Experience at a Glance
DURATION
Full day – approximately 8 hours
REGION
South-East Mauritius
EXPERIENCE TYPE
Private nature, heritage and local discovery tour
PRICE & AVAILABILITY
Price and availability on Request
DISCOVER THE EXPERIENCE
About the Experience
Experience the natural and cultural heritage of southeast Mauritius on a private journey combining island conservation, traditional cassava biscuits, local flavours and the historic coastal village of Mahébourg.
Travel to the unspoilt southeast of Mauritius, where protected nature, family traditions and everyday island life come together in a journey filled with meaningful encounters.
A short boat crossing takes you to Île aux Aigrettes, a protected coralline nature reserve in Mahébourg Bay. Accompanied by a conservation guide, follow a trail through restored native forest and discover the work undertaken to protect Mauritius’ rare plants and wildlife. Giant tortoises, endemic birds and other species may be encountered as you explore this remarkable island sanctuary.
Back on the mainland, step into another part of Mauritian heritage at Biscuiterie H. Rault. This family-run biscuit factory has preserved its traditional method of making cassava biscuits for generations. Discover the different stages of production and the story of a humble local speciality that has endured for more than 150 years.
The experience continues in Mahébourg, a historic coastal village known for its relaxed atmosphere and strong local identity. On Mondays, its colourful market brings together fresh produce, spices, clothing and scenes of everyday Mauritian life. After lunch in the village, enjoy time to absorb the character of a destination shaped by the sea, history and tradition.
South Unspoilt is ideal for travellers seeking a closer connection with Mauritius and the people, crafts and conservation stories that make the southeast unique.
Explore in Pictures
A Glimpse of the Experience
• Take a short boat crossing across Mahébourg Bay
• Explore Île aux Aigrettes with a conservation guide
• Discover restored native forest and protected wildlife
• Encounter giant tortoises and endemic species
• Visit the traditional Biscuiterie H. Rault
• Discover how Mauritian cassava biscuits are made
• Experience the local character of Mahébourg village
• Explore the colourful Mahébourg market on Mondays
• Enjoy lunch in Mahébourg
What Makes It Special
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
YOUR JOURNEY
How the Day Unfolds
Boat Crossing to Île aux Aigrettes
Begin the experience with a short boat journey across the waters of Mahébourg Bay. As you approach Île aux Aigrettes, leave the mainland behind and enter one of Mauritius’ most important protected natural environments.
Île aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve
Explore the island along a guided nature trail through restored native coastal forest. Learn how conservation work has helped protect rare Mauritian plants and reintroduce threatened species. Along the way, you may encounter giant tortoises, endemic birds and other wildlife living within this carefully managed sanctuary.
Biscuiterie H. Rault
Return to the mainland and travel to Biscuiterie H. Rault, a family business preserving one of Mauritius’ most distinctive culinary traditions. Discover how cassava roots are transformed into delicate biscuits using a method passed down through generations, and experience the nostalgic atmosphere of this historic workshop.
Mahébourg Village
Continue to Mahébourg, a historic coastal village overlooking the island’s beautiful southeastern lagoon. Explore its streets and discover a community where local traditions, everyday life and the region’s maritime heritage remain deeply connected.
Mahébourg Monday Market
When the excursion operates on a Monday, experience Mahébourg’s lively weekly market. Wander among colourful stalls filled with fruit, vegetables, spices, clothing and local products while observing the rhythms of everyday Mauritian life.
Lunch in Mahébourg
Pause for lunch in the village and enjoy a relaxed moment surrounded by the authentic atmosphere of southeast Mauritius.
The Mahébourg market visit is available on Mondays only. On other operating days, additional time may be dedicated to discovering the village and its surroundings. The order of visits may vary according to weather, sea conditions, traffic and attraction schedules.
YOUR EXPERIENCE
What's Included
Everything arranged for a comfortable and seamless day
• Private hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Private transport throughout the tour
• Services of a local English- or French-speaking guide
• Return boat crossing to Île aux Aigrettes
• Guided visit to Île aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve
• Visit to Biscuiterie H. Rault
• Visit to Mahébourg village
• Mahébourg market visit when operating on a Monday
• Lunch in Mahébourg
PLAN WITH CONFIDENCE
Practical Information
A few helpful details to consider when planning your experience.
GOOD TO KNOW
Before You Go
• Wear comfortable, closed walking shoes and light clothing.
• Bring sun protection, insect repellent, a hat and drinking water.
• The Île aux Aigrettes visit includes a short boat crossing and a guided walk on uneven natural terrain.
• Wildlife sightings may vary and cannot be guaranteed.
• Visitors must follow the conservation guide’s instructions and must not touch, feed or disturb the wildlife.
• Please advise our team in advance of any mobility limitations.
• The Mahébourg market is held on Mondays only.
• Biscuiterie H. Rault visits are subject to its operating days and opening schedule.
• Beverages served with lunch are not included unless stated otherwise.
BOOKING INFORMATION
Conditions & Comfirmation
Advance booking and confirmation are required. Please provide the number of participants, the age of any children and the hotel or pick-up location when submitting the request.
Free cancellation is available up to 48 hours before the confirmed departure time. Late cancellations, no-shows and unused services may be non-refundable.
Access to Île aux Aigrettes is subject to availability, sea and weather conditions, and the operating schedule of the nature reserve. The visit may be adjusted, postponed or cancelled when conditions affect navigation, accessibility or visitor safety.
The Mahébourg market operates on Mondays only. Biscuiterie H. Rault is subject to its opening days and may be replaced or omitted if unavailable.
Payment may be made by bank transfer or credit card according to the instructions provided with the booking confirmation.