Réunion Island, located in the Indian Ocean, is a volcanic paradise known for its stunning diversity of landscapes. The island features soaring peaks, lush valleys, deep canyons, and dramatic coastal cliffs, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Two of Réunion’s most captivating features are the active volcano Piton de la Fournaise and the island’s three magnificent cirques—Salazie, Mafate, and Cilaos. These natural wonders reflect the island’s dynamic geology, offering visitors breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
While Réunion’s terrain may seem daunting to some, its rugged beauty rewards those who venture off the beaten track. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, Réunion’s diverse landscapes offer something for all. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island’s natural beauty and access remote areas.
Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, is a true highlight of Réunion. The volcano in the southeastern part of the island stands at 2,632 meters tall and is a spectacular sight. Unlike many volcanoes that erupt infrequently, Piton de la Fournaise frequently displays its fiery nature, erupting every few years and captivating visitors with dramatic lava flows and ash clouds. Despite its activity, the volcano is regarded as safe to visit, with plenty of hiking trails and viewpoints offering safe observation points for tourists.
To reach the heart of Piton de la Fournaise, visitors often begin their journey at the Pas de Bellecombe viewpoint. From this vantage point, you can see the vast caldera, which measures 8 kilometers wide and features lava fields. The sight of the massive volcanic crater, surrounded by rugged lava rock, is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Hiking trails leading to the volcano’s crater offer some of the best views of the island’s volcanic landscape. The trek to the crater rim is a moderately challenging hike that takes approximately five hours, but the views of the caldera and surrounding plains make it a rewarding experience. Those interested in a shorter hike can explore the Crater of the Enclos, which offers spectacular views without the longer commitment.
For a more unique experience, visitors can explore the lava tubes scattered around the volcano. These natural tunnels, formed by lava flows, offer a fascinating look inside the volcano. Several guided tours offer a chance to visit these tunnels, where you’ll learn about the volcanic processes that have shaped Réunion over millions of years.
Réunion’s three cirques—Salazie, Mafate, and Cilaos—are among the island’s most stunning natural features. Formed by the collapse of volcanic craters, these giant amphitheatres offer some of the most picturesque and remote landscapes globally. Each cirque has its charm and personality, making it well worth exploring the island’s hidden interior.
The Cirque of Salazie is known for its lush, tropical landscape, contrasting with the arid volcanic surroundings of Piton de la Fournaise. The road to Salazie offers stunning views, including several beautiful waterfalls. Among the most famous of these is Voile de la Mariée (Bridal Veil), which cascades down from the cliffs above, resembling the delicate veil of a bride. The sight of the waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation is a photographer’s dream and one of the most iconic images of Réunion.
The village of Hell-Bourg, located in the heart of Salazie, is a UNESCO-listed site known for its Creole architecture and scenic streets. Hell-Bourg was once a popular spa town, and today, visitors can stroll through its charming streets, visit the local markets, or relax in one of the village’s many cafes. The cool mountain air and stunning views of the surrounding peaks make Hell-Bourg a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Salazie is also known for its hiking trails, which take you deep into the heart of the cirque, allowing you to experience its unique flora and fauna up close. These trails suit all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers.
In contrast to Salazie, Mafate is a remote and wild area, accessible only on foot or by helicopter. This isolation has helped preserve the authenticity of the villages and their traditional way of life. Mafate is a paradise for hikers, offering a series of trails that wind through the cirque’s steep terrain. The paths are challenging, but they reward hikers with unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The îlets (villages) in Mafate, such as La Nouvelle, Roche Plate, and Marla, are home to small communities that live in isolation, often without access to modern conveniences like electricity or running water. Visitors can trek to these villages to experience a simple, timeless way of life. Mafate’s isolation offers a peaceful, authentic glimpse into Réunion’s rural life, ideal for those seeking solitude.
For those not up for the challenging hikes, helicopter tours of Mafate offer an aerial view of this untouched wilderness. These tours provide a unique perspective of the cirque’s rugged beauty, offering aerial views of remote villages nestled in the mountains.
Cilaos, known as the Cirque of Adventures, is perhaps the most accessible of the three cirques, thanks to the winding road that leads into its heart. The road to Cilaos is one of the most scenic drives on the island, with over 400 hairpin bends, providing plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the view.
Once in Cilaos, visitors will find a variety of activities to enjoy, including hiking, climbing, and canyoning. The trail to Piton des Neiges, Réunion’s highest peak, starts here, making Cilaos a popular base for climbers and trekkers. Cilaos also has several thermal springs, which have served for centuries due to their healing properties. These natural hot springs are perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking or exploring.
The cirque is known for its local products, including lentils and wine. The fertile soil of Cilaos is perfect for growing these crops, and visitors can sample the region’s famous lentils at local restaurants or purchase them as souvenirs. The wine produced in Cilaos is unique, thanks to the high-altitude vineyards, and it’s worth trying a glass during your visit.
Exploring Réunion's stunning landscapes requires flexibility, and the best way to see all the island has is by rental car. Renting a car lets you travel at your own pace, allowing you to visit more remote areas of the island that might be difficult to reach by public transport. From the rugged peaks of Piton de la Fournaise to the tranquil cirques of Salazie, Mafate, and Cilaos, a rental car allows you to experience the island's wonders without the limitations of group tours.
Finalrentals offers a wide range of vehicles to suit every traveller, from compact cars for solo adventurers to spacious SUVs for families or groups. With easy booking options and competitive rates, renting a car with Finalrentals lets you explore Réunion easily.
Driving in Réunion can be a thrilling experience, especially if you enjoy winding mountain roads and scenic coastal views. The island’s roads are generally in good condition but be prepared for narrow, twisting routes in some areas, particularly around the cirques. Always carry a map or GPS to help navigate the island’s mountainous terrain.
By choosing to Rent a Car in Réunion, you will have the freedom to stop wherever you want—whether it’s for a photo opportunity at a lookout point, a picnic by a waterfall, or a spontaneous detour down a charming village road.
The best time to visit Réunion is during the dry season, from May to November when the weather is cooler and more suitable for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. During this period, the island enjoys clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for experiencing its natural beauty.
Accommodation in Réunion is varied, with options ranging from luxury resorts to cosy guesthouses in the mountain villages. For those planning to hike or explore the cirques, staying in towns like Saint-Denis or Saint-Pierre offers convenient access to Piton de la Fournaise and the island’s scenic routes.
While driving in Réunion is a rewarding experience, it's crucial to be aware of local traffic regulations and road conditions. Some areas may be prone to landslides or rockfalls, particularly after heavy rains, so always check the weather forecast and local advisories before setting out on your journey.
Réunion is a destination that captivates with its wild beauty, from the fiery eruptions of Piton de la Fournaise to the serene, isolated villages of the cirques. Renting a car offers the freedom to fully experience this stunning island, with the ability to reach its most remote and awe-inspiring spots. Whether you’re hiking to the top of a volcanic peak, admiring cascading waterfalls, or simply enjoying the serenity of the cirques, Réunion promises an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Book your car rental today with Finalrentals and get ready to discover the island’s natural wonders on your terms!
