This Rodrigues Island travel guide shows the other face of the Republic of Mauritius. About 600 km (373 mi) east of Mauritius, this small volcanic island of about 108 km² (42 sq mi) is surrounded by a lagoon larger than itself. No big resorts: guesthouses, coastal trails, wind-scoured hills, a tiny capital, Port Mathurin, and a largely Creole population. What to do on Rodrigues, when to go, how to get there and what budget to plan: here are the essentials.
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Rodrigues at a glance
- Main town Port Mathurin, in the north
- Status autonomous region of the Republic of Mauritius
- Languages Rodriguan Creole, French and English
- Currency Mauritian rupee · currencies(MUR). Our currency converter helps you estimate your budget
- Time zone UTC+4 all year: 4 hours ahead of London in winter, 3 in summer · detailsLocal time now: –:–
- Airports Plaine Corail (RRG), south-westDomestic flights from Mauritius (MRU); seasonal flights from Réunion
- Entry US and UK: no visa, entry stamp for up to 60 days; online All in One travel form · travel.state.gov · GOV.UK
- Electricity check voltage and plug types before you go · plugs
- Budget see our budget section
When to go to Rodrigues
The best time to visit Rodrigues is September to November: these are the driest months (about 40 to 70 mm, or 1.6 to 2.8 in, of rain), with 25 to 27 °C (77 to 81 °F) in the afternoon at the end of the southern winter. December is still pleasant before the cyclone season peaks. From June to August it is cooler (25 °C, or 77 °F, by day and 19 °C, or 66 °F, at night) and the wind blows hard, which kitesurfers love. From January to April the season is hotter and wetter; according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), the tropical cyclone season usually runs from November to May.
The table uses the Rodrigues normals published by the Mauritius Meteorological Services. The island is drier than the uplands of Mauritius but very exposed to the trade winds.
| Month | Avg max | Avg min | Rain | Rainy days | Crowds | Prices | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 29.2 °C (85 °F) | 23.6 °C (74 °F) | 150 mm (5.9 in) | 12 | Low | Medium | ⚠️ Hot, humid, cyclones possible |
| February | 29.3 °C (85 °F) | 23.8 °C (75 °F) | 185 mm (7.3 in) | 13 | Moderate (holidays) | Medium | ❌ Wettest month, cyclone risk |
| March | 29.4 °C (85 °F) | 23.7 °C (75 °F) | 131 mm (5.2 in) | 13 | Low | Low | ⚠️ Still humid, cyclones possible |
| April | 28.7 °C (84 °F) | 23.0 °C (73 °F) | 117 mm (4.6 in) | 13 | Moderate (Easter) | Medium | ⚠️ Transition, cyclones still possible |
| May | 27.5 °C (82 °F) | 21.6 °C (71 °F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) | 12 | Low | Low | ✅ Cooler, less rain |
| June | 26.0 °C (79 °F) | 20.1 °C (68 °F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) | 13 | Low | Low | ⚠️ Southern winter, cool and windy |
| July | 25.0 °C (77 °F) | 19.1 °C (66 °F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) | 15 | Moderate (holidays) | Medium | ⚠️ Coolest, strong wind (kitesurfing) |
| August | 24.8 °C (77 °F) | 18.8 °C (66 °F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) | 13 | Moderate (holidays) | Medium | ✅ Cool, drier |
| September | 25.4 °C (78 °F) | 19.3 °C (67 °F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) | 9 | Low | Low | ✅ Dry, ideal for hiking |
| October | 26.3 °C (79 °F) | 20.1 °C (68 °F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) | 8 | Moderate | Medium | ✅ Driest month |
| November | 27.4 °C (81 °F) | 21.3 °C (70 °F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 7 | Low | Low | ✅ Dry and warm, start of cyclone season |
| December | 28.7 °C (84 °F) | 22.8 °C (73 °F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) | 8 | Moderate (holidays) | High | ✅ Warm, little rain |
- September to December: the best season. Rain at its lowest in September-October, warm sea from November, sunny days for coastal hikes.
- May to August (southern winter): mild temperatures (24-27 °C, or 75-81 °F), nights at 19 °C (66 °F), steady wind. Good for walking and kitesurfing, less so for lazing on the beach. Frequent but light showers.
- January to April (southern summer): humid heat and a wet February (185 mm, or 7.3 in). Cyclone season: during a cyclone you are not allowed to leave your accommodation, and car insurance policies often become invalid (GOV.UK); follow the phased warnings of the Mauritius Meteorological Services. Flights to Mauritius can be disrupted.
To compare with Mauritius, see the best time to visit Mauritius, and our ideas for October or November getaways.
