Spend a private day exploring Mauritius’s southwest: view the Seven Colored Earth, walk to Chamarel Falls, visit a rum distillery and enjoy a local lunch. This accessible, guided tour pairs geology and local culture with convenient transport and bilingual commentary.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Early light finds the road out of the resorts and into the low hills of Mauritius: the vehicle hums, air conditioning steady, and the island’s soil changes from coastal sands to iron-rich, rum-dark loam. Passengers disembark at a lookout where the wind teases the eucalyptus and the Seven Colored Earth waits below—stripes of ochre, russet and umber that look as if the ground itself decided to paint.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks and some uneven ground, but no sustained hiking.
Wildlife
History
Chamarel is named after French settler Charles Antoine de Chazal de Chamarel and developed around former sugar estates; the colored earth formed from the weathering of volcanic basalt.
Conservation
Black River Gorges is a protected area focused on restoring native forest and endemic species—visitors are asked to stay on marked paths and avoid single-use plastics to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Mauritius full day tour : Private south west with lunch today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy shoes
Paths around the colored dunes and the waterfall can be uneven and slippery—trail shoes with tread improve footing.
Time for photos
Visit the Seven Colored Earth in morning light for the best color contrast and avoid midday heat.
Bring a light rain layer
Mauritius’s weather can shift quickly—short showers can make trails muddy, so a compact rain jacket helps.
Respect protected areas
Stay on marked paths in Black River Gorges and avoid feeding wildlife to support conservation.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on rocky or muddy paths near viewpoints and falls.
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
The sun is strong year-round; protection reduces sunburn during open vista stops.
summer
Light rain jacket
Compact protection against brief tropical showers, especially during November–April.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the day; many stops have limited water access.