Round Island is one of the islands in Mauritius situated 22 kilometers north east of Mauritius. This island is a part of a an extinct volcanic cone, which has been partly submerged under water.
Covering a land area of approximately 150 hectares, the altitude of Round Island is around 300 meters above the sea level. Round Island in Mauritius is made of layers of volcanic ash, which have been deposited over the years to form hard compact layers.
Round Island in Mauritius is an ideal refuge for numerous species of sea birds and a diverse species of flora and fauna. These form the main tourist attractions of Round Island. Government of Mauritius have taken initiatives to evolve and develop Round Island as a rich ecological reserve. In the early 19th century extensive damage was done to the natural vegetation due to the grazing of animals like goats and rabbits. Grazing loosened up the soil and there was 90% soil erosion. From 1986 Don Merton and his team were consciously engaged in reviving and restoring the natural habitat of this island by planting unique plant species.
In the recent years, Round island though a deserted island supports some of the endemic species of fauna like the Round Island day gecko, Round Island skink and Round Island Boa. The untouched rustic beauty of Round Island charms and enthralls the tourists.