Rodrigues Island—a name that whispers escape and authenticity. This jewel lies 1 hour 30 minutes by plane from Mauritius, some 650 km away. The island stretches 18 km long and 8 km wide.

Indeed, this small island is Mauritius's 11th district. It operates with complete autonomy, and Port-Mathurin serves as its capital. Several small islets dot the lagoon spanning 300 km²—so vast it covers twice the island's land area.

Rodrigues has everything nature lovers crave. Construction remains minimal, but winding roads lead to wild, rarely visited corners. Mountains rise and valleys dip. Tropical birds drift between islets and shore, nesting wherever they please. The climate mirrors Mauritius: 28–32°C in summer, 22–27°C in winter.

Public Transport

Like all tropical islands, the transport system is refreshingly unpretentious. Shuttles and taxis exist, but since you're on an island, schedules are more suggestions than rules. That's the beauty of a holiday, though….

Chauffeur-Driven Car

Rent a car or van (depending on group size) with a driver to move between destinations or explore by the day according to your itinerary.

Motorcycle and car rentals are also available. Don't forget to bring your driver's license.

You'll need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) and a return ticket. Stays of up to three months are permitted.

Like Mauritius, Rodrigues is +2 hours ahead of European summer time and +3 hours ahead of European winter time.

Prioritize comfort. In summer, opt for shorts and cotton t-shirts (men), or light summer dresses, t-shirts and shorts (women). Pack swimwear—isolated private beaches abound on Rodrigues. When visiting sacred sites, dress respectfully with covered shoulders and modest hemlines. For trekking or hiking, bring sturdy walking shoes. In winter, a light layer helps, as evenings can cool down.

Wifi exists, though speeds are modest. Perhaps this is the moment to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with yourself.

Creole remains the most widely spoken language on the island. As descendants of enslaved peoples, Rodriguans remain deeply rooted in their heritage. The language mirrors that of Mauritius, though a distinctive lilt gives it a more lyrical quality. Like the mother island, English is spoken, but French remains pervasive through media.

Shops open early and close early too. Don't miss the Saturday morning market at Port-Mathurin, the island's largest village. Several small businesses specialize in crafts and weaving. Perfect for sourcing local products to take home.

From 3-star hotels to studios and apartments, guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts and private cottages, Rodrigues Island offers diverse lodging for every taste. Hospitality mirrors the island's people: warm and generous.

Hotels

On Rodrigues, simplicity is paramount. Luxury resorts haven't overrun the island. Hotels possess genuine charm. Staff embody the Rodriguan spirit: generous, warm and welcoming. Boutique hotels offer a touch more sophistication, but authenticity remains the true hallmark.

Guesthouses and Bed-and-Breakfasts

Staying with locals is the best way to know a people. Why not try something different—experience life in a guesthouse or bed-and-breakfast, living as they do, eating as they do.

Long ago, Rodriguans lived by the rhythm of traditional music—séga tambour, accompanied by accordion. Saturday nights brought friends and family together in celebration. Rodriguans take pride in their culture, music, art and distinctive cuisine. Today, that pride remains. Many now share their art in hotels and at cultural and tourist events. Yet they fiercely guard this heritage, championing it whenever possible—it is their identity.

Rodrigues Island offers so much to discover. Whether culture, cuisine or flora and fauna, the island is rich and generous. We suggest several activities:

• Eco-walks
• Boat outings with local fishermen
• Wildlife and nature exploration (site visits)
• Local culture and cuisine discovery