Rodrigues Island, a name that conjures escape and authenticity. This gem lies just 1 hour 30 minutes by flight from the mother island, Mauritius, some 650 km away. It stretches 18 km long and 8 km wide.

In fact, this small island is Mauritius's 11th district. It operates with complete autonomy, and Port-Mathurin serves as its capital. Several tiny islets dot the 300 km² lagoon, which is so expansive that it covers twice the island's land surface.

Rodrigues Island has everything nature lovers crave. Construction is minimal, but winding roads lead through wild, rarely visited landscapes. Mountains and valleys characterize the terrain. Tropical birds soar between the islets and mainland, nesting throughout. The climate mirrors Mauritius, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 32°C in summer and 22 to 27°C in winter.

Public Transport

Like all tropical islands, the transport system operates unpretentiously. Shuttles and taxis are available, though schedules aren't fixed—but that's part of island life.

Car with Driver

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

Motor scooter and car rentals are also available. Don't forget to carry your driving licence throughout your stay.

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

As with Mauritius, there's a +2-hour difference during European summer time and +3 hours during winter.

Stay comfortable. In summer, opt for shorts and cotton t-shirts for men, summer dresses, t-shirts and shorts for women. Don't forget your swimsuit—Rodrigues has no shortage of private, secluded beaches. When visiting sacred sites, dress respectfully with covered shoulders and modest lengths. For trekking or hiking, bring sturdy walking shoes. In winter, bring a light layer as evenings can cool down.

Wi-Fi exists on the island, though don't expect blazing speeds. Perhaps it's the perfect moment to unplug from the modern world and reconnect with yourself.

Creole remains the island's most spoken language. As descendants of enslaved peoples, Rodriguans maintain deep cultural roots. The dialect matches Mauritius's Creole, though with a lilting accent that makes it more musical. Like the mother island, English is present, but French remains pervasive through media.

Shops open early and close relatively early too. Don't miss Saturday morning's market in Port-Mathurin, the island's largest village. Several small businesses specialize in handicrafts and weaving. Worth visiting if you'd like to bring home local products.

From 3-star hotels to studios, apartments, guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts, and individual cottages, Rodrigues Island offers diverse lodging for every taste. Service and hospitality reflect the warmth and generosity of the local people.

Hotels

On Rodrigues Island, simplicity reigns supreme. Luxury resorts haven't overwhelmed the island. Hotels exude charm, with staff as generous, warm and welcoming as the Rodriguans themselves. Boutique hotels offer a touch more polish, but authenticity remains paramount.

Inns and Guesthouses

Staying with locals is the finest way to understand a community. Why not try something different—experience your stay in an inn or guesthouse, living and eating as they do.

Long ago, Rodriguans lived to the rhythm of traditional music: séga tambour, accompanied by accordion. Saturday evenings brought celebrations where friends and family gathered. Rodriguans take pride in their distinct culture, music, art, and cuisine. Today, that pride endures. While many now earn their living through hotel performances and cultural tourism, they fiercely preserve this identity, showcasing it whenever possible, for it defines who they are.

Rodrigues Island has so much to reveal. Whether it's culture, cuisine, or flora and fauna, the island is rich and generous. We suggest several activities:

• Eco-hikes
• Boat outings with local fishermen
• Discovering flora and fauna (site visits)
• Exploring local culture and cuisine