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Rodrigues Island, often known as the jewel of the Indian Ocean, exists as a tranquil, undeveloped enclave. It is about 560 km to the east of Mauritius. With its crystal clear lagoons, rich culture, and abundant biodiversity, Rodrigues provides a chance to step away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Suitably located for adventure lovers, nature lovers and seclusion seekers, this island is blessed with stunning beaches, Creole culture, and warm hospitality. It is a perfect getaway for all kinds of travellers.
Quick Details About Rodrigues Island
Country: Mauritius
Capital: Port Mathurin
Total area: 108 square kms
Discovered: 1528
Trip Duration: 3 – 7 days
Language: Creole, French, English
Unique Wildlife: Rodrigues fruit bats, giant tortoises
Location
Photo: fred_pnd / Wikimedia Commons
Rodrigues Island is a perfect island in the Indian Ocean, surrounded by the Mascarene Islands. With a total area of around 108 square kilometres (42 square miles), this volcanic island is famous for its ivory beaches, sapphire lagoons and rugged uplifted lands. Rodrigues is nicknamed the ‘anti-stress’ island, marvellously unspoiled and chill. The island’s main town, Port Mathurin, is connected via Caverne Patate Road and Mont Lubin Road, leading to residential and administrative centres. Nearby landmarks are Port Mathurin Market, Montagne Bois Noir (a farming area), and the Rodrigues Regional Assembly building.
How To Reach
Photo: Anna Zvereva / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport (Plaine Corail) has daily flights from Mauritius via Air Mauritius. From the airport, taxis are available and are most convenient, but not most economical. It is advisable to take a rental car or scooter at the airport for remote locations. Local buses link the airport with the major villages, though service is limited in the evening.
By Water: Cargo and passenger ships leave from Port Louis, Mauritius, and take 36 to 48 hours to reach Port Mathurin. While buses, taxis and rental vehicles link important areas, transportation in the evening is limited.
Things To Do
The Rodrigues is a paradise for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape. Here are some of the best things to do:
1. Hike To Trou d’Argent
Photo: Kate Holland / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Trou d’Argent is a hidden gem that requires a hike along scenic cliffs with sweeping views of the turquoise sea. From Graviers, the trail takes about 45 minutes to a stunning, remote beach with dramatic limestone formations. It is ideal for adventure lovers seeking to avoid the crowds. Swim in the clear waters, lounge on the soft coral sand and explore small caves carved into the cliffs. Exploring Rodrigues is incredibly enjoyable; the experience is even more rewarding as you immerse yourself in pristine nature. This trek is best done in the morning before the sun gets too strong.
2. Try Octopus Fishing With Locals
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Rodrigues is also known for its octopus fishing, an ancient practice many islanders still master. Fight with local fishermen at dawn, armed with a stick made of wood, as they wade through the skinny tide, looking for octopuses camouflaged under coral. Find out how they prepare the octopus, often sun-drying it for their famous “ourite séché” dish, past the catch. This hands-on experience is an immersive cultural treat and gives an insight into the island’s fishing heritage. The best octopus fishing season is between February and October, and the prime spots are near Anse Quitor and Saint François.
3. Enjoy Kitesurfing At Mourouk Beach
Photo: Ввласенко / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mourouk Beach is a kitesurfer’s paradise, with consistent trade winds and shallow azure waters. Whether you’re just starting or are an experienced rider, riding conditions are perfect year-round. Many local schools provide lessons, and the annual Rodrigues Kitesurf Festival attracts enthusiasts from around the globe. The sizable lagoon offers sufficient space for freestyle manoeuvres. Sandbanks nearby produce distinctive wave-riding opportunities. After an adrenaline-fuelled session, chill out at one of the beachfront lodges and feast on fresh seafood while the sun sinks into the horizon.
4. Explore Caverne Patate
Photo: Mip130916 / Wikimedia Commons
Venture beneath the surface at Rodrigues’ largest cave system, Caverne Patate. It is a fascinating world of limestone formations carved out for centuries. Armed with a flashlight, venture downhill into a labyrinth of stalactites, stalagmites and curious rock formations that look like animals and mythological figures. Some chambers extend 600 meters, with natural skylights that play disturbing tricks of light. Situated in the island’s southwest, close to François Leguat Reserve, the cave is best appreciated with a guide who can explain its history. A guided tour reveals the cave’s geological wonders and the legends regarding the cave.
