Where do people who are bored of their routine, who want to relax and to reconnect with nature go to? To Rodrigues Island, of course! It is located at 583 kilometers from the Eastern coast of Mauritius, a plane trip of one and a half hours. Here is a brief insight into this island which is as charming as Mauritius.
Key places to visit on the island
Port Mathurin is the very centre of Rodrigues where there is the most movement. Visit its market for artisanal products and other local specialties.
Above all, Rodrigues is synonymous with nature. Hiking is one of the most favourite activities to do on the island, since there are many amazing spots. Climb on Mont Limon to have a breathtaking view of the whole of the island.
Go on a walk between Citron Donis and Anse Baleine. You will probably encounter some farm animals on your way; many residents are farmers. A visit to the Victoire waterfalls will leave you spellbound.
Meet tortoise at the François Leguat reserve. The remains of extinct birds are also displayed there. What lies beneath the reserve however is even more impressive: 11 interconnected caves.
One cannot forget to mention Caverne Patate when talking about Rodrigues. Get yourself a visiting permit and explore some 1000 meters of impressive rock formations of different shades of brown.
Last but certainly not least, no visit of Rodrigues Island can be complete without halting at the beach of Trou d’Argent. However, it is a well-known spot. If one wants to discover an under-visited, exquisite beach overlooked by high rocks, the destination is Anse la Bouteille.
Accommodation
The calm atmosphere that prevails on the island is perfect to rest, far away from the rush in towns. Even if Rodrigues seems to be quite frozen in time, modern hotels suiting different budgets exist there. These as well as lodges are built in an appealing Creole architectural style.
Kitesurf in Rodrigues
One of the most loved places in the Indian Ocean to practice kitesurf is Rodrigues Island. Its lagoon of 200 square kilometers approximately is shallow and calm. An event specifically dedicated to the watersport is even held every year since 2013: the Rodrigues International Kitesurf Festival.
It is easy for beginners to learn the basics of kitesurf in the lagoon of the island. Professional riders will love taming the hollow waves, also called reef break. A real showcase of styles!
Endemic plants and animals
Despite the richness of its landscapes, Rodrigues has lost a great amount of fauna and flora. Bois chauve-souris, d’olive, puant, de fer, carotte, ebony trees in addition to the café marron, can still be found there. Two species of indigenous animals can be found : the golden bat and the yellow fody.
Local specialties
Pickles from Rodrigues are very much appreciated in Mauritius, especially those containing lemon. Any person coming back from the island is expected to bring piments confits (candied chilli peppers). Fishing being a source of revenue there, its dried fish and octopus are very famous. Mouth watering much!
Kill two birds with one stone by visiting both Mauritius and Rodrigues and make the most of splendid views and thrills!