Réunion is a French overseas region and department in the Indian Ocean, 700 km east of Madagascar and 200 km south-west of Mauritius. This volcanic island of extraordinary drama packs an active volcano, three steep-walled cirques, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain core, dense rainforest, and a warm lagoon into 2,512 km². It is simultaneously French enough to accept euros and credit cards everywhere, and exotic enough to feel like another world entirely.
Top adventure experiences
The most exciting activities Réunion has to offer.
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1
Canyoning Trou de Fer (Salazie Gorge)
Best season: June–September
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2
Canyoning Cilaos (Fleur Jaune Canyon)
Best season: June–September
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3
Surfing Saint-Leu (World-Class Reef Break)
Best season: April–August (most consistent swell)
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4
Paragliding from Maïdo (Tandem Flight)
Best season: June–September
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5
Whale Watching (Humpback Whales)
Best season: August–September (peak whale sightings)
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6
Scuba Diving (Hermitage Reef)
Best season: June–September
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7
Helicopter Volcano Tour
Best season: June–October for clearest air
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8
Mountain Biking (Plaine des Cafres)
Best season: June–September (dry trails)
Activities by type
Find adventures that match your interests.
Land adventures
Trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, and overland expeditions through diverse terrain.
Water adventures
Rafting, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and water sports where conditions permit.
Air adventures
Paragliding, skydiving, hot air ballooning, and aerial tours for unique perspectives.
Expedition treks
Multi-day treks and expeditions through remote areas with camping and guide support.
Difficulty levels
No experience needed. Suitable for most fitness levels.
Basic fitness required. Some prior experience helpful.
Good fitness and some experience required.
Significant experience and high fitness essential.
Recommended operators
Vetted companies for safe adventures.
Look for licensed, insured operators with verifiable guide qualifications, recent customer reviews, proper safety equipment, transparent cancellation policies, and reasonable group sizes. Your accommodation can often provide trusted recommendations.
Adventure safety
Stay safe while pushing your limits.
Never go on adventures alone in remote areas. Always use reputable guides for challenging activities.
Get comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers adventure activities and emergency evacuation.
Check weather conditions and be prepared to cancel or postpone. Mountain weather changes rapidly.
Know your limits. Choose activities appropriate for your fitness and experience level.
Acclimatize properly before high-altitude activities. Altitude sickness is serious.
Preparation & gear
Get ready for your adventure.
Essential gear
- Quality hiking boots (broken in)
- Layered clothing system
- Rain gear and sun protection
- First aid kit
- Headlamp and batteries
- Water purification
Physical preparation
- Start training 6-8 weeks before
- Build cardio endurance
- Include strength training
- Practice with loaded backpack
- Get medical clearance if needed