Ile aux Aigrettes
A coral islet and nature reserve, open-air laboratory of the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation: pink pigeons, kestrels, day geckos and giant tortoises in Mauritius's last intact coastal dry forest.
Tip: Guided 1.5-2h eco-tours only (from Pointe Jérôme), booking required at mauritian-wildlife.org; tailored photo and birdwatching tours available.
An island refuge for rare species
Ile aux Aigrettes is a 26-hectare islet in Mahébourg Bay, about 850 m off the south-east coast. Unlike volcanic mainland Mauritius, it is made of coral limestone, and it holds the last remnants of the dry coastal forest that once ringed much of the island.
After logging and invasive species almost wiped out its native life, the island was declared a nature reserve in 1965. The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) has since restored the forest and brought back species that had vanished. On a tour you may see pink pigeons, Mauritius fodies, Mauritius olive white-eyes, giant tortoises and endemic reptiles.
How the tour works
You can only land with an MWF guide. The standard eco-tour starts with a short boat ride from Pointe Jérôme (the old sand jetty, about 850 m south of Le Preskil hotel), followed by a guided walk of 1.5 to 2 hours.
Rangers explain the plants and animals, the restoration work and the island's history. The visit includes a small museum on extinct species and a souvenir shop. Tailor-made tours for photographers or birdwatchers can be arranged in advance.
Prices, times and booking
Tourist rate: Rs 1,000 per adult, Rs 500 for children aged 4 to 11, free for under-4s; Mauritian residents pay a lower rate (checked October 2026 on the MWF website).
Boats leave Monday to Saturday at 9:30, 10:00, 10:30, 13:30, 14:00 and 14:30, and on Sunday mornings only. Book at least 24 hours ahead on (230) 631 2396 or (230) 5258 8139 (also WhatsApp), by email to [email protected], or at the visitor centre at Pointe Jérôme if places are left. Times can change, so confirm with the MWF.
Practical tips
The MWF suggests walking shoes, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat and a camera. The dry forest gets hot around midday, so morning departures are the most comfortable.
If you have limited mobility, check with the MWF before booking. Your ticket directly funds the foundation's conservation work.
Combine it with
Pointe Jérôme is next to Pointe d'Esny beach and close to Blue Bay. Mahébourg, with its waterfront and Monday market, is about 10 minutes away by car.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Ile aux Aigrettes?
The tourist rate is Rs 1,000 per adult and Rs 500 per child aged 4 to 11, with under-4s free. The boat transfer and guide are included.
Can you visit Ile aux Aigrettes without a guide?
No. It is a nature reserve and access is only by guided tour with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, departing from Pointe Jérôme.
Do I need to book an Ile aux Aigrettes tour?
Yes, at least 24 hours in advance by phone, WhatsApp or email with the MWF. The Pointe Jérôme office can also book you on the spot if there is space.
How long is the Ile aux Aigrettes tour?
The guided walk lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, plus a few minutes by boat each way. Allow around 2.5 hours in total.
