic spots, this tour hits the mark. Perfect for couples, families, or solo explorers eager to get a true taste of the island’s southwest charm.