Experience the tropical wonder
Rodrigues Island is explored through experiences that transport you to the core of its culture. Whether personal, sports, cultural, gastronomic, maritime, or musical, each evokes a distinct emotion. Every moment spent on the island will leave a lasting impression, thanks mostly to the island's residents' innate generosity. You will only think about one thing: come back!
Unspoiled nature
Immerse it in its natural environment, its untamed landscapes and wide-open spaces, which can be lush, arid, or tropical, with animals reigning supreme. Agriculture is an important part of the country's economy, and the raising of cows, lambs, goats, pigs, and chickens gives the impression that the island is an open-air farm. Animals will be visible practically everywhere, even your home's gardens! Hiking alone or with a local guide remains the best way to see the area's natural wonders. Beautiful walks around the coast will highlight the beauty of the coastline and the magnificent lagoon. The splendid beaches and coves are havens of peace for taking a delicious bath, inviting you to unwind in the in the shade of the casuarina trees.
The lagoon as a playground
Rodrigues Island has drawn kiters from all over the world, and it no longer hides its best spots, particularly between Graviers and Mourouk. Between June and July, the island hosts an annual kite festival that attracts international champions. A wonderful site allows beginners to do their first kite surfing experience thanks to the help of Rodrigues teachers. Diving enthusiasts will be able to view undersea life with a professional, where species of magnificent colours thrive in the clear waters. The dive sites are fascinating. Not to mention big game fishing, which is popular among big fish enthusiasts. Rodrigues holds several records! It is also enjoyable to board a classic sailing canoe with a fisherman and travel the turquoise waters to attack nearby islets: Cat Island, Hermitage, Coconut Island, and many more.
The art of simplicity
For accommodation, the most authentic way is to sleep at a local’s place and to meet the people of Rodrigues to exchange and share their love of the island. Many guest houses also offer to serve you tasty meals made with local products. To get around, don’t hesitate to take the bus for total immersion in the life of the islanders and an authentic experience. You can also rent a car or scooter, or take a taxi for the day. In Port-Mathurin, a trip to the market is essential to find local products and handicrafts made by artisans: pickles, jams, gingerbread, honey, pie, basketry made from vacoas and vetiver, without forgetting the famous “limon” (lemon) with its fragrant and unique taste, and the dried octopus.
Culinary specialties with local products
Rodrigues Island has a rich culinary heritage with specialties that include excellent quality local products. Octopus is widely fished, and remains one of the most emblematic and appreciated dishes on the island and are prepared in different ways; in salad, octopus “vindaye” or octopus’ stew. “Konokono” is also a shellfish which is delicacy. Fish drizzled with lemon juice, Rodrigues sausages made locally with or without honey, chicken from the yard, and all cultivated vegetables such as onions, peppers, brinjals, corn, carrots, among others. Rice and corn is a side dish that combines rice and corn.