A considerably lesser-known tropical island 560km north-east of Mauritius, Rodrigues is a quiet, scenic backwater where you can find giant tortoises roaming happily and enjoy some world-class snorkelling. It's just a one-hour, 35-minute flight between the two destinations, so they can be paired easily with Reunion (226km from Mauritius) into one wonderfully relaxing Magical Mascarene break.
Along with an interesting character, Rodrigues has a special combination of nature, sunny beaches and a laid-back way of living. But what else is there to it? Keep reading to find out why our experts love this little, remote island and the reasons why it should be on your travel radar.
PICTURED: A map showing the distance between the three Mascarene Islands: Reunion, Mauritius and Rodrigues.
Many say that visiting Rodrigues may provide a glimpse into what Mauritius was like 70 years ago. There are no traffic lights, no supermarkets and no large commercial areas. When you're on the long stretches of sand, you may think that they're entirely deserted and the extreme remoteness of the island makes you feel as if you're at the end of the Earth.
So, why should you choose to holiday here in the first place?
Here are five reasons to visit Rodrigues Island, along with our FAQs and tailor-made sample itinerary.
5 Reasons to Visit Rodrigues Island
1. For the unusual nature reserves
2. For the tranquil beaches and its aquamarine lagoon
3. For the coral reef snorkelling
1. Unusual Nature Reserves
One of the best things to do on Rodrigues Island is exploring the different nature reserves.
With Rodrigues being so remote, you can expect to see high levels of endemism due to its long isolation. François Leguat Giant Tortoise and Cave Reserve is brimming with Aldabra giant tortoises and some very rare native trees. If you're a wildlife enthusiast, you'll enjoy meeting the pre-historic-looking reptiles, which were brought in to replace the extinct Rodrigues giant tortoise. Also present in the reserve are now gravely endangered Madagascar radiated tortoise.
The cave systems are impressive. Experience an awe-inspiring tour of the only electrified "Show Cave" in the south-west Indian Ocean, Grande Caverne, along its state-of-the-art raised walkways.
In the remaining indigenous, protected woods, you may spot the island’s sole endemic mammal, the endangered Rodrigues fruit bat. You also have the chance to seek its two endemic birds, the Rodrigues warbler and the pretty Rodrigues fody.
Rodrigues' other nature reserves are Grande Montagne, Anse Quitor and two offshore islets, Ile aux Sables and Ile aux Cocos (Cocos Island, which is named after its swaying coconut trees and seabird colonies, including brown and lesser noddy and white or fairy terns).
2. Tranquil Beaches & Lagoon
To picture a Rodrigues Island beach, think of ivory-coloured sands descending into emerald green-accented waters reaching into the depths of the blue horizon beyond.
You have a few options to choose from, affording you space to relax in during your time here. Trou D’Argent is facing the east coast, bordered by two low-lying cliffs on either side. Although one of the more popular beaches, it never feels crowded and swimming is enjoyable. With an average summer temperature of 25.9°C and a mean winter temperature of 22.3°C, you can enjoy swimming year-round.
Rodrigues' lagoons encircle the entire island, where shallow bodies of water formed by coral reefs provide a unique ecosystem for marine life and water-based activities.
Smaller islets lie within the main lagoon, including Ile aux Chats (Cat Island), Ile Hermitage, Ile Gombrani and the aforementioned Ile aux Sables and Ile aux Cocos.
Africa Travel Specialist
"The best accommodation on the island is Constance Tekoma. Expect fine dining with a view, plus local Sega dancing on the beach. If you choose to stay in the Beachfront Villa, you have direct access to the sun-drenched sands throughout your stay. Not only this, but they can also arrange diving lessons for you, and there are good options for experienced scuba divers in the channel nearby."
3. Snorkelling
Discover the vibrant coral reefs which surround Rodrigues during a snorkelling excursion. The island's coral reef is 'self-seeding', in that it receives no coral zooplankton from elsewhere. A species of coral, two species of Pomacentrus damselfish and many crustaceans are confined to these waters.
The two Rodrigues Island hotels we locate our clients in are C Rodrigues Mourouk and Constance Tekoma.
On the south-east coast at C Rodrigues Mourouk, you can arrange visits to the nearby satellite islets for snorkelling (the reef is far out from hotel). Additionally, you can arrange world-class scuba diving through the on-site Scuba Diving Centre.
Further along the east coast, explore the reef from Constance Tekoma – which is closer than at C Rodrigues Mourouk. There's a channel out to the open ocean, presenting interesting options if you're an experienced scuba diver. Afterwards, when you're done adventuring for the day, there's a small swimming pool and gin-clear lagoon where you can chill.
