South-West Tour: Grand Bassin, Black River Gorges and Chamarel
Overview
Swap the beach for the green heart of the island. With a driver-guide, you head up to the south-west's highlands, where the landscapes change fast, from sacred lakes to deep gorges.
The first stop is Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), a crater lake that is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites outside India. Temples line the water and giant statues of Shiva and Durga stand at the entrance. Next comes the Black River Gorges National Park, which protects much of the island's remaining native forest. From the viewpoint you look down a wooded valley towards the sea. Alexandra Falls is often added on the way.
In Chamarel you see the waterfall drop around 100 metres in a single plunge into the forest, then walk around the Seven Coloured Earth, dunes of red, brown, violet and ochre volcanic soil that never wash away. Lunch with Mauritian dishes is usually part of the day, and you are dropped back at your hotel in the late afternoon.
Highlights
- Grand Bassin, a sacred Hindu crater lake
- Black River Gorges viewpoint over native forest
- Chamarel waterfall, about 100 metres high
- Chamarel's Seven Coloured Earth
- Driver-guide and hotel pickup
What's included
- Air-conditioned transport with driver-guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Lunch (on most options)
- Entrance to the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth park, unless stated
- Drinks
- Tips
Request this tour
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Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
Not much. Most stops are short walks from the car on paths and steps. Wear comfortable shoes.
Yes. This tour is usually run privately for your group, so you can adjust the stops and pace with your guide.
It's a place of worship, so cover shoulders and knees and remove your shoes where asked.
