Réunion Island: Volcanoes and Beaches Travel Guide
Explore La Réunion, France's southernmost territory in the Indian Ocean, featuring tropical beaches and volcanic landscapes. This route includes a recap of the nearby Mauritius beaches before diving into La Réunion's unique blend of European infrastructure and island paradise.
- Mode
- place
- Start
- Sainte-Marie
- End
- Sainte-Marie
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Rent a regular car (not 4WD) on La Réunion as roads are well-maintained; you'll need one to navigate the island's many curves and mountain roads.
- Avoid
- La Réunion is the shark capital of the world with the highest number of shark attacks annually. Check signs indicating safe swimming areas before entering the water.
- Tip
- Use the natural seawater swimming pool at Boucan Canot for a shark-free and current-free swimming experience with crystal clear water.
- Tip
- Plage de l'Hermitage lagoon (10 minutes from Boucan Canot) is ideal for snorkeling with no waves, abundant colorful fish, and protected coral reefs.
- Where to stay
- Le Victoria hotel near Saint-Pierre offers bungalows with ocean views, a swimming pool, and is located in a quiet area with all amenities including a football pitch.
- Transport
- Piton de la Fournaise crater drive takes about 1 hour from coastal areas; roads wind through volcanic forest to reach 2,600m elevation with viewpoints overlooking the crater.
- Tip
- Piton de la Fournaise is the world's most active volcano, erupting on average every 9 months over the last 10 years; lava flows from recent eruptions are still visible.
- Tip
- Cascade de Grand Galet is the highest waterfall on the island at 45 meters, located in the Long Van River between mountains and accessible by car.
- Transport
- Boucan Canot beach is about 40 kilometers from Roland Garos airport and is a popular weekend spot for locals.
- Food
- Try food trucks for pizza on the island; one source mentions it as the best pizza available.
Video on this route
REUNION ISLAND: Ultimate Travel Guide to VOLCANOES & BEACHES in the Indian Ocean