Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve, Blue Bay Beach, La Vanille Park & Gris Gris
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Note: This is a private tour, except for the Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve portion.
Discover the natural beauty, flora and fauna of Mauritius through this full day tour, with the highlight being the Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve. You will be treated to a guided 1.5 to 2 hour easy hike around the island where you will be able to discover the unique flora and fauna endemic to Mauritius. You will also have the chance to visit the white sandy beach and beautiful lagoon of Blue Bay. After, you'll visit La Vanille Nature Park where you'll see a variety of animals, and be able to explore an insectarium, fossil museum and interactive farm. Finish the day at Gris Gris and La Roche qui Pleure, where you can admire the rugged scenery of the south of Mauritius, the most wild part of the island.
Available options
Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve, Blue Bay Beach, La Vanille Park & Gris Gris
Pickup included
What's included
Private transfer for your group to and from your hotel
Air-conditioned and insured taxi, minibus or coach
Services of a fully licensed, qualified driver
Waiting time
Boat transfer for your group to and from Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
After you're private pickup, you'll head to the Southeast of the island to begin the adventure. You'll be able to spend a short time at Blue Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, before boarding the boat to Ile aux Aigrettes.
2
Embark on a small boat that will take you across the turquoise waters to Ile aux Aigrettes, a small coralline limestone island situated in the South East of Mauritius. Declared a nature reserve in 1965, this island is home to unique flora and fauna, that was once considered on the verge of extinction. When you arrive on the island, you will meet one of the trained and knowledgeable rangers who will accompany you on a guided 1.5 to 2 hour hike around the island. As a result of the successful conservation efforts by scientists on the island, you will have the opportunity to view unique species such as the Mauritian Fody, Pink Pigeon, giant Aldabra Tortoise, and the Ornate Day Gecko in a safe and protected environment. You will also discover the original trees and vegetation that, before the arrival of man, covered Mauritius and its surrounding islands.
3
Stroll through La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes and its 3.5 hectares of lush greenery. Discover its beautiful palm and banana trees, giant bamboos, its impressive animals, including 2,000 Nile Crocodiles and 1,000 giant tortoises. You will also visit their insectarium which boasts one of the best private collections in the world with 23,000 species.
4
Stop 4
Admire the rugged scenery of big, powerful waves crashing on the cliffs at Gris Gris. A few metres away, you will see La Roche qui pleure, a natural rock formation that resembles a person crying when the waves hit it.
What's not included
Lunch or snacks
La Vanille Nature Park
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.3
8 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
2
2★
2
1★
1
Tripadvisor
3.8
13 reviews
5★
6
4★
2
3★
2
2★
2
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Please make sure you have provided us with your correct hotel information.
About Chamarel
Chamarel is a small village in Mauritius known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the famous Seven Colored Earth and the Chamarel Waterfall. This picturesque area offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination on the island.
Top Attractions
Seven Colored Earth
A unique geological wonder where the soil is naturally divided into seven distinct colors: red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow. The site is a must-visit for its vibrant and unusual landscape.
Nature
1-2 hours
MUR 250 (USD 6.25)
Chamarel Waterfall
One of the highest waterfalls in Mauritius, cascading down 83 meters (272 feet) into a lush, green valley. The waterfall is a stunning sight and offers a refreshing escape from the heat.
Nature
1-2 hours
MUR 250 (USD 6.25) for the Seven Colored Earth and waterfall combo ticket
Eureka House
A beautifully preserved colonial mansion turned into a museum, offering a glimpse into the life of the island's early settlers. The house is surrounded by lush gardens and offers guided tours.
Historical
1-2 hours
MUR 200 (USD 5)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dholl Puri
A popular Mauritian street food made from split peas and wheat flour, served with various curries and chutneys.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Gateau Piment
Spicy chili fritters made from flour, chili, and other spices, deep-fried to perfection.
Snack
Vegetarian
Rougaille
A tomato-based stew with fish, chicken, or meat, cooked with onions, garlic, and spices.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Zip-lining
Beach visits
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Visiting historical sites
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
May to September
The best time to visit Chamarel is during the cooler, drier months of May to September. This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
18°C to 25°C
64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, French
- Widely spoken: Mauritian Creole
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Chamarel is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport • 45 km from Chamarel
By bus
Port Louis Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transport in Mauritius. They are affordable but can be crowded and may not run frequently to Chamarel.
Taxis
Available • Apps: MyTaxis
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Chamarel Village
Day trips
Le Morne Brabant
30 km from Chamarel • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and tragic history. The area offers hiking, water sports, and cultural experiences.
Festivals
Mauritius Festival Creole • November
Pro tips
- Visit the Seven Colored Earth and Chamarel Waterfall early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Rent a car for flexibility and ease of travel, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but be cautious and choose vendors with high turnover.
- Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as the tropical climate can be hot and humid.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
