A Guide for Thrill-Seekers to Enjoy a Réunion Island Adventure

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure

Réunion Island is an absolute gem tucked away in the Indian Ocean, and if you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ll want to strap on your adventure boots for this one! Forget about serene beaches and gentle breezes; this volcanic paradise is all about jaw-dropping landscapes, jagged peaks, and lush forests hiding spectacular waterfalls just waiting to be explored.

Ready to engage in adrenaline-pumping activities? This guide is your passport to unlocking the most exhilarating adventures Réunion has to offer.

Extreme Activities for Adventurers

Volcanic Escapade

Prepare to be awed by the island's star attraction, Piton de la Fournaise! This fiery giant is one of the globe’s most active volcanoes, and it’s simply a must for anyone with a penchant for adventure. The trek to the summit is like stepping into another world, with surreal vistas of solidified lava flows. Just remember to check the volcano's activity status before you set off!

• Hiking to the Summit: Several trails lead to the summit, catering to different fitness levels. The most popular route, Pas de Bellecombe, offers breathtaking panoramic views.
• Lava Tunnels Exploration: Explore the island's lava tunnels, Grotte de lave, for a unique perspective! These subterranean passages formed by ancient lava flows offer a glimpse into the island's volcanic past. To ensure safety, you need to book a guided tour.

Beyond Piton de la Fournaise, the island's volcanic terrain offers a myriad of hiking and trekking opportunities. The Cirque de Mafate, accessible only by foot or helicopter, is a haven for experienced hikers seeking remote and challenging trails.

Land-Based Thrills

Réunion's terrain is a playground for mountain bikers and hikers. It is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and dramatic cliffs. The island features three spectacular natural amphitheaters called "cirques": Mafate, Salazie, and Cilaos, formed by the collapse of Piton des Neiges. Renowned for their out-of-this-world scenery, the cirques attract travellers looking for adventure.

• Mountain Biking the Trails: The island boasts a network of mountain biking trails, ranging from gentle cross-country routes to challenging downhill tracks. The Mafate Cirque, with its steep slopes and technical descents, is a popular destination for experienced riders.
• Hiking the Cirques: The island's three cirques offer a wealth of hiking opportunities. Each cirque has its unique character, with remarkable landscapes, hidden villages, and challenging trails. The GR R2, a long-distance hiking trail, traverses the island, connecting the cirques and offering a truly immersive experience.
• Via Ferrata: For those seeking a blend of hiking and climbing, via ferrata routes offer a thrilling experience. These protected climbing routes, equipped with cables and ladders, allow you to ascend cliffs and enjoy breathtaking views.

Water Sports

Réunion's diverse coastline and beautiful beaches offer a range of water sports, from surfing and diving to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Dive into the island’s crystal-clear waters and explore an underwater world with rich marine life.

• Surfing the Legendary Waves: The island's west coast boasts world-class surf breaks, attracting surfers from around the globe. Saint-Leu is a renowned surf spot famous for its powerful waves and consistent swells. Just be mindful of shark risks and always surf with local guides. They will identify safe areas.
• Diving the Coral Reefs: Réunion's coral reefs are teeming with marine life, offering divers a vibrant underwater paradise. The west coast, particularly around Saint-Gilles, is home to numerous dive sites catering to all levels of experience. You will be able to see over 300 fish species and numerous types of corals.
• Canoeing and Kayaking: Explore the island's calm lagoons and rivers by canoe or kayak. The Rivière des Galets and the Étang-Salé lagoon offer scenic paddling routes, allowing you to discover hidden coves and mangrove forests.
• White Water Rafting: The Rivière des Roches and the Rivière de l’Est provide excellent white water rafting experiences, with rapids ranging from gentle to challenging.

Do keep in mind that there are marine protected zones where certain activities are limited or prohibited. The Réserve Marine de La Réunion aims to protect the island's rich marine biodiversity, extending 40km along the western coast. It is designed to balance human activities with the preservation of marine ecosystems.

The reserve is divided into three different zones with varying levels of restrictions: general use zones, reinforced protection zones, and full protection zones or sanctuaries. These zones help regulate activities like water sports and fishing to minimize environmental impact.

