Rodrigues Island, a small volcanic island in the Indian Ocean (part of Mauritius), offers stunning trails that combine dramatic coastal cliffs, lush valleys, limestone caves, and rural charm. While the island is small, it’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Here are some of the best trails in Rodrigues:
🥾 1. Mont Limon Trail
- Highest point on the island (398 meters)
- Duration: 1–1.5 hours round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights:
- Panoramic 360° views of the island
- Lush vegetation and birdwatching
- Ideal for sunrise or sunset hikes
🥾 2. Grande Montagne Nature Reserve
- Managed conservation area
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights:
- Guided eco-tours available
- Native and endemic flora and fauna
- Giant tortoises and rare birds like the Rodrigues Warbler
🥾 3. Mourouk to Graviers Coastal Trail
- One of the most scenic coastal walks
- Duration: 3–4 hours (one way)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights:
- Cliffs, pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons
- Fishermen villages and authentic island life
- Opportunity to swim in hidden coves
🥾 4. Cascade Pistache Trail (Pistach Waterfall)
- Beautiful inland nature walk
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights:
- Small but scenic waterfall
- Ideal for a family picnic
- Lush green surroundings with fruit trees
🥾 5. Anse Bouteille and Trou d’Argent Trail
- Most iconic beach hike in Rodrigues
- Duration: 1–2.5 hours round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights:
- Hidden coves and dramatic cliffs
- Trou d’Argent Beach: postcard-perfect with white sand and turquoise water
- Great photo opportunities and picnic spot
🥾 6. Mont Malartic Ridge Trail
- Lesser-known inland trail
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights:
- Views over Plaine Corail and central Rodrigues
- Rocky ridges and dry forest vegetation
Tips for Hiking in Rodrigues:
- 🌞 Start early to avoid the midday sun
- 💧 Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat
- 📵 Trails are often not well-marked, so a local guide or offline map (e.g., Maps.me) is helpful
- 🐦 Nature reserves are best explored with eco-guides to understand endemic species
- 🏝️ Leave no trace — help preserve the island’s fragile ecosystems
