Île aux Fouquets Lighthouse Island
Discover Île aux Fouquets, a historic Mauritian islet with a 19th-century lighthouse and stunning clear lagoons.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gorgeous views amplified
Île aux Fouquets Lighthouse Island
Best Time
Gorgeous views amplified
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Île aux Fouquets, a historic Mauritian islet with a 19th-century lighthouse and stunning clear lagoons.
"Wonderful visit to the lighthouse island. The water is always low tide, shallow and very clear."
👣 Wade with Ease
Be prepared to wade through shallow water to reach the island. Water shoes or going barefoot is recommended!
☀️ Pack Smart
Bring your own food, water, and sun protection. It can get windy, so pack layers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Lighthouse Ruins
Island summit
Explore the 19th-century lighthouse, one of Mauritius's oldest, offering a glimpse into its colonial past.
Crystal Clear Lagoon
Island shores
Enjoy the shallow, incredibly clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
Abundant Wildlife
Island surroundings
Spot a variety of birds and marine life in this serene natural environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wade Through History
Island Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👣 Wade with Ease
Be prepared to wade through shallow water to reach the island. Water shoes or going barefoot is recommended!
☀️ Pack Smart
Bring your own food, water, and sun protection. It can get windy, so pack layers.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The historic lighthouse and clear waters make for stunning photo spots.
🛥️ Boat Tours
Many boat tours include this island. Negotiate prices for a memorable day exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
👣 Wade with Ease
Be prepared to wade through shallow water to reach the island. Water shoes or going barefoot is recommended!
☀️ Pack Smart
Bring your own food, water, and sun protection. It can get windy, so pack layers.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The historic lighthouse and clear waters make for stunning photo spots.
🛥️ Boat Tours
Many boat tours include this island. Negotiate prices for a memorable day exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Île aux Fouquets, particularly its crystal-clear shallow waters and the historic lighthouse ruins. The unique experience of wading to the island is often highlighted as a memorable part of the visit. While amenities are scarce, the natural charm and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop on any Mauritian island tour.
"Wonderful visit to the lighthouse island. The water is always low tide, shallow and very clear. There’s no fees to pay for the visit."
H Choolun
"The walk up the shallow water was unexpected but was nice as the day was really quite warm. The views are beautiful and buildings themselves were quite intact. Think this was our 2nd stop off the 5 Island tour we done. Stunning 😍"
John Cassidy
"Beautiful little island, with stunning views, crystal clear water and plenty of wildlife. Good for swimming on one side, wouldn't recommend it however on the lighthouse side as it's very rough and rocky. Could have spent a lot longer here. Very peaceful"
James
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Île aux Fouquets is by boat tour from the mainland of Mauritius. Many tours offer island hopping experiences that include this historic islet.
Boat tours typically depart from various coastal areas in Mauritius, with popular departure points often found near tourist hubs. It's best to book in advance and confirm the departure location with your tour operator.
No, Île aux Fouquets is an island and cannot be reached by car. Access is exclusively by boat.
Travel time varies depending on your departure point and the type of boat tour, but it's generally a scenic journey across the lagoon.
Public transport does not go directly to the island. You will need to arrange a boat trip or tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
According to visitor experiences, there are no fees to pay for visiting the island itself.
While there's no entry fee for the island, you'll need to book a boat tour or hire a boat to get there, so booking your transport in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
The island is generally accessible during daylight hours when boat tours are operating. There are no official opening or closing times posted.
Visitors are advised to enter the old lighthouse ruins with caution due to their age.
While you can't drive there, you can hire a private boat for a more independent exploration, though most visitors opt for organized tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic lighthouse ruins and enjoy the clear, shallow waters. Be mindful of the tide for easier access.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for wading through shallow water. Water shoes or sandals are ideal. Bring layers as it can be windy.
No, there are no facilities such as restrooms or shops available on the island. It's essential to come prepared.
The water is clear and shallow on one side, making it good for swimming. However, the lighthouse side is rough and rocky.
You can spot a variety of birds and marine life around the island.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there is no food or drink available on the island. You must bring your own provisions.
Yes, many visitors enjoy picnics on the island. Just be sure to take all your trash with you.
Some boat tours may offer a beach BBQ as part of their package, but it's best to confirm this when booking.
You'll find numerous dining options back on the mainland of Mauritius, ranging from local eateries to upscale restaurants.
While some tours might include a BBQ on a different island, Île aux Fouquets itself has no dining facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic lighthouse ruins, the crystal-clear shallow waters, and the surrounding natural landscape offer excellent photo opportunities.
Sunny days provide the best light for capturing the vibrant colors of the water and the historic structures.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Yes, the lighthouse is a prominent feature and easily accessible for photography from various angles.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, while a standard zoom can be useful for details of the lighthouse. Waterproof protection for your gear is a good idea due to the water access.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities available. Sunscreen, hats, and a change of clothes are also essential. While the lighthouse ruins are interesting, supervise children closely if they explore near them due to their age.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The crystal-clear lagoon is ideal for capturing stunning shots of the water and marine life. Visiting on a sunny day will enhance the vibrant colors and create beautiful reflections. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a zoom lens for details of the lighthouse.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Peace Seekers
The gentle lapping of waves and the unspoiled scenery make it a perfect spot to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. The lack of crowds and amenities contributes to its serene charm, offering a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, the lighthouse is in ruins, but its presence still evokes the island's maritime past. Exploring the island offers a tangible connection to this history, making it more than just a beautiful natural spot. Visitors often remark on the intact nature of the buildings, despite their age, adding to the allure of a visit.
While the lighthouse is the main historical draw, the island's natural beauty is equally captivating. The crystal-clear, shallow waters and the surrounding wildlife contribute to its charm, offering a peaceful escape that blends history with nature.
Navigating Your Visit: Access and Amenities
+1A unique aspect of visiting is the need to wade through shallow water to reach the shore, especially during low tide. This unexpected element is often described as a pleasant surprise by visitors, adding to the island's charm. It's advisable to wear water-friendly footwear or be prepared to go barefoot.
When it comes to amenities, Île aux Fouquets is a natural sanctuary with minimal development. Visitors should be aware that there are no facilities such as restrooms, shops, or food vendors on the island. Therefore, it's crucial to pack everything you need, including water, snacks, and sun protection, before you set off. The island can also be quite windy, so bringing an extra layer is a good idea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit