Explore, Discover, and Play in Mauritius: Spend a Day at La Vallée des Couleurs & La Vanille Nature Parks!

While the pristine beaches of Mauritius undoubtedly steal the spotlight, there’s a whole different world of adventure waiting for you just a short drive from the coast. If you are the one seeking something off the beaten path, La Vallée des Couleurs and La Vanille Nature Parks are two hidden gems that offer a deep dive into the island’s rich natural heritage. You can find rainbow-colored earth to up-close tortoise encounters, these parks promise a truly unique experience. 

Let us take you on a journey through La Vallée des Couleurs and La Vanille Nature Parks —two must-visit destinations that bring the wild heart of Mauritius to life.

Stop 1: La Vallée des Couleurs – Nature’s Colorful Masterpiece

Location: Bel Ombre, South Mauritius
Have you ever imagined walking on rainbows—not in the sky, but right under your feet! Spread over 450 acres, this park is a living canvas where volcanic soil has created vivid colors, ranging from deep reds and blues to purples and greens. La Vallée des Couleurs is a surreal landscape of colorful earths – with the stunning sight of 23 different shades of naturally colored soil. This geological wonder offers a chance to connect with nature on an entirely new level.

Exploring La Vallée des Couleurs:

• Ziplining: Get ready for some heart-pounding excitement as you soar over the vibrant landscape at La Vallée des Couleurs. This park is home to one of the longest ziplines in the world, offering stunning views as you glide above the multi-colored earth and lush forests. Located in the heart of the park and offering a bird’s-eye view of the colorful landscapes, La Vallée offers different types of zipline experiences, catering to everyone from beginners to experienced adventurers. Rest assured, safety is a top priority, with equipment and tracks built to the highest international standards. 
• Quad Biking & Buggy Rides: For an off-road experience, hop onto a quad bike or buggy and navigate the rugged trails that cut through the lush Mauritian wilderness at La Vallée des Couleurs. It’s a thrilling adventure that mixes the beauty of nature with a dose of excitement. The quad biking and buggy trails are located throughout the park, taking you through some of its most scenic and remote spots—from dense forests to open grasslands.  
• The 23-Colored Earth: One of the most iconic attractions at La Vallée des Couleurs is the famous 23-colored earths. Marvel at the striking hues of red, green, blue, and purple in this natural wonder where the earth’s colors were formed by volcanic activity centuries ago. As you walk along the trails  in a designated area within the park, you can learn about the phenomenon and its geological history. 
• Waterfalls & Lakes: After exploring the vibrant colored earth, head over to La Vallée des Couleurs’ waterfalls and serene lakes. The cascading waterfalls offer a refreshing break from your adventure, while the clear lakes provide a tranquil spot to unwind. You can take a dip in the cool waters or simply enjoy the soothing sounds of nature as you relax by the water. 

Pro Tip: Arrive early to capture the best photos—nature’s colors pop most vibrantly in the early morning light, and you’ll avoid the crowds. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Stop 2: La Vanille Nature Park – A Wild Encounter with Nature

Location: Rivière des Anguilles, South Mauritius
If you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with a tortoise, La Vanille Nature Park is your chance. Home to some of the world’s oldest and largest Aldabra giant tortoises, this park is a family-friendly haven where wildlife and wonder collide. La Vanille Nature Park is an adventure and learning experience wrapped into one unforgettable visit. Home to some of the island’s most fascinating wildlife, it’s especially popular with families who want to get up close to the amazing creatures that call this park home. As one of the oldest and largest nature parks in Mauritius, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the wild side of the island.

Exploring La Vanille Park:

• Tortoise Encounters: La Vanille is home to some of the world’s oldest Aldabra giant tortoises, with some individuals reaching over 100 years old and weighing more than 250 kilograms! Among these gentle giants is Domino, a massive tortoise that is one of the largest and oldest in the park. Just take a moment and imagine walking alongside these slow-moving legends, feeding them, or even petting them. It’s an experience that’s as heartwarming as it is rare.
• Crocodile Kingdom: For something a little wilder, head to the crocodile enclosure. La Vanille houses over 100 Nile crocodiles, and visitors can watch feeding sessions (not for the faint-hearted!). It’s a fascinating and educational experience to see these prehistoric predators up close.
• Insectarium Wonders: The park also features an incredible insectarium where you can explore the fascinating world of insects. From colorful butterflies to rare beetles, the exhibits will capture the imagination of nature enthusiasts of all ages.
• Nature Walks: The park’s walking trails provide an immersive experience in the island’s rich biodiversity. As you wander through the lush greenery, you may spot native species like the Mauritius kestrel, giant land snails, and various endemic plants.

Pro Tip: Be sure to visit the park’s Fossil Museum to learn about Mauritius’ geological history and the unique evolution of the island’s wildlife.

Why These Two Parks Are a Must-Visit

La Vallée des Couleurs and La Vanille Nature Park are two of Mauritius’ most exciting and diverse nature attractions. While the island is famous for its beaches, these parks offer a refreshing change of pace. They are filled with natural wonders that will thrill families, children, adventurers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re ziplining across a vibrant landscape, strolling with tortoises, or learning about the island’s rich wildlife, these parks offer something for everyone. 

How to Get There:
Both parks are located in the southern part of Mauritius and are easily accessible by car. The drive between the two parks takes about 30 minutes, making them a perfect combo for a day of adventure. You can opt for a guided tour or rent a car to explore at your own pace.

Entry Fees:
Each park has its own entry fee, but combo tickets for both parks are available, making it easier and more affordable to experience both in one day. Be sure to check online for special deals or discounts before booking your tickets.

Don’t Just Read About It—Experience It!

Mauritius isn’t just about sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island’s heart beats in its wild landscapes, and La Vallée des Couleurs and La Vanille Nature Park offer a chance to experience it all in one day. These parks bring you face-to-face with the wild side of Mauritius. So, if you’re looking for adventure, excitement, and a deeper connection to the island’s nature, don’t miss out on these incredible attractions. Pack your sense of wonder and head to the south of Mauritius for a day of unforgettable experiences.