What can you do on Réunion Island for two weeks ? Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this island, nicknamed “the Intense Island”, is the ideal destination if you’re looking for a variety of landscapes all in one place. With volcanoes, tropical forests, waterfalls, beaches, and hiking trails, you’ll have plenty to do during your 15-day stay on Réunion.

We’ll share our top tips, tricks, and all the information you need to plan your trip and, most importantly, our itinerary so you’ll know what to do in Réunion over two weeks.

Welcome to our travel blog !
We’re Guillaume and Maeva, two French travelers. Here, we share our experiences and our travels.
Enjoy reading !

2 semaines à La Réunion – Itinéraire de 15 jours sur l’île Intense

2 Weeks on Réunion Island : Practical Information

When to Visit La Reunion : What’s the Best Time of Year?

The island of Réunion is located in the Southern Hemisphere, near the Tropic of Capricorn. As a result, it has two seasons that are the opposite of those in mainland France: the dry season (the southern winter), which runs from May to October, and the wet season (the southern summer), which runs from November to April.

The Dry Season

During the dry season, the climate is drier and temperatures are lower. Conditions are more pleasant for hiking.

The rainy season

During the rainy season, it rains much more and there is a risk of cyclones (from November to March). The heat and humidity are higher, but nature is also more lush, and the island is in full bloom.

Reunion Island and Its Microclimates

There are just over 200 microclimates on Réunion. On the west side, the climate is drier and sunnier, while the east coast receives more rainfall. The most important thing to remember is that in the cirques, and, more generally, in the mountains, temperatures are cooler than along the coast. To make the most of the Hauts region, mountain hikes, and scenic viewpoints, you should set out early in the morning to avoid the clouds that roll in late in the morning and in the afternoon.

If you’d like to see whales, keep in mind that they usually arrive between mid-June and stay until October. However, whale-watching tours are only permitted from July 1 through September 30.

In summary

The best time to visit Réunion is from May through October, during the dry season. However, this is also the most popular and most expensive time of year. I recommend visiting Réunion in June, September, and October.

Rent a Car on Reunion Island

To get around in Reunion Island, it’s essential to rent a car. Keep in mind, however, that there’s a lot of traffic on Réunion, and there are many mountain roads. Distances are short, but trips can take a long time, something to keep in mind when planning your travels.

Renting a car can be expensive, but I would still advise you not to go for the cheapest options and to choose a vehicle with a sufficiently powerful engine. Some roads are very steep, with sharp hairpin turns and steep gradients, so you’ll need a good car.

There are many car rental companies; to compare offers, you can use platforms like Discovercars.

2 Weeks in Reunion Island : Where to Stay on the “Intense” Island?

The island isn’t very big, but don’t be fooled, distances can be long, and some roads get very congested. The best option is to rent two places: one in the west and one in Saint-Pierre or Le Tampon.

However, it is possible to stay in just one place. Saint-Pierre or Le Tampon are excellent bases from which to explore the entire island. But you’ll need to get up early to go on certain hikes and reach the starting parking lots in the early morning, to avoid the clouds and find a place to park.

In any case, if I can recommend a place to stay, it’s ESCALRUN in Le Tampon. The owners are really friendly and respond quickly to all your questions. It has all the amenities you need: a kitchen, a washing machine, etc.

And when it comes to value for money, it’s unbeatable. We spent 540 € for 15 days in Réunion.

Link on Booking

Map of Points of Interest : 2 Weeks in La Reunion

Things to Do in Reunion Island : Our 2-Week Itinerary

Here’s our 2-week itinerary for Réunion, but keep in mind that this is an island with its own microclimates. I therefore recommend adjusting your daily plans based on the weather. However, we’ve grouped together visits, activities, and hikes that are geographically close to one another to avoid driving too many kilometers and, above all, to spend as little time as possible in traffic.

In this article, there are a lot of places I don’t mention, but you can find them on other travel blogs. However, access to many of the ponds is prohibited by prefectural order. They are therefore not mentioned here, and I do not recommend that you defy these prohibitions. They are in place for a reason.

To find out which trails and forest roads are accessible, you can find all the information on the ONF Website.

Be sure to always check whether access to the trails is permitted before setting out on a hike. This is because the trails are exposed to the various types of inclement weather that affect the island. The terrain is rugged, and rainfall can cause landslides. It is therefore essential to be well-informed and to respect any restrictions.

