Ile aux Cerfs: Island & Waterfall Speedboat Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on Mauritius’s shimmering waters, this Ile aux Cerfs: Island & Waterfall Speedboat Tour with Lunch promises a blend of adventure, beauty, and relaxation. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a trip that offers plenty of memorable moments—whether it’s dazzling water colors, lively boat rides, or a laid-back beach lunch.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with fun activities. The chance to see the vividly different shades of the lagoon and the imposing waterfall at Grand River South East are definite highlights. Plus, the chance to relax on a quiet, sandy beach far from crowds is appealing. The only caveat is that weather can influence the experience—bad weather might mean a change in timing or route.

Still, this tour is perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and downtime, especially those who enjoy boat rides and scenic vistas.

This experience made our article of 8 Top Tours & Things To Do In Belle Mare (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Stunning Water Colors: Expect to see a variety of blue and green water shades, making every photo pop.
• Unique Waterfall: The waterfall is actually the end point of Mauritius’s longest river, Grand River South East, offering a natural spectacle.
• Relaxing Beach Time: Plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings.
• Exciting Speedboat Rides: Feel the thrill of speeding through the waves with knowledgeable skippers guiding you.
• Tasty Lunch: A barbecue lunch served on Ile aux Cerfs or nearby Ilot Mangenie, with drinks included at no extra cost.
• Authentic Experience: The trip offers a genuine experience with views of islands, mountains, and lush riverbank vegetation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour revolves around a speedboat journey that starts from Trou d’Eau Douce, a lovely seaside village, taking you through some of the most picturesque waters Mauritius has to offer. The first major stop is the Grand River South East waterfall, which is quite a sight—it’s actually the river’s natural endpoint, where water cascades into the sea, creating a natural spectacle. The boat ride to this location is lively and scenic, with views of green mountains lining the riverbanks and the sea shimmering in multiple shades of blue.

As the boat drops you off near the waterfall, you’ll have time to admire the beautiful landscape. While the waterfall itself might not be massive, it’s quite unique as the end of Mauritius’s longest river, providing a different kind of natural beauty. Many reviewers mention the pleasure of seeing the varied hues of the water, which change with the light and weather—truly a treat for photography lovers.

Following this, you’ll be dropped onto Ile aux Cerfs’s pristine beaches, where you can swim, relax, or explore at your own pace. The island is known for its long stretches of soft, white sand, ideal for unwinding after the boat ride. Be aware that the water here is not always as blue as some photos suggest; some visitors note the lagoon’s color may appear less vibrant than expected, especially on the “wild” side of the island. Still, the natural setting remains beautiful and inviting.

Later, a second boat transfer takes you to Ilot Mangenie, a nearby island or islet, where a barbecue lunch is served. The meal is described as delicious and offers a good variety of drinks included during the meal. The lunch spot provides a relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds, with plenty of space to enjoy the food and the company.

If the schedule permits, you’ll have additional time on Ile aux Cerfs or return directly to Trou d’Eau Douce, making the entire experience flexible and manageable within half a day. The overall trip is well-paced, with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and resting.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

From Trou d’Eau Douce to Grand River South East Waterfall

The adventure begins with a speedboat transfer from Trou d’Eau Douce, which is a charming village with a relaxed vibe. The boat ride itself is a highlight—you’ll enjoy the rush of speeding over the water and the views of lush mountains on either side of the river. The journey to the waterfall takes around an hour, but the scenery makes every minute worthwhile. Expect to see multiple colors of sea and lush vegetation on riverbanks, which many travelers find stunning.

The Waterfall and Scenic Views

Once at the waterfall, you’ll be able to admire the natural beauty of the end of Mauritius’s longest river. It’s not a towering cascade but rather a gentle flow that concludes its journey into the sea, framed by verdant hills and river greenery. Many reviews mention how impressive it is to see the river’s course and the view of the mountains and island as you stand near the waterfall.

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Beach Relaxation on Ile aux Cerfs

After the waterfall visit, you’ll be transferred to the main island of Ile aux Cerfs. Here, expectations can vary—some travelers anticipate postcard-perfect blue waters, but reviews suggest the lagoon’s color might be less vibrant than the promotional photos. Still, the long sandy beaches and calm waters are perfect for a relaxing swim or sunbathing. The island’s main appeal lies in the peaceful ambiance and scenic surroundings, making it a good spot for unwinding.

