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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Mauritius

Diverse Lodging Options

Guesthouse & Hotel Types

  • Guesthouses (Chambres d'hôtes)

    These are common, often family-run. They deliver a personal touch and a chance to interact directly with local families. Many include breakfast and dinner, with home-cooked Rodriguan cuisine. An immersive cultural experience.

  • Small Hotels

    A limited number of modest hotels. Basic amenities like private bathrooms, air conditioning, sometimes a restaurant or pool. These serve travelers seeking more privacy.

  • Boutique Hotels

    A growing trend, these deliver higher-end, stylish properties. They frequently feature unique local design elements, sustainability, and deliver refined service. They suit travelers seeking comfort and aesthetics.

  • Villas and Bungalows

    Self-catering options popular for families or groups. Typically come with private kitchens, multiple bedrooms, living areas. Space and flexibility for stunning views of the lagoon or landscapes.

Self-Catering & Niche Stays

  • Vacation Rentals

    Private homes or apartments through platforms like Airbnb. Home-away-from-home experience. Good for longer stays or those who cook their own meals. Excellent for immersion in local markets.

  • Homestays / Guesthouses

    Many guesthouses operate like homestays. Authentic Rodriguan hospitality, home-cooked meals, insights into daily life. This approach directly benefits local communities, a suggested way to connect with island people and culture.

  • Unique Local Styles

    Many accommodations have traditional Rodriguan style, natural materials like wood and thatch, open-air spaces. This design shows the island's commitment to nature. Unique for personalized service and host-local connection.

  • Camping

    Formal campsites are rare or virtually non-existent. Wild camping is generally not advised due to safety, land ownership, and environmental protection. Some eco-lodges might have glamping-style tents.

Exploring Neighborhoods

Each area has a distinct character, balancing access to amenities, natural beauty, and specific ambiance.

Port Mathurin

Advantages
  • Island's hub for public transport.
  • Easy bus access across the island.
  • Good for arrivals and departures.
  • Convenient for amenities.
Considerations
  • Can be busy, especially on market days.
  • Less scenic than coastal areas.
  • Limited direct beach access in town.

East Coast Grand Baie/Pointe Coton

Advantages
  • Some of the island's most beautiful beaches.
  • Trou d'Argent, St François, Pointe Coton.
  • Ideal for beach lovers and tranquility seekers.
  • Calm waters, stunning coastal scenery.
Considerations
  • Further from Port Mathurin amenities.
  • More travel time for banks, main market.
  • Limited dining outside of hotels/guesthouses.

Southeast Coast Baie du Nord/Graviers

Advantages
  • Popular for kitesurfing.
  • Consistent, strong winds.
  • World-renowned kitesurfing paradise.
  • Dramatic scenery, lively atmosphere in season.
Considerations
  • Can be very windy.
  • Not ideal for calm beach relaxation.
  • Infrastructure relatively limited.
  • Fewer shops and services.

Traveler Advice

Safety Notes

All areas of Rodrigues are generally very safe, with remarkably low crime rates. The island is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Standard precautions apply: securing valuables, awareness of surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Location Connectivity

Port Mathurin has the best access to the island-wide bus network, banks, and the main market. East Coast locations are close to iconic beaches (Trou d'Argent, St François, Pointe Coton) and departure points for Île aux Cocos tours.

Securing Your Stay

Rodrigues accommodation fills quickly during popular times. Early booking is advised.

Booking Timeline

  • High Season (October-December, and around Easter): Book 3 to 6 months ahead for your preferred choice and better rates.
  • Shoulder Season (May-September): Booking 1 to 3 months ahead is generally sufficient.
  • Low Season (January-April): A few weeks ahead is still recommended for the best selection of accommodations.
  • You might find last-minute deals during the wet/cyclone season, but selection is less diverse.

Platform & Policies

  • International Platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda are good starting points.
  • Direct Booking: Many guesthouses have their own websites. Contacting them directly sometimes delivers better rates or special packages.
  • Negotiation: Walk-in rates are less common now. For longer stays or during low season, a polite inquiry about a better rate might be possible, especially with cash payments.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: These vary significantly by property. Clarify deposit amount and payment method. Understand terms regarding refunds or penalties for cancellations.

Seasonal Pricing

Peak Season Rates (High)
  • Prices for accommodation are highest during peak season (October-December and around major holidays like Easter).
  • Expect a noticeable drop in prices during the low season.
Low Season Value (Budget)
  • The low season (wet/cyclone season, January-April) delivers a good time for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Shoulder season balances good weather and reasonable prices.

Consider Your Visit Time

Peak Season

Book well in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.

Shoulder Season

More availability, good balance of weather and prices.

Low Season

Potential for better deals, but verify establishment opening times.

Where to Stay

Rodrigues delivers excellent lodging options for various budgets and travel preferences.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget-Friendly Guesthouses

Many local guesthouses scatter throughout the island. They deliver clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities. Look for "Chambres d'hôtes" in villages like La Ferme, Mont Lubin, or near Port Mathurin.

  • Warm, family atmosphere.
  • Often include meals.
  • Direct cultural connection.
Mid-Range Choices

Comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere. A good balance of amenities and a local feel.

  • Auberge St François (east coast)
  • Tekoma Boutik Hotel Rodrigues (stylish, beachfront)

Luxury & Specialized Options

Luxury & Boutique Properties

High standards of service and design. Secluded, eco-friendly options.

  • Bakwa Lodge (secluded, eco-friendly)
  • Cotton Bay Hotel (more resort-like amenities)
Family-Friendly Stays

Villas and bungalows with multiple bedrooms and kitchens suit families. Guesthouses can accommodate families with interconnecting rooms or larger suites. Their personalized service means hosts accommodate children's needs.

  • Space and flexibility for meal prep.
  • Look for properties with pools.

Solo Traveler & Cultural Stays

  • Solo Traveler Options

    Guesthouses offer a good balance of privacy and social interaction. Hosts often share local insights, arrange tours, and create a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers. You can meet other guests during communal meals.

  • Cultural Significance

    Cultural richness in accommodation stems from guesthouses. Many buildings stand in traditional styles, use local materials, and serve traditional cuisine. The value lies in direct interaction with local families, an immersion into Rodriguan daily life and hospitality.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Self-Catering Options

    Villas, bungalows, or apartments are best for extended stays. Kitchen facilities deliver independent living and reduced food costs. A more home-like environment.

  • Direct Negotiations

    You can often negotiate a better long-term rate directly with owners.

Specific Considerations

Vacation Rentals & Apartments

A growing segment of the accommodation market. Options range from simple studios to larger multi-bedroom houses. These deliver travelers flexibility with self-catering, are budget-friendly, and allow more immersion in local markets. A good choice for families, groups, or longer stays.

  • Popular across the island.
  • Good for families or groups.
  • Flexible, independent living.
Homestay & Community Tourism

Many guesthouses function as homestays. You will experience authentic Rodriguan hospitality, enjoy home-cooked meals, and gain insights into daily life. This approach directly benefits local communities and connects visitors with island people and culture.

  • Authentic hospitality.
  • Home-cooked meals.
  • Direct community support.

Choosing Your Stay

Match Your Budget

Research accommodations based on your budget and desired experience.

Authentic Touch

Consider a guesthouse for genuine Rodriguan hospitality and cultural connection.

Plan Ahead

Book accommodation early, especially for high season visits.