A trip to Rodrigues is certain to leave you with lasting memories of crystalline seas, hilly terrain and rustic charm. Oh, and tortoises too! Just drop in at the François Leguat Reserve to add another layer of fun to your holidays.
In 2007, when the François Leguat Reserve opened its doors, Rodrigues island reconnected with its past as a paradise for tortoises. As part of a conservation project, hundreds of tortoises from La Vanille Nature Park, in Mauritius, where a breeding program has been ongoing for the past 20 years, were sent to the reserve. Today, their numbers have reached more than 1200.
After quick explanations by your guide, you start off the visit in the nursery, before going on a walk in the native forest. The spectrum of colours, from the green of the trees to the blue of the sky and turquoise of the distant sea, is a sight in itself.
The forest then gives way to the wide open plain the tortoises call home. They are really docile creatures and can be easily approached and photographed. If there is enough chemistry between you two, you might consider adopting one of the creatures. You won’t be taking it home with you, but the money will help with conservation efforts.
Leaving the tortoises, you then enter the “Grande Caverne”, an easily accessible 500 metre long cave.
When the visit ends, make sure you have a few minutes to check out the museum, whose exhibits focus on the island’s natural history and geology.
Aldabra and Radiata
Two tortoise species can be found at the reserve. The Aldabra giant tortoise weighs up to 250 kg and can live more than 100 years. Less physically impressive, with a maximum weight of 10 kg, the Radiata tortoise stands out because of the beautiful patterns on its shell. Though a specimen can live up to 180 years, the species is in danger of extinction.
www.tortoisescavereserve-rodrigues.com
facebook François Leguat Giant Tortoise and Cave Reserve
