You’re planning a 10-day trip to Reunion Island?
Excellent choice!
To help you make the most of every moment of your stay, I have prepared a full 10-day itinerary on the island, so you can discover it from every angle.
This program combines relaxing days on the sunny beaches of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, adventure with several hikes in Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie cirques, a bit of culture with a visit to capital city Saint-Denis, plus an immersion in Wild South with its volcanic landscapes.
I will also suggest a helicopter flight so you can admire the beauty of the Intense Island from a completely different angle!
To help you plan your 10 days in Reunion, I detail the itinerary day by day and I recommend the best places to stay at each step.
So, ready to discover the best 10-day itinerary in Reunion Island?
Let’s go!
Sommaire
- Step 1 – 10 Days in Reunion Island: Saint-Denis (1 day)
- Step 2 – 10 Days in Reunion Island – Mafate Cirque (1 day)
- Step 3 – West Coast (2 days)
- Step 4 – Cilaos cirque (1 day)
- Step 5 – Wild South (2 days)
- Step 6 – Bebour-Belouve Forest and Salazie cirque (2 days)
- Step 7 of your 10 days in Reunion: East coast (1 day)
- Where to stay for a 10-day trip to Réunion Island?
- Renting a car in Reunion Island for 10 days
- Travel Insurance for Reunion Island: My Tips
- Going to Réunion island? These articles will help you!
Step 1 – 10 Days in Reunion Island: Saint-Denis (1 day)
Day 1: Visit Saint-Denis, capital city of the island
You should start your stay in Saint-Denis, the island’s dynamic capital, where Reunion’s main airport is located.
This way, you can ease into your trip without driving too much right after your long flight.
Once you have picked up your rental car and dropped your luggage at your accommodation, head to the city center.
Use this first day to explore lively streets and discover local history.
Located at the very north of the island, Saint-Denis is administrative, cultural and economic center of Reunion. It’s a charming city, perfect for a visit, with historical and cultural sites, a busy market and a pretty seafront.
Here are the must-see attractions in Saint-Denis:
- Chaudron market, held every Wednesday and Sunday morning
- Rue de Paris, lined with beautiful traditional Creole houses
- Le Barachois, iconic seafront where you can taste local specialties while enjoying ocean view
- Brasserie de Bourbon, where famous Dodo beer is produced, a true Reunion icon
- Jardin de l’État, a botanical garden that also houses natural history museum
- Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, the only cathedral on the island
- Kali Kampal temple, a beautiful colorful Hindu temple
- L’Artothèque, a must-visit place if you love contemporary art
- Noor-e-Islam mosque, the oldest mosque in France
- Grand Marché, a covered market where you can discover local crafts and Reunionese and Malagasy food specialties
- Léon Dierx museum, dedicated to 19th and 20th century modern art
If you want to get away from the crowds, you can also go for a walk in surrounding nature starting from Saint-Denis. There is a beautiful hike up to Roche Écrite, highest peak in the north of the island (but it’s very long: allow 6 hours round trip).
You can also opt for a short 4 km walk to Maniquet waterfall, starting from hamlet Le Brûlé.
If you want to make the most of your visit without missing any of Saint-Denis highlights, you should opt for a guided tour of the city center.
Here is what’s included in this 3-hour tour:
- A visit to Jardin de l’État and natural history museum
- Free time to stroll and go shopping in Rue de Paris
- A walk along Avenue de la Victoire
- A guided stroll through the historic Barachois district and along seafront
- And finally, a visit to Saint-Denis prefecture, a historic monument and oldest building on the island
With this tour, you will learn a lot about local history and culture. It’s a great way to get into the mood and start your 10 days in Reunion.
The guide can even pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for extra comfort.
Book your guided tour of Saint-Denis now by clicking below:
After this first day of sightseeing, spend the night in Saint-Denis.
I recommend going to bed early to recharge your energy, as a big day of hiking awaits you tomorrow!
Where to Stay in Saint Denis?
To help you find the best place to stay in Saint Denis in Reunion island, I share with you my personal selection:
- Le Barachois City: modern and comfortable apartment in a quiet street right in city center, only 10 km from airport. With stylish contemporary decoration, it’s impeccably clean. The apartment has one bedroom and a sofa bed and can accommodate up to 3 people. An excellent choice for a peaceful stay in Saint Denis. From 99 €/night.
