The integration of innovative digital tools is a key pillar of the project. Interactive kiosks will provide tourists with detailed information on local biodiversity, coral reef ecosystems, and eco-friendly practices. This educational approach aims to transform each visitor into an ambassador for environmental preservation.

Controlled Access for Controlled Attendance

One of the major challenges of modern tourism lies in managing visitor flows. For Île aux Bénitiers, the solution adopted is that of rigorous control from La Gaulette, the only authorized boarding point.

An electronic ticketing system will make it possible to regulate the number of people present simultaneously on the island, thus avoiding the phenomenon of tourist saturation which weakens many natural sites across the globe. This approach also guarantees a quality experience for visitors, who will be able to fully enjoy the beauty of the place without suffering the inconvenience of overcrowding.

A Reopening Marked by Environmental Commitment

In June 2025, after two and a half months of closure, the island reopened its doors to the public following a major cleaning operation. This campaign, larger than expected, made it possible to extract considerable quantities of waste: used tires, metal debris, plastics and other residues accumulated over the years.

This initiative marks a strong symbolic turning point. It demonstrates the determination of the authorities to offer future generations an environment preserved and restored to its original splendor.

A Strengthened Regulatory Framework

Since the reopening, only 55 hand-picked operators have been authorized to carry out their activities on the island. This drastic limitation meets several objectives:

• Guarantee quality services that respect the environment
• Ensure traceability and control of tourist activities
• Favor local actors engaged in a sustainable approach
• Create a viable economic model for local communities

Training and Awareness of Tourist Actors

The transformation of Île aux Bénitiers is not limited to physical infrastructure. A crucial part of the project concerns the training of tourism professionals. The NGO Coral Garden Conservation now offers awareness programs for skippers and guides, focused on marine protection and biodiversity.

At the same time, the Ministry of Health has introduced mandatory food safety training for all operators handling food intended for consumption on the island or on board boats. This dual requirement – ​​environmental and health – demonstrates a global and coherent vision of tourism development.

Towards an Operators Cooperative

Entrepreneurs active on the island plan to create a cooperative structure to coordinate their actions in a united and transparent manner. This initiative, supported by the Rivière-Noire District Council, will promote the exchange of good practices and strengthen cohesion within the local tourism industry.

Multi-Actor Governance

The success of this transformation relies on close collaboration between many institutions. The Tourism Authority, Black River District Council, Forestry Services, National Parks and Conservation Service, and law enforcement are working together to ensure the implementation of the Master Plan.

This collaborative approach illustrates a major development in the management of natural sites in Mauritius: the recognition that environmental preservation requires the involvement of all stakeholders, both public and private.

The Natural Treasures of the Island

Beyond the planned developments, Île aux Bénitiers conceals natural wonders that the project intends to highlight while protecting them:

The Crystal Rock : This coral rock emerging from the lagoon constitutes one of the most photographed geological curiosities in Mauritius. Topped with vegetation, it is surrounded by an exceptionally rich natural aquarium.

The pristine beaches : The fine white sand, bordered by turquoise waters on one side and casuarina trees on the other, offers a preserved postcard setting.

The view of Le Morne Brabant : From the island, visitors enjoy a spectacular panorama of this emblematic mountain, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Avian fauna : The northern end of the island is home to migratory birds, including the Sanderling and the Black-bellied Plover, providing bird watchers with exceptional viewing opportunities.

The coconut grove : The center of the island is home to a sustainably operated coconut plantation, testimony to traditional economic activity compatible with the preservation of the site.

Responsible Dolphin Watching

The waters surrounding Île aux Bénitiers are frequented daily by dolphins moving between Tamarin Bay and Le Morne. These marine encounters constitute one of the highlights of the excursions.

However, this activity raises important ethical questions. Too many operators have in the past adopted irresponsible behavior: pursuit of cetaceans, encirclement, stress caused to the animals. The new regulatory framework now requires practices that respect animal welfare and their natural habitat.

Skippers trained by the NGO Coral Garden Conservation will learn to observe dolphins from a respectful distance, to interpret their behavior to avoid disturbance, and to raise awareness among their clients of the importance of these ethical interactions.

A Model for the Indian Ocean

If Mauritius manages to reconcile tourist attractiveness and ecological exemplarity on Île aux Bénitiers, the country could establish a new standard for the entire region. Other Mauritian islets, such as Île aux Cerfs, Île Plate or Île aux Aigrettes, could draw inspiration from this approach.

The challenge is audacious but realistic: to prove that it is possible to develop a prosperous tourist economy without sacrificing the natural heritage which constitutes its main attraction. This philosophy is fully in line with the sustainable development objectives promoted at the international level.

The Challenges to Face

Despite the ambition of the project, several obstacles will have to be overcome:

Financing : The gradual implementation of the Master Plan will require significant investments, probably requiring public-private partnerships.

Local membership : The success of the initiative will depend on the involvement of the communities of La Gaulette and surrounding villages, who must perceive the economic benefits of this transformation.

Compliance monitoring : Ensuring that all operators effectively comply with the imposed environmental standards will require continuous monitoring.

Economic balance : Limiting the number of visitors could impact tourism revenues in the short term, requiring effective communication on the added value of the experience offered.

A Destination of the Future

Île aux Bénitiers is preparing to write a new chapter in its history. From a natural site threatened by mass tourism, it aims to become a laboratory for sustainable tourism, proving that it is possible to meet visitors' expectations while preserving the integrity of ecosystems.

This transformation symbolizes the evolution of environmental awareness in Mauritius and the Indian Ocean. It demonstrates a strong political will to transmit to future generations an intact natural heritage, capable of continuing to amaze and inspire.

For travelers in search of authenticity and meaning, Île aux Bénitiers will soon represent much more than a simple seaside excursion: an immersive experience at the heart of a pioneering project, where each visit contributes to the preservation of an exceptional natural treasure.

The metamorphosis of this small islet lost in the lagoon could well inspire other destinations around the world, demonstrating that the future of tourism lies in respect, responsibility and regeneration rather than in the unbridled exploitation of our last earthly paradises.