Airborne Adventures

Réunion’s dramatic topography lends itself perfectly to airborne adventures. Fly over the cirques or see the Piton de la Fournaise volcano from the air! These activities provide unforgettable experiences, allowing visitors to appreciate the full beauty and scale of Réunion Island's natural wonders.

• Paragliding Over the Coast: Soar above the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, taking in breathtaking views of the coastline and the island’s lush interior. Several paragliding schools offer tandem flights for beginners and solo flights for experienced pilots.
• Helicopter Tours: For a bird's-eye view of the island's volcanic landscapes, cirques, and waterfalls, a helicopter tour is an unforgettable experience. Witness the sheer scale of Piton de la Fournaise, the hidden villages of Mafate, and the cascading waterfalls of the interior.
• Ultralight Aircraft (ULM) Flights: Air Aventures, located in Saint-Pierre, offers ULM flights that provide a more intimate and open-air experience of the island. These flights allow you to appreciate the details of the landscape, from the coastal reefs to the volcanic craters.

Canyoning Experience

Looking for an all-around activity? Canyoning combines different sports activities from hiking and mountain climbing to swimming and rafting. Réunion is a canyoning mecca, offering a variety of descents for all levels of experience. Guided tours are highly recommended because these guides provide safety equipment and expertise on the local terrain.

• Trou de Fer: This iconic canyon, accessible only by helicopter or a challenging hike, is a must-do for experienced canyoners. It features a series of stunning waterfalls, including the world-famous Cascade du Trou de Fer.
• Cascade Langevin: This series of waterfalls, located in the south of the island, offers a more accessible canyoning experience with rappels, slides, and jumps.
• Rivière Sainte-Suzanne: This river offers a variety of canyoning routes, ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging descents.
• Rivière des Remparts: The dramatic Rivière des Remparts canyon is a playground for canyoning enthusiasts. Rappelling down waterfalls, sliding through natural chutes, and swimming in crystal-clear pools are just a few of the adrenaline-fueled activities on offer.

Practical Tips for Thrill-Seekers

Now that you have a list of thrilling activities to do in Réunion Island, here are some tips to help you enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience.

• Plan Ahead: Réunion is very popular, especially during peak season. Secure your canyoning, paragliding, or volcano trekking spots early.
• Get Fit: Some activities can be physically demanding. Getting fit and training beforehand can help you avoid injuries and maximize your enjoyment.
• Hire a Guide: For activities like canyoning, lava tunnel exploration, and hiking in remote areas, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety.
• Check Weather Conditions: Réunion's weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to check the forecast before embarking on any outdoor activities.
• Pack Appropriately: Bring sturdy hiking boots, lightweight and quick-drying clothing, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
• Review Your Insurance: Make sure that your travel insurance covers adventure sports and extreme activities.
• Be Aware of Shark Risks: The island's waters are home to sharks, so it's essential to know of the risks and take precautions.
• Respect the Environment: Réunion's natural beauty is fragile, so it's important to respect the environment, ensure minimal disruption, and leave no trace.
• Learn some French: While many locals speak English, knowing some basic French phrases will enhance your experience.
• Enjoy the Food: Réunion has a unique and delicious cuisine influenced by French, Indian, and African flavors. Try local specialties like rougail saucisse, bouchons, and samoussas.
• Respect the Local Culture: The island is a melting pot of cultures, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.
• Rent a Car: Réunion is an island that is best explored with a car. Public transportation is available, but renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Rent a Car for Your Thrilling Adventure in Réunion

Start your journey right by renting a car for your thrilling Réunion adventure. With a rental car, you can go from one escapade to another without worrying about public transport schedules and locations. You can also ensure that you have space for your sports gear and other essentials.

Finalrentals provides easy booking, transparent pricing, and dedicated customer service so you can plan your trip confidently. Booking your car rental is quick and simple with our user-friendly platform. Just select your pick-up and drop-off points, choose a car, and secure your rental. You will get instant confirmation with no hidden fees or charges.

Réunion Island is not just a destination; it's an experience. It's a place where you can push your limits, challenge yourself, and discover the raw beauty of nature. Check out our other blogs to learn more about fun activities on the island.

Whether you're an experienced adventurer or a first-time thrill-seeker, Réunion has something to offer you. So, pack your bags, embrace the adrenaline, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in this paradise. Rent a car on Finalrentals and embark on this exhilarating trip!