4. Authentic Creole Culture & Local Cuisine
A leisurely stroll through the capital, Port Mathurin, immerses you in Rodrigues Island's authentic Creole culture. Expect a lively market, the residents selling their fresh produce, meats, fish, honey and handicrafts. Continuing on, you'll pass a variety of religious sites from a Catholic church to an Anglican church, Hindu temples and mosques, as well as colonial-style houses.
Rodrigues culture spans across the island wherever you visit, from Saint Gabriel Cathedral (which serves as a cathedral of the Catholic Church's Apostolic Vicariate of Rodrigues) to the traditional music and dance you'll hear and see (which traces its origins to the African slaves who inhabited the island).
As for Rodrigues cuisine, you'll be hit with a potent mixture of Creole, Chinese, European and Indian flavours, all held together by local influences. If you're a fan of seafood, why not sample the octopus curry? This delicacy can be served alongside steamed rice or couscous and garnished with fresh coriander. And how about a refreshing Ti' Punch to wash it down? (A rum made on the island with fresh lemons).
Africa Travel Specialist
"The seafood in Rodrigues is delicious. In addition to the staple octopus curry, you should also try kono-kono salad – a shellfish delicacy served with fresh greens and sometimes pineapple, watermelon or diced Rodrigues limes. Local honey is a widely used ingredient in Rodrigues food such as the famous honey sausage. You can see it being produced by the beekeepers at family-run hives in the forest, and support a local enterprise by picking up some honey products you can take home with you."
5. Magnificent Walking Trails
The 'Cinderella of the Mascarenes', Rodrigues Island has a hilly terrain with some woodland and the highest peak, Mont Limon, which measures just 398 metres.
The island is well-suited for walking enthusiasts. Among many options is a walk starting at Montagne Cherie in the south-east. As you descend and ascend along the way, you're enveloped in low coral cliffs, sandy beaches and casuarina groves. End at Trou D’Argent, a beautiful beach where you can have a quick dip. There's also a quaint village nearby.
For incredible views of the Indian Ocean's sparkling turquoise waters, the hike from Mont Limon is well worth the climb. Head down towards Mont Goyave and the intimate beach of Banana River. This charming part of the island is a joy to explore.
Rodrigues is best explored partly on foot, allowing you to get to know it a little more personally. Only then will you be able to truly 'get it' when you hear people say it's like Mauritius was 70 years ago.
FAQs About Rodrigues Island
Is Rodrigues Island worth visiting?
Yes, Rodrigues Island is well worth visiting for two or three nights. This sleepy outpost is home to everything from a large coral reef to sun-drenched beaches and nature reserves with some very rare, localised species. Rodrigues makes for an authentic and tranquil experience – a great addition to your Mauritius itinerary.
What language is spoken in Rodrigues Island?
Rodriguan Creole is the main language. Although named after Portuguese explorer Diogo Rodrigues, the language isn't spoken. However, English and French are widely spoken.
How do you get to Rodrigues Island?
Rodrigues is served by Sir Gaetan Duval Airport in Plane Corail.
Regular flights to Rodrigues are via Air Mauritius (90 minutes' duration) from Mauritius Airport (Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport). There's a once weekly direct flight between Rodrigues and Reunion, too. Travel around the island is good: it has a network of roads with no traffic lights.
How many people live in Rodrigues Island?
The Rodrigues Island population is around 43,650.
When is it best to visit Rodrigues Island?
Rodrigues has a mild tropical maritime climate with persistent trade winds blowing throughout the year. The average summer temperature is around 25.9°C and the mean winter temperature is around 22.3°C. January—March is the hottest period while August is the coolest month. The wettest month is February and September—October is the driest period. The climate is hotter and drier than in Mauritius. Cyclones may occur from December—March.
What religion is followed in Rodrigues Island?
A large majority of the Rodrigues Island population practice Roman Catholicism.
Why did settlers leave Rodrigues?
The first European settlers were the French, who used African slaves to cultivate sugar plantations.
It was later ruled under British occupation after receiving it at the end of the Napoleonic Wars. The French settlers were evacuated, but the slaves remained.
Is Mauritius bigger than Rodrigues?
Yes, Mauritius is bigger than Rodrigues.
Rodrigues is a small island, approximately 108 km². Whereas Mauritius is around 1865 km².
What is the main town of Rodrigues?
Port Mathurin is the capital city of Rodrigues Island.
Experience Rodrigues and the Mascarene Islands with Rainbow
Excited to experience a Rodrigues Island tour?
Our Mascarene Magic sample itinerary combines Rodrigues with Mauritius and Reunion. Across 15 nights, you'll visit all three Mascarene Islands: showcasing sunny beaches, colourful coral reefs, high mountains and some of the planet's rarest flora and fauna species.
Speak with one of our Travel Specialists to start planning your trip today.
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