- Villa Angélique: My favorite in Saint Denis! This charming hotel is set in a magnificent Creole house listed as Historic Monument. Located only 10 minutes on foot from city center and 15 minutes by car from airport, it offers elegant rooms and suites, with beautiful wooden floors and a mix of traditional and modern decor. Bedding is super comfortable and the generous breakfast served on outdoor terrace is really delicious. Staff is warm and attentive and will make your stay unique. From 105 € per night for a double room.
- Perle Insulaire: fully renovated 45 m² apartment with one double bedroom. You will enjoy refined decoration, great comfort and full facilities, including an oven, dishwasher and even washing machine. Balcony offers a beautiful view of sea and mountains. A private parking space is also available. Around 135 € per night.
Step 2 – 10 Days in Reunion Island – Mafate Cirque (1 day)
Day 2: Hike in Mafate
Time to start this second day in Reunion Island. And you jump straight into the heart of the trip with discovery of majestic Mafate cirque, one of 3 emblematic cirques of the island!
Reunion Island is a paradise for hikers, especially in its magnificent cirques that offer spectacular landscapes.
Today, you head to Mafate cirque, the most isolated of the three. Its special feature is that there is no road at all connecting it to the rest of the island. Mafate is only accessible on foot or by helicopter!
Only 30 km from Saint Denis, Rivière des Galets is one of the main gateways to Mafate. If you want to really enjoy this adventure, you should leave early in the morning. The hike is about 10 kilometers long and will take you between 5 and 6 hours round trip.
To find starting point:
To reach the hike to Mafate cirque via Rivière des Galets, take direction Le Port on N1 and exit at Cap Sacré-Cœur interchange. Coming from Saint Denis, take 3rd exit. At next roundabout, again take 2nd exit, then first exit at the following one.
Continue straight on Rue de la Liberté then take first track on the left. You will soon come to a junction. From there, turn right and follow signs for Route de Mafate (which is quite bumpy). Continue until you find a track that goes down on the right into a ravine where you can park.
From this starting point, take track leading to Mafate cirque.
This flat and easy trail takes you through grandiose landscapes, with cliffs gradually rising all around you. Right from the start, the track is simple and pleasant, with possibility to stop for a break and dip your feet in the river.
All along the way, you will cross several ford crossings, see some remains such as ruins of Canal Lemarchand, and enjoy superb views of iconic peaks like Piton Pierre Jacques, Crête d’Aurère or Roche Ecrite.
Atmosphere is peaceful, with scenery shifting between dry vegetation and majestic cliffs, before you reach Îlet Flamand, about 1.5 hours from start. If you want to keep going, the path will take you to Deux Bras, with even more trails to explore.
It’s an ideal walk if you want to discover Mafate without doing a very hard trek, while still enjoying impressive scenery!
If you’re visiting Mafate for the first time, you should really hire a professional guide. It will allow you to fully enjoy the experience and you will also be sure not to miss the most beautiful places in the cirque.
You should opt for the half-day guided hike offered by Bureau Montagne Réunion. This excursion will take you from Rivière des Galets to îlet de Cayenne, while revealing some of the most impressive viewpoints.
Best part? The visit includes a 4×4 ride to avoid bumpy roads, as well as a picnic to recharge your batteries in the middle of nature.
If you already know your travel dates, don’t wait and book your guided excursion to Mafate now by clicking on the button below:
After this great and busy day, spend a second night in Saint-Denis.
Step 3 – West Coast (2 days)
Next morning, leave North Reunion and head to West Coast. Beach resort Saint Gilles les Bains is waiting for you for 2 days of relaxation on shores of Indian Ocean.
Day 3: Beach and relaxation in Saint Gilles les Bains
For day 3 of your 10-day itinerary in Reunion, head to Saint Gilles on West Coast of the island.
Settle quietly into your new accommodation (I will show you the best places to stay in the area a bit further down), then let yourself be charmed by the chilled atmosphere and beautiful lagoon of Saint-Gilles.
