Ile aux Benitiers: Relax on the Picturesque Island
Ile aux Benitiers is a picturesque island and lagoon located off the southwestern coast of Mauritius. Here’s a detailed description:
Visitor Fee: There is typically no admission fee to access Ile aux Benitiers as it’s a natural island. However, if you take a boat tour or excursion to the island, there may be fees associated with the tour.
Transportation: Getting to Ile aux Benitiers involves taking a boat or catamaran from various points on the southwestern coast of Mauritius, primarily from places like La Gaulette or Le Morne. The boat trip to the island is part of the experience and often includes snorkeling opportunities.
Things to Do:
- Beach Relaxation: Ile aux Benitiers is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can simply relax on the beach, sunbathe, and swim in the warm lagoon.
- Snorkeling and Marine Life: The island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Snorkelers can explore vibrant coral formations and encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and even dolphins.
- Photography: The island’s stunning natural beauty, with its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, provides fantastic photo opportunities.
- Picnicking: Many visitors choose to have a picnic on the island’s beaches, either as part of a boat tour or by bringing their own supplies.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Natural Beauty: Ile aux Benitiers is celebrated for its unspoiled natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the tranquility and the chance to escape the more crowded tourist areas.
- Marine Life: Snorkeling enthusiasts are drawn to the island’s rich underwater world, where they can observe tropical fish and explore the coral reefs.
Age: Ile aux Benitiers is a natural formation, so its age is not measured in the way historical sites are. It has likely existed for thousands of years as part of the Mauritian coastal landscape.
List of Activities:
- Beach relaxation
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Photography
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Le Morne Brabant: This iconic mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located nearby. It offers hiking opportunities and is steeped in historical and cultural significance.
- Chamarel: The Chamarel area is known for its natural wonders, including the Chamarel Colored Earths and Chamarel Waterfall, which are both popular attractions for tourists exploring this region.
- Black River Gorges National Park: If you’re interested in hiking and nature, this national park is nearby and offers a range of trails, viewpoints, and the chance to spot endemic wildlife.