Skip to content
  • Map
  • Route Finder
  • Route Planner
  • Travel Guide
  • Community
Sign up or log in
  • Map
  • Route Finder
  • Route Planner
  • Travel Guide
  • Community
Sign up
  • Places & Accommodation
    • Places to visit
    • Eat & drink
    • Huts
    • Accommodation
    • Ski resorts
    • Crags
  • News & Conditions
    • Current Conditions
    • Weather
    • Webcams
    • Avalanche Report
    • Events
  • Inspiration
    • Collections
    • Offers
    • Travel Stories
    • Publications
  • Community
    • Challenges
    • Groups
  • Settings
  • Help-Center
  • Terms and conditions
  • Privacy policy
  • Legal Disclosure
Travel Guide Reunion Island
more
  • Reunion Island. Panorama of Mafate, seen from Cap Noir
    Reunion Island. Panorama of Mafate, seen from Cap Noir Photo: MIMEX, Wikimedia Commons

Reunion Island

Welcome to Reunion Island, a jewel in the Indian Ocean where adventure and nature meet in perfect harmony. Nestling under the tropical sun, this exotic destination opens the doors to a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities. From the majestic relief of the Cilaos cirque to the fine sandy beaches bathed by the crystal-clear waters of the ocean, Réunion offers an ideal playground for outdoor activities.

Whether you're a keen hiker in the heart of the lush green cirques, a canyoneer in the steep gorges, or a scuba diver exploring the life-rich seabed, every corner of the island offers a thrilling adventure.

Active volcanoes add a touch of mystery to this spectacular natural tableau. Join us for an experience where wonder mingles with the excitement of adventure, where every moment spent outdoors brings you closer to the wild, unspoilt beauty of Réunion.

Find out more
Outdooractive Editors  Verified partner 
Author of this page
LogoOutdooractive Editors

Activities in Réunion


Wandern im Talkessel von Mafate - La Réunion
hikes
long-distance hikes
trail runs
mountain hikes
mountain biking trails
runs
Crags bike rides

Attractions in Réunion


Highlights

  • My Map
  • Content
  • Show images Hide images
Features
Maps and trails
Discover
Hiking Trail · Reunion Island
Hike to the summit of piton des Neiges
Toprecommended route Difficulty difficult
Distance 15.2 km
Duration 9:00 h
Ascent 1,849 m
Descent 1,882 m

At an altitude of 3,071 m, piton des Neiges is the highest mountain on the island of La Réunion. It earns its nickname “The roof of the Indian ...

2
Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Hiking Trail · Reunion Island
Panoramic trail of Cap Noir
Toprecommended route Difficulty easy
Distance 3.1 km
Duration 2:00 h
Ascent 847 m
Descent 847 m

A magnificent circular route near Dos d'Ane to the north of Mafate

5
Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Mountain Biking · Reunion Island
Mégavalanche Saint-Paul - La Réunion Mountainbiking Downhill
Toprecommended route Difficulty difficult
Distance 31.7 km
Duration 2:19 h
Ascent 0 m
Descent 2,166 m

The Mégavalanche Saint-Paul is a co-event of the Mégavalanche Alpe d'Huez in the French Alps. Both are only for advanced mountain bikers.

from Odile Romignac,   Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Long-Distance Hiking
The Mafate circuit (GR R3)
Toprecommended route Difficulty difficult Multi-day route
Distance 41.6 km
Duration 18:45 h
Ascent 4,642 m
Descent 4,646 m

The five-day hike around the Mafate caldera is a classic route in La Réunion and at the same time a dream circuit for those who love outdoor ...

Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Horse Riding · Reunion Island
Horseback riding along the Grand Étang
Toprecommended route Difficulty easy
Distance 6.7 km
Duration 2:30 h
Ascent 403 m
Descent 393 m

Wonderful horseback riding in an idyllic natural setting. The ride goes around the Grand Étang in La Réunion.

Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Hiking Trail · Reunion Island
Anse des Cascades: cliff route
Toprecommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 8.1 km
Duration 3:00 h
Ascent 98 m
Descent 39 m

Varied route between sea and volcanic rocks along the east coast of La Réunion.

1
Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Hiking Trail · Reunion Island
Bras de la Plaine: riverbed
Toprecommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 10.4 km
Duration 4:30 h
Ascent 1,059 m
Descent 1,059 m

The hike through the riverbed of Bras de la Plaine in the south of La Réunion is a unique natural experience.

2
Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Hiking Trail · Reunion Island
Through the tropical forest to the Trou de Fer
Toprecommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 11.2 km
Duration 4:00 h
Ascent 243 m
Descent 241 m

The hike to the Trou de Fer takes us through the tropical forest of the Bélouve forest. The Trou de Fer is a gorge in the center of the island of ...

