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Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The lighthouse on Ile aux Fouquets, frequently referred to as Ile au Phare, is a captivating relic of Mauritius's colonial maritime past. Erected in 1864 by the British, it was designed to guide vessels navigating the treacherous reefs near the entrance to Grand Port, a bay historically significant as the site of the 1810 naval battle between French and British forces. Constructed from local coral stone and basalt, the lighthouse stands prominently on a rocky islet at the very edge of the fringing reef. Although it was decommissioned long ago and its structure has been weathered by the relentless sea spray and tropical sun, it remains a proud national monument and a striking example of 19th-century architecture. Accessible only by boat from the mainland, typically starting from Mahebourg, the site gives visitors a sense of isolation and grandeur. Exploring the ruins provides not only a historical perspective on the island's strategic importance but also panoramic views of the crashing waves on one side and the tranquil turquoise lagoon on the other.

Location: Mauritius
Nearby: Olivier (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	27	25	24	23	23	23	23	25	26
Rain mm	130	119	135	90	48	30	25	25	29	31	32	51

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse stands on a small uninhabited island in Grand Port Bay and can only be viewed from the outside. Access is solely by private boat tour, as no regular ferry service operates.

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Typical hours

Since the lighthouse is abandoned, there are no set visiting hours; access is only via guided boat trips. These typically run during daylight hours, preferably in calm seas and good weather.

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Photography

Photography is unrestricted from the outside and from the boat - the lighthouse silhouette against the ocean makes a popular subject. A telephoto lens is recommended to capture details of the masonry tower.

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Time needed

A boat trip to the lighthouse typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours including travel and time on site. Allow extra time to enjoy the surrounding coastline and bay.

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Combine with

Combine the boat trip with a visit to the historic Ile de la Passe fortifications in the same bay. Nearby Grand Port with its colonial ruins is also worth a detour.

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Getting there

The only way to reach the lighthouse is by water - depart either from Grand Port or Mahebourg with a private operator. The boat ride takes roughly 20-30 minutes depending on the starting point.

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Insider tip

Book the tour early in the morning when the light is soft and the bay is calm - this yields the best photos. Bring plenty of sun protection and water as there is no shade or facilities on the island.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.39580, 57.79250

Facts

Commissioned in 1864
Height approx. 26 meters
Located at Grand Port
Decommissioned in 1908
Built of volcanic stone
Iconic maritime ruin

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ile de la Passe Fortifications<1 km · SExplore →

Ile de la Passe3 km · SExplore →

Pointe du Diable Battery4 km · SEExplore →

Olivier7 km · SExplore →

Grand River South East7 km · EExplore →

Fort Frederik Hendrik7 km · SExplore →

Ile aux Cerfs8 km · EExplore →

Bois des Amourettes9 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse (1)

île au Phare

Ruins of an old lighthouse on a small offshore island, offering wide ocean views.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the condition of the lighthouse?

It is a scenic, but dilapidated ruin.

Can you climb the tower?

No, due to safety reasons, entering is prohibited.

When is the best time for photos?

In the morning with sunny weather for the best contrast.

Is it worth a trip?

Yes, for photographers and history enthusiasts, the sight is very appealing.

How to get there?

Only as part of a boat trip in the lagoon.

Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse: where is it located?

Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse is located in Mauritius.

Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?

The lighthouse on Ile aux Fouquets, frequently referred to as Ile au Phare, is a captivating relic of Mauritius's colonial maritime past.

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