Île aux Aigrettes: a natural sanctuary in south-eastern Mauritius

Île aux Aigrettes is a 26-hectare nature reserve located off the coast of Pointe d’Esny in south-eastern Mauritius. Managed by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, it is home to the country’s last remaining coastal dry forest. Aldabra giant tortoises, pink pigeons, and Mauritius olive white-eyes find refuge here from invasive species. Visits are available exclusively as guided walking tours, following a short boat crossing. Here’s everything you need to know before planning your excursion to this remarkable Mauritian sanctuary from Legend Hill, a property offering the refined services of a luxury hotel in Mauritius.

An ecological haven in south-eastern Mauritius

The story of Île aux Aigrettes perfectly illustrates the challenges and successes of nature conservation in Mauritius. This small raised coral island covers just 26 hectares within the Mahébourg lagoon and is considered one of the Indian Ocean’s most valuable conservation sites. Before 1985, invasive species including rats, cats, and exotic plants threatened its fragile ecosystem. The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation then launched an ambitious ecological restoration programme.

Since then, conservation teams have eradicated invasive species and painstakingly replanted the native forest, one species at a time. Today, Île aux Aigrettes is recognised internationally as a model for successful species reintroduction. Thousands of endemic trees have been restored across the island, inspiring similar conservation initiatives throughout the Indian Ocean. Every visitor directly supports these ongoing preservation efforts.

What wildlife and plant species can you see?

The wildlife and flora of Île aux Aigrettes are among the most precious in Mauritius. Several species have found a unique sanctuary here.

Here are some of the highlights you’ll encounter during your visit:

• The Aldabra giant tortoise roams freely and plays an essential role in dispersing native forest seeds.
• Endemic to Mauritius, the pink pigeon narrowly escaped extinction and has now recovered to several hundred individuals.
• One of the world’s rarest birds, the Mauritius olive white-eye has found a safe haven here.
• Recognisable by its bright red plumage, the Mauritius cardinal can often be spotted among the treetops.
• Extinct on mainland Mauritius, the Telfair’s skink now thrives within the protected reserve.

The island also shelters plant species that can no longer be found elsewhere in Mauritius. The foundation has extensively replanted the endemic Mauritian ebony tree (Diospyros tessellaria), once heavily exploited over centuries. Native species such as the bois de natte, blue latan palm, and several endemic orchids further enrich this exceptional botanical heritage.

How does the guided tour work?

Your visit to Île aux Aigrettes begins at Pointe Jérôme, near Mahébourg. You’ll board a small Mauritian Wildlife Foundation boat for a 10-minute crossing. Upon arrival, an experienced guide leads you along a marked trail lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Along the way, this excursion reveals endemic trees, nesting areas for pink pigeons, and the habitats of the giant tortoises. Tours are available in both French and English.

The terrain is rocky, so be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, bring a hat, and carry drinking water. Group sizes are deliberately kept small to minimise disturbance to the wildlife.

Practical information

Here are the essential details to help you plan your visit:

• Location: departure from Pointe Jérôme, near Mahébourg in south-eastern Mauritius.
• Opening hours: guided tours operate in the morning and early afternoon, Monday through Saturday, weather permitting.
• Admission: paid entry, with separate rates for adults and children.
• Duration: allow approximately 2 hours, including the boat transfer.
• Booking: advance reservation with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation is required.
• Website: mauritian-wildlife.org

Would you like to extend your stay in Mauritius with an unforgettable encounter with its unique biodiversity? Contact the Legend Hill concierge team at our private villa in Mauritius to arrange your guided visit to Île aux Aigrettes, along with private transfers and personalised excursions.

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