Private Mauritius South Tour: Trou aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin & La Vallée des Couleurs Day Trip

Curepipe•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

7 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers in average fitness able to manage short walks of up to 2 km on uneven terrain and some stairs.

Overview

A private, seven‑hour circuit through Mauritius’s southern spine: crater rims and a sacred lake, rainforest waterfalls and the 23 colored earths. Expect short hikes, sweeping viewpoints and a close look at the island’s geology and culture.

Private Mauritius South Tour: Trou aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin & La Vallée des Couleurs Day Trip

bus-tour

other

wildlife

sightseeing-tour

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Nov 6

Travelers

You step into the backseat as the island wakes: sugarcane fields blur past and the air carries the salt of distant reefs and the green scent of rainforest. By 9:00 a.m. your private driver-guide eases the air‑conditioned vehicle up toward Curepipe and the rim of Trou aux Cerfs. The crater opens like a slow-breathing creature — a near‑perfect circle 350 meters across, 100 meters deep and sitting roughly 605 meters above sea level. From the lip the island unfurls in 360 degrees: Port Louis to the north, the rounded shoulders of Trois Mamelles to the west, and the ridgeline slipping toward the south coast.

Adventure Photos

Private Mauritius South Tour: Trou aux Cerfs, Grand Bassin & La Vallée des Couleurs Day Trip photo 1

Adventure Tips

Start early for clear views

Pickup begins at 9:00 a.m.; early morning light reduces haze at crater rims and Grand Bassin—ask to prioritize Trou aux Cerfs first.

Bring cash for temples and stalls

Small donations at Grand Bassin and cash purchases at roadside stalls and souvenir stands are common—carrying small denominations is handy.

Wear grippy shoes

Lookouts and waterfall paths can be wet and rooty—light hiking shoes or trail sneakers with traction are best.

Hydrate and insect‑protect

Bring at least 1–1.5 L of water and insect repellent for shaded stretches in Black River Gorges to stay comfortable on short walks.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Pink pigeon
Mauritius kestrel

History

Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao) is a major Hindu pilgrimage site on Mauritius, believed to be linked spiritually to the Ganges and marked by towering statues and seasonal festivals.

Conservation

Black River Gorges National Park protects the island’s remaining native forest and threatened endemic species; stick to trails and avoid feeding wildlife to reduce human impact.