Caverne Patate

The southwest corner of Rodrigues is limestone rather than basalt, and rainwater has cut a system of caves through it, of which Caverne Patate is the one opened to visitors: around six hundred metres of passage walked on a laid path with a guide, past stalactites and stalagmites that the guides point out as resembling various figures. The caves were described in the eighteenth century and bones of the extinct Rodrigues solitaire, a flightless bird related to the dodo, were recovered from these limestone deposits in the nineteenth century, which is what gives the area its scientific interest. Visits run at fixed times with a guide and take about an hour underground.

The landscape

• The main passage - six hundred metres of walked cave.
• Formations - stalactites and stalagmites along the route.
• Limestone country - the karst landscape at the surface above.
• The solitaire connection - the deposits that yielded the extinct bird's bones.

When to go

Year round, since the cave is underground and unaffected by weather. Tours run at set times, usually a few each day, and must be joined rather than entered independently. Booking ahead is sensible in the high season.

What to expect

Entry is only with a guide at scheduled times. The path is uneven, wet in places and involves stooping. Lighting is limited and the passage is humid. The formations are modest by international cave standards.

Nearby

Francois Leguat reserve lies nearby; Port Mathurin is northeast.