Deep Wild South Full-Day Tour: Chamarel, Black River Gorges & Seven Colored Earth
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness—short walks and some steps, mostly short on-foot segments
Overview
Spend a private day exploring Mauritius’ southern highlands: rainforest lookouts at Black River Gorges, the surreal Seven Colored Earth of Chamarel, a rum tasting and more. This curated loop minimizes driving and maximizes stops for photos and short walks.
Deep Wild South Full-Day Tour: Chamarel, Black River Gorges & Seven Colored Earth
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The engine hums, the coastline slides by and the driver eases the van up into the island’s southern folds. Within an hour the sugar-white beaches and resort hotels have been swallowed by a green slope that smells of wet earth and eucalyptus. Here, on Mauritius’ wild southern flank, the day unspools as a sequence of sudden views: a blue reservoir cupped in an old crater, a ribboning river plunging through rainforest, and a patchwork of colors in sand that looks almost engineered.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Pack a rain shell
Mountain weather changes quickly in the gorges—carry a lightweight waterproof to stay comfortable during short showers.
Bring cash for entrances and snacks
Some sites and cafés accept only cash; entrance fees for certain attractions are not included in the tour price.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails and lookout steps can be wet and uneven—sturdy shoes improve traction and comfort.
Do not feed wildlife
Macaques are common near viewpoints; feeding them encourages aggressive behavior and puts both animals and visitors at risk.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Macaque monkeys
- Mauritian flying fox (fruit bat)
History
The route crosses land shaped by volcanic activity and centuries of sugar-cane cultivation; rum production remains a local craft tied to that agricultural history.
Conservation
Black River Gorges is a protected area—stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing endemic plants; don’t feed wildlife and dispose of waste responsibly.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chamarel
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light rain jacket
Protects from sudden mountain showers and coastal drizzle.
summer specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on wet lookouts and uneven paths.
Water bottle (1–2 L)
Stay hydrated during warm drives and short hikes between stops.
summer specific
Camera with wide-angle lens
Captures expansive gorges and the layered colors at Chamarel more effectively.