Roadtrip South West to South East

Le Morne, Chamarel & south coast

This route takes you from the dramatic peninsula of Le Morne in the south-west right across to the historic village of Mahebourg and the crystal-clear waters of Blue Bay in the south-east. In between, you'll discover Chamarel Waterfall and the Seven Coloured Earth, the stunning Macondé viewpoint, and the refined Chateau de Bel Ombre—a journey through some of Mauritius's most iconic landscapes and landmarks.

One day on this road trip lets you experience world-famous scenery, colonial charm, local culture, and pristine beaches. Start early, take your time at each stop, and you'll see why the south coast is often called the soul of the island.

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7 stops91.4 km

Stops on this itinerary

1. Le Morne
If there was a beauty pageant for beaches, this little gem in the south west of Mauritius could most definitely take over the crown! Rich in beauty and history, Le Morne is a gorgeous beach enhanced with white-bone sand and turquoise water. Governed by the majestic Le Morne Brabant Mountain (icon of Mauritius as it has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO), Le Morne holds a special place in the heart of not only many Mauritians but a long list of tourists too! It is yet another good spot to feast your eyes through some snorkeling session but to top it all, Le Morne is also a hot pick for kite surfers. If you did not get our point yet, let's just put it simpler: Le Morne is an entire package on its own, customized to suit each and every one's tastes and interests! Le Morne Beach is made up of several beautiful coastal spots, each offering a slightly different beach experience. You can find them all listed in our Mauritius beaches guide: Le Morne Public Beach Le Morne LUX* Beach — next to the public beach Le Morne Le Paradis Beach — northern side Le Morne La Pointe — southern end Le Morne Kitesurf Lagoon — south-east side
Stop details17.5 km~24min to next stop
2. Chamarel Waterfall
Discover Chamarel Waterfall in Mauritius, a spectacular south-west attraction known for its dramatic cascade, lush forest views and scenic Chamarel landscapes. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Mauritius, plunging 100 meters into a gorge 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. The falls are fed by two rivers that merge before making their dramatic plunge, creating a spectacular sight especially after rainfall.
Stop details0 km~0min to next stop
3. Seven Coloured Earth
A geological wonder where sand dunes display seven distinct colors. The Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel is one of the most famous natural attractions in Mauritius and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the southwest of the island. Located near the village of Chamarel, this remarkable geological formation features sand dunes displaying seven distinct colors, including shades of red, brown, purple, blue, green, yellow, and violet. Formed over millions of years through the natural cooling and weathering of volcanic rock, the minerals in the soil have separated to create these striking layers of color. Even after rainfall, the colors remain clearly visible and the sands naturally settle back into separate layers, making it one of the most fascinating geological phenomena in the Indian Ocean. Visitors can admire the colorful dunes from a viewing platform that offers excellent photo opportunities. The surrounding park also includes walking paths, lush tropical vegetation, and a small enclosure where visitors can see giant Aldabra tortoises, a favorite attraction for families. Located close to other popular sites such as Chamarel Waterfall and the Ebony Forest Reserve, the Seven Coloured Earth in Chamarel is an essential stop when exploring the southwest of Mauritius. Its unusual landscape, vibrant colors, and scenic surroundings make it one of the island’s most photographed natural wonders.
Stop details14.1 km~18min to next stop
4. Macondé Viewpoint
A dramatic viewpoint where mountains meet the sea on a winding coastal road. Macondé is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Mauritius, offering panoramic views of the dramatic coastline where the mountains plunge into the sea. Located on the scenic coastal road between Le Morne and Baie du Cap, this viewpoint is a favorite stop for photographers and nature lovers. The area showcases the raw beauty of Mauritius's southern coast, with its rugged cliffs and powerful ocean swells. Maconde Viewpoint offers one of the most dramatic panoramas in Mauritius, where the rugged Savanne mountains plunge dramatically into the Indian Ocean. This scenic lookout point is located along the coastal road in the south of the island. The viewpoint provides breathtaking vistas of the wild southern coastline, with its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and untamed natural beauty. On clear days, you can see for miles along the coast. Unlike the calm lagoons of the north and west, this part of Mauritius showcases the island's raw, untouched beauty - a stark contrast that makes for incredible photographs.
