45 Years of Casela: Celebrating Nature’s Legacy & Future Vision

On March 19th, Casela Nature Parks marked a significant milestone with the celebration of its 45 years of excellence in tourism, conservation, and environmental education in Mauritius. Established in 1979, the park has transformed from a simple recreational area into an essential force in biodiversity preservation and a leader in eco-conscious practices.

The anniversary festivities featured a series of events that showcased not only the park’s rich history but also its ambitious aspirations for the future.

Casela originally focused solely on exotic birds, known at that time as the Casela Bird Park.

Over the decades, it has expanded into a sprawling 350-hectare sanctuary of nature and adventure, offering a wide range of activities, including safaris, and unique interactions with lions, rhinos, zebras, and giraffes, alongside thrilling attractions like zip-lining and the Tulawaka adventure course.

Casela has evolved far beyond a conventional zoo; it delivers an immersive experience that blends entertainment, education, and environmental advocacy.

During the celebrations, Dhiren Ponnusamy, Chief Executive Officer of the Medine Group, highlighted the crucial role of innovation in shaping the park’s vision.

He remarked, “Casela exemplifies our commitment to sustainable development, merging innovation, environmental stewardship, and strong community connections.

As we celebrate our 45th anniversary, we reaffirm our dedication to delighting our visitors and reinforcing our status as a premier leisure destination in Mauritius.”

The park has adeptly evolved by understanding visitor expectations and tackling environmental challenges, solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable tourism.

A notable highlight during the festivities was the announcement of 50 new animals arriving from South Africa, including antelopes, giraffes, and other fascinating species.

These additions enrich the park’s biodiversity and promise an even more remarkable experience for visitors.

The animals will inhabit modern, carefully designed enclosures that cater to their needs and ensure their welfare—a core value for Casela.

Thierry Arékion, Managing Director of Casela Nature Parks, articulated, “We take great pride in providing our animals with safe and appropriate environments.

We have developed living spaces that enhance their well-being and established tailored care programmes.” The introduction of eco-friendly initiatives, such as safaris in EZ Raiders, aims to lessen the park’s environmental impact while offering visitors remarkable experiences.

This year also promises the debut of electric quads, allowing for a greener exploration of the park.

Additionally, Casela is overhauling its online booking system to create a more streamlined and enjoyable visitor experience.

The park’s vision for the future goes beyond modernising its infrastructure. It remains committed to innovation, holding firmly to its foundational values of environmental respect and advocacy for biodiversity.

Sustainability is central to its development approach, underscoring a steadfast commitment to reducing its ecological footprint and protecting local ecosystems.

“Casela has always led the way in biodiversity protection, and we will continue with our unwavering passion and courage.

We aspire to make this park a model of harmony between humanity and nature, a place where every visit leaves a positive legacy,” Thierry Arékion concluded.

As Casela Nature Parks celebrates its rich legacy of 45 years, it stands ready to embrace an exciting future, poised to inspire generations to come.

Source: l”Express