Curepipe, Ganga Talao, La Vanille and Chamarel
Begin this tour with a visit to the town of Curepipe. As a major commercial hub and the island's most central town, Curepipe is home to luxury aristocratic mansions as well as modern embassy and business buildings. The Town Hall, commonly known as Hotel de Ville, opened in 1902 and features unique, splendid architecture, along with the Royal College of the XVI-XVII centuries. You will also discover a selection of shops for some shopping.
Another nearby tourist destination is Trou-aux-Cerfs, a dormant crater situated at the highest point of Curepipe and a place that attracts many visitors. From here, enjoy a complete view of Curepipe and other towns from this famous spot, known for its splendid scenery, cold fresh air, and marvellous sunsets.
Grand Bassin, not far from the Mare aux Vacoas reservoir and also known as Ganga Talao, is one of the rare natural lakes in Mauritius. Formed inside the crater of an extinct volcano, it is a famous pilgrimage place for Mauritians of the Hindu faith.
In the afternoon, visit the famous La Vanille Crocodile Park, home to an excellent crocodile population. Many other species also live in the park, including giant Aldabra tortoises, ringtail lemurs, macaque monkeys, and iguanas. The park is surrounded by a green oasis that allows you to explore Mauritius's splendid indigenous nature.
During part of this visit, you will also have the chance to continue just a couple of minutes down the road to the southernmost point of Mauritius, Gris Gris. Here, big waves crash directly onto the cliffs because there is no surrounding coral reef. This is an excellent viewpoint that reveals the force of nature and a completely different face of the tropical island.
Also visit the Seven-Coloured Earth and Rhumerie de Chamarel.
