How to get to Rodrigues
Easiest is a short flight from Mauritius — about 1h30 with Air Mauritius into Plaine Corail airport, several times a day. There's also a ferry from Port Louis to Port Mathurin (roughly weekly, about a day and a half at sea).
Best time to visit Rodrigues
The sweet spot is the cooler, drier season — roughly May to November (around 20–25°C). December to April is warmer and wetter with a cyclone risk, while June–September brings strong trade winds that windsurfers love.
Money & currency
The currency is the Mauritian rupee (Rs). Bring some cash — many small shops, markets and stalls don't take cards.
budget
Rodrigues is gentle on the wallet. As a rough mid-range guide, plan for around $70–120 (about Rs 3,000–5,500) a day covering a room, food, a scooter and a few activities — less if you keep it simple. Bring cash for small shops and markets.
Getting around the island
Roads are winding and hilly, so a scooter or a car gives you the most freedom (buses are limited). I can sort you a rental in minutes.
Giant tortoises — François Leguat Reserve
Head to the François Leguat Reserve at Anse Quitor — you can walk among hundreds of giant tortoises and tour the Grande Caverne cave with a guide.
See it on Google MapsÎle aux Cocos bird sanctuary
Île aux Cocos is a protected bird-sanctuary islet reached by boat with a licensed guide — pure white sand and thousands of seabirds. Book the excursion ahead.
See it on Google MapsCaverne Patate cave
Caverne Patate is a ~600m limestone cave — a guided, torch-lit walk past dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Wear comfy shoes.
See it on Google MapsTrou d'Argent beach
Trou d'Argent is the island's most famous hidden beach — tucked between cliffs and reachable only on foot, hiking from Graviers or Saint-François. Bring water and good shoes.
See it on Google MapsMont Limon viewpoint
Mont Limon is the highest point (~398m) with a sweeping view over the island — an easy stop just south of Port Mathurin.
See it on Google MapsRodriguan food & specialities
You have to try ourite (octopus) — Rodrigues' signature, slow-cooked in a tomato-and-spice sauce. Look out for smoked sausages, limes, honey and local Creole dishes too. Want me to sort you a table?
Culture, séga & the Port Mathurin market
Rodrigues runs on Creole culture and sega tambour — its own music and dance. Don't miss the lively Saturday-morning market in Port Mathurin for crafts, fruit, honey and chilli.
Activities — snorkelling, diving, kitesurfing
Beyond the beaches: snorkelling and diving in the huge lagoon, kayaking, and kitesurfing or windsurfing — best June–September when the trade winds pick up.
Safety & responsible travel
Rodrigues is very safe and laid-back. In the water, watch for strong currents and stonefish — wear reef shoes and never step on the coral. Bring good sun protection. And please take your litter home and keep your distance from the wildlife, so the island stays beautiful for everyone. 🌱