Things to do on Rodrigues: the highlights
The coastal trail from Graviers to Trou d’Argent
This is the island’s signature hike: a trail follows the east coast from Graviers to Saint-François, past a string of small white-sand coves, including Trou d’Argent, often called the most beautiful beach on Rodrigues. Allow half a day at an easy pace. Set off early with water, a hat and closed shoes: there is little shade. The bus brings you back from Saint-François or Graviers.
The lagoon: Île aux Cocos, snorkelling and fishing
The Rodrigues lagoon is huge and shallow. The most popular trip goes to Île aux Cocos, a nature reserve where seabirds (terns, noddies) nest, with controlled visitor numbers: book through an approved operator. Other trips combine snorkelling, big-game fishing or a picnic on the islets. Respect the protected areas and do not walk on the coral.
François Leguat reserve and Caverne Patate
In the south-west, near the airport, the François Leguat reserve has replanted a valley with native species and is home to several hundred giant tortoises, a reminder of the island’s extinct endemic tortoises. A small museum covers the natural history of Rodrigues, and a guided visit of the neighbouring cave reveals limestone formations. Caverne Patate, nearby, can also be visited with a guide.
Port Mathurin and the Saturday market
The capital fits into a few streets: Creole houses, shops, a bank and the jetty. On Saturday morning, the market brings together producers and craftspeople from across the island: chillies, lemons, honey, achards (pickles), cakes, vacoa (screwpine) crafts. Arrive early, as the best produce goes fast. It is also the best time to try local food, including dried octopus, the island’s speciality.
Mont Limon, Grande Montagne and the interior
The centre of the island is made up of hills and valleys. Mont Limon, the highest point, is reached by a short walk and offers a panorama over the whole lagoon. The Grande Montagne reserve protects endemic plants and a few birds unique to Rodrigues, such as the Rodrigues fody and Rodrigues warbler; waymarked trails cross it.
Kitesurfing and water sports
In the south-east, Mourouk bay is a well-known kitesurfing spot thanks to the steady trade winds of the southern winter. Schools offer lessons and rental. Diving takes place at the passes and on the outer reef drop-off, with a few clubs on the island; GOV.UK advises checking that water sports operators and equipment meet safety standards and that your insurance covers the activity.
How many days on Rodrigues? Itineraries
4 days on Rodrigues
- Day 1: arrival, Port Mathurin, Mont Limon at sunset
- Day 2: the coastal trail from Graviers to Saint-François via Trou d’Argent
- Day 3: boat trip to Île aux Cocos
- Day 4: François Leguat reserve and Caverne Patate, flight back (or the Saturday market if the days work out)
A week lets you add Grande Montagne, a day of kitesurfing or diving at Mourouk, fishing in the lagoon and time to settle into island life.
Two weeks in Mauritius + Rodrigues: 9 to 10 days in Mauritius (see our Mauritius travel guide), then 4 to 5 days on Rodrigues. Allow a night in Mauritius between the Rodrigues flight and your long-haul flight if the timings are tight.
Budget for a trip to Rodrigues
| Item (per person per day) | Budget | Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared double room) | about US$28 to $50 (guesthouse, half board possible) | about US$80 to $170 (small hotel) |
| Meals | about US$17 to $28 | about US$34 to $56 |
| Transport (bus, scooter, shared car) | about US$6 to $17 | about US$22 to $45 |
| Activities (boat, reserve, diving) | about US$11 to $22 | about US$34 to $67 |
| Total | roughly US$70 to $110 per person per day | roughly US$145 to $280 per person per day |
The biggest cost is air travel: a long-haul flight to Mauritius, then the return flight between Mauritius and Rodrigues. On the island, prices are lower than in Mauritius, especially in a guesthouse with table d’hôte (shared home-cooked meals), a very common arrangement.
Getting there and getting around Rodrigues
- By air: Plaine Corail airport, in the south-west, is linked to Mauritius by Air Mauritius and, in season, to Réunion by Air Austral. Book your Rodrigues flight early: seats are limited and the baggage allowance may be lower. Check current routes with the airlines.
- Bus: a cheap network links Port Mathurin with the villages; handy during the day, scarce in the late afternoon.
- Scooter and car: rental in Port Mathurin; narrow, winding roads. Traffic drives on the left, as in the UK (GOV.UK); US citizens need a valid US driver’s license (travel.state.gov).
- On foot: the best way to discover the east coast.
- Taxis: book ahead, especially for the airport.
Where to stay on Rodrigues
- Port Mathurin and the north: handy for shops, the market and buses.
- Anse Mourouk and the south-east: on the lagoon, for kitesurfing and boat trips.
- Graviers and the east coast: for peace and quiet and the coastal trail.
- Types of accommodation: guesthouses in local homes (often half board), gîtes and a few mid-sized hotels. Capacity is limited: book early for the European autumn half-term and year-end holidays.
