Maison de la Réserve de l’Etang de Saint-Paul
50 Rue Anatole Hugot – Savanna, 97460 Saint-Paul
Opening hours :
Monday to Thursday : 8:30 am to 12 pm/ 1 pm to 4pm. Friday : 8:30 am to 12 pm/ 1 pm to 3 pm. Closed Saturday and Sunday.
Website – Tel: 02 62 80 23 00.
The Etang de Saint-Paul is a unique wetland, the largest and best preserved on the island and in the Mascareignes archipelago. It is a major site, rich in flora and fauna, and therefore invaluable for preserving the ecosystem and its biodiversity.
The étang de Saint-Paul is an ancient lagoon created by the influx of sand, gravel and rock from the Rivière des Galets (the result of giant mudflows from Mafate), which filled in the ancient bay of Saint-Paul through the action of sea currents.
This favorable hydraulic context has led to the establishment of typical wetland biodiversity. The site boasts some 40 heritage plant species, over 20 of which are considered remarkable. In terms of fauna, no fewer than 26 bird species (moorhen, green heron, Maillard’s harrier) and 230 insect species have been recorded. Nearly 30% of the animal species inventoried in the Reserve have a high heritage value.
Visit
From time to time, the Régie de la Réserve Naturelle organizes guided tours by foot, kayak or bicycle to discover the reserve’s fauna, flora and major sites. These tours, led by an eco-guardian, last from an hour and a half to three hours. Bookings can be made at the Maison de la Réserve.