Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas has unveiled its new ‘Be Iko’ programme, combining luxury hospitality with eco-tourism to offer travellers an opportunity to leave a positive impact on the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Located on Mauritius’ pristine south-eastern coast within the protected Blue Bay Marine Park, the resort’s initiative invites guests to engage with conservation and sustainability efforts while enjoying the island’s breathtaking beauty.
Protecting Mauritius’ marine ecosystems
Central to the ‘Be Iko’ programme is a coral farming initiative that allows guests to contribute to the restoration of Mauritius’ marine ecosystems. Led by the Currimjee Foundation in partnership with local NGO Eco Mode Society and supported by MOL Mauritius International Funds, the project involves collecting coral fragments from the seafloor and nurturing them in a safe environment.
Guests can participate in weekly workshops with the resort’s resident marine biologist, gaining insights into the importance of coral reefs in protecting the coastline, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining local fishing communities. For a closer look at the marine life, visitors can join bi-weekly inspections and explore the coral farm aboard glass-bottom kayaks, observing vibrant fish species such as angel, bat, and pufferfish.
Conservation activities on land
The ‘Be Iko’ programme extends to land-based conservation efforts, including the popular Plant-a-Tree programme and exclusive guided tours of Iles aux Aigrettes. This protected nature reserve, managed by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, preserves Mauritius’ last dry coastal forest and shelters rare flora and fauna, such as giant tortoises and endemic geckos.
Guests can also take part in the unique ‘Clean & Sip’ initiative, where they collect rubbish from the beach and are rewarded with an eco-themed cocktail, the IKO Breeze. Additionally, Anantara’s Dollars for Deeds programme enables guests to contribute one US dollar per night of their stay, which is matched by the resort and used to fund conservation projects like habitat restoration and tree planting.
A resort founded on sustainability
From its inception, Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas has prioritised sustainability. The resort was constructed 100 metres from the beach to minimise its ecological impact, ensuring the surrounding indigenous Veloutier trees remained undisturbed. Today, the eco-sanctuary offers guests a range of restorative activities, from yoga on the beach and cycling along the coastline to hiking nature trails and diving in some of the clearest waters in the Indian Ocean.
General Manager Daniel Méndez highlighted the programme’s purpose: “Our ‘Be Iko’ programme provides a truly enriching experience. Here, guests don’t just visit a beautiful island; they help preserve it. As they enjoy our golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes, they know their stay contributes to the wellbeing of Mauritius for generations to come.”
Luxury meets sustainability
Anantara Hotels & Resorts continues to blend authentic local experiences with environmental consciousness across its global portfolio. From city escapes to remote jungle retreats, each property strives to connect travellers with the culture and natural beauty of their destination while delivering heartfelt hospitality.
