Wild Coasts, Key Areas & Authentic Vibe
The South of Mauritius is the island's wild, authentic heart. It's perfect for travelers who want to swap busy resorts for rugged cliffs, nature hikes, and a genuine taste of Creole culture. This region is less about nightlife and more about dramatic landscapes, from the iconic Le Morne Brabant to the historic village of Mahébourg.
The South covers the Savanne district and part of the Grand Port district. It stretches from the iconic Le Morne Brabant peninsula in the southwest, winds along the coast through Souillac (the island's southernmost point), and extends to the historic village of Mahébourg in the southeast.
Key areas you'll encounter:
Le Morne: Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage mountain and world-class kitesurfing.
Bel Ombre: A key area with luxury resorts set against a lush, natural backdrop.
Souillac: A rugged coastal village famous for the dramatic Gris Gris cliffs.
Baie du Cap: A small village on the scenic coastal road, famous for the Macondé viewpoint.
Mahébourg: A historic fishing village on the southeast coast, close to the airport, known for its Creole architecture and local market.
The South shares the same tropical seasons as the rest of Mauritius, but it can be windier and slightly cooler than the sheltered North. This is especially true on the southeast coast (like Mahébourg) during the winter months (May-Sept) when the trade winds are strongest.
Summer (Nov–Apr): Hot and humid (26-33°C). This is the wettest season, but showers are usually brief and make the waterfalls (like Rochester Falls) even more impressive.
Winter (May–Oct): Milder and drier (19-27°C). This is the "windy" season, which is fantastic for kitesurfers but can feel cool on the cliffs at Gris Gris.
The vibe in the South is peaceful, traditional, and untamed. This is the least developed part of Mauritius, where life moves at a slower, more authentic pace. It's defined by nature—think sugarcane fields, roaring waves against volcanic cliffs, and quiet fishing villages.
Daytime: All about exploration. This is the island's best region for scenic drives (especially the B9 coastal road), hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park, and discovering natural wonders.
Nighttime: Very quiet and relaxed. Nightlife here isn't about clubs; it's about a fantastic dinner at your hotel, a local restaurant in Mahébourg, or stargazing from a quiet beach.
The South is the best choice for nature lovers, hikers, and couples seeking a quiet, romantic escape. It's also perfect for second-time visitors who want to discover a more authentic, "off-the-beaten-path" side of the island.
It's perfect for you if:
You want dramatic landscapes and raw, natural beauty.
You love road trips and scenic viewpoints.
You're interested in hiking and nature parks.
You prefer a peaceful hotel over a busy town.
It might not be for you if:
You want nightlife, a huge variety of restaurants, and non-stop action.
You want to be in a central, busy hub.
For that, you're much better off in Grand Baie (North).