Top 5 Réunion Island Full-Day Tours: Reviews & Recommendations

So, if you’re planning a trip to Réunion Island and looking to make the most of your time, that full-day tours are actually a terrific way to explore the island’s diverse offerings. They give you a convenient, curated experience that means you can sit back and properly soak in the sights. This guide goes over my top five full-day tours on Réunion Island, providing you with some insight so you can pick the adventure that’s the correct fit for you. Basically, whether you’re very keen on exploring volcanic landscapes, seeing breathtaking waterfalls, or finding some fantastic coastal views, there’s probably a tour that will do the trick.

1. Piton de la Fournaise Volcano Tour

Well, let’s get started with the Piton de la Fournaise, that’s one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes. Actually, the tour typically kicks off very early in the morning to, like, steer clear of the afternoon clouds, plus give you some cracking light for photos. The drive itself takes you right through some pretty big changes in landscape, going from lush green forests to what looks, more or less, like a lunar landscape near the volcano. So, guides will usually point out interesting geological formations and talk about the volcano’s history. As a matter of fact, the highlight, clearly, is reaching the Pas de Bellecombe viewpoint where you can gaze out over the Enclos Fouqué caldera. You know, sometimes you even get to walk on recent lava flows – it’s, like, a crazy experience feeling that volcanic ground under your feet! Expect some stops at places, you know, like the Cité du Volcan museum, so you can get more info about volcanology. Don’t skip bringing warm clothes, walking shoes, and lots of water. Piton de la Fournaise volcano tour Full Review and Details.

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2. Cirque de Mafate Hiking Tour

The Cirque de Mafate, you see, this is a treasure for hikers, just a natural amphitheater that’s only really reachable by foot or helicopter! Tours to Mafate are apt to start very early, often from places, you know, like Col des Boeufs. You will, very, soon get into walking through different terrain, from forest trails to, what I mean is, rocky paths with pretty huge views. The views are rewarding but get ready for some ups and downs; in other words, it’s a pretty demanding hike. What makes Mafate very special are those isolated villages – or ‘îlets’ – where people go on living without roads. Some tours will take you right to La Nouvelle, one of the bigger villages where you might even stop for a pretty proper Creole lunch. Now, listen to this, always take plenty of water, snacks, and good hiking boots, I am telling you. Guides here are super clued-up and are apt to share so many stories about the area, as a matter of fact it’s what makes this tour more insightful. Cirque de Mafate hiking tour Full Review and Details.

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3. Wild South Coast Tour

You may want to check out the Wild South, a tour focusing on Réunion’s pretty rugged southern coastline is absolutely amazing. You know, this route usually involves driving through areas which are all, like, volcanic cliffs, forests, and viewpoints. One totally key stop tends to be at Cap Méchant, I am saying, where the waves really crash ferociously against the cliffs – makes for fantastic photos! Also, be sure to visit the Anse des Cascades, is that the most scenic place with waterfalls dropping into the sea. Also, often the tours take you to some vanilla or spice plantations. Usually you’re shown how these exotic plants are grown and get to, you know, sample local flavors. The Wild South showcases the raw strength of the island and tends to offer both photo chances and insight into Réunion’s natural resources. Wild South Coast Tour Full Review and Details.

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4. Salazie and Hell-Bourg Tour

So, if you prefer culture mixed up with nature, well, Salazie is one of the greenest and lushest of the three cirques on Réunion Island. You will, very soon, drive along the road, it takes you right through some jaw-dropping landscapes, all of these waterfalls – Voile de la Mariée (Bridal Veil Falls) it actually being among the biggest and famous. Then you’ll reach Hell-Bourg, an absolutely charming village, I am saying, full of colourful Creole houses and blooming gardens. Walking around Hell-Bourg will very soon bring about those ancient thermal baths and also the Maison Folio, you know, that’s a pretty stunning example of Creole architecture. So, food wise, try some local snacks such as ‘boucané’ and ‘gâteau patate’ when you’re wandering. Basically, this tour is really ideal for you to chill out and be in the beautiful landscape but also appreciate some heritage and culture. Salazie and Hell-Bourg Tour Full Review and Details.

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5. Cilaos: The Heart of Réunion

Alright, then there’s Cilaos, right in the island’s heart, and to get there’s a thing! The road to Cilaos has got something like 400 bends! However the scenery is just spectacular. Actually, Cilaos is, of course, well-known for its thermal baths, wine production and, basically, lentils (‘lentilles de Cilaos’)– definitely sample them!. There’s tons for outdoorsy types like your, what I mean is canyoning, hiking, and climbing are actually on offer. The town itself really has a cozy feel with shops which are apt to be selling local handicrafts and embroidery. Do check out viewpoints like La Roche Merveilleuse so you can gain gorgeous views into the cirque. A day spent in Cilaos gives you some physical activity, plus great views, as well as insight into Réunion’s local lifestyle. Cilaos full day tour Full Review and Details.

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