While Mauritius is known for its luxury resorts and established holiday scene, its smaller neighbour, Rodrigues, offers a different kind of island escape. Here, fishing villages, quiet beaches, Creole cooking and a vast turquoise lagoon shape everyday life, inviting travellers to experience the Indian Ocean at a gentler pace.
Anse Ally beach on Rodrigues Island/By: Pavel Tochinsky/Getty Images
An island with a character of its own
About 650km east of Mauritius, Rodrigues is a small volcanic island in the Indian Ocean with a distinct identity and a strong connection to its natural surroundings. Although it forms part of the Republic of Mauritius, it has its own Rodriguan Creole culture, traditions and way of life.
The island’s landscape is varied, with rolling green hills, agricultural land, coastal cliffs and scattered villages giving way to a vast lagoon protected by coral reefs. Unlike destinations dominated by large hotels and resort developments, Rodrigues has retained much of its rural character, with smaller guesthouses and locally run accommodation offering visitors a closer connection to the island.
Much of its appeal lies in the opportunity to experience everyday life rather than follow a packed sightseeing itinerary. Days can be spent exploring coastal paths, visiting local markets, enjoying freshly prepared seafood or finding a quiet stretch of beach.
Fishing villages and the rhythm of island life
Fishing remains an important part of life in Rodrigues, with the surrounding lagoon providing both a livelihood and a source of food for local communities. Around the island, traditional fishing practices continue alongside small-scale agriculture, giving villages a character closely tied to the natural environment.
Visitors interested in this side of Rodrigues can arrange fishing excursions with local operators, including trips with experienced fishermen who know the lagoon and its waters. Line fishing offers an opportunity to learn about traditional techniques while spending time on the water.
The island’s capital, Port Mathurin, is a good starting point for getting a feel for local life. Its harbour, small shops and market provide a glimpse into the island’s daily routines. The Saturday market is particularly worth visiting, with stalls selling fresh produce, spices, homemade preserves, local honey and handicrafts.
Away from the capital, smaller settlements and coastal villages offer a quieter look at island life, where agriculture, fishing and community traditions remain central to everyday routines.
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A lagoon made for exploring
Île aux Cocos, Rodrigues/B.navez/Wikimedia Commons
The lagoon is one of Rodrigues’ defining features, creating a sheltered setting for water activities and a striking backdrop to much of the island. Protected by coral reefs, its clear waters and scattered islets offer plenty of opportunities to explore beyond the shoreline.
Snorkelling, diving and kitesurfing
Snorkelling and scuba diving are popular ways to discover the marine environment, with coral formations and tropical fish found around the reef and lagoon. Local operators offer guided excursions for visitors who want to explore underwater.
On the south-eastern coast, Mourouk is particularly well known for kitesurfing. Its expansive lagoon and trade winds attract experienced riders, while local schools offer lessons for beginners. Windsurfing and other water-based activities are also available.
For something more relaxed, visitors can arrange boat trips across the lagoon, explore nearby islets or spend an afternoon swimming in the shallows.
A day trip to Île aux Cocos
One of the island’s memorable excursions is a boat trip to Île aux Cocos. Located about 4km off the western coast, this small sandy island is a protected natural reserve and an important refuge for seabirds.
Thousands of birds use the island as a resting and nesting site, making it an appealing stop for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Its stretches of pale sand, coconut palms and surrounding shallow waters also make it a beautiful place to spend a few hours.
Visits are arranged through authorised local operators, with boat trips offering an opportunity to experience the lagoon and its marine environment along the way.
Beaches, coastal walks and natural escapes
Aldabra giant tortoises roam at the bottom of Tyel Canyon, at François Leguat Reserve on Rodrigues, Mauritius/Kevin Gepford/Wikimedia Commons
Rodrigues is just as rewarding to explore on foot as it is from the water. Its coastline is dotted with secluded coves, rocky headlands and sandy beaches, while the island’s hilly interior offers walking routes with sweeping views of the lagoon.
Discover Trou d’Argent
On the eastern coast, Trou d’Argent is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Tucked between rocky cliffs, this secluded stretch of sand is reached by a coastal walk from the Saint-François area.
The walk is part of the experience, passing rugged scenery and smaller coastal coves before opening onto the beach. It is a rewarding stop for travellers looking to escape the busier parts of the island, although visitors should bring drinking water and suitable walking shoes.
Meet the giant tortoises at François Leguat Reserve
For a different perspective on Rodrigues’ natural heritage, visit the François Leguat Giant Tortoise and Cave Reserve.
The conservation reserve is home to Aldabra giant tortoises and focuses on restoring native vegetation and protecting the island’s natural environment. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about conservation efforts and encounter the tortoises in a protected setting.
The reserve also provides access to limestone caves, including Caverne Patate, another interesting addition to an island itinerary.
A taste of traditional Rodriguan cuisine
Food is an important part of the Rodrigues experience, reflecting the island’s African, Indian, French and Chinese influences. Local ingredients, freshly caught seafood and home-style cooking feature prominently, with recipes passed down through generations.
Octopus, known locally as ourite, is among the island’s most recognisable ingredients. It appears in several traditional preparations, including octopus salad and curry. Fresh fish and kono-kono, a local shellfish delicacy, are also worth looking out for.
Other dishes include diri may, a combination of rice and maize, often served alongside red beans, vegetables and meat. Local sausages, chilli-based condiments and homemade pickles add further variety to the island’s food culture.
For something sweet, try the famous Rodriguan papaya pie, alongside locally produced honey, fruit preserves and other homemade treats. Port Mathurin’s market is a good place to discover some of these products, with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to traditional snacks and handicrafts.
Traditions that keep the island’s identity alive
Beyond its beaches and food, Rodrigues has a cultural identity that remains closely connected to music, dance and craftsmanship.
One of its most distinctive traditions is Sega Tambour, a form of music and dance performed to the rhythm of the tambour drum. More than entertainment, it is an expression of the island’s history and shared cultural identity, with songs and performances reflecting the experiences of the local community.
In 2017, Sega Tambour of Rodrigues was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising its importance as a living tradition.
Handicrafts are another part of the island’s cultural heritage. Basketry made from locally available plants, including vacoas and vetiver, remains an important traditional craft. These handmade items, along with local food products and preserves, can often be found at markets and through local artisans.
For visitors, attending a cultural performance, browsing the market or supporting small local businesses offers a meaningful way to engage with the island beyond its natural attractions.
An island best experienced at your own pace
Rodrigues may not have the extensive resort infrastructure or busy holiday atmosphere associated with Mauritius, but that is precisely where much of its appeal lies. Its quieter villages, traditional food, welcoming communities and expansive lagoon create a destination that rewards travellers willing to slow down and explore.
Whether it is a morning spent browsing Port Mathurin’s market, an afternoon on a secluded beach, a boat trip to Île aux Cocos or a meal of freshly prepared seafood, the island offers plenty of ways to experience its character.
For travellers looking for an Indian Ocean escape with a stronger connection to local culture and everyday island life, Rodrigues is well worth discovering.
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