• Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change: management of environmental operations
• Ministry of Housing and Land: supervision of field work
• Black River District Council: local coordination and authorization management

Extent of the work carried out

The clean-up work, carried out by Atics Ltd, began on Thursday, April 17, 2025, under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Housing and Lands. The scale of the mission quickly became significant, with the evacuation of65 tons of rubbishof the island, much more than initial estimates.

The teams worked intensively from April 17 to May 6, 2025, carrying out:

• The systematic removal of accumulated debris
• Deep cleaning of beaches and rocky areas
• Restoration of degraded natural areas
• The establishment of improved reception infrastructure

International observation mission

To ensure the transparency and efficiency of operations, an observation mission composed of 6 Mauritians and 2 Reunion Islanders visited the island on April 24 and 25, 2025. This joint mission made it possible to assess the progress of the work and to validate the methods used according to international marine conservation standards.

The rigorous selection of authorized operators

A thorough consultation process

The Black River District Council, in close collaboration with the Citizens' Collective, conducted a rigorous selection process for tourism operators authorized to operate on Île-aux-Bénitiers. This participatory approach made it possible to reconcile environmental preservation imperatives with the economic needs of the local tourism sector.

55 operators selected

At the end of this consultation process,55 operatorshave been officially authorized to resume their activities on the islet. This selection represents a carefully considered balance between the different types of activities offered:

• Maritime transport operators: water taxis, catamarans, speedboats
• Water sports activity providers: scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports
• Catering services: beach barbecues, mobile catering services
• Guides and escorts: nature excursions, marine observation

Strict selection criteria

The selected operators had to meet strict criteria including:

• Compliance with reinforced environmental standards
• Certification of their safety equipment
• Commitment to sustainable tourism practices
• Staff training in good ecological practices

New environmental protection measures

Modernized reception infrastructure

The reopening of Île-aux-Bénitiers is accompanied by the installation of new amenities and infrastructure designed to minimize the environmental impact:

• Waste management systems: selective collection points, waterproof containers
• Ecological sanitary facilities: dry toilets, natural treatment systems
• Demarcated reception areas: dedicated spaces to preserve sensitive areas
• Educational signage: information panels on local biodiversity

Sustainable management protocols

New protocols have been established to ensure the sustainability of tourism operations:

• Limiting the number of simultaneous visitors: maximum daily gauge
• Regulated access hours: defined niches to reduce pressure on the ecosystem
• Demarcated mooring areas: controlled anchoring to protect the seabed
• Ban on certain activities: restrictions on potentially harmful activities

Economic impact of reopening

Impact on the tourism sector

The reopening of Île-aux-Bénitiers represents a considerable relief for the Mauritian tourism economy. This destination attracts thousands of local and international visitors each year, generating substantial revenue for:

• Maritime transport operators
• Local tour guides
• Water sports activity providers
• The regional hotel industry
• Local shops

Jobs preserved and created

The resumption of activity will help preserve several hundred direct and indirect jobs in the region. The 55 authorized operators collectively employ several hundred people, from boat captains to specialized guides, including catering and reception staff.

Activities available upon reopening

Maritime excursions

Visitors can once again enjoy traditional excursions to Île-aux-Bénitiers, including:

• Dolphin outings: observation of long-beaked dolphins in their natural habitat
• Catamaran excursions: full days with barbecue on the beach
• Speedboat trips: for thrill seekers
• Sunset cruises: romantic moments in an idyllic setting

Water activities

The islet offers exceptional conditions for various nautical activities:

• Snorkeling: exploration of preserved coral reefs
• Scuba diving: discovery of the seabed rich in biodiversity
• Swimming: in the crystal clear waters of the lagoon
• Water sports: kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing depending on the conditions

Natural discovery

Île-aux-Bénitiers also allows the discovery of its unique terrestrial ecosystem:

• Birdwatching: numerous species of seabirds
• Discovery of endemic flora: vegetation adapted to the island environment
• Geology: rock formations and white sand beaches
• Historical heritage: remains and local legends

Recommendations for visitors

Responsible behavior

Authorities stress the importance of adopting environmentally friendly behavior:

• Leave nothing behind: take away all your waste
• Respecting marine life: maintain a respectful distance from the dolphins
• Use eco-friendly sunscreens: protection of coral reefs
• Follow the guides' instructions: respect prohibited areas

Reservations and access

It is strongly recommended to:

• Book in advance with authorized operators
• Check weather conditions before departure
• Bring sun protection equipment
• Provide suitable shoes for walking on the reefs

Future prospects

Sustainable tourism model

The reopening of Île-aux-Bénitiers marks a shift towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism model. This approach could serve as a benchmark for other tourist sites in Mauritius and the Indian Ocean region.

Continuous monitoring

A continuous environmental monitoring system will be put in place to:

• Monitor the impact of tourism activities
• Adjust protective measures if necessary
• Ensure the maintenance of the ecological quality of the site
• Prevent any future degradation

Conclusion

The reopening of Île-aux-Bénitiers on Monday, June 16, 2025, represents much more than a simple return to normal for Mauritian tourism. It symbolizes the commitment of the authorities and tourism stakeholders to a more responsible and sustainable approach to promoting Mauritius' exceptional natural heritage.

This experience, although economically painful, has demonstrated that it is possible to reconcile tourism development and environmental preservation. Île-aux-Bénitiers, now more beautiful and better protected, is ready to welcome visitors again while respecting its fragile and precious ecosystem.

The 55 operators selected, the new infrastructure put in place and the reinforced environmental protocols guarantee that this legendary destination will be able to continue to amaze future generations while preserving its authentic and wild character which has made it world-renowned.