3
Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Mountain Biking · Reunion Island
MTB route in Cilaos
Toprecommended route Difficulty easy
Distance 9.2 km
Duration 1:45 h
Ascent 324 m
Descent 322 m

MTB route for beginners starting from the center of Cilaos in the heart of the basin

Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Mountain Biking · Reunion Island
At the Piton de la Fournaise by mountain bike
Toprecommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 11.7 km
Duration 4:00 h
Ascent 532 m
Descent 532 m

Impressive mountain bike route through a fascinating light landscape at the volcanic crater.

Tourist Office of the Island La Réunion
Discover more
  • My Map
  • Content
  • Show images Hide images
Features
Maps and trails
Discover

Discover the region

offers
Webcams

Réunion National Park - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Voile de la Mariée, Salazie Photo: Par © Geolina | Wikipedia, Outdooractive Editors

The island of Réunion offers an exceptional variety of natural spaces: coral reefs and sandy beaches on the west coast of Réunion, as well as a volcano at an altitude of 3.071 m, the so-called "Piton des Neiges". Lava fields alternate with vast high plateaux. Desert peaks rise above heavily wooded valleys. Waterfalls tumble into deep basins. It's almost as if you're on the set of "Jurassic Park" or "The Lord of the Rings" when you're surrounded by Reunion's extreme landscapes.

The volcanic landscapes, basins and high plateaux have been an official national park since 2007. This national reserve covers around 40 per cent of Réunion's surface area. This allows the island's exceptional flora and fauna, with their unique biodiversity, to flourish undisturbed. Since 2010, the National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The highest mountain in the Indian Ocean: the Piton des Neiges (3,071 m)

The Piton des Neiges Photo: Par Mamphi — Travail personnel - Wikipedia, CC BY

The Piton des Neiges, a majestic volcanic peak, stands proudly in the heart of Réunion Island, offering a unique experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike. At 3,070 metres, it is the highest peak in the Indian Ocean. Enthusiastic hikers set out to climb this sleeping giant, only to be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas. The path to the summit passes through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to lunar plains, revealing the island's exceptional biodiversity.

The Piton des Neiges is much more than a challenge for trekking enthusiasts: it's an adventure that lets you touch the heavens and soak up Réunion's natural majesty. An ascent that leaves memories engraved in the hearts of those who have had the privilege of conquering this iconic peak.

The volcano, the high plateaux and the tropical forest

Piton de la Fournaise (2,631 m) is the last remaining active volcano on the island. The volcano was formed over half a million years ago and is now one ofthe most active volcanoes in the world, although Piton de la Fournaise is not considered dangerous. The volcano in the south-east of the island does not spew lava explosively; if it does, it rises to the surface through several small volcanic chimneys. As it makes its way down to the sea, large underground galleries, caves and tunnels are formed over time. You can take a guided tour of the caves.

At an altitude of 1,000 m, between the Piton de la Fournaise and the Piton de la Neige mountain ranges, lie the high plateaux that link the south with the east of the island. Here, visitors can enjoy an extremely varied landscape. The N3 departmental road runs from the south to the high plateaux up to 2000 m where the lunar landscape of "La Plaine des Sables" stretches out. Heading north, you reach the rainforest and then "La Plaine des Palmistes", in the heart of the Forêt de Bébour and the Piton de la Fournaise volcanic massif.

Summit · Reunion Island
Volcan Piton de la Fournaise
Reunion Island

Le Piton de la Fournaise est un volcan dans le département d’outre-mer français La Réunion.

from Stefan Urlaub,   Outdooractive Editors

The three basins: Mafate, Salazie, Cilaos

Photo: Mamphi | Wikipedia, CC BY

Mafate is the wildest basin, accessible only on foot or by helicopter. There is a network of over 100 km of hiking trails covering an area of 95 km², including the GR R3 long-distance hiking trail.

Salazie is well known for its rich vegetation, rock faces and spectacular waterfalls. It is the starting point for a number of hikes to the neighbouring basins of Mafate and Cilaos. Although the Salazie basin is easily accessible, it remains authentic. That's why the village of Hell-Bourg has been awarded the "Most Beautiful Villages in France" distinction. Both Hell-Bourg and Grand-Île are culturally distinct Creole villages.

The third basin, Cilaos, is a Mecca for hiking, canyoning, climbing and mountain biking. Cilaos is dominated by the island's highest mountain, the Piton des Neiges. It is also the sunniest basin. Its interior relief is marked by several small peaks. From Saint-Louis you can get to Cilaos by bus or car on a magnificent panoramic road called "la route aux 400 virages". Of course, you can also get to the Cilaos basin on foot, starting at Mafate, the Piton des Neiges or the La Plaine des Palmistes plateau.

Do you know this hiking paradise?

Welcome to La Réunion, a hiking paradise where nature reveals its splendour at every turn. The island, with its varied terrain, offers a wide range of itineraries for lovers of exploring on foot. From the majestic Piton des Neiges to the picturesque cirques of Cilaos, Salazie and Mafate, every step reveals a breathtaking landscape.

