With a completely different landscape from the rest of the island South Mauritius has remained relatively untouched. The beautiful surroundings with high cliffs, dramatic coastlines, mountain gorges and enchanting waterfalls offer a haven for nature lovers visiting the south while the spectacular beaches entice beach enthusiasts. Complementing these are UNESCO World Heritage sites of this island. Discover the many facets of South Mauritius making it a quintessential island enticing visitors.

Chamarel Waterfalls - Image via Flickr

One of the most beautiful beaches in the Mauritius south coast Gris Gris offers a stunning view to visitors. However, this beach is for feasting on your eyes and the Instagram-worthy images as the huge waves and fierce currents make it unsafe for swimming.

The fascinating views of the waves crashing on the basalt rocks rising off the white sand, the tide pools of crystal-clear water and the caves around are simply captivating. A visit to Gris Gris is a must when visiting the South Mauritius Island also known as the Wild South.

Situated at the southwestern end of Mauritius this unusual landscape comprises the massive rocky crag of Le Morne Brabant and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the Le Morne Peninsular and is an important natural and cultural resource to Mauritius often admired by guests from hotels like The Residence Mauritius.

The runaway slaves of Mauritius called maroons took shelter here throughout the 18th century and part of the 19th century using the summit to form small settlements for them. They used caves which were barely reachable and hidden due to the rock’s almost vertical slopes.

These physical factors and oral evidence from descendants have made this mountain a symbol of the slaves’ fight for freedom and thus earned the UNESCO World Heritage site status. At present, they are represented by the Creole People of Mauritius who share their memories and traditions.

This landmark site is home to various endemic plant species and is the only habitat of the national flower of Mauritius Boucle d'Oreille.

Dropping from a height of almost 100 m, the Chamarel Waterfall or Cascade de Chamarel is the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius. Its cascading silver beauty is enhanced by the backdrop of lush vegetation. Being fed by the waters of three streams gives it a powerful flow making it a favourite sightseeing spot of Mauritius.

The Chamarel Seven coloured Earth is a unique geological formation in the southwestern area of Mauritius in Chamarel Geopark. This attraction of dunes is due to the seven distinct shades of sand in the area.

The viewpoint on the approach road to the Chamarel Geopark enables visitors to get a good view of the Chamarel Falls.

An outstanding underwater experience including stunning corals awaits the adventurous visitors to Blue Bay Marine Park. Situated off the southeast coast of Mauritius, this is a protected marine reserve. Snorkelling enthusiasts will be delighted by the calm and shallow waters complemented by crystal clear water at this park offering sharp views of marine life. For those less adventurous it offers excellent swimming, sea bathing and rowing experiences.

Dating back to 1892, this is the first tea plantation in Mauritius and the largest with a large factory and a lot of history.

Guided tours are offered through the lush tea fields, covering the drying, and crushing and placing them in plastic packs with the entire process mechanized. The Tea Museum next to the large reception area is full of illuminating information about the beginning of the tea plantation and the important highlights with photos. The interesting tour concludes with a tea-tasting experience enjoyed by all visitors.