Rodrigues is a picturesque island located in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As part of the Republic of Mauritius, Rodrigues offers a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant traditions. The island is characterized by its rolling hills, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Visitors to Rodrigues can explore its numerous hiking trails, enjoy snorkelling and diving in its coral reefs, or relax on its serene beaches. The island’s small, friendly population is known for their warm hospitality, and visitors often get a glimpse into the local way of life through traditional music, dance, and cuisine.

The culture of Rodrigues is a fascinating mix of influences, reflecting its history as a meeting point for different civilisations. This is evident in the island’s Creole language, widely spoken alongside English and French. Traditional crafts, such as basket weaving and fishing, are still practised, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage.

Whether you are looking for a tranquil escape or an adventure-filled holiday, Rodrigues offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

We spoke with Gillian Roffe, owner of XL Bay Travel, who visited Rodrigues during December and January, and she had the following to say:

Escape the noise and find peace and tranquillity at Rodrigues Island, located east of Mauritius, where the Indian Ocean is right on your doorstep. Surrounded by beautiful turquoise waters and coral reefs, Rodrigues Island is the only island in the Indian Ocean entirely encircled by a coral reef. The beaches are wide and serene, offering stunning sunset walks. The ocean is warm and offers safe swimming areas. Constance Hotel Group operates two resorts on the island, Tekoma and Mourouk. Tekoma is a tranquil retreat with luxurious features and fine cuisine, while its sister hotel, Mourouk, caters to families. Snorkelling, kitesurfing, and hiking trails keep you active and engaged. South African travellers can enjoy full-board or half-board packages. Constance Tekoma boasts 32 ocean-facing villas. The layout and gardens remind me of a resort in Greece, but they lack the usual fringed palm trees we associate with Mauritius. I spent Christmas and New Year in Rodrigues, and for those seeking an alternative holiday option, I can genuinely recommend the island. There are approximately 50,000 residents on Rodrigues, but car rental, transport, and other accommodation facilities are available, and the roads are in perfect condition. We hired a driver for a half-day tour of the island, which was interesting as the vegetation turned to lush ferns and trees in the mountains. The weather was perfect, with a light shower to cool the temperatures. The pool and ocean are warm. Reaching Rodrigues, the flight path is via Mauritius and does require a short layover before catching the domestic flight of 1 hour 35 minutes to the island. The general manager and staff at Takoma are friendly and very accommodating.
Penny arranged the trip for us and our friends. If you wish to explore Rodrigues, call her at the Newton Park office at 041 3609409 or e-mail her at penny@xlbaytravel.co.za.