Located about 22 km off the north coast of Mauritius, Round Island is one of the most important conservation sites in the Indian Ocean. Unlike more accessible islets, Round Island is strictly protected and not open to the public, making it a true sanctuary for endangered species and scientific research.
Because of its isolation, Round Island acts as a living laboratory for conservationists studying ecosystem recovery and species survival.
Managed collaboratively by authorities and organizations like the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Round Island is a flagship restoration project. Intensive efforts—such as habitat restoration and species reintroduction—have helped revive native flora and fauna once on the brink of extinction.