Private Full-Day Instagram Tour – Mauritius – Two Perspectives Review
His Perspective
Rating: 5/5
Would I go back: Yes
Would I recommend: Yes
Comments: A perfect mix of what you want and what is available. You work with the guide to go where you want and where they recommend. You don’t get all the history of the area but you do get the beautiful scenery
Her Perspective
Rating: 5/5
Would I go back: Yes
Would I recommend: Yes
Comments: We got lucky in that this was the only day of our trip that wasn’t raining, and didn’t get a tour canceled. This is the tour I would have been most upset about missing. Glad we didn’t.
Overview
Discover the enchanting island of Mauritius like never before with our exclusive Private Full-Day Instagram Tour. This experience allows you to capture the island’s most scenic and picturesque spots, ranging from its pristine, sun-kissed beaches to its lush, verdant landscapes. Capture breathtaking photos that showcase the island’s natural beauty. This tour is ideal for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of Mauritius, creating memories that will last a lifetime in one unforgettable day.
Cost
Price*: $126.09 USD (per person)
Vendor: https://www.getyourguide.com/mauritius-l2105/mauritius-private-full-day-instagram-tour-t284227/
*Price is as of the writing of this article. Prices subject to change at vendor discretion.
Our Experiences
Before our trip to Mauritius, we had already decided this excursion was a must. Captivated by countless stunning photos during our research, we knew it would be the perfect way to experience everything.
The day before the excursion, the driver contacted us via WhatsApp to get a sense of the places we wanted to go, and to confirm our pickup location. The driver picked us up at our hotel’s (read our review of the Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa) pickup location in a comfortable van, for just the two of us. We sat at the pickup location for about 5 minutes to review what we wanted to see and the driver asked if it was ok if he added in other things that he thought we would enjoy. We had all day, so why not.
With the route planned, we headed off on our adventure. The key locations that we visited were:
Umbrella Square
A large two story shopping complex, spread across several buildings, that featured numerous umbrellas hanging between the buildings and over the walkways. Unfortunately, a tropical cyclone had just passed by so all the umbrellas were closed, but we could imagine how amazing it would be if they were open.
Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, is a renowned tropical garden located in Pamplemousses, Mauritius. This historic garden, established in the 18th century, spans over 37 hectares and features an extensive collection of indigenous and exotic plant species. Highlights include giant water lilies, spice gardens, and a variety of palm trees. The garden also houses several monuments, including a statue of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the first Prime Minister of Mauritius. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about the rich botanical diversity and the garden’s historical significance.
Ganga Talo
Ganga Talao, also known as Grand Bassin, is a sacred lake situated in the mountainous region of Savanne in Mauritius. It is considered one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites outside of India. The lake is nestled within a volcanic crater and surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Every year, during the festival of Maha Shivaratri, thousands of Hindu devotees from all over Mauritius walk barefoot to Ganga Talao to honor Lord Shiva. The lake is believed to be connected to the holy Ganges River in India, and its waters are considered to be just as sacred. Several temples dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva, Hanuman, and Lakshmi, are found around the lake.
A large statue of Lord Shiva, standing at approximately 33 meters high, overlooks the lake, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the site. Visitors to Ganga Talao can participate in religious rituals, offer prayers, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for both spiritual seekers and tourists alike.
7 Colored Earths
The Seven Colored Earths is a natural phenomenon located in Chamarel, Mauritius. It is a stunning geological formation consisting of sand dunes that are composed of seven distinct colors: red, brown, violet, blue, green, purple, and yellow. These colors are the result of the decomposition of volcanic rocks, which have been chemically altered by weathering over time.
The dunes never seem to erode despite Mauritius’ heavy rains, and the colors are best seen in the early morning light. This unique attraction has become a popular tourist destination, with visitors often marveling at the surreal, almost otherworldly landscape. The site also includes a viewing platform and a small park where visitors can walk around and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Additionally, there is a very small zoo where you can see giant turtles and various other animals.
Chamarel Waterfalls
Chamarel Waterfalls, located in the southwestern part of Mauritius, is one of the island’s most iconic natural attractions. Plunging over 100 meters from the St. Denis River, the waterfall is surrounded by lush tropical forests, creating a picturesque and serene environment. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck or take a hike through the surrounding area to get closer to the falls. The site is also near the Seven Colored Earths, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking to capture stunning photographs or simply soak in the beauty of the natural landscape, Chamarel Waterfalls offers an unforgettable experience.
Unfortunately, it was very foggy when we visited and we were unable to see most of it.
Various Beaches and Scenic Overlooks
Along the route around Mauritius, our driver stopped at numerous beaches and scenic overlooks to allow us to take pictures, stretch our legs, and enjoy the beauty.
Conclusion
Our trip was absolutely amazing, and a must do for those wishing to take in all the beautiful sights Mauritius has to offer. We highly recommend it, and we would certainly do it again if we were to go back.