Île aux Aigrettes

Île aux Aigrettes is a small coralline island in Mahébourg Bay, about 850 metres off Mauritius’s southeast coast. The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation manages conservation work there and describes the island as a nature reserve with remnants of dry coastal forest. Its restoration programme has brought back native vegetation and rare species, so the visit offers a close look at the island’s conservation work as well as its landscape.

The foundation offers a standard guided eco-tour along trails and points of interest, with a short boat trip to and from the island; it estimates the tour at about one and a half to two hours. Tailor-made visits for interests such as photography or birdwatching can be arranged in advance. Visitors should book through the foundation and follow its biosecurity and guide instructions to protect the reserve. This is well suited to nature-focused travellers who want a small-group learning experience, rather than an independent beach visit.