Rodrigues Island is a Mauritian hidden gem that’s perfect for anyone looking for a laid-back escape with natural beauty and unique experiences. Among the best things to do in Rodrigues and best places to visit, you’ll find amazing beaches, colorful coral reefs, and a slower pace of life that lets you truly worth it! The island’s culture is rich and welcoming, and there’s a real sense of community that makes you feel right at home. You also have multiple direct flights from Mauritius main’s island every day. From hiking and exploring caves to tasting local dishes, Rodrigues offers an adventure around every corner!
Pssst: If you want, you can also check our guide about the best and most beautiful beaches of Rodrigues Island in Mauritius here.
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1 – Explore the Caverne Patate
If you’re up for a little adventure, a visit to Caverne Patate is a must (grotte Patate in French)! This impressive cave system stretches about 1,000 meters underground, and you’ll get to see amazing rock formations that look like they’ve been sculpted by nature herself. The cave is full of stalactites, stalagmites, and eerie, winding passages, and walking through feels like you’re discovering a hidden world. The local guides make the experience even more fun, sharing interesting stories about the cave’s history and the legends surrounding it. Don’t forget a flashlight – it’s a bit dark down there!
2 – Hike Mont Limon
Mont Limon is the highest point in Rodrigues, and it offers some of the best views on the whole island. At 398 meters high, it’s not the toughest hike, but the reward at the top is absolutely worth it. You’ll get panoramic views of the entire island, including the beautiful coastlines and surrounding blue ocean. On a clear day, you can see miles in every direction, and the sight of green hills rolling down to sandy shores is breathtaking. Bring your camera along – you’ll definitely want to capture the view!
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Travel Guides Genius Insiders TipsThe hike is not very difficult, there are several steps to reach the top, but even if you’re not a fan of climbing, it should take no more than 10-15 min to climb on a slow pace. You can easily park your car or motorbike on the opposite side of the road, near the entrance (which is 100% free)!
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3 – Visit Trou d’Argent Beach
Trou d’Argent Beach is like stepping into a postcard. This small, secluded beach is tucked away between rugged cliffs, giving it a remote and untouched vibe. You won’t find any crowds here, just white sand, clear water, and the peaceful sound of waves crashing. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying the view. The path to reach it is a bit of a hike, but the journey only adds to the adventure. This is one beach you won’t want to miss!
4 – Stroll Around Port Mathurin Market & The Old Colonial City Center
Port Mathurin Market is the heart of Rodrigues life, and it’s the best place to dive into the island’s local culture. Every Saturday, vendors set up shop, selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and clothing. It’s bustling, colorful, and filled with delicious scents from local food stalls. Take your time wandering around, chatting with locals, and maybe even pick up a souvenir or two. Don’t miss the chance to try some Rodriguan specialties – the food here is as fresh as it gets! Once you finish, you can stroll around Port Mathurin’s downtown and enjoy the old colonial buildings (some have interesting facts & infos plates to explain the history).
5 – Go Kitesurfing at Mourouk Beach
For thrill-seekers, kitesurfing at Mourouk is an absolute must. With its steady winds and shallow lagoon, Mourouk Bay is one of the top spots in the Indian Ocean for kitesurfing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find the perfect conditions to get out on the water. Local instructors like Friendly Global Kite School or Etik Kite Surf offer lessons, so don’t worry if it’s your first time! The sensation of gliding over the water, with the breeze in your face and the stunning backdrop of the Rodrigues landscape, is an experience you won’t soon forget. Another good spot for kitesurfing is arond Ile Aux Crabes, on the southern part of the island.
6 – Discover Île aux Cocos
Just a short boat ride away, Île aux Cocos is a tiny paradise that’s home to thousands of seabirds. The island is a protected nature reserve, and it feels like a world away from the rest of Rodrigues. You can take a guided tour, where you’ll learn about the different bird species and get a closer look at their nesting grounds. The beach here is pristine, and after exploring, you can relax on the sand or take a dip in the warm, clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and bird watchers alike. From there you can see Ile aux Sables (a natural reserve).
