Crystal Rock, Mauritius | Things to Do | Activity Prices

Crystal Rock, Mauritius Overview

Crystal Rock is a natural rock formation which is large, situated off the south-west coast of Mauritius. It is located close to the Le Morne mountain. The rock formation magnificently sits in the middle of the ocean, approximately 200 meters away from the shore and offers a gorgeous sight as the surrounding mountains cast shadows over the area around. The large exposed fossilized coral reef is a must-see, as it is a great example of a biochemical reaction leading to the formation of sedimentary rock. Mauritius is a proud owner of a shallow and wide lagoon behind a barrier reef.

The lagoon is the point where the deposition and formation of carbonate minerals take place to give rise to the layering rock creations that support reef-dwelling organisms. Mauritius is a volcanic island and it is slowly subsiding. Hence, this natural rock formation asks for a mandatory visit before it dips below the sea-level and disappears. If you are fit enough, you can even climb this rocky gem and pose for some incredible photos with the charismatic backdrop of the blue waters. There are a wide array of activities that you can take up in the area.

Things to Do at Crystal Rock

Snorkelling around Crystal Rock

The stunning holiday destination has vast stretches of mesmerising scenic stretches with rich aquatic life. You can opt for snorkelling in the topaz-blue waters at this popular snorkelling spot on the island. The clear waters near the Crystal Rock offer unmatchable visibility as you wade in the waters to have an enriching experience. Snorkellers are rewarded with a magical experience when they spot different tropical fishes such as wrasse, clownfish, angelfish, parrotfish - which gather around the rock. Explore the verdant flora constituted by algae, corals, mangroves, seagrass and much more.

Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Glass boat tour in mauritius — View from the bottom of the Glass Boat
Source

To see the beautiful marine life in the area, another activity that is worth trying is going on a glass-bottom boat tour. While you feast your eyes with the shimmering white sand on the beaches, check for the availability of glass-bottom boats which depart from the Blue Bay public beach for a tour of 1:15 hours. The trip on the boat hardly takes five minutes to reach the Blue Bay Marine Park; however, once the boat reaches, it is up to you to stay on board the boat or go around exploring the sea life. The glass bottom boats start the tour at 8:30 AM and end at 4:00 PM. The last boat leaves the beach at 3:00 PM. Those who want to go for snorkelling can even avail the gear from the boat itself.

Cost for Adult: INR 1500

Cost for a Child(3-11 years): INR 1200

Swimming with Dolphins

Another proper activity to indulge is swimming with the ever-so-fascinating dolphins at the Crystal Rock. To catch the speedboat to have maximum fun, you will have to be the early riser. Once you reach the Tamarin Bay, you should hire a guide who can speak volumes about the enchanting life beneath the surface of the glassy blue waters. One can avail a suitable tourist package which includes a boat ride from the bay to swim with the dolphins. Some packages include Crystal Rock as a pit stop which is an advantage to see the remarkable rock structure. To watch the dolphins play in the water is entertaining enough but when you get a chance to swim with them and see them being at their comfortable best in their natural habitat, it gets even better. During the day, the area gets packed with tourists who hold back these majestic creatures to come out and show themselves, however, early in the morning, when the place is less invasive, the playful creatures come out to enjoy the glory of the day.

So, while you plan a trip to Mauritius, make sure you add a visit to the Crystal Rock as a mandatory thing-to-do. Admire the gorgeous sights around you - of the Crystal Rock, sparkling clear waters of the Indian Ocean, white sand beaches, Le Morne mountain in the backdrop and the flora and fauna bubbling with life below the ocean surface. Go on a glass-bottom boat trip or snorkelling to enjoy the spectacular views of the rich marine life in the region.