2 Weeks in La Reunion : A Summary of Our Itinerary

This article is quite long, so if you don’t have time to read it all, you’ll find a summary of our itinerary below.

1. Arrival on the Reunion Island
2. Sunrise at Maïdo, a visit to the Villèle Museum, and sunset at the Saint-Paul savanna
3. Snorkeling at the lagoon beaches to the west, a visit to Kélonia, and sunset at Le Souffleur
4. Hike to the Piton de la Fournaise Volcano
5. Exploring the Beaches and Waterfalls of the South
6. The Cilaos Cirque
7. Hike to Roche Vert Bouteille, tour of the Grande Chaloupe quarantine station, beach, and visit to the Stella Matituna Museum
8. Street Markets and the History of Religions in Reunion Island; Ending the Day at Etang Salé Beach
9. A Reunion Island tradition: the Sunday picnic
10. The Salazie Cirque
11. From the East to the South: The Bois Court Lookout, Sainte-Anne Church, the Rivière de l’Est Suspension Bridge, Notre-Dame des Laves, Anse des Cascades, the Lava Trail, Cap Méchant
12. Hiking in Mafate
13. Free Day – Helicopter or Microlight Flight
14. Departure : Return flight

Day 1 | Arrival on Reunion Island

Depending on what time you arrive and the length of your flight, we recommend that you pick up your rental car, drive straight to your accommodations, and take a nice shower before setting out to explore the island.

The sun sets relatively early in Réunion, around 6 p.m. As a result, the days can seem short, especially when part of the time is spent on the road. So we decide to buy some samosas at Chez Bertrand in Saint-Pierre and enjoy the beach there while watching the sunset.

Day 2 | Le Maïdo, the Villèle Museum, and the Saint-Paul Savannah

After our first night, our two-week trip to Reunion Island can finally begin. And for this second day of our trip to La Reunion, we set our alarm for 3:30 a.m. to head to Maïdo. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful spots on the island to watch the sunrise. I strongly recommend that you go see the sunrise as early as possible during your stay, so you can go back if the weather isn’t on your side.

Sunrise at Maïdo

The Maïdo rises to an altitude of 2,190 meters and offers a spectacular view of the Mafate Cirque. In fact, it is certainly one of the most beautiful views you’ll find of the cirque. Mafate is one of Reunion’s three cirques. And it’s the only one accessible only on foot or by helicopter. The view from the Maïdo lookout point will give you a full sense of how isolated the residents of the small hamlets are.

Once the sun has risen, I recommend staying a while to explore the cirque in broad daylight and take in the beauty of the surroundings.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– No restrooms on site

On your way back down, you absolutely must stop for a meal at Spot du Maïdo. It’s a great little restaurant with a super warm welcome, and the food is excellent. And that’s where I had one of the best macatia of my life (a small, round, slightly sweet bread roll typical of Reunion Island).

Villèle Historical Museum

In the afternoon, to make the most of your travels, head to the Villèle Historical Museum. Set on a former colonial estate, the museum chronicles the economic and social history of Reunion Island. In our opinion, this is a must-see to learn more about La Reunion’s history and gain a better understanding of its culture.

Through slavery, indentured labor, and serfdom, you’ll discover a side of Reunion Island that is rarely discussed and often overlooked by tourists visiting the island.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location

Villèle Historical Museum website

The Saint-Paul Savanna at Cap La Houssaye

To wrap up the day, we went for a walk in the Saint-Paul savanna to enjoy the sunset. And what a beautiful savanna it is—the golden colors, often set against a backdrop of deep black clouds, create a striking contrast. We could come back here again and again; it’s such a calm and soothing place.

Be careful, there’s no shade in the savanna, and the sun is quite strong. That’s why I recommend taking this hike early in the morning or late in the day at sunset. If you go late in the day, be sure to bring your headlamps; night falls very quickly on Réunion.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– No restrooms on site

Day 3 | The Western Lagoon – Snorkeling Day

Reunion Island is nicknamed “the Intense Island,” and for good reason. We alternated between busy days and hikes and days focused more on relaxation so we wouldn’t get too tired, and also to take our time; after all, we’re on vacation.

The Hermitage Lagoon

There aren’t many beaches on La Reunion where you can swim safely, but the beaches on the west coast, especially the one by the lagoon, are perfect for snorkeling.