Places To Visit In Rodrigues Island
Rodrigues brings a serene landscape and knowing which place to explore near the island allows for that unforgettable experience to settle into your memory:
1. Île Aux Cocos
Photo: B.navez / Wikimedia Commons
This remote beach is only accessible by boat and is a pristine, uninhabited island with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Guided tours offer insight into conservation efforts, and visitors can snorkel in the surrounding coral reefs. Access to this paradise is limited to preserve its natural beauty, which makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and bird watchers. Without permanent infrastructure, you are advised to bring essentials, including water and sunscreen. It takes approximately one and a half hours by boat from Port Mathurin or Pointe Diable.
Location: 4 km west of Rodrigues, accessible by boat
Things To Do: Birdwatching, snorkeling, photography, beach relaxation
Timings: Tour schedules vary (usually 9 AM – 3 PM)
2. François Leguat Giant Tortoise Reserve
Photo: Kevin Gepford / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Get a glimpse of the distant past at this conservation park home to more than 3,000 Aldabra giant tortoises. Pass through the lush valley where these peaceful beings graze in the wild, spotting their astonishing resurgence from near-extinction. The reserve includes a cave system, like Grande Caverne, which has beautiful stalactites. Feeding events for visitors are an unforgettable wildlife experience here. Go in the morning when the tortoises are at their most active. Take a guided tour, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours, and includes insight about Rodrigues’ past ecosystem and the conservation efforts.
Location: Near Plaine Corail, southwest Rodrigues
Things To Do: Guided tours, tortoise feeding, cave exploration, eco-education
Timings: Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM
3. Mont Limon
Photo: Shoestring / Wikimedia Commons
Mont Limon (398 meters) is the highest point in Rodrigues and gives a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire island. A brief but rewarding hike brings you to the summit, where you take in rolling hills, tiny villages and a long stretch of ocean. It’s especially breathtaking at sunrise, when golden tones filter through the landscape. Its relatively high location allows for quick access via a fairly short drive, with only a short climb at its peak. It’s also excellent for spotting native birds and wildflowers. Binoculars can help you take in the surrounding landscape much better.
Location: Central Rodrigues
Things To Do: Hiking, photography, birdwatching, sunrise viewing
Timings: 24*7
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Ludovic Lubeigt / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Rodrigues Island is from October to May, and it is characterised by warm weather. This is considered excellent for outdoor activities like snorkelling, diving and hiking. At this time of the year, the island is at its best, with tranquil lagoons and lush greenery. If you relish a cooler time and fewer crowds, you may also visit Rodrigues’s June-September period, which is best for windsurfing when the trade winds are strong. Cyclones hit, mostly from January to March but calm, uncrowded beaches during this time serve as a wonderful travel deal throughout the year.
Where To Stay
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Rodrigues also has a good selection of budget guesthouses and luxury beachfront resorts. For exclusivity, the Tekoma Boutik Hotel in Pointe Cotton offers individual villas, an infinity pool and direct access to the beach. For mid-range, there’s Mourouk Ebony Hotel, a favourite among kitesurfers with rooms overlooking the sea and an onsite restaurant. In Anse aux Anglais, Le Pandanus is ideal for those who prefer boutique accommodations with a homely, intimate vibe. Budget travellers and backpackers can stay at Chez Perle Lodge in Port Mathurin, which has comfortable rooms, including breakfast. The majority of accommodations serve local fare and can book tours, hikes, and other activities for the guests.
Where To Eat
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Rodrigues is best for seafood lovers, as ocean-fresh octopus and fish family specialities are available everywhere on the island. In Port Mathurin, Le Marlin Bleu is known for its seafood platters and Rodrigues-style octopus curry. For a tasty local experience, Chez Solange et Robert in Saint François offers homemade Creole-style meals such as smoked fish, rougaille and grilled lobster. Ti Baz in Mourouk is a superb beachside choice, serving cocktails, grilled seafood and evening music. For breakfast in the region, the Port Mathurin Market offers “kat kat manioc” and “gâteau patate”.
Tips For Travellers
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- The island enjoys a tropical climate, so make sure to pack sunscreen, light clothing, and hats.
- The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee, so you should make sure you have cash since ATMs don’t always work.
- Don’t leave without trying the seafood and the Creole style of cooking, which is part of the eating experience on this popular island.
- Remember that connectivity is limited, so take the opportunity to disconnect and be with nature.
Rodrigues Island guarantees a sublime balance between a relaxed life and adventure. Most beaches are exceptional and the main island marvels in its biodiversity and variety of cultural experiences. The island offers a plethora of attractions for every interest, which assures an unforgettable escape for travellers seeking a soothing life. It can charm nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers with its calm beauty and friendly people. Plan your trip now with TripXL to this amazing place.
Cover Photo: Ashwin CM / Wikimedia Commons
