Reunion Island

Put your hiking shoes on and plan a day trip up the magnificent Piton de Fournaise volcano - one of the most active peaks in the world. Joining a guided tour is highly recommended, not to mention wearing appropriate clothing, as temperatures tend to fall dramatically the higher up you go.

The island's north holds one of its most scenic spots at the le Maido summit, where stunning views over Reunion's west coast unfold before the eyes of enthralled visitors. To avoid madding crowds and possible weather changes, head to the summit early in the morning on a clear day.

A fascinating adventure through the island's past via the over 900 plant species contained in this well-maintained botanical garden awaits visitors to the domaine du Café Grillé, where the journey starts at a modern creole garden and ends at a lush forest containing indigenous plants.

The stunning, secluded caldera of Mafate is the place several tiny villages call home. Reaching the dazzling remote location is certainly worth the hike. Keep in mind there are not paved roads to go up, hence hiking for hours is unavoidable. For a better experience, it is recommendable to depart in the early morning hours from the Maido or Cilaos.

Being an island in the Indian Ocean, Reunion naturally boasts a number of splendid beaches, some of the best being concentrated in the waterside stretch between the settlements of Saint-Gilles and l'Ermitage-Les-Bains. These beaches here are sheltered from strong waves by near-lying coral reefs. One of the prettiest white sand beaches on the island is the L’Hermitage, lined with trees to provide saving shade. The most stunning lagoons are to be found between St. Paul and Saint-Leu.

The region's capital Saint-Denis in the island's north is worth a visit, even if only for a glimpse of Reunion's urban side. Being the administrative centre of the island, it is home to a significant number of local museums, monuments, and important sights.

The fascinating aquarium of Reunion is home to 500 species of fish and marine animals. Although descriptions are provided in French only, the aquarium is still worth a visit Get a closer look at these underwater creatures. Workshops and informative meetings for visitors are held regularly.

Few places in the world compare to the beauty and dramatic effect to the impression produced by the scenery of Reunion Island. See the Piton de Fournasie volcano, incredible cirques, waterfalls, and the stunning coastline all on one tour of the island on board a helicopter. The best companies in Reunion are Félix Ulm Run and Helilagon.

The winding road up to the caldera is a thrill in its own. Only after dozens of twists, turns and breathtaking vistas of mossy green cliffs can travellers arrive at the secluded settlement of Cilaos. For best vistas, walk up the Roche Merveilleuse, and do stop by the local thermal baths.

Those up for physical activity and a tad bit extreme outdoor pursuits should definitely try canyoning in Reunion. The unique natural landscape provides an abundance of opportunities for exploring, jumping, sliding, swimming and walking around the canyons. All of these under supervision of professionals catering for all needs.

The Saint-Pierre distillery museum grants visitors an insight into the production process of one of the island's traditional alcoholic drinks. Take a look at the workings of rum production in Reunion, and try the several rum varieties offered for tasting at the end of the tour.