So, by 8:30 a.m., we’re already at Hermitage Beach, all geared up to explore the lagoon and its underwater life.

At this time of day, we have the beach all to ourselves, if you don’t count the few people doing their morning workout. The water in the lagoon is still calm and already warm. We’re really enjoying watching the little fish with no one else around. We have to be careful, though, it’s forbidden to walk in the lagoon so as not to damage the coral.

Additional information :
– Don’t forget your mask and snorkel.
– Walking in the lagoon is prohibited to prevent damage to the coral. Only swimming is allowed.
– To avoid damaging the coral and to protect marine life as much as possible, use organic sunscreen made with natural ingredients. If possible, wear UV-protective clothing.
– Free parking is available here, here, or at this location

Here’s a tip : avoid going there on Saturday or Sunday afternoons. You’ll have a really hard time finding a parking spot.

Time flies, and four hours go by before we even realize it. It’s time to get out of the water and grab a bite to eat. You’ll have no trouble finding something to eat near the beach.

A Visit to Kélonia, the Sea Turtle Sanctuary

In the afternoon, we went to visit Kélonia. Kélonia is a research and conservation center for sea turtles. The center aims to raise environmental awareness about sea turtles. It takes in injured or sick turtles and releases them back into the ocean once they have recovered.

Additional information :
– 2026 PRICES : €9
– Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
– Free parking at this location

Kélonia website

Sunset at Le Souffleur

After this visit, and to end the day on a high note, we head out to watch the sunset at the Souffleur. The Souffleur is a natural wonder. It is actually an underwater cave that shoots a jet of spray several meters high through a funnel-shaped opening. The spectacle is astonishingly powerful, and the colors of the sunset as it caresses the ocean give the waves a magnificent glow.

To reach the lookout point at the geyser, you can take the steps located to the right of the parking lot.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location

Day 4 | Hike to the Piton de la Fournaise Volcano

Since Reunion Island has more than 200 microclimates, I can’t stress this enough, try to do your mountain activities as early as possible during your stay so you can go back if the weather isn’t good.

After driving for an hour and a half from Le Tampon, we arrived at the Pas de Bellecombe parking lot. The colors at sunrise were magnificent, and it was to see this sunrise that we decided to arrive around 5 a.m. Whether at Pas de Bellecombe or a little before that, at Plaine des Sables, the sunrise is a magical moment.

Even if you’re not interested in watching the sunrise, you should still arrive at the volcano before 7 a.m. so you can make the climb with as few clouds as possible; otherwise, you won’t be able to see anything once you reach the summit.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– Free restrooms on site

Hiking at Piton de la Fournaise

Once the sun rises, we begin our descent into the Enclos Fouqué to reach the Dolomieu Crater. It takes a little over 5 to 5.5 hours to complete the round-trip hike from the Pas de Bellecombe to the Dolomieu Crater. The hike is challenging, so don’t underestimate it just because everyone else is doing it. If you’re not in great shape, you can start the hike and stop at the Rosemont Chapel, or stay on the cliffs and continue on to Piton Partage.

To learn more about possible hikes on the volcano, I invite you to read the article :
-> Three Hikes to Try at Piton de la Fournaise on Reunion Island <-

The various stops to make at the volcano

After your hike, be sure to make a few stops: the Plaine des Sable to admire this lunar-like landscape, the Commerson Crater, with its viewing platform offering a view of the 265-meter-deep crater, and the Bois-Court lookout, which offers a superb panoramic view.

And of course, I highly recommend visiting the volcano museum to learn a little more about Piton de la Fournaise.

Additional information :
– 2026 PRICES : €9
– Hours: Mondays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Cité du Volcan website

Day 5 | Beaches and Waterfalls of the South

Today, we’re setting out to explore the southern part of Reunion Island. On the agenda: magnificent beaches (in my opinion, the most beautiful on the island) and waterfalls.

Grande Anse Beach

The first stop of the day will be at one of the most beautiful beaches : Grande Anse.

Grande Anse Beach is a white-sand beach located in a beautiful bay. It is lined with coconut palms, and there is a designated swimming area. Please note that swimming is prohibited on the rest of the beach.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– Free restrooms on site

Ti Sable – the black sand beach

Once you’ve had your fill of Grande Anse, I suggest stopping at a second beach: Ti Sable. Of all the beaches on Reunion Island, this one is by far my favorite. It’s impossible to swim there because of the waves and the current, but the setting is magnificent, and you could spend hours just watching the waves. With its basalt cliffs, this beach has the feel of a cove. It has a bit of an Icelandic vibe (well, plus the coconut trees, of course).