Additional Stop at Ilot Mangenie for Lunch

The next stop is Ilot Mangenie, where a barbecue is laid out for lunch. Many reviewers praise the delicious food and friendly staff. The meal allows you to enjoy the local flavors in a laid-back setting. Drinks are included, making it a good value for the price. It’s a chance to sit back and enjoy the breeze and views before potentially heading back to Ile aux Cerfs or relaxing on the beach.

Return Journey and Flexibility

The entire trip typically lasts a few hours, with flexibility depending on weather and group preferences. If there’s extra time, you can revisit Ile aux Cerfs or simply relax after lunch. The speedboat ride back offers another chance to soak in the scenery and feel the thrill of the ocean.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of around $55 per person offers pretty good value, considering the comprehensive experience. Included are all speedboat transfers—to the waterfalls, Ile aux Cerfs, and Ilot Mangenie—as well as drinks during lunch and the guiding assistance of a skipper or guide. This makes the logistics straightforward and stress-free.

However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from Trou d’Eau Douce. Also, if you’re craving lobster or other special seafood, be aware that these are extra, and the menu is described as basic, so don’t expect gourmet fare.

What to Keep in Mind Before Booking

Weather plays a key role in this tour’s enjoyment; if the weather isn’t cooperative, expect possible schedule adjustments. It’s advisable to eat a light breakfast before setting out, especially since the trip involves some active boat rides and walking. Snorkeling isn’t currently encouraged after Covid-19, so don’t rely on this activity during your free time.

The tour is conducted in multiple languages—including English, French, Urdu, Hindi, and Arabic—which helps ensure a broad range of travelers can participate comfortably. But it’s not suitable for pregnant women, likely due to the boat rides and water-related activities.

Booking with a “reserve & pay later” option provides flexibility, and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Many travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides who provide helpful insights and make the trip enjoyable. For example, one review called the guides “great,” and many appreciated the friendly service. The scenery is consistently praised, with comments like “very beautiful” and “fantastic views at sea and on land.”

However, some visitors did mention disappointing water colors compared to photos they had seen online. One reviewer quipped that the lagoon wasn’t as “blue as in the photos,” but still enjoyed the overall experience. There’s also a humorous note about a guide imposing his religious beliefs, which may be worth keeping in mind for sensitive travelers.

This tour appears to be value-packed, especially considering the variety of sights and activities included. It caters well to those seeking a half-day escape filled with scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and good food.

The Sum Up

This speedboat trip to Ile aux Cerfs and the waterfall combines thrilling boat rides, stunning scenery, and a relaxed beach atmosphere — making it a solid choice for travelers wanting a taste of Mauritius’s natural charm. The value for money is clear when you consider the multiple stops, included drinks, and the lunch. It’s particularly suitable for adventurers, families, or couples who enjoy being on the water and exploring natural landscapes.

While the water’s hue might not always match the postcard images, the experience of cruising Mauritian waters, witnessing the river’s end, and relaxing on a beautiful island remains captivating. The knowledgeable guides and friendly atmosphere add a layer of authenticity to what is already a well-organized trip.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and enjoyable day trip that offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be sure to dress appropriately for the boat rides, bring your camera, and go with an open mind ready for a memorable Mauritian experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Trou d’Eau Douce.

How long does the tour last?
The trip generally lasts a few hours, with the exact duration possibly changing slightly due to weather conditions or schedule adjustments.

Can I snorkel during this tour?
Snorkeling stops are not part of the current itinerary, and snorkeling equipment might not be available or encouraged after Covid-19.

What should I eat during the lunch?
A barbecue meal is served on Ilot Mangenie, and reviews mention it’s tasty, with drinks included. The menu is described as basic.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, likely because of the boat rides and water activities.

What is the best time to book?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially since weather can impact schedules. You can reserve now and pay later.

How colorful are the waters around Ile aux Cerfs?
While many photos show vibrant blue waters, some travelers found the lagoon’s color less vivid during their visit, especially on the “wild” side of the island.

Is the waterfall impressive?
It’s more a natural end of the river than a tall cascade, but it’s still a unique sight due to its geological and scenic setting.

What language support is available?
Tours are conducted in multiple languages including English, French, Urdu, Hindi, and Arabic.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This detailed look at the Ile aux Cerfs: Island & Waterfall Speedboat Tour reveals a balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation—perfect for those seeking an authentic, value-oriented Mauritian day out.

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