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In order to get to Île aux Cocos, you can either book a tour with your hotel, or you can head straight to Pointe du Diable on the Western part of the island. From there, you can catch the morning boat (between 8 am and 9 am) to Ile aux Cocos.
7 – Snorkel at Saint François
Saint François is a fantastic spot for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life just waiting to be discovered. The water is warm, shallow, and incredibly clear, giving you a perfect view of the underwater world. You’ll see colorful fish around, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a sea turtle or two. It’s a peaceful experience, surrounded by nothing but the gentle sounds of the ocean. Don’t rush – take your time to float and explore the beauty beneath the surface.
8 – Taste the Local Cuisine
Rodrigues has its own unique flavors, and tasting the local cuisine is a big part of any visit. Don’t leave without trying the famous octopus curry – it’s a local specialty that’s rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. You’ll also find dishes influenced by French, Creole, and Indian cooking, with plenty of fresh seafood, spices, and unique ingredients. Try a few local street food spots, or visit a small family-owned restaurant to really get the authentic taste of Rodrigues. The food here is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds!
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The island’s signature octopus curry is a must-try, with tender octopus cooked in a rich, spiced sauce. You’ll also find smoked fish, rougaille, and refreshing ourite salad, which showcases the Creole influence. Don’t leave without tasting the famous honey cakes, made with the island’s unique honey!
9 – Walk the François Leguat Giant Tortoise Reserve
Named after a French explorer, the François Leguat Giant Tortoise Reserve is a place where you can meet some of Rodrigues’ oldest residents – giant tortoises! These gentle giants roam freely around the reserve, and you’ll get to see them up close as they wander through the lush landscape. The reserve is also home to rare plants and other wildlife, making it a beautiful place to explore. Walking alongside these ancient creatures is a memorable experience, and you’ll learn a lot about the island’s conservation efforts as well. You can find more infos about the prices and opening times at François Leguat Giant Tortoise & Cave Reserve’s website.
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You’ll also have access to a vast network of caves (with the same ticket). The Reserve is located in the southwestern part of Rodrigues, home to a distinctive landscape with limestone formations, including nine remarkable caves and dolines. Among them is the impressive Grande Caverne, equipped with modern raised walkways, steps, and eco-friendly lighting. It is the only electrified “Show Cave” in the Southwest Indian Ocean, developed to international standards with guidance from an Australian cave consultant.
10 – Relax at Pointe Cotton
Pointe Cotton is one of Rodrigues’ most beautiful beaches, with powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters. It’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind, whether you’re taking a leisurely swim or just lounging under a palm tree. The beach is family-friendly, with gentle waves that make it safe for kids. You’ll find a few food vendors nearby where you can grab a cool drink or a snack. It’s a great place to spend a lazy afternoon, soaking up the sun and enjoying the peaceful island vibe.
11 – Visit Saint Gabriel Cathedral
Saint Gabriel Cathedral is a lovely spot to visit if you’re interested in local history and culture. This humble yet beautiful stone cathedral is the largest in the Indian Ocean and has been an important gathering place for Rodrigues’ Catholic community since it was built in the 1930s. Its peaceful interior and simple architecture reflect the charm and spirituality of the island. During Sunday Mass, you can experience the vibrant local worship, with hymns sung in Creole, bringing together the community in a heartfelt celebration. The cathedral is truly a cultural thing to see in Rodrigues.
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A little recap about our guide. The best things to do and places to visit in Rodrigues Island, Mauritius are:
1 – Explore the Caverne Patate
2 – Hike Mont Limon
3 – Visit Trou d’Argent Beach
4 – Stroll Around Port Mathurin Market & The Old City Center
5 – Go Kitesurfing at Mourouk
6 – Discover Île aux Cocos
7 – Snorkel at Saint François
8 – Taste the Local Cuisine
9 – Walk the François Leguat Giant Tortoise Reserve
10 – Relax at Pointe Cotton
11 – Visit Saint Gabriel Cathedral
This guide was updated on November 2024