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– No restrooms on site

The Langevin Waterfalls

We hit the road again to see the Grand Galet and Trou Noir waterfalls on the Langevin River. It’s worth noting that the Langevin River features a series of pools where you can cool off and have a picnic. But the most famous spot is, without a doubt, the Grand Galet waterfall. Consisting of several cascades, the Grand Galet waterfall stretches several meters wide.

Additional information :
/!\ Warning: Swimming is not safe here, there are siphons and holes. The waterfall can be viewed from behind a barrier.
The access road is quite steep, with very sharp hairpin turns; be prepared and drive carefully.

– Free parking at this location

So, here on this blog, we’re transparent: if we like a place, we’ll tell you, and if we don’t like it, we’ll say so, too. The waterfall is pretty, yes, but right by the side of the road is one of our worst phobias: spiders. But not just any spiders: huge black-and-yellow ones (well, huge to our phobic eyes). They’re everywhere; at first, you don’t see them, but once you’ve spotted them, they’re all you can see. They’re harmless, but when you’re scared… In conclusion, if you’re afraid of spiders, just keep walking.

A little further downstream, you’ll find the Trou Noir waterfall. The area is quieter and a little less crowded than Grand Galet. You can go for a swim in the pool after a short walk.

The Langevin Navy

To wrap up this fifth day, we head to the Langevin naval base to enjoy the sunset.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– No restrooms on site

Day 6 | The Cilaos Cirque

On this sixth day of our two-week trip to Réunion, we set out to explore the Cilaos Cirque. The Cilaos Cirque is dominated by Piton des Neiges, Reunion’s highest peak at 3,070 meters. Unlike the island’s other two cirques, Cilaos is sunnier and drier.

To get to Cilaos, you take the famous road with 400 curves. The road is magnificent, with superb views. It’s certainly one of the most beautiful roads on Reunion Island, along with the Plaine des Sables road. As you drive along the road, the pitons and ramparts, which are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gradually come into view; it’s only when you reach the heart of Cilaos that you can finally see the Piton des Neiges.

Additional information :
A 1-hour drive covering 37 km
Although the road is narrow in some places, there are no insurmountable obstacles. However, if you’re not comfortable driving on mountain roads, you can take the bus.
Line 60, departing from the Saint-Louis Bus Station, runs hourly from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fouquet Basin

Once you arrive in Cilaos, I recommend starting with the hike to Bassin Fouquet. It’ll be less crowded in the morning, and, most importantly, it’ll be cooler for hiking.

To get to the Bassin Fouquet, park at the “Bois Rouge” bus stop. There aren’t many parking spots, so it’s best to get there early. You’ll find a trail that leads downhill for about 30 minutes. To fully enjoy the pond, cross the stream to get to the other side.

Discover Cilaos

After taking this quick break to cool off, it’s time to head back to Cilaos and finally explore the town.

There are several must-see places in the circus:

• Notre-Dame-des-Neiges
• The ancient thermal baths of Cilaos (you can reach the baths by taking the porters’ trail, which begins just below the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Church)
• The Cilaos Embroidery Center
• The covered market (where you can find the famous Cilaos lentils, as well as Cilaos wine)
• and, finally, the Mare à Joncs.

Day 7 | Hike to Roche Vert Bouteille, tour of the quarantine station, beach, and the Stella Matituna Museum

Hike to Roche Vert Bouteille

Another day on Reunion Island, another very early wake-up call. This time, it’s to hike the Roche Vert Bouteille trail. It’s a hike that offers a beautiful view of Mafate.

Additional information :
Length: 2.5 km round trip | Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes | Elevation gain: 239 m
As usual, clouds roll in quickly, so it’s essential to arrive early.
– Free parking at this location
– Free restrooms on site

The Lazaret of La Grande Chaloupe

Since the Roche Vert Bouteille hike is located in the west, it’s the perfect excuse to visit the Lazaret de la Grande Chaloupe on the way back. It’s a key site in the history of Reunion Island. And I’m almost certain that most of you have never even heard of a place like this.