For this day, here is what I suggest:
- Walk along the marina
- Lunch with ocean view
- Relax on the idyllic beaches of West Coast
- Water activities if you feel like it!
When it comes to water activities in Saint Gilles, one of the must-do ones is the transparent kayak excursion in the lagoon.
You will go explore the most beautiful lagoon in Reunion Island during a 1.5-hour guided aquatic outing.
The strong point of transparent kayak is that you enjoy an incredible view of seabed, colorful fish and corals just below you, without even getting wet!
On top of that, it’s quite common to spot rays or turtles during the outing!
To enjoy this outing that is both eco-friendly and magical in Saint-Gilles lagoon, quickly book your seat in transparent kayak by clicking on the button below:
(This outing is super popular so you should really book as early as possible!)
As for beaches, don’t miss Roches Noires beach, located very close to the port.
You should also stop by Hermitage beach, often mentioned as one of the most beautiful on the island, only 5 minutes away by car.
With its lagoon protected by coral reef, shallow waters and friendly atmosphere, Hermitage is a real corner of paradise where you can swim safely. And you also have many restaurants, cafés and shops along the beach, perfect for a tasty break or a shopping session!
Day 4: Piton Maïdo – Saint Paul
For this 4th day visiting Intense Island, I suggest waking up before dawn to experience a magical moment: sunrise from Piton Maïdo!
At 2,190m above sea level, in les Hauts de Saint-Paul, Maïdo offers one of the strong points of the island in terms of panorama, with a dizzying view over Mafate Cirque.
Watching sunrise from up there is for sure one of the must-see experiences during 10 days in Reunion Island. From the viewpoint, you will see the light slowly flooding the cirque and revealing all the beauty of the landscapes.
So set your alarm, put on warm clothes (it’s really chilly up there!), prepare a thermos of coffee or tea, and most importantly, arrive before the sun starts to show up.
Plan about 1 hour driving from Saint-Gilles-les-Bains to reach Piton Maïdo viewpoint by car. Once there, you will find a large parking lot, so you can park easily.
Once you arrive, sit down, take out your hot drink and let yourself be carried away by the show.
Sunrise time in Reunion Island changes depending on the season. Here is a quick guide to plan your arrival at Maïdo:
- From May to August: sunrise between 6:30 am and 7:00 am.
- From September to November: between 5:45 am and 6:30 am.
- From December to February: between 5:30 am and 6:00 am.
- From March to April: between 6:00 am and 6:30 am.
For the rest of the day, I suggest driving back down to Saint-Paul to visit the famous open-air market.
Located on the seafront, Saint-Paul market is one of the biggest in Reunion Island. Every Friday all day and Saturday morning, stalls fill up with colors and scents: tropical fruits, spices, local handicrafts and of course Reunion specialties such as samoussas and bonbons piments.
It’s the perfect place to soak up local culture while enjoying delicious Creole flavors.
If you pass by on another day than Friday or Saturday, here are a few other ideas of things to do to explore Saint-Paul:
- Stroll around city center
- Visit marine cemetery, a peaceful place with an amazing view over the bay
- Walk around the historic site of Grotte des Premiers Français
- Discover Villèle Museum, a beautiful colonial house from that time
- Enjoy the view from Cap de la Houssaye
- Book a quad excursion in Saint-Paul highlands – Click here to see the details and book
To end the day in style, you should go to Boucan-Canot beach, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, magical sunsets and a dinner with your feet in the sand.
Where to stay near Saint Gilles?
Here is my selection of the best accommodations in Saint Gilles les Bains and nearby:
- Hôtel de la Plage: small, charming and unique hotel by the sea in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, very close to Roches Noires beach. Rooms, with bright colors, are spotlessly clean and comfortable. The welcoming and very attentive owner will make your stay super pleasant. From 70€/night for a double room, it’s the ideal option for an affordable stay in West Réunion!
- Résidence Tropic Appart Hôtel: modern studios and apartments for rent in Saint-Gilles, only 100m from the beach. Perfect for families or groups, these units can accommodate up to 7 people. Stylish decor, tropical plants, garden, outdoor pool… Everything is here for a great vacation! Prices from 126€/night.
