Northern Islands of Mauritius: A Day-Trip Adventure

If you’re visiting Mauritius, taking a day-trip to the northern islands is an experience you won’t want to miss. These islands, located off the coast, boast breathtaking white-sand beaches, rich wildlife, and fascinating history. The turquoise waters surrounding these islands are also perfect for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife watching.

Coin de Mire Island (Gunner’s Quoin)

Located about five miles from the northern coast of Mauritius, Coin de Mire Island is a haven for birdwatchers. As a protected nature reserve, the island is home to species such as the Red and White-Tailed Tropicbird, Sooty Tern, and Masked Booby. While landing on the island is prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem, the surrounding waters are a diver’s dream. Here, you can snorkel or dive among vibrant fish, sea turtles, and perhaps even spot dolphins in their natural habitat.

Ile aux Gabriel

A visit to Ile aux Gabriel will feel like stepping into paradise. Famous for its white-sand beaches and clear aquamarine waters, this island is perfect for a relaxing swim or a leisurely walk to soak in the untouched natural beauty of Mauritius. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate spotting the White-Tailed Tropicbird and indigenous skinks, such as the Orange-Tailed and Bojer’s Skink, that thrive on this island.

Ile Plate (Flat Island)

Ile Plate is another must-see island in Mauritius, particularly for those intrigued by history. Once a quarantine station during the 19th and early 20th centuries, remnants of this period—including overgrown structures and a small cemetery—can still be explored. The island also boasts an operational historic lighthouse, offering a glimpse into its maritime history. For diving enthusiasts, Shark Pit is a renowned dive site where you can encounter grey reef sharks and silvertip reef sharks near Pigeon Rock.

Round Island

Round Island is a protected nature reserve that has been off-limits to the public since 1957. Despite the restrictions, the island stands as a beacon of habitat restoration success, with the resurgence of rare reptiles, birds, and plants, including the once-endangered Round Island Boa. Though the rough terrain and seas make it inaccessible for visitors, it remains a remarkable site best appreciated from a distance, particularly for nature lovers.

Serpent Island

The most remote of the northern islands, Serpent Island offers a rugged, mountainous landscape. Despite its name, the island is snake-free and serves as a sanctuary for seabirds. Divers flock to this island for its impressive underwater wall, which plunges 50 meters deep, offering prime conditions for observing batfish and reef sharks in what is called the Shark Arena. While visitors are not allowed on the island, the waters surrounding it offer thrilling diving experiences.

Each of the northern islands offers a unique glimpse into Mauritius’ natural beauty, wildlife, and history. From the birdwatcher’s paradise of Coin de Mire to the historic charm of Ile Plate, these islands are ideal for anyone looking to go beyond the mainland and discover more of Mauritius. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, diving, or just soaking up the stunning surroundings, these northern islands are well worth the adventure.