In 1848, following the abolition of slavery, the colonies faced a labor shortage. Contract workers were therefore brought in to replace these slaves. Contract labor was a form of employment under a five-year contract. The quarantine station was the place where these people arrived in Reunion Island to be quarantined, in order to prevent the spread of diseases such as smallpox, yellow fever, the plague, or cholera.

The tour is short, but it gives you a chance to learn a little more about this part of the island’s history, and it’s actually quite interesting.

Additional information :
– 2026 PRICES: Free
– Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
– Free parking at this location
– Free restroom on site

The Western Beaches

Since we love to cool off, and it always feels good after a hike, there’s nothing better than spending part of the afternoon at the beach.

Among the designated swimming areas, you can go swimming at one of these beaches :

• Boucan Canot
• Roche Noires
• The Hermitage Lagoon
• La Saline-les-Bains Beach and the Trou d’Eau Lagoon
• The Beaches of Saint-Leu

The Stella Matutina Museum

If you haven’t spent too much time at the beach, you can wrap up the day with a visit to the Stella Matituna Museum in Saint-Leu. The Stella Matituna Museum is a former sugar factory that traces the history of sugar on Reunion Island. Beyond the history of sugar, you’ll also learn about a part of La Reunion’s history.

Additional information :
– 2026 PRICES : €9
– Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
– Free parking at this location

Day 8 | Street markets, temples, a mosque, and an evening at Etang Salé

Street Markets

How could you spend two weeks in Reunion Island without visiting at least one of the island’s open-air markets ? The two largest and most famous markets are the one in Saint-Paul on Fridays and the one in Saint-Pierre on Saturday mornings. The open-air market is the perfect place to discover and sample local flavors.

Religion in La Réunion

La Reunion is an island where religion is omnipresent and plays a major role. Whether in churches, temples, or mosques, all these religions coexist in harmony and respect one another. To understand this spirit of coexistence that is so characteristic of Reunion, I can only encourage you to explore this aspect of Reunionese culture.

Indeed, the various ethnic groups have shaped the history and landscape of Reunion Island; it is only by exploring this shared history that we can fully understand the “living together” that is so characteristic of Reunion Island. When we go on a trip or vacation somewhere, we love to learn about and discover a new culture. And even though La Reunion is part of France, in some ways it’s quite different from mainland France, but above all, it’s incredibly rich.

The Tamil Temple of Saint-Pierre: Shri Maha Badra Karly

If you ever decide to go to the Saint-Pierre market, I highly recommend taking the opportunity to visit the Shri Maha Badra Karly Tamil temple in La Ravine Blanche. It is one of the most beautiful temples on the island.

Additional information :
– Appropriate attire required: no shorts or low-cut tops (must be covered from the neck to the knees); shoes must be left at the temple entrance

The Chinese Guan Di Temple

As I mentioned, Reunion Island is home to a rich cultural diversity made up of different ethnic groups, traditions, and religions. Like Muslims, Hindus, and Christians, the Chinese community places great importance on its traditions. To learn a little more, head to the Guan Di Temple in Saint-Pierre.

Additional information :
– Guided tours are available on Saturdays around 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

The Saint-Pierre Mosque: ATTYAB OUL MASSÄDJID

It is one of the main mosques on Reunion Island, inaugurated in 1913 and expanded in 1975.

Additional information :
– Self-guided tours daily from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Fridays only from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
– Please dress appropriately; as with the Tamil temple, you must remove your shoes. Thank you for respecting the site.

Étang Salé Beach

After a day focused on the culture and history of religions in Reunion Island, we headed to Étang-Salé Beach to relax. It’s the largest black-sand beach on the Reunion Island. With its turquoise waters, small forest of filaos, palm trees, and black sand (which is actually a mixture of basalt, olivine, and coral), it’s one of the most beautiful beaches on La Reunion.

On the way to Étang-Salé, don’t forget to stop at the Gouffre. The Gouffre de l’Étang-Salé is a natural gorge formed by black rocks that offers a beautiful sight when the waves crash against the rocks.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– Restrooms on site

Day 9 | A Reunion Island Tradition: The Sunday Picnic

If there’s one event, one moment that is a cornerstone of Creole culture in La Reunion, it’s the Sunday picnic. No matter the season, only a cyclone can keep the people of Reunion Island from enjoying this activity.