Stop details8.2 km~12min to next stop
5. Chateau de Bel Ombre
An enchanting 18th-century sugar plantation house set in beautiful French gardens. Dating back to 1765, Heritage Bel Ombre (formerly Domaine de Bel Ombre) immerses its guests through the rich heritage of Mauritius. Embark on a journey through time at Heritage Le Château, an enchanting former sugar plantation style house, set in typical French Gardens. The Château was honoured for its high gastronomy by TripAdvisor with the Certificate of Excellence, offering sophisticated cuisine that combines farm-to-fork dining with locavorism.
Stop details44.8 km~52min to next stop
6. Mahebourg
Discover Mahébourg village in south-east Mauritius, a historic coastal town known for its waterfront, local market, Blue Bay, Île aux Aigrettes, Biscuiterie H. Rault and authentic island charm. 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. Once an important harbour town, Mahébourg still carries the charm of old Mauritius through its quiet streets, historic buildings and strong connection to the sea. Travellers can walk along the waterfront, visit the local market, explore nearby cultural sites and enjoy fresh Mauritian food while taking in views across the south-east lagoon. For repeat travellers, families and culture lovers, Mahébourg is one of the best places to experience the real rhythm of Mauritius. Places to Visit in and Around Mahébourg Mahébourg Waterfront A peaceful seaside promenade with lagoon views, mountain scenery and a relaxed local atmosphere. It is one of the best places for a slow walk, sunset views and photography. Mahébourg Market A colourful local market where visitors can discover fresh produce, spices, street food, clothes and everyday Mauritian life. It is a great stop for travellers who want a more authentic experience. National History Museum Located in a historic colonial building, the National History Museum shares stories of Mauritius’ maritime past, naval battles and early island history. Biscuiterie H. Rault A traditional biscuit factory famous for handmade manioc biscuits. This is one of the most unique food heritage experiences in Mauritius. Mouchoir Rouge A scenic coastal viewpoint near Mahébourg, known for beautiful lagoon views and a peaceful local setting. Blue Bay Marine Park One of the best snorkelling spots in Mauritius, known for coral gardens, tropical fish and clear turquoise water. Pointe d’Esny A beautiful beach close to Mahébourg, perfect for calm lagoon views, swimming and peaceful beach walks. Île aux Aigrettes A protected nature reserve reached by boat, known for conservation, native plants, rare birds and giant tortoises. Île au Phare and Île de la Passe Historic islands in the south-east lagoon, often visited on boat tours for their old ruins, lighthouse scenery and connection to Mauritius’ coastal history.
Stop details6.8 km~9min to next stop
7. Blue Bay
Blue Bay Marine Park is one of the best snorkeling spots in Mauritius, featuring crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Blue Bay Marine Park is one of the best snorkeling spots in Mauritius, famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and glass-bottom boat tours. Located on the southeast coast, this protected lagoon is home to over 50 species of coral and a wide variety of tropical fish, offering an unforgettable underwater experience for visitors of all ages. Designated as a Marine National Park since 2000, Blue Bay is known for having some of the clearest and most pristine waters in Mauritius. Whether you choose to snorkel or explore by boat, it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to discover the island’s rich marine life
Stop details

Tips

1Start at Le Morne and drive east along the south coast.
2Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Coloured Earth share the same reserve – one entry fee covers both.
3Macondé viewpoint: pull off the coastal road for panoramic ocean views.
4Chateau de Bel Ombre: book lunch or afternoon tea for the full experience.
5Mahebourg Monday market is a highlight – plan accordingly.
6Blue Bay: snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours; allow a full day (9am–5pm) for a relaxed pace.