Holiday To LA REUNION…EXOTIC GEM IN THE INDIAN OCEAN
Why visit La Reunion?
If you are looking for adventure in a stunning tropical location, La Reunion could be for you. This small island (970 sq.miles) is situated in the Southern Indian Ocean, off the coast of Africa. It is perfect for explorers and those that want something totally unique, with a range of accommodation available from self -catering to luxury hotels. With diverse scenery, a range of outdoor experiences and a truly diverse mix of cultures reflected in its culinary delights, La Reunion offers many reasons to visit all year round. Or, try a two centre holiday with a week in Mauritius.
Our Top 5 Reasons To Visit La Reunion:
1. Diverse scenery & beaches
National Parks cover approximately half of the island. Rugged mountains, tropical rainforests, savannah, sugar cane plantations, canyons, waterfalls and 2 active volcanoes…you can actually walk right up to the rim of Piton de la Fournaise. This is an example of a shield volcano because it looks like a battle shield lying on the earth, and it's also one of the most active in the world! The scenic ash plain, Plaine des Sables, evokes images of a lunar landscape.
The white sands of Plage de Boucan Canot are palm tree and casuarina tree lined. A shark net protects the large swimming area.
2. Explorer’s paradise
The diverse landscapes has made the island a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The marked trails dissect the island and are suitable for beginners to the more experienced. The island also offers unique bird life and the iconic chameleon. It is only possible to reach Cirque de Mafate on foot or by helicopter, a truly unique experience, with the village inhabitants descendants of runaway slaves.
3. Outdoor activities
Swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, rafting, canyoning, mountain biking, para gliding, horseback riding, whale watching… Diving and snorkelling is best off the West coast which is protected by reefs. There are 550 miles of hiking trails and bike tours are available for the super fit. Helicopter rides and 4x4 tours are also possible.
4. History and Culture
The museum Stella Matutin, in Les Hauts de St Leuv, focuses on the sugar industry, slavery and colonialism. At Sucrerie de Bois-Rouges in St Andre, tours are available during the cane harvest July – December, and in the rum distillery nearby.
5. Food Delights
The island’s unique cuisine is a blend of a mix of cultures, African, Asian and European, with its own island flair. Try samoussas with a strong Indian influence. Fresh tropical fruits are in abundance, from coconuts to mangoes… and don’t forget the rum tasting!
Language
French is the official language.
Additonal Info
Use ‘Les Cars Jeunes’ or yellow buses to explore the main destinations on the island.
Flight Time
Indirect flights via Paris.
From Paris the flight is around 11 hours.
When To Visit
The dry season runs from May to October.
The humidity is higher during November to March.
Avoid January & February to miss any potential cyclones.