In fact, that’s why you’ll find so many designated picnic areas during your stay. The picnic areas are equipped with rondavels (small wooden huts), tables and benches, and facilities for building fires and barbecues. You can find these areas both at the beach and in the Hauts. Unlike in France, here you don’t just grab a sandwich and some chips to munch on, you bring a real, hot, full meal with you.

So, I definitely recommend going on a picnic at least one Sunday during your stay. And you’ll see that the atmosphere, whether at the beach, in the Hauts, or on the volcano route, is quite different from the rest of the week.

Don’t forget to take your trash with you and leave the place clean.
It’s best to arrive early so you can easily find a place to park.

Day 10 | The Salazie Cirque

The Salazie Cirque is certainly the most accessible cirque on the island. It is also the greenest and wettest, and above all, it is a paradise of waterfalls.

The road leading there winds through gorges covered in vegetation, from which magnificent waterfalls cascade. It is in this cirque, in fact, that you’ll find one of the most beautiful and well-known waterfalls on Reunion Island : the Voile de la Mariée waterfall. And the Salazie cirque is also home to one of the entry points leading to the Mafate cirque.

The White Waterfall

The first stop of the day will be a visit to the Cascade Blanche. At 640 meters, the Cascade Blanche is the third-highest waterfall in France. The top two are also located in La Reunion: the Trou de Fer (725 meters) and the Bras Magasin waterfall (647 meters).

To get a closer look, you’ll have to walk a bit. The trail isn’t difficult at all; be careful, though, it can get very muddy and slippery, especially if it has rained recently.

From the parking lot, take the staircase located to the right of the parking lot that leads to a rondavela. Then follow the path that branches off to the left; you’ll walk past some houses. When you reach a property, there’s a small trail on the right that runs alongside the house. Watch out for dogs, they might startle you. There’s no danger; they’re inside their property, but they bark and growl. Then just follow the path all the way to the end.

Additional information :
Length: 3.5 km round trip | Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes | Elevation gain: 146 m
– Free parking at this coordinates

This hike is easy. Please note that for those with knee or joint problems, some sections of the trail are a bit more challenging.

The Voile de la Mariée Waterfall

The Voile de la Mariée Waterfall is the most famous waterfall on Reunion Island. It’s visible from the road, so you don’t have to walk to see it. This waterfall consists of a multitude of streams cascading down the mountainside.

Additional information :
– Parking lot for viewing the waterfalls from the road: here

Hell-Bourg: Visit one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”

The village of Hell-Bourg is the only village on Reunion Island to have been designated a “Most Beautiful Village in France,” a title it has held since 1998. There is a very special atmosphere in this village with its charming Creole houses.

Before I tell you more, I want to issue a major warning to arachnophobes. You might want to look away. There are literally spiders everywhere. As soon as you look up or turn your head, you’re face-to-face with a spider. There are even garlands of spiderwebs hanging from the power lines. So, if, like us, you’re absolutely terrified of these little creatures, Hell-Bourg isn’t for you, and don’t even try visiting the village.

Instead, on your way back, you can take a detour through the Takamaka Valley to the lookout and enjoy the magnificent view. The Takamaka Valley lookout is located at these coordinates.

Day 11 | From the East to the South: The Bois Court Lookout, Sainte-Anne Church, the Rivière de l’Est Suspension Bridge, Notre-Dame des Laves, Anse des Cascades, the Lava Trail, Cap Méchant

The second week of our trip to La Reunion is already underway. It’s time to tour the island, starting in Le Tampon, passing through the Plaine des Palmistes, and returning via the Route des Laves. On paper, and when you look at the GPS, the route may seem short. But the beginning of the route is a mountain road that winds a lot, and we have plenty of stops planned along the way.

The Bois Court Lookout

To start the day off right, what could be better than heading to the Bois Court lookout ? The lookout offers an incredible view of Grand Bassin (a small islet nestled at the very bottom of the valley) and its waterfall.

There’s a glass platform where you can walk out over the void. There’s also an amazing hydraulic clock. I don’t have anything else to tell you about the place, except to enjoy the view.

Additional information :
– Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
– Free parking at this location
– Free restrooms on site

St. Anne’s Church

We continue on our way to the Church of Sainte-Anne. Listed as a historic monument since 1982, the Church of Sainte-Anne was built in 1857. It is one of the most beautiful churches on Reunion Island.

