Day Trips Réunion

Day Trips in Réunion: Your Ultimate Guide

Réunion, an overseas department of France located in the Indian Ocean, offers a rich blend of cultures, landscapes, and adventures for every traveler. Here’s a selection of noteworthy day trips to help you make the most of your stay.

1. Piton de la Fournaise Volcano (Volcan Maïdo)

  • Location: Southeastern Réunion
  • Highlights: Explore one of the world’s most active volcanoes, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, and witness the unique lunar landscape.
  • Tips: Wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Guided tours are recommended to ensure safety and gain insight into the geology of the area.

2. Cirque de Salazie

  • Location: Eastern Réunion
  • Highlights: Discover traditional Creole villages nestled amidst lush vegetation, walk along the scenic trail at Grand Château, and enjoy stunning waterfalls like Trou des Crabes.
  • Tips: Rent a car to explore the cirque independently or join organized tours for an in-depth cultural experience. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and rainy weather.

3. Trou d’Eau Douce and Saint-Gilles-les-Bains

  • Location: Eastern Coast, Réunion
  • Highlights: Relax on beautiful beaches, visit the colorful coastal village of Trou d’Eau Douce, and explore Saint-Gilles-les-Bains known for its turquoise lagoon.
  • Tips: Don’t miss out on local seafood dishes at restaurants along the coastline. Snorkeling equipment can be rented to explore the vibrant marine life in the lagoons.

4. Réunion National Park (Parc National de la Réunion)

  • Location: Western and Central Réunion
  • Highlights: Hike through diverse landscapes, including rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and vast valleys, while enjoying the unique wildlife of Réunion.
  • Tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, carry a map or use GPS navigation, and respect local regulations to preserve the park’s ecosystem. Guided tours can provide valuable insights into the park’s biodiversity.

5. Mare Chaloupe (Grand River South East)

  • Location: Southern Réunion
  • Highlights: Discover the largest freshwater lake in Réunion, explore the surrounding nature reserve, and admire the diverse birdlife.
  • Tips: Rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lake’s serene waters, and bring binoculars for spotting rare bird species.