The Best Reunion Island Experiences for Every Traveler

Reunion Island, located in the Indian Ocean, is a French overseas department that offers visitors a unique tropical paradise. With breathtaking landscapes, stunning beaches, and exciting activities, Reunion Island should be at the top of your travel list. From adrenaline-fueled adventures to peaceful nature walks, there is something for everyone. Here are the best Reunion Island experiences for every traveler.

Hike the Piton de la Fournaise

The Piton de la Fournaise is an active volcano located in the south of Reunion Island. For the adventurous traveler, a hike to the Piton de la Fournaise is a must. The hike is a challenging one, but the views of the volcano and the surrounding area are well worth the effort. The trail begins in the town of Cilaos and follows the lava fields up to the volcano. It is recommended to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and have the best chance of seeing the sun rise over the volcano.

Along the way, you can take in the stunning views of the lush vegetation and the deep ravines. You may even spot a few wild animals, such as the Reunion Island iguana. When you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the crater lake, as well as the surrounding landscape. There is no better way to appreciate the power of nature than a hike to the Piton de la Fournaise.

If you are looking for a less challenging hike, you can also take a guided tour of the volcano. The tour will take you around the crater lake, where you can learn fascinating facts about the volcano and its history.

Explore the Lagoons

Reunion Island is home to some of the most beautiful and serene lagoons in the world. A day spent exploring the lagoons is an experience that you will never forget. The lagoons are full of vibrant marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and manta rays. There are also plenty of opportunities to go snorkeling or scuba diving to observe the incredible coral reefs and colorful fish.

In addition to exploring the lagoons, you can also take a boat tour to get a closer look at the marine life. The boat tour will take you to some of the most remote areas of the island, allowing you to witness the incredible beauty of Reunion Island from the comfort of your boat.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can also take a kayak tour of the lagoons. Kayaking is the perfect way to get up close and personal with the stunning scenery. You can paddle through the mangroves, explore the coves, and take in the breathtaking views.

Visit the National Parks

Reunion Island is home to a number of national parks, each offering a unique experience. From the lush rainforests of Mafate National Park to the rugged volcanic terrain of La Reunion National Park, there is something for every traveler.

At Mafate National Park, you can explore the lush rainforest and take in the stunning views of the waterfalls. There are also plenty of opportunities to go hiking and take in the spectacular scenery. For the more adventurous traveler, there is the option of taking a trek to the summit of the Piton des Neiges.

At La Reunion National Park, you can explore the volcanic landscape and take in the dramatic views of the craters. You can also go on a guided tour of the lava tunnels and learn about the fascinating history of the park.

Go Surfing

Reunion Island is a paradise for surfers. The island’s warm waters and consistent waves make it the perfect destination for an unforgettable surfing experience. From the beginner-friendly beaches of St. Leu to the more challenging breaks of St. Paul, there is something for every surfer.

If you’re a beginner, you can take a lesson at one of the many surf schools on the island. The instructors will teach you the basics of surfing and provide you with all the equipment you need to get started.

For the more experienced surfer, there are plenty of challenging waves to be found. From the powerful barrels of St. Gilles to the long lefts of Grand Anse, there is something for everyone.

Go Whale Watching

Reunion Island is a popular destination for whale watching. Every year, hundreds of humpback whales migrate to the waters surrounding the island. You can take a boat tour to get a closer look at these majestic creatures. The tour will take you to some of the best spots for whale watching and provide you with an unforgettable experience.

The best time to go whale watching is from July to September. During this time, you will have the best chance of seeing the whales and their calves. The tour guides will also provide you with interesting facts about the whales and their behavior.

Whale watching is a great way to appreciate the beauty of nature and observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Visit the Beaches

Reunion Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the white sand beaches of St. Leu to the black sand beaches of Grand Anse, there is something for everyone.

The beaches of Reunion Island are perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning views. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. For the more adventurous traveler, you can also go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the vibrant marine life.

The beaches are also great for sunbathing, and you can even take a surfing lesson if you’re feeling adventurous.

Go Night Fishing

For the adventurous traveler, night fishing is a must-do activity. You can take a boat tour to some of the best spots for night fishing and have a chance to catch some of the island’s freshest seafood. The tour will also take you to some of the most remote areas of the island, giving you an opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of Reunion Island from the comfort of your boat.

Night fishing is a great way to experience the island’s unique culture and get a taste of the local seafood.

The experience is sure to be an unforgettable one, and the catch will be a delicious reward for your efforts.

Go Paragliding

For the thrill-seeker, a paragliding experience is the perfect way to explore the island from a new perspective. You can take a tandem flight with an experienced pilot or take a solo flight if you’re feeling brave. No matter which option you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

The best time to go paragliding is from April to September, when the winds are at their strongest. The views from the sky are breathtaking, and you can take in the stunning beauty of Reunion Island from a whole new angle.

Paragliding is the perfect way to experience the thrill of flight and appreciate the beauty of the island from above.

Explore the Waterfalls

Reunion Island is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. From the powerful cascade of the Cascade Blanche to the cascading waterfalls of the Mafate River, there is something for everyone.

The best way to explore the waterfalls is to take a guided tour. The tour will take you to some of the most remote waterfalls, where you can appreciate the stunning beauty of the island from a whole new perspective. You can also take a refreshing dip in the pools at the base of the waterfalls.

Exploring the waterfalls is the perfect way to relax and take in the beauty of Reunion Island.

Visit the Markets

Reunion Island is home to some of the most vibrant markets in the world. From the bustling markets of the capital, St. Denis, to the smaller markets of the island’s remote villages, there is something for everyone.

The markets are the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and get a taste of the island’s unique culture. You can find everything from local handicrafts to fresh seafood. You can also sample some of the island’s delicious cuisine, such as the famous “cari poulet”. The markets are also a great place to pick up some souvenirs for your loved ones.

Exploring the markets of Reunion Island is the perfect way to get a taste of the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Take a Road Trip

For the adventurous traveler, a road trip is the best way to explore the island. You can hire a car and make your own way around the island or take a guided tour to get an in-depth look at the island’s unique culture.

The best time to take a road trip is from April to October. During this time, the weather is at its best and the roads are in the best condition. The roads meander through the island’s lush rainforest and you can take in the stunning views along the way.

Taking a road trip is the perfect way to explore the island and appreciate the stunning beauty of Reunion Island from a whole new perspective.

Summary

Reunion Island is a paradise for travelers. From breathtaking landscapes to stunning beaches, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a peaceful nature walk, there is something for you on Reunion Island. From hiking the Piton de la Fournaise to exploring the lagoons, visiting the national parks to going whale watching, there are plenty of experiences that will make your trip to Reunion Island an unforgettable one.