Situated 22 kilometres to the north east of Mauritius, Round Island is an ecological treasure house. Numerous species of endemic plants some of which no longer exist on the mainland and the presence of endemic reptiles make this island a unique place.

It is some 150 hectares in extent and raises like a cone out of the water to reach a maximum height of 300 metres. The geological basic composition is an agglomeration of tuff, volcanic ash, laid down in compact layers that look like rock.

This natural reserve is today restricted to the public. Permits can however be applied with the competent authorities for scientific visits.