Challenge seekers can tackle the Piton des Neiges, the highest peak in the Indian Ocean, and be rewarded with a magical sunrise at the summit. The cirques, with their steep paths and panoramic views, offer unique experiences. The Mafate valley, accessible only on foot or by helicopter, invites you to immerse yourself in unspoilt nature.

For a gentler experience, the coastal paths, lined with lush vegetation and offering views of the ocean, offer a picturesque alternative. Rivers, waterfalls and tropical forests add a magical dimension to every walk.

Through the tropical forest to the Trou de Fer
Bras de la Plaine: riverbed
Anse des Cascades: cliff route
Hike to the summit of piton des Neiges

Cycling in Réunion: pedal your way through tropical treasures

Réunion Island is an ideal playground for cycling enthusiasts looking for adventure in the heart of tropical nature. Whether you're a road cyclist or a mountain biker, the island offers a variety of breathtaking routes.

The island's winding roads take you through a variety of landscapes, from white sandy beaches and lush forests to mountain roads offering breathtaking panoramic views. Road bike enthusiasts can take on exciting challenges with climbs up to the cirques, offering unforgettable panoramas.

For mountain bikers, the trails wind through lush green hills, canyons and volcanic slopes, offering an unrivalled off-road adventure. Descents through the rainforest and trails of the Argentière guarantee an adrenalin rush for thrill-seekers.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or an amateur looking to explore the island at your own pace, Réunion offers a variety of routes to satisfy your thirst for adventure on two wheels. Get ready to pedal through breathtaking scenery and enjoy an unforgettable cycling experience in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Mountain Biking · Reunion Island
At the Piton de la Fournaise by mountain bike
Mountain Biking · Reunion Island
Mégavalanche Saint-Paul - La Réunion Mountainbiking Downhill
Mountain Biking · Reunion Island
MTB route in Cilaos

Trip planning


Getting there

Reviews

  67
Randonnée en boucle dans les alentours de Le Tampon le 17 février 2025 by Hubert
February 17, 2025 · Community
maison - trois-mares les 400 Cents
More Show less
1 comment
Bras de la Plaine: riverbed by BERGFLOH
January 28, 2025 · Community
Imposante Fluss- & Schluchtwanderung! 🤩👍 Entweder man geht bis die Strömung zu stark bzw. das Wasser zu hoch wird und geht den selben Weg zurück, oder man geht beim Bassin Hirondelles hinauf zum Ilet Tata und umgeht somit die schwierigen Stellen im Fluss zum Weg Petit Ravine (wenn man die Runde von/nach Pont Yves - anstatt Entre-Deux - gehen will). Achtung auf den Wasserstand - nicht nach oder bei Regenfällen! Übernachtung im Ilet Canel (Aufstieg nach - flussaufwärts - dem Arche) möglich!
More Show less
Route done on January 11, 2025
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Photo: BERGFLOH Tirol, Community
Comment
Réunion, Hell-Bourgh - Terre Plate by Thomas
October 12, 2024 · Community
Früh aufstehen lohnt sich auf jeden Fall. Im Laufe vom Vormittag bilden sich die Wolken. Ich hatte am Anfang wunderbaren blauen Himmel. Aussicht war hervorragend. Wer es etwas einfacher haben möchte spart sich den Abstieg zum Wasserfall. Der ist wirklich steil. Da muss man schon trittsicher sein. Ohne diesen Teil ist es aus meiner Sicht eine angenehme leichte bis mittelschwerer Wanderung.
More Show less
Route done on October 05, 2024
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Photo: Thomas P, Community
Comment
Show more Show less

Destinations in Réunion



Localization

Parts of this content were machine translated using French as the source language

THE way to start your next outdoor experience!
Sign up now
App Store
Google Play Store
Huawei App Gallery
  • Our services
    • Features
    • Subscriptions
    • Pro for Search & Rescue
    • Enjoy great benefits and discounts from our partners
    • Vouchers
    • B2B
  • More services
    • Help Center
    • Blog (German only)
    • Newsletter
    • Affiliate Program
    • Contact Us
  • Corporate
    • Discover Outdooractive
    • Outdooractive30
    • Careers
    • Outdooractive Business
Learn more about the apps for Android and iOS
1% for the Planet
Choose a language
English
  • Deutsch
  • italiano
  • français
  • español
  • עברית
  • 中文
  • română
  • português (Portugal)
  • português (Brasil)
  • čeština
  • suomi
  • русский
  • magyar
  • norsk bokmål
  • slovenčina
  • Nederlands
  • 日本語
  • українська
  • हिन्दी
  • Türkçe
  • Ελληνικά
  • Mobile version
  • Terms and conditions
  • Privacy policy
  • Cancellation policy
  • Customer information
  • Terms of payment
  • Map information
  • Legal Disclosure
  • Accessibility