Souillac Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems and enjoy an unforgettable experience with this ultimate Souillac travel guide.


Are you planning a trip to Mauritius and want to explore some off-the-beaten-path destinations? Look no further than Souillac, a charming village located on the southern coast of the island. With its lush vegetation, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches, Souillac offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. In this ultimate Souillac travel guide, we’ll walk you through the top attractions, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, transportation options, and much more.

Introduction to Souillac

Souillac is a small town located in the Savanne district of Mauritius, about 45 km from the capital city of Port Louis. It gets its name from the French navigator François de Souillac, who explored the island in the 18th century. Souillac is known for its natural beauty, with stunning sea views, rugged cliffs, and dense vegetation. The town is also home to several museums, temples, and historical sites, making it a haven for history and culture buffs.

List of Places to Visit in Souillac

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée du Souvenir: This museum showcases the history of Mauritius, including the island’s colonial past and famous battles. The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion overlooking the sea.
  • The Frederik Hendrik Museum: This museum is dedicated to the Dutch occupation of Mauritius and features a collection of paintings, maps, and artifacts from the 17th century.
  • The Gris-Gris Viewpoint: This is a great spot to take in panoramic views of the southern coast, including the famous “roches noires” or black rocks. It is also considered a sacred site by locals.

Natural Attractions of Souillac: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chamarel Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located within the Black River Gorges National Park and is one of the highest in Mauritius. The surrounding forest is home to many endemic species of plants and animals.
  • Le Morne Brabant: This basaltic mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular hiking destination. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding lagoon and is an important historical site, as it served as a refuge for escaped slaves.
  • La Roche qui Pleure: This natural wonder is a rocky cliff face shaped like a crying face that “weeps” when waves crash against it. It is a stunning spot for sunset photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Souillac

One of the best ways to explore Souillac’s natural beauty is through its many hiking and biking trails. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Black River Gorges National Park: This park is home to over 300 species of flowering plants and many rare bird species. There are several hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, that offer stunning views of the forest and surrounding mountains.
  • Le Morne Brabant: As mentioned earlier, this mountain is a great hiking destination, with trails that range from easy to difficult. The hike to the summit is challenging but worth the effort for the views.
  • Coastal Trail: This trail runs along the southern coast of Mauritius and offers breathtaking ocean views. It is mostly flat and suitable for bikers of all levels.

Best Things to Do in Souillac: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour: Take a boat tour along the southern coast to explore the hidden coves and bays of the region. You might even spot dolphins or whales.
  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The waters off the southern coast are great for snorkeling and scuba diving, with many colorful fish and coral reefs.
  • Golfing: There are several world-class golf courses in the region, including the Heritage Golf Club and the Paradis Golf Club.

Week-Long Itinerary for Souillac

Day 1: Explore Souillac’s historical sites and museums, including Musée du Souvenir, The Frederik Hendrik Museum, and The Gris-Gris Viewpoint.

Day 2: Hike Le Morne Brabant and enjoy the stunning views of the lagoon.

Day 3: Take a boat tour along the southern coast and enjoy the hidden coves and bays of the region.

Day 4: Visit the Chamarel Waterfall and the Black River Gorges National Park.

Day 5: Enjoy a day of snorkeling and scuba diving along the southern coast.

Day 6: Golf at one of the world-class golf courses in the region.

Day 7: Relax on the pristine beaches of Souillac and soak up the sun.

Food and Drink Scene of Souillac

Mauritian cuisine is known for its rich blend of Indian, Chinese, African, and European flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Souillac:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dhal puri: This is a popular street food in Mauritius, made with a lentil-stuffed flatbread and served with various chutneys.
  • Biryani: This is a fragrant rice dish made with spices, meat, and vegetables.
  • Fish Vindaye: This is a spicy fish dish made with mustard seeds, turmeric, and chilies.

Local Beverages

  • Alouda: This is a sweet, milky drink made with basil seeds and flavored with rose syrup.
  • Rum: Mauritius produces world-class rum, so be sure to indulge in a bottle during your stay.

Where to Stay in Souillac: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Souillac offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Heritage Le Telfair Golf and Wellness Resort: This luxury resort offers world-class amenities and is located on a pristine beach.
  • Pingouinvillas: This guesthouse offers affordable accommodation in a peaceful, rural setting.
  • Tyvabro Guest House: This guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a stunning sea view.

What to Buy in Souillac: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Spices: Mauritius produces a variety of flavorful spices, including vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Rum: As mentioned earlier, Mauritius produces world-class rum, so be sure to bring a bottle home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Souillac

Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from India, China, Africa, and Europe. Here are some tips to help you respect the local culture and customs:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • Mauritians are known for their hospitality, so be sure to reciprocate with kindness and respect.

Best Time to Visit Souillac

The best time to visit Souillac is between May and December when the weather is dry and sunny. Avoid the peak tourist season (December-January) if you want to beat the crowds and secure good deals on accommodation and flights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Souillac

Do:

  • Take time to explore Souillac’s hidden gems, including its museums, historical sites, and natural wonders.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Leave without trying some water activities, such as snorkeling or scuba diving.
  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.
  • Visit during the peak tourist season if you want to avoid the crowds.

Safety and Health

Safety in Souillac

Souillac is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or in your car.
  • Be cautious when swimming, as the currents can be strong.

Health in Souillac

Mauritius is a relatively low-risk destination for diseases such as malaria, typhoid fever, and yellow fever. However, be sure to take precautions such as getting vaccinations and taking malaria medication if recommended by your doctor.

Getting to Souillac: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Souillac

The closest airport to Souillac is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, located about an hour and a half drive away.

Bus Stations Near Souillac

There are several bus stations near Souillac, including the Rose Belle Bus Station, Rivière des Anguilles Bus Station, and Souillac Bus Station.

Other Options

Taxis and car rental services are also available, but make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.

How to Get Around in Souillac

The best way to get around Souillac is by car or taxi, as public transportation can be unreliable. Bicycles and scooters are also available for rent.

Where to Go Next from Souillac: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Souillac is a great base for exploring other nearby destinations on the southern coast of Mauritius. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Mahebourg: This charming coastal town is known for its traditional market and museums.
  • Blue Bay Marine Park: This marine park is home to over 50 species of coral and many colorful tropical fish.
  • Trou aux Cerfs: This dormant volcano offers a stunning panoramic view of the island.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a destination that offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, Souillac should definitely be on your list. With its stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and welcoming locals, Souillac is an experience you won’t forget. From hiking and snorkeling to exploring museums and trying local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming town on the southern coast of Mauritius.