Entry requirements, health and safety
- US citizens: no visa is required: your passport is stamped on arrival for a 60-day stay. You need a valid passport with at least one blank page, evidence of onward or return travel and proof of sufficient funds. The Passport and Immigration Office recommends that anyone entering Mauritius or Rodrigues on an international flight or ship fill in the online « Mauritius All-in-One Travel Digital Form » at most 72 hours before travel (U.S. Department of State, travel.state.gov, last updated December 8, 2025).
- UK citizens: you can visit without a visa for up to 60 days. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay and have one blank page, and you must be able to show proof of onward or return travel. You must fill in the Mauritius All in One travel form online before you arrive and print a copy with its QR code (UK FCDO, GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026).
- Customs: it is illegal to possess or import cigarette papers (GOV.UK). For what you can bring home, check your home country’s customs allowances (e.g. CBP in the US, HMRC in the UK).
- Health: a yellow fever vaccination is required only if you arrive from a country with a risk of yellow fever (travel.state.gov). GOV.UK lists dengue and chikungunya among the health risks: protect yourself from mosquitoes. Medical facilities on Rodrigues are limited: take out insurance covering evacuation to Mauritius.
- Safety: GOV.UK advises not walking alone at night on beaches or in poorly lit areas. At sea, the passes can have strong currents: respect swimming bans and check the weather before any boat trip.
- Cyclones: from November to May, follow the advice of the Mauritian government information service and the warnings of the Mauritius Meteorological Services (GOV.UK).
To choose cover suited to a long-haul trip, see our travel insurance guide.
Practical tips for Rodrigues
- Money: cash machines mostly in Port Mathurin; keep rupees in cash for the market, buses and small guesthouse restaurants.
- Mobile data: a Mauritian SIM card or eSIM; decent coverage in the villages, weaker in some coves.
- Pace of life: shops close early and Sunday is very quiet: plan your shopping.
- Etiquette: the population is very religious; dress modestly for church and in the villages, and greet people in Creole or French.
- Environment: Rodrigues has a strict policy on waste; take yours back from hikes and the islets.
Rodrigues: who is it for?
Our verdict by traveller type, based on the information in this guide:
- Couples: yes, for a quiet guesthouse stay, with the lagoon, Île aux Cocos and the Trou d’Argent trail.
- Families: yes, for families who like simple nature: the François Leguat reserve and its giant tortoises, a shallow lagoon; no big resorts.
- Budget travellers: fairly, once there (roughly US$70 to $110 per person per day in a guesthouse); the main cost is air travel.
- Hiking: yes: the coastal trail from Graviers to Saint-François, Mont Limon, the Grande Montagne reserve; September-October are the driest months.
- Kitesurfing and diving: yes: Mourouk bay for kiting in the southern winter, diving at the passes and on the reef drop-off.
- Nightlife and luxury: no: the island moves slowly, shops close early and accommodation remains modest.
Further reading
Rodrigues is often combined with Mauritius: our page on the best time to visit Mauritius helps you choose dates for both islands, and our comparison Mauritius or Réunion can help if you are still deciding. The Mauritius time difference also applies to Rodrigues.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Rodrigues?
September to December, with the least rain in September and October (about 40 to 45 mm, or 1.6 to 1.8 in) according to Mauritius Meteorological Services normals. June to August suit hikers and kitesurfers who accept the cooler weather and wind.
How do you get to Rodrigues?
First fly to Mauritius, then take an Air Mauritius flight to Rodrigues. Air Austral also runs seasonal flights from Réunion. Check current routes with the airlines.
How many days should you spend on Rodrigues?
Allow at least 4 days for the coastal trail, Île aux Cocos and the François Leguat reserve; a week to enjoy the lagoon, kitesurfing and the Saturday market without rushing.
Do you need a visa for Rodrigues?
No, for US and UK citizens: the rules are those of Mauritius, with an entry stamp for up to 60 days, according to travel.state.gov and GOV.UK. You need a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel and the online All in One travel form.
Rodrigues or Mauritius?
Mauritius has more developed beaches, hotels and activities. Rodrigues appeals to those looking for peace and quiet, hiking, homestays and an uncrowded lagoon. The two are easy to combine by air.
Our sources
- Climate data: Rodrigues climate normals published by the Mauritius Meteorological Services (via the Wikipedia climate box for Rodrigues)
- Wikipedia: Plaine Corail Airport (links with Mauritius and Réunion)
- European Central Bank euro reference rates of 23 October 2026 (budget conversion)
- Entry requirements, health and safety checked on 26 October 2026: U.S. Department of State, Mauritius country information (last updated December 8, 2025) and UK FCDO, GOV.UK foreign travel advice for Mauritius (updated 19 October 2026)
- Our methodology
Updated October 2026.
To continue, see our Mauritius travel guide, the best time to visit Mauritius, and other Indian Ocean islands: Réunion and the Seychelles.
