Deep into the South

1. Chamarel Viewpoint

A short stop with a much bigger view. Chamarel Viewpoint is a natural or scenic landmark in south-west Mauritius. Its main appeal is its distinctive landscape or landmark value, making it most relevant to road-trippers, photographers and travellers interested in landscapes. Travellers focused mainly on fully structured attractions may prefer to treat it as a secondary stop rather than a must-do. Visit length varies with how deeply you explore; for organised experiences, use the operator’s confirmed duration and inclusions rather than old listings. Check current access, booking and opening information before setting out. Pair it with Le Morne, Chamarel or another south-west stop.

2. Chamarel Waterfall

Follow the trail to where the landscape drops away. Chamarel Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mauritius and a must-visit attraction in the south-west of the island. Located in the scenic village of Chamarel, this impressive cascade drops into a lush green valley surrounded by tropical forest, cliffs and mountain scenery. It is one of the easiest waterfalls to admire, with viewing platforms offering beautiful panoramic views without requiring a difficult hike. A visit to Chamarel Waterfall is perfect for couples, families, photographers, nature lovers and repeat travellers exploring the south-west of Mauritius. The waterfall is often combined with nearby attractions such as Seven Coloured Earth, Ebony Forest, Rhumerie de Chamarel, Black River Gorges and Le Morne. With its dramatic natural setting and easy access, Chamarel Waterfall is one of the best places to experience the wild green beauty of Mauritius beyond the beaches.

3. Seven Coloured Earth

A geological wonder where sand dunes display seven distinct colors. The Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel is one of Mauritius's most unique attractions, featuring sand dunes in seven distinct colors - red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. This natural phenomenon was created by volcanic rock cooling at different temperatures, creating a surreal landscape that looks like a painter's palette.

4. Rhumerie de Chamarel

Follow a local product back to where it begins. Rhumerie de Chamarel is a food, drink or dining stop in south-west Mauritius. Its main appeal is its local food or dining interest, making it most relevant to travellers interested in local food, drink and a relaxed stop. Travellers focused mainly on adventure-led activities may prefer to treat it as a secondary stop rather than a must-do. Visit length varies with how deeply you explore; for organised experiences, use the operator’s confirmed duration and inclusions rather than old listings. Check current access, booking and opening information before setting out. Pair it with Le Morne, Chamarel or another south-west stop.

5. Alexandra Falls

6. Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)

Where architecture, faith and local history meet. Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao, is one of the most sacred and important religious sites in Mauritius. Located in the highlands near Savanne, this peaceful crater lake is surrounded by temples, statues, forest scenery and a deeply spiritual atmosphere. It is a meaningful place for Hindu devotees and one of the best cultural attractions for visitors who want to understand the spiritual side of Mauritius. The site is especially important during Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of pilgrims walk to Grand Bassin to offer prayers. Visitors can admire the impressive Lord Shiva statue, explore the lakeside temples, see colourful religious architecture and enjoy the calm mountain setting. Grand Bassin is ideal to combine with Black River Gorges, Alexandra Falls, Bois Chéri Tea Factory and other south Mauritius attractions.

7. Blue Bay

Blue Bay Beach sits beside the marine park in southeast Mauritius. Compare shore swimming with guided marine-park snorkelling. Blue Bay is a visitor attraction in south-east Mauritius. Its main appeal is its place in a broader Mauritius itinerary, making it most relevant to travellers building a varied Mauritius itinerary. Travellers focused mainly on one specific activity type may prefer to treat it as a secondary stop rather than a must-do. Visit length varies with how deeply you explore; for organised experiences, use the operator’s confirmed duration and inclusions rather than old listings. Check current access, booking and opening information before setting out. Pair it with Mahébourg, Blue Bay or another south-east coast stop.

8. Mahebourg

See Mauritius at a slower, more local pace. Mahébourg is a historic coastal village on the south-east coast of Mauritius, close to Blue Bay, Pointe d'Esny and Île aux Aigrettes. Come for the waterfront promenade, the local market, the National History Museum and Biscuiterie H. Rault. It suits families and culture lovers. Check market and museum opening times locally. Mahébourg is one of the most authentic coastal villages in Mauritius, located on the south-east coast near Blue Bay, Pointe d’Esny and Île aux Aigrettes. Known for its peaceful waterfront, mountain views and rich history, Mahébourg offers a different side of the island away from the busy resort areas. It is a place where visitors can enjoy local markets, traditional food, colonial heritage and beautiful lagoon scenery in a relaxed village atmosphere.