- Papangue Hôtel & Spa: if you’re looking for a more luxury experience, head to Étang-Salé and this 4-star hotel. Elegant rooms, spa, restaurant-bar, and a rooftop with pool offering breathtaking views. From 174€/night for a couple.
- Blue Margouilla Seaview Hotel: part of Relais & Châteaux, this 5-star hotel in Saint-Leu is a real gem. Double rooms with terrace and unobstructed view of the ocean. An idyllic setting for a high-end stay on Réunion’s West coast, from 285€/night.
Step 4 – Cilaos cirque (1 day)
Day 5: Hiking in Cilaos
Cilaos definitely needs to be included in your 10-day itinerary in Reunion! It’s the perfect escape for this 5th vacation day.
Perched at 1200m above sea level in the heart of an ancient crater, Cilaos village and its surroundings are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
To get there, you will have to take the famous Road of 400 Bends, which is a real experience in itself! Winding and lined with spectacular landscapes, it snakes through the mountain.
Allow about 1 hour of driving for the climb, and if you leave from Saint-Gilles, plan for 1.5 hours total. Take time to enjoy the drive, it’s one of the most beautiful tourist routes on the island!
Once there, Cilaos will reveal all its charm. You can visit the village, stroll through craft shops and, of course, go hiking to explore the natural wonders of the cirque.
You should also definitely hike up to Roche Merveilleuse viewpoint, easily accessible from the village. From up there, you will enjoy a beautiful, unobstructed view of the whole cirque.
If you want to make the most of your visit and not miss anything, the best option is to opt for a guided hike in Cilaos.
Bureau Montagne Réunion offers a half-day excursion that will take you through a forest of filaos, all the way to spectacular Bras Rouge canyon, with a stop at an impressive 100 m high monolith. You will even have the chance to get close to the slopes of Piton des Neiges!
Throughout this adventure, your guide will share fascinating information about the geology, ecosystem and history of Cilaos. It’s an ideal excursion to explore this exceptional corner of Reunion Island in one day.
To book your guided hike in Cilaos, it’s very simple, you just need to click below:
You should then spend the evening and night in Cilaos to really enjoy this stop.
For dinner, the village has several good restaurants. One of my favorites is L’Atelier des Saveurs, located near town hall, a great option for a nice meal. You should book in advance to be sure to get a table!
Cilaos is also known for its local specialties, that you really need to taste.
The famous Cilaos lentils, grown here thanks to the cirque’s unique climate, are truly delicious. And don’t leave without trying Cilaos wine. It’s a bit special, but it definitely deserves a small tasting to discover a very local flavor.
Where to stay in Cilaos?
Here are a few great places to stay in Cilaos that I carefully selected to help you plan your trip:
- Les Jardins Créoles: these 35 m² apartments with terrace, set in a quiet, green environment, are perfect for a relaxing escape. You will have all the comfort you need with a well-equipped kitchen, cozy bedrooms and spotless cleanliness. From 70€ per night for 2 people, or 100€ for 4, it’s an affordable and convenient option.
- Au Cœur du Paradis: if you enjoy homestays, this guesthouse nestled in nature with mountain view will for sure appeal to you. Warm welcome from the hosts and comfortable rooms with private bathroom create a very friendly atmosphere. From 100€ for 2 people, breakfast included.
- La Villa Soalic: located right in the heart of the cirque, this beautiful guesthouse is ideal for a family stay. Spacious rooms, generous breakfast, restaurant, spa, garden and playground for children, everything is designed for your comfort. From 148€ per night for 2 people with breakfast included.
- Tsilaosa Hôtel: this 4-star property with Creole architecture, in the center of Cilaos, offers double rooms with terrace and superb mountain view. Enjoy the garden, tea room, shared terrace and jacuzzi for a very comfortable stay. From 200€ per night for a couple, it’s an elegant place to relax after a full day of adventure.
Step 5 – Wild South (2 days)
You simply can’t visit Réunion in 10 days without going to explore Wild South of the island! And that’s exactly what I planned for you for this 5th step of your trip.
You should stay there 2 days and 2 nights, starting your journey in Saint-Pierre.
