Savanne

Savanne is the southernmost district of Mauritius, stretching from the rugged south coast to the forests of the central plateau. It is the least developed district tourism-wise, known for its dramatic coastline of cliffs, blowholes, and rocky beaches rather than sandy resorts. The main town is Souillac, a quiet seaside settlement with a museum. Inland, the district is home to tea plantations (Bois Cheri), nature reserves, and the famous La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes, a crocodile and giant tortoise park.

May to November offers the best weather. The south coast is exposed to the prevailing trade winds and can be rough in summer (December–April). The inland areas are cooler and wetter year-round.

The A1 motorway runs through the northern part of the district. The B3 coastal road connects the southern villages. Buses run between Souillac and Port Louis. Taxis are available. A car is recommended for exploring the district's attractions.

• Souillac — the district capital, a historic seaside town with a museum, craft market, and the nearby Rochester Falls.
• Surinam — a coastal village with a popular public beach.
• Chemin Grenier — a market town at the junction of the A1 and B3 roads.
• Riviere des Anguilles — an inland village near La Vanille nature reserve.
• Bel Ombre — a coastal village with a luxury golf resort and access to the Macchabee-Bel Ombre Nature Preserve.
• Baie du Cap — a scenic bay on the southwest coast.
• Saint Aubin — a village with a historic sugar estate and rum distillery.
• Chamouny — an inland village in the hills.
• Grand Bois — a village near the Plaines Wilhems border.
• Bois Cheri — a hilltop village famous for the Bois Cheri tea plantation and factory.
• Camp Diable — an inland village with a local market.

Savanne is known for its tea (Bois Cheri produces some of the island's best) and rum (Saint Aubin distillery). Seafood is abundant along the coast. The inland areas produce fresh vegetables and fruit.

The Saint Aubin sugar estate and rum distillery offer a glimpse into the colonial history of Mauritius. The Bois Cheri tea route is a cultural experience. Souillac's craft market showcases local artisans.

• Visit La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes — a nature park with giant tortoises, crocodiles, and endemic species.
• Tour the Bois Cheri Tea Factory — sample Mauritius's finest teas with panoramic views over the south coast.
• Walk to Rochester Falls — a dramatic waterfall in a basalt gorge near Souillac.
• Explore Saint Aubin Distillery — tour the historic sugar estate and sample the locally produced rum.
• Hike in the Macchabee-Bel Ombre Nature Preserve — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with native forest and birdlife.