The Suspension Bridge over the East River

Shortly after passing the Church of Sainte-Anne, we reach the suspension bridge over the Rivière de l’Est. This bridge was built in the 19th century and is 152 meters long. When it was completed in 1894, it was the longest bridge in the world. This bridge connected the East and the North and was used to transport sugarcane, avoiding the need to cross the ford downstream. Indeed, the river’s floods were very dangerous and unpredictable.

It is now reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, since a new bridge has been built right next to it.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– Free restrooms on site

Notre-Dame des laves

The next stop is quite unusual, not because of what it is, but because of its history. Notre-Dame des Laves is a church built in 1927. So far, nothing out of the ordinary, but in 1977, during an eruption of Piton de la Fournaise, it was surrounded by lava flows and was miraculously spared. The staircase leading to the church’s entrance was carved out of the lava that had surrounded the church.

L’Anse des Cascades

Anse des Cascades is a small bay located in the east. It gets its name from the dozens of waterfalls that flow down its cliffs before reaching the sea. If you’re wondering where all this water comes from, since there’s no sign of a river along the road above Anse des Cascades, it actually comes from the volcano. The water seeps into the ground and flows underground all the way to this magnificent bay.

In addition to the many waterfalls, there is a beautiful coconut grove.

Additional information :
– Free parking at this location
– Free restrooms on site

Unfortunately, during the dry season, the waterfalls don’t always have a strong flow.

The Lava Trail : the Grand Brûlé Volcanic Flows

The Lava Road is the name of a section of the RN2. It connects Sainte-Rose to Saint-Philippe, winding through the slopes at the base of the Piton de la Fournaise volcano. This road is a showcase for lava flows and nature reclaiming the land. The various lava flows plunge directly into the ocean, creating a striking contrast of colors. All along the road, you’ll see a series of signs indicating the years of the various lava flows.

Cap Méchant

To wrap up this day full of stops, we head to Cap Méchant to enjoy, once again, a beautiful sunset. Cap Méchant is located in Saint-Philippe, in the “Sud Sauvage” region.

Cap Méchant is a former pirate hideout, where pirates used to hide their loot, especially barrels of rum.

Days 12 & 13 | Hiking in Mafate or free days

“L’île Intense” certainly lives up to its name, and for a two-week trip to Reunion Island, I recommend setting aside a day or two as buffer days. Since the weather in Reunion Island is very changeable, you might not have time to do everything.

However, if you’ve managed to fit everything in, here’s one of the most beautiful hikes on La Reunion for your last few days:

Hiking in Mafate

Of all the cirques, the one in Mafate is undoubtedly the one that attracts the most hikers. And for good reason: its isolation and beauty make it truly exceptional. If I haven’t mentioned it before, it’s because hiking in Mafate does require a certain level of physical fitness. There are no easy hikes to Mafate.

If you’re in good physical shape, however, Mafate is a must-see, and I highly recommend spending at least two days there, or at the very least, taking a day trip by hiking the trail that starts at Col des Bœufs and ends at La Nouvelle. It’s without a doubt one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done in Reunion Island.

The round trip can be completed in a single day. However, you’ll need to arrive at the parking lot very early in the morning to be sure of getting a parking spot.

Additional information :
Length: 15 km round trip | Duration: 6 hours | Elevation gain: 820 m
– Col des Bœufs parking lot: €14 per night and €5 per day | Payment in cash—subject to availability—no reservations. Here.

Hiking route on RandoPiton

Take a helicopter or microlight flight

One of the highly recommended activities is a helicopter or microlight flight over the island. People often suggest booking this at the beginning of your stay so you can reschedule in case of bad weather, but I have to admit that, personally, I prefer to do this activity at the end of my stay. In fact, being able to see all the places you’ve visited from above offers something extra compared to taking the flight at the beginning of your trip, when you don’t yet know what you’re looking at. But you’re free to plan your trip however you like.

A helicopter or microlight flight is a very expensive activity, and, let’s be clear, not everyone can afford it. Is it worth it ? Yes. Are you missing out on something if you don’t do it ? No. Reunion Island is just as beautiful with your feet firmly on the ground. Definitely do what fits your budget, but don’t be disappointed if you can’t afford it.

A helicopter tour of the island

There are several companies that offer helicopter tours of the island, and there are several itineraries available.

