Mauritius

Aldabra Giant Tortoises

Although on land, the fruit bat is Mauritius’ only native mammal, the island is home to several introduced species, including Aldabra giant tortoises from the Seychelles.

There are several places on the island where you can see them – and feed them, including Île aux Aigrettes, a tiny island reserve located off the southeast coast of Mauritius. Spot the island’s unique wildlife, some of which have come close to extinction like the Pink Pigeon, as well as endangered skinks, Mauritian fruit bats and of course, the fascinating giant tortoises.

Black River Gorges National Park

The Black River Gorges National Park, which protects most of the island’s remaining rainforest, is also a great place for nature lovers. Located in the southwest of the island, the wild expanse of lush forest is home to hundreds of species of flowering plants, as well as endangered bird species, including the Mauritius kestrel and the pink pigeon, the Mauritian flying fox, and introduced Macaque Monkeys.

Rodrigues Island

A small volcanic island situated to the east of Mauritius, Rodrigues is home to the Francois Leguat Tortoise and Cave Reserve, located on the wild southwest side of the island. The reserve is home to herds of giant tortoises, which are easily spotted grazing freely amidst the endemic shrubs and trees.