Nature Discovery Tour: Dolphins, Tortoises, the Wild South & More
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 tour is private, except for the swimming with wild dolphins portion.
The Nature Discovery Tour is a full-day excursion, including hotel pickup and dropoff in an air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly driver:
• Experience swimming with wild dolphins in their natural environment and snorkelling near the coral reef in the morning
• Visit the stunning and picturesque viewpoint of Macondé, which is one of the most photographed sceneries of Mauritius
• Discover beautiful flora and impressive fauna, including Nile Crocodiles and giant tortoises, at La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes nature reserve
• Admire the rugged scenery of big, powerful waves crashing on the cliffs at Gris Gris.
Available options
Nature Discovery Tour: Dolphins, Tortoises, the Wild South & More
Pickup included
What's included
Private transfer for your group to and from your hotel
Air-conditioned and insured taxi, minibus or coach
A 2.5-hour encounter with wild dolphins in the open sea
Snorkeling near the coral reef (time permitting - snorkeling gear provided)
Services of a fully licensed, qualified driver
Waiting time
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
You will start your day with the experience of a lifetime, and one of the most popular activities in Mauritius, swimming with wild dolphins in their natural environment. Once you get on board the speedboat, the professional and qualified skippers will start by briefing you on the most important aspects of this experience, including the types of dolphins that you will encounter and their habits and guidelines for sustainable dolphin watching. You will then head to Tamarin Bay for the dolphin encounter. The skippers will accompany you in the water when it’s your turn to swim with the dolphins. You will enjoy 2.5 hours on the open sea viewing the dolphins and swimming with them. Depending on the amount of time left, you will then go to The Aquarium, a popular snorkelling and diving site with beautiful coral and tropical fish.
2
After swimming with wild dolphins, your driver will take you to discover one of the most photographed sceneries of Mauritius: Macondé. This picturesque viewpoint is located in the south-west part of Mauritius, where the coastal road is built around a sharp curve along a cliff, giving it its dramatic and breathtaking appeal.
3
Your driver will take you to visit La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes where you will discover beautiful palm and banana trees, giant bamboos, 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
In the afternoon, you will discover more of the wild south while admiring 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
La Vanille Nature Park:
Lunch or snacks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.5
4 reviews
5★
1
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.5
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The dolphin portion of this outing is not recommended for pregnant women. All children under 12 years old should be accompanied.
In almost all cases (90%+) you will see the dolphins. However, if this is not the case, a second outing will be offered on the boat free of charge (transportation to and from your hotel are not included for the second outing). It’s important to note that there will be no refund once you have completed the activity.
This tour lasts up to eight hours, and you will be able to choose how long you spend at each attraction (except for the dolphin portion). Depending on your group’s speed you may not have time to see all the listed attractions. You will be able to stop for lunch but the price of the lunch is not included
Important notes
Please make sure you have provided us with your correct hotel information.
About Mauritius
Mauritius is a breathtaking island nation in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife. Known for its multicultural society and lush landscapes, it offers a unique blend of African, Asian, and European influences.
Top Attractions
Le Morne Brabant
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Le Morne Brabant is a basaltic mountain that offers stunning views and a rich history.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free (Guided tours may have a fee)
Seven Colored Earths
A unique geological formation with seven distinct colors of earth, created by volcanic activity.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free entry
Port Louis Market
A bustling market offering a variety of local produce, spices, and crafts.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary for items
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dholl Puri
A flatbread made from split peas, served with various curries and chutneys.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Vindaye
A tangy fish dish cooked in a sauce made from mustard, turmeric, and vinegar.
Main Course
Contains fish
Gateau Piment
Spicy chili fritters made with split peas and chili peppers.
Snack
Vegetarian, contains gluten
Alouda
A sweet, creamy drink made with milk, basil seeds, and agar-agar.
Drink
Vegetarian, contains dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Ziplining
Quad biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Visiting museums
Exploring markets
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the winter season, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures. It's ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
20-25°C
68-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Creole
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mauritius is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport • 48 km from Port Louis
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable mode of public transport. They can be crowded and slow due to frequent stops.
Taxis
Available • Apps: MyTaxis
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Port Louis
Flic-en-Flac
Grand Baie
Day trips
Île aux Cerfs
10 km from the east coast • Full day
A beautiful island known for its white sandy beaches and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and water sports.
Casela Nature Parks
35 km from Port Louis • Full day
A wildlife park offering a variety of animal encounters, including lions, giraffes, and zebras.
Chamarel
50 km from Port Louis • Half day
A scenic area known for its Seven Colored Earths and Chamarel Waterfall.
Festivals
Mauritius Carnival • February or March (before Lent)
Diwali • October or November (based on the Hindu lunar calendar)
Mauritius Open Golf Championship • November (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the island's markets for authentic souvenirs and local products
- Try local street food for a true taste of Mauritian cuisine
- Explore the island's nature parks and reserves for unique wildlife encounters
- Learn a few phrases in Creole to connect with locals
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