All companies offer the same services, and there are usually five people in the helicopter: the pilot, one person in the front, and three in the back; the downside is that the person in the middle might not have a good view. Seating assignments are determined based on each participant’s weight. Therefore, there’s no way to reserve a window seat.

🚁 Book on Get Your Guide 🚁

The only provider that offers 3 seats (one in the front and two in the back) is Héliclub Vol Ensemb. Vol Ensemb is a flight school, and the reason the rates are more affordable is that the pilots conducting the flights are there to log their flight hours.

Additional information :
Héliclub Vol Ensemb
– PRICE: 750 € for 3 people (if there are only 2 of you, you can try to find a third person on the various Facebook groups dedicated to travel in Réunion)

+262 692 82 35 12 or via Messenger

Fly over the island in a microlight

A helicopter tour is quite expensive. The second option available to you is to fly over the island in a microlight. The prices are lower, and you’ll be alone with the pilot. This means you’ll have a private flight with personalized answers to your questions.

If there are two of you, you can take off in two planes at the same time and follow each other throughout the flight. The complete route takes you over Saint-Pierre, the island’s west coast, the Rivière des Remparts, Piton de la Fournaise, the Plaine des Sables, the Takamaka Valley, Grand-Etang, the Trou de Fer, Salazie, Cilaos, Mafate, Maîdo, Boucan Canot, the western beaches, Etang Salé, and returns to Pierrefonds, the starting point.

Additional information :
Air Dimitile
– PRICES: €220 per person for the full tour

Book on Get Your Guide

Day 14 | Departure, return flight

Our two-week stay in Reunion Island is already coming to an end. There’s so much to see and do in Réunion that we could easily have stayed another week or two.

Aside from food and alcohol, there aren’t many shops at the airport if you want to buy souvenirs. So be sure to do your shopping before you board your flight.

2 Weeks in La Reunion: What Are the Must-Sees? Our Top Picks

There’s so much to see and do in Reunion Island over two weeks that it’s hard to pick our favorites. We decided to give it a try anyway. So here are our top 5 favorites and what we consider must-sees in La Reunion.

1. Hiking on the Piton de la Fournaise Volcano
2. Watching the sunrise at Maïdo
3. The Saint-Paul Savannah
4. Snorkeling in the lagoon
5. The Cirques of Reunion Island

What local specialties should you try in Reunion Island?

Because of the various ethnic groups that have settled on the island, La Reunion’s culinary culture is very rich. So there are plenty of specialties to try. Unfortunately, I can’t recommend any good restaurants or snack bars, because every time we tried a Reunion Island specialty, it was at my aunt’s house, and she’s the best cook on the island; it never even occurred to me to eat anywhere else.

But in any case, there are several culinary specialties you simply can’t miss in Réunion :

• Le rougail saucisse
• Le rougail dakatine
• Les bouchons
• Le cari poulet ou poisson
• Le gratin de chouchou
• Le pain bouchon gratiné ou l’américain bouchon
• Les bonbons piments
• Les bonbons miel, bonbons cravates, gâteau patate
• and for drinks, le cot et la Dodo

Two Weeks on Reunion Island : What Do We Think?

Reunion Island is an incredible destination. In our opinion, the best thing to do is to stay for three weeks. That’s the ideal amount of time to enjoy the hikes without rushing around and to see as much as possible. After all, two weeks on Reunion Island go by so quickly.

If you set aside the traffic, the traffic jams, and the countless shopping malls, La Reunion is an island full of surprises. There’s something for everyone: hiking, beaches, and culture.

It’s important to know that Reunion Island is the ideal destination if you enjoy hiking. If you’re looking for a destination with beautiful beaches, I’d recommend Guadeloupe or Mauritius instead. The lagoon on the western side of Reunion Island still offers some great snorkeling, though. Unfortunately, the western part of La Reunion is mostly filled with beach resorts. There are large, luxurious hotel complexes and a significant number of people from mainland France who have decided to settle in Reunion Island. We didn’t find the same sense of community there that is so well known in Reunion Island. That’s why we prefer the southern part of the island. The south is more authentic and less touristy, and the sense of community is much more palpable there.

In conclusion

If, like us, you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience and a change of scenery, I highly recommend that you don’t stay in the west. Go out and meet the people of La Reunion, they’re so welcoming. And of course, looking back on our two weeks in Réunion, what we’ll remember most is the diversity of Creole culture, its cuisine, its people, and the Sunday family picnics.

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