Day 6: Road trip – Etang Salé, Saint-Pierre, Route des Laves
Leave Cilaos and head to Etang Salé les Bains, a coastal village in south of the island known for its black sand beach and natural salt pond. Driving time is about 1h15.
If you’re there on a Sunday morning, you can stop at Etang Salé market, set up right in front of the beach (every Sunday from 6 am to 1 pm).
You should also stop at Gouffre d’Etang Salé, with its impressive waves. Here, you can enjoy a nice walk along sea.
Continue your road trip towards Saint-Pierre, capital of south Réunion.
Stop in this town for a few hours. Here are the best places to visit in Saint-Pierre:
- Downtown with its remarkable colonial style
- Saint-Pierre market, ranked among the most beautiful in France, taking place every Saturday morning
- Kergueven warehouse, an 18th century vestige
- Raphaël Barquisseau media library
- Old train station, now turned into Café de la Gare, a nice place for a drink break
- Old town hall, once a coffee warehouse for Compagnie française des Indes
- Café Grillé botanical garden, where you should opt for guided tour (followed by a tasting of local coffees!)
- Terre Sainte beach, a pretty white sand beach with a protected basin where you can swim.
If you feel like a more fun and original visit, you should opt for a Segway tour of Saint-Pierre. In 2 hours, on your two-wheeled machine, you will ride along city’s coastline with a passionate guide who will share lots of interesting stories.
Don’t forget to book in advance, as spots sell out fast! Click here to book your guided Segway tour of Saint Pierre
If you want to really spice up your 10 days in Réunion, take advantage of being in Saint-Pierre to treat yourself to a helicopter flight over the island!
You can start your day with it (departure is at 8 am), then continue with your road trip.
Helicopter flight is a very popular experience in Réunion and, even if it’s quite pricey, it’s really worth it.
You will be able to admire incredible landscapes of the island from the sky, and see all Réunion’s beauty from a different angle. It’s a truly special experience that you should not miss.
From Saint-Pierre, you will take off with Corail Hélicoptères for a full 45-minute flight over the 3 cirques, Trou de Fer gorge (incredible from above!), as well as Piton de la Fournaise volcano and southern lagoon.
Book your helicopter flight in Reunion now by clicking below:
Then get back in your car to keep exploring South. Follow coastal road towards Saint-Joseph.
From this point, you will really dive into the heart of Wild South. Along this scenic drive, you can stop at several viewpoints to admire Réunion’s raw beauty.
You shouldn’t miss these few stops:
- Grande Anse beach, one of the most beautiful on island with its stretches of white sand and palm trees
- Manapany pool, a superb natural pool ideal for a peaceful swim, protected from waves
- Sable Noir beach, offering a striking contrast with its volcanic sand
- Cap Méchant, where raging waves crash powerfully against black basalt rocks
Then go back up East coast towards Sainte-Rose. You will drive along famous Route des Laves and Grand Brûlé area. This road follows East flank of Piton de la Fournaise, where solidified lava flows stretch on both sides of road, all the way to ocean. Scenery is unusual and fascinating.
About 20 minutes from there, Anse des Cascades is the perfect place to end your day in a peaceful atmosphere. This unique site between waterfalls and ocean is ideal if you want to sit down and just enjoy landscape.
You can then drive back the same way to return to Saint-Pierre and reach your hotel (about 1h30 drive).
If you still have some time, in Sainte-Rose there is also a very interesting vanilla plantation to visit: Vanilla Bourbon plantation.
1.5-hour guided visits are offered twice a week in early afternoon. You need to book at least 24 hours in advance. You will find more info on their official website.
Where to stay in Saint-Pierre, Reunion Island?
To choose your accommodation in Saint-Pierre, feel free to pick from the selection of places I’ve chosen for you:
- Hôtel le Terre Sainte: located by sea in Saint-Pierre, this 3-star hotel is only 500 m from beach. With its modern, warm and colorful design, it offers spacious and bright rooms, some with balcony. Attentive staff and friendly atmosphere really help make your stay super pleasant, whether you’re traveling as a couple or with family. Room from 100€/night.
