South Mauritius Day Trip: Chamarel 23-Colored Earth, Waterfalls & Rhumerie de St Aubin
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity level; suitable for travelers comfortable with short walks and steps but no sustained hiking.
Overview
A full-day loop across southwest Mauritius that pairs volcanic highlands, sacred lakes and cascading falls with the surreal 23-Colored Earth and a rum tasting at Rhumerie de St Aubin. Expect dramatic viewpoints, short walks and a three-course Mauritian lunch.
South Mauritius Day Trip: Chamarel 23-Colored Earth, Waterfalls & Rhumerie de St Aubin
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The minivan hums away from your hotel before sunrise and the island slides into a different rhythm: sugarcane fields give way to steep forested ridges, birds call from the canopy, and the air begins to taste faintly of salt and rum. By mid-morning you’re standing at the rim of Trou Aux Cerfs, a dormant crater 605 meters above sea level; the caldera sits like an unexpected bowl, its rim gifting a 360-degree view of Curepipe, Rempart Mountain and the Moka range.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Non-slip footwear
Many viewpoints and waterfall platforms are stepped and can be wet — wear sturdy, non-slip shoes to stay safe.
Hydrate and pace
Bring a refillable water bottle; there’s bottled water on arrival but you'll appreciate sipping between photo stops.
Respect sacred sites
Grand Bassin is an active Hindu pilgrimage site—dress modestly and follow signage and local practices.
Avoid swimming at Gris-Gris
Strong currents and rocky shores make Gris-Gris unsafe for swimming — admire the cliffs from the viewpoints.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mauritius kestrel (raptor)
- Mauritius pink pigeon
History
Southwest Mauritius reflects volcanic origins and a colonial sugarcane economy; Grand Bassin became a Hindu pilgrimage site after indentured laborers brought Indian religious traditions.
Conservation
Black River Gorges National Park protects remaining rainforest and endemic species; stay on paths and avoid collecting soil from the 23-Colored Earth to preserve the site.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chamarel
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Non-slip walking shoes
Secure grip for waterfall platforms, viewpoints and uneven paths.
Refillable water bottle
Stay hydrated in warm, humid conditions; bottled water provided on arrival.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Highland weather changes quickly—bring a packable layer for showers and wind.
spring specific
Wide-angle lens or smartphone with panorama
Capture crater rims, waterfalls and the layered colors at Chamarel more effectively.