Spend a day driving through the wild south-west of Mauritius: viewpoints over green valleys, the thunder of Chamarel Waterfall, the mineral bands of Seven Coloured Earth and a tasting at the Chamarel Rhumerie. This private, all-inclusive SUV tour packs the region’s best natural and cultural sights into a single, easy day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Early morning light kinks across the west coast as a private SUV threads toward the highlands of Chamarel, windows down and salt-scented wind pushing you forward. The day unfolds as a sequence of lookout points, short walks and cultural stops: a dramatic waterfall falling in the Black River Gorges, the surreal bands of the Seven Coloured Earth, the working Chamarel Rhumerie and a coastal Martello tower that keeps an eye on the surf.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; able to manage short walks, stairs and standing at viewpoints.
Wildlife
History
This stretch of coast and upland was shaped by colonial-era sugar plantations and 19th-century coastal defences; the Martello Tower at La Preneuse records British military presence on the island.
Conservation
Black River Gorges is Mauritius’s largest protected area — visitors are asked to stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing native plant recovery efforts and endemic wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Full-Day Scenic South West Tour, ALL INCLUSIVE Day Trip, Private SUV Car, Guide today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Protect against sun and rain
Mauritius can switch between sun and brief showers — bring a lightweight rain shell and sunscreen for viewpoint stops.
Comfortable shoes for short walks
Viewpoints and the waterfall require walking on uneven ground and steps, so wear closed shoes with traction.
Hydration and rum tasting
Carry a refillable water bottle — the tour provides bottled water, and tastings at the rhumerie pair better after hydrating.
Camera strategy
Bring a phone or camera with a short telephoto (3–4x) for birdlife and coastal vistas; roofs and railings can obstruct shots at some lookouts.
Light rain jacket
Protection from sudden tropical showers during viewpoint stops.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Grip and ankle support for uneven paths and steps at waterfalls and lookouts.
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
Strong sun on open viewpoints and coastal stops makes UV protection important.
summer
Compact camera or smartphone with zoom
Capture panoramas, birds and colours of the Seven Coloured Earths.