REUNION: Discover Reunion

Located in the Mascarene Archipelago, Reunion Island – a French overseas department – offers travellers the exoticism of a tropical island in the Indian Ocean. At the crossroads of European, African and Asian cultures, Reunion is a true melting pot.

The volcanic island of Reunion appeared out of the ocean three million years ago.

The volcanic island called Reunion Island appeared out of the ocean three million years ago. The Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, shapes the landscape and even gains ground on the ocean itself during certain lava flows.

Accessible magic
An astonishing lunar landscape, the floor shaped by hardened lava flows, the earth covered in orange and brown scorch marks: climbing up the Piton de la Fournaise reveals strange, stunning, but very accessible scenery. The Plaine des Sables, the Pas de Bellecombe mountain pass, craters and lava flows are just some of the magical places you will never forget. When you get to the base of the volcano, the scenery of the Savage South creates a visual spectacle, with craggy basalt cliffs, the green of lush vegetation and the deep blue of the Indian Ocean.

The Savage South coasts
Across the south of the island, the successive lava flows from Piton de la Fournaise have come down to the oceans, creating black sandy beaches with fine, hot sand when the sun is at its highest. The beaches form an exceptional landscape, surrounded by arid plant life and enough to inspire poetry. The most famous of the beaches is the Etang-Salé, a fishing village and an immense stretch of sand where locals meet up on weekends for picnics. Have you ever wondered what it feels like to walk on the moon? You might have some idea after exploring the volcanic and lunar scenery that only Reunion Island can offer.

The Piton de La Fournaise erupted on Wednesday 4th February 2015
After the increase in seismic activity observed on the 1st February 2015, the Piton de la Fournaise started to erupt on Wednesday 4th February at 11 am (Reunion time).Thanks to its natural enclosure, this giant basaltic volcano, measuring 2,631m in height, presents no danger to the island's population or visitors. Volcano enthusiasts should come and see this amazing sight - unique in the Indian Ocean - for themselves.

Day 3: a new river of lava forms further west

From Saturday 7th February 2015, eruptive activity at the Piton de la Fournaise began to stabilise. However, Reunion's volcanic observatory reported two lava flows gushing from an erupted cone. This new river of lava was moving in a different direction from the first, channelled by the rugged terrain.


Day 4: more stable seismic activity

Since Sunday 8th February 2015, the vibrations felt at the site, caused by rising magma, have gradually decreased. Despite some unfavourable weather, with spells of heavy rain on the slopes of the volcanic massif, this year's first eruption of the Piton de la Fournaise, hasn't disappointed.


Day 5: the show continues!

On Monday 9th February 2015, after five days of activity, the spectacle of an erupting Piton de la Fournaise continues. There is still no public access to the enclosure, from either the Pas de Bellecombe pass or the route des laves (at the coast). Enthusiasts, wishing to observe the still-visible lava flows, are advised to admire the view from the Piton de Bert or the Piton de Bois Vert. Leave your vehicle in the Foc Foc car park, on the Plaine des Sables. Your excursion starts with a sixty metre descent; then after you reach the Piton Chisny car park, continue for six kilometres along an even trail. After an hour's walk, passing close to the ridge, you'll be able to enjoy a unique panoramic view of the lava fountain.


We have not seen the last of this volcano!

Are you tempted to visit Reunion's fire-breathing attraction? Local tour operators, specialising in volcano-themed holidays will organise a special trip so you can visit this volatile volcano.

Come and experience the majestic volcano Piton de la Fournaise for the first time!

There’s nothing better than a walk to bring Reunion Island to life: be surprised by the view as you wander off the path, absorb the peace and quiet of the sites, and share unforgettable moments…The Cirque of Mafate, accessible on foot or by helicopter only, is a real rambler’s paradise. You’ll feel like Neil Armstrong as you make your way along the path through this awe-inspiring lunar landscape that leads to the edge of the Piton de la Fournaise (‘Eye of the Furnace’) crater. To admire the impressive cascade du Trou de Fer (‘Iron Hole Waterfall’) the walk leaving from the Bélouve Lodge will take you straight into the main forest. There are of course plenty of other walks to take – take your pick !