The ultimate one day road trip around Mauritius - Scenic

Mauritius may be small, but the most memorable road trips are not about circling the entire island. They are about choosing the right route and enjoying the variety along the way. This article kicks off a new road trip series, starting with a scenic one day loop that showcases the west, south west and southern interior at their best.

This route is designed for flowing roads, changing landscapes and an unhurried pace, rather than trying to see everything at once.

Start early on the west coast

Begin in the west around Flic en Flac or Tamarin. Early mornings are calm and traffic is light, making it the perfect time to head south towards Le Morne Brabant.

The coastal drive here is a highlight on its own, with lagoon views, open roads and the mountain as a constant backdrop. Even without stopping, it sets the tone for the day.

Into the island’s green interior

From Le Morne, turn inland towards Black River Gorges National Park. The scenery quickly changes as the road climbs, with cooler air and dense forest replacing coastal views.

This is one of the most enjoyable driving sections on the island, especially for those who appreciate winding roads and quieter stretches. A short stop at one of the viewpoints is well worth it.

Chamarel and the south west

Continue on to Chamarel, a natural midpoint for the trip. The Seven Coloured Earth and Chamarel Waterfall are close by and easy to visit without slowing the day too much.

Chamarel is also an ideal lunch stop, offering local food and scenic views before heading further south.

The wild south coast

After lunch, drive towards Souillac and the cliffs of Gris Gris. This part of the island feels raw and dramatic, with powerful waves and a very different atmosphere from the lagoons of the west.

If time allows, a quick detour to Rochester Falls adds to the experience. Roads here are quieter, encouraging a slower, more relaxed pace.

A peaceful inland pause

From the south, head inland to Grand Bassin. This spiritual site offers a calm break and a chance to slow down before the final leg of the drive.

Completing the scenic loop

From Grand Bassin, return towards the west, descending as the landscape opens up again. Late afternoon light across fields and hills makes for a fitting end to the journey.

Final thoughts

This scenic one day road trip shows that you do not need to drive around the entire island to experience Mauritius at its best. By focusing on a single, well chosen loop, you get variety, atmosphere and genuinely enjoyable driving. It is the perfect starting point for this new road trip series.

Choosing the right car for scenic road trips

Routes like this highlight just how important the right vehicle can be. Comfort, visibility and confidence on changing road conditions all matter. AutoCloud.mu makes it easy to explore vehicles well suited to scenic island driving, whether you prefer a compact car for tight roads or an SUV for added comfort and presence.