La Vanille Nature Park was opened in 1985 in the south of Mauritius. This part of the island has, more than any part, kept a feeling of “old Mauritius”, whether it is the manner of the people, their traditions or even the unspoilt scenery.

Our guides will take you on unforgettable walks, and you will stroll through luxuriant greenery where palm tree and giant bamboos provide shade for the thousands of Nile Crocodile which are reared in this park, and which you can visit in perfect safety.

After leaving our crocodilian friends, you can visit the giant tortoises, wandering around in their two-acre savannah, and meet 275 kgs Domino who is approximately 113 years old. You may wish to take a souvenir photo of this, the largest Aldabra and Radiata Tortoise Park in the World, with approximately 1000 tortoises.

You will also discover a variety of other creatures: Lemurs, geckos, monkeys, Java deer, Japanese Koi Carps, Fruit bats and many other species. We have a variety of activities where you interact with our animals.

Owen Griffiths, biologist and cofounder of the La Vanille Nature Park was the person behind the idea to reintroduce giant tortoises to the Island of Rodrigues. This “vision” to re-make Rodrigues the giant tortoise island as described by François Leguat 315 years ago, is now a reality. You may visit the Francois Leguat Reserve, if you go to our sister island, Rodrigues.

A “must-see” is our collection of butterflies and other brightly colored insects, which is one of the largest and most fascinating in the world. It took Mr Jacques Siedlecki 33 years of patient work to put together this amazing collection, and he will greet you himself, and tell you all about his passion for insects.

Our “Le Crocodile Affamé” or The Hungry Crocodile Restaurant built among the tree-tops will offer you a choice of Mauritian and other dishes, in particular several ones made with crocodile, which tastes not unlike chicken. Snacks and various drinks are also available.

In the “Crocod’ĵle Shop” you will find hand bags, wallets and other articles made from farmed crocodile skins, as well as a range of other “Made-in-Mauritius” gifts and souvenirs, which will help remind you of your visit to the Park.

The entire “La Vanille Nature Park” team will be happy to welcome you to this “Magical Place” where nature and humans can meet in a truly Mauritian way.

The Park is open everyday from 09:00 to 5p.m and we feed the crocodiles at 11:30 and at 2:30p.m.

Hope to see you soon in our “Magical Place”.