Plizio Visual Lab

Round Island

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Weather…

Round Island is a premier ecological sanctuary located approximately 22 kilometers north of mainland Mauritius. Spanning 169 hectares, this volcanic tuff island is of immense global importance because it remained largely free from invasive predators like rats and goats, which devastated biodiversity elsewhere. This isolation allowed for the survival of unique endemic species, most notably the Round Island Boa and several rare species of skinks and geckos found nowhere else on Earth. The island's dramatic, cone-shaped silhouette and steep slopes also provide essential nesting grounds for various seabirds. To preserve this fragile biological heritage, the island is designated as a strict nature reserve, meaning public tourism is entirely prohibited. Access is granted only to scientists and conservationists who work tirelessly on habitat restoration, including the reintroduction of native palms and the monitoring of the island's unique reptilian inhabitants.

Location: Mauritius
Nearby: Grand Gaube (16 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	28	27	27	26	24	23	23	23	24	25	26
Rain mm	133	123	131	73	43	29	24	21	24	31	28	46

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The best time for a boat trip near Round Island is the dry season from May to November with calm seas. In summer months, seas can be rougher, making viewing from the boat more difficult.

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Best time of day

Early morning has the calmest seas and best light for photographing the island. Late afternoon can also be good, but avoid windy times of day.

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Etiquette

Landing on the island is strictly prohibited - Round Island is a scientific reserve. Maintain a safe distance from the island while on the boat and do not litter into the sea.

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What to bring

Binoculars are essential for observing endemic birds and reptiles from a distance. Bring a camera with a telephoto lens, and don't forget sunscreen and a rain jacket for changeable weather.

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Getting there

Round Island is only accessible by boat from Mauritius' north coast, but landings are not allowed. Special boat tours offer circumnavigation of the island without docking.

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What to expect

Since you cannot land, distant sightings are possible but often brief. Be patient and scan the rocks and vegetation with binoculars for movement.

Geography

Coordinates

-19.85220, 57.78500

Facts

22 km north of Mauritius
Area of 169 hectares
No invasive predatory animals
Home to the Round Island boa
Volcanic tuff formation
Strict access restrictions

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Serpent Island2 km · NEExplore →

St. Geran Wreck Site12 km · SWExplore →

Paul and Virginie Monument14 km · SWExplore →

Flat Island15 km · SExplore →

Ile d'Ambre16 km · SWExplore →

Grand Gaube16 km · SWExplore →

Poste Lafayette17 km · WExplore →

Roches Noires17 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Round Island (1)

Île Ronde, Mauritius📍 landmark

An uninhabited volcanic island known for rare reptiles and endemic plant species.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Round Island?

No, it is a strictly protected nature reserve with restricted access only for researchers.

Why is this island so special?

It is home to rare, endemic reptile species found nowhere else in the world.

What is the terrain like on the island?

The terrain is rugged, rocky, and consists primarily of volcanic rock.

Are there freshwater sources on Round Island?

No, the island is very arid and has few natural surface water sources.

Can you dive in the waters around the island?

Diving is restricted due to strong currents and the conservation status of the area.

Round Island: where is it located?

Round Island is located in Mauritius.

Round Island: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Round Island: why is it worth visiting?

Round Island is a premier ecological sanctuary located approximately 22 kilometers north of mainland Mauritius.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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