Rodrigues Island, a mountainous dependency 400 mi/650 km east of Mauritius, was first discovered by Europeans in 1528 and named for Portuguese explorer Diego Rodrigues. The island is surrounded by large areas of coral reef.
Port Mathurin is the capital of Rodrigues Island and can be reached by air (recommended) or ship from Mauritius. Excursions can be arranged upon arrival in Rodrigues to see the reefs, caves and Ile aux Cocos Nature Reserve.