- La Kazaka Terre Sainte: superb guesthouse located 300 m from Terre Sainte beach. It offers elegant, air-conditioned rooms with terrace, overlooking pool and garden. Decoration is carefully done, bedding is comfortable, and homemade breakfasts are delicious. Karine, the hostess, is warm and attentive and will make you feel like you’re staying with friends. With its peaceful setting, this place is ideal for a relaxing getaway in Saint-Pierre. From 117€ per night for 2 people.
- Le Battant des Lames: this 3-star hotel offers a superb view over Saint-Pierre lagoon. You will enjoy its large outdoor pool, restaurant and wellness center. Direct access to white sand beach is a real bonus, and breakfast is particularly delicious. Expect to pay around 130€ for a double room.
- Villa Delisle Hôtel & Spa: if you want a luxury stay, you should opt for this 4-star hotel located right in heart of Saint-Pierre. You will enjoy a high-end stay with views over lagoon, beach and port. This charming 4-star hotel offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms, as well as a heated outdoor pool, spa, gym and gourmet restaurant. Warm welcome, great breakfast and spotless cleanliness. Expect to pay at least 140€ per night for a double room.
If you prefer to stay in Sainte-Rose to have less driving to do on evening of day 6, here are a few nice places where you can stay in this area:
- La Pointe au Corail: charming guesthouse in Sainte-Rose, only 20 minutes from Grand Brûlé and 10 minutes from Anse des Cascades. You will stay in a simple and comfortable double room, with access to a pool and a breathtaking sea view. Every morning, a generous breakfast is served on the beautiful outdoor terrace, in a quiet and green setting. Price starts at 100€ per night for 2 people.
- L’Eden des Laves: this detached chalet in Sainte-Rose offers a double bedroom, bathroom, sitting area and kitchenette, all set in a lovely garden with pool. The accommodation is nicely decorated and very comfortable, and the hosts, well known for their warm welcome, really take care of you. Stays start at 77€ per night for a couple.
Day 7: Piton de la Fournaise
Your 10 days in Reunion Island continues with this 7th day, dedicated to one of the island’s most emblematic sites: Piton de la Fournaise volcano.
It’s one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and you might even be lucky enough to see it erupting during your trip. But if it’s not the case, no worries, I assure you that the scenery waiting for you will still be really impressive.
To discover this volcano, you have 2 options:
- The first is to follow by car the legendary Route du Volcan up to Pas de Bellecombe viewpoint, where you can enjoy a spectacular view over the volcano crater, then drive back down (it’s already an incredible experience!).
- The second, more adventurous option, is to continue on foot from the viewpoint and hike up to the summit. For this ascent, you should hire a local guide.
Whichever option you choose, the starting point of this adventure is at Cité du Volcan in Plaine des Cafres. From Saint-Pierre, allow about 30 minutes by car.
From there, the road climbs toward the volcano for around 20 km. The drive up takes about 45 minutes (without counting stops to enjoy the views and take photos!).
All along this road, the landscape changes dramatically as you gain elevation: from green pastures, you move to a barren tundra, then to cliffs floating above the clouds, before reaching the desert-like expanse of Plaine des Sables at 2200 m above sea level.
After Plaine des Sables, you will arrive at Pas de Bellecombe, the starting point to reach the top of the volcano. This viewpoint overlooks Enclos Fouqué, which surrounds the summit of Piton de la Fournaise. There is a large parking lot where you can park. Walk to the edge of the enclosure to admire the view over Dolomieu crater, the main crater of the volcano.
Enclos Fouqué is a large protected area around the summit of Piton de la Fournaise. Created for safety reasons, this fenced area allows authorities to monitor and limit access to the most dangerous zones of the volcano.
It is usually open to visitors when the volcano is calm, giving access to the summit.
During periods of volcanic activity, the enclosure is closed to the public to avoid risks linked to eruptions and lava flows.
If the volcano is dormant during your visit, you will be able to enter Enclos Fouqué and continue exploring on foot if you want. Get ready for about 4 hours of walking round trip.
And for an even more rewarding experience, you should opt for this excursion with a guide.
This guided hike at Piton de la Fournaise lasts about 5 hours, and you will