It was named after a colony of egrets, fishing birds with long legs that lived there in the 17th century. It was used as a military base by the British during the Second World War, period during which nearly the entire indigenous forest was destroyed. Since 1985 the MWF has strived to reinstate the unique fauna and flora of this part of the world in order to restore this environment to its original state.
The excursions take place daily, departing from Pointe-Jerome. The motor boat cruises through the turquoise water before reaching this ecological mini-paradise. Once berthed, you begin your stroll and discovery along the sign posted trails. Several routes are available. The tour of the island happens in about 1:30 am with fabulous encounters along the route.
You will come across trees with evocative names such as: the Eugenia Bojeri tree, the Bois Boeuf tree or the Ebony tree. You get to admire the Pink Pigeon, Gunther’s gecko, giant tortoises, bats as well as the Mauritian cardinal. You will feel an irresistible attraction to the orchids and the Trochetia Boutoniana. Ile aux Aigrettes Island represents an ultimate stopover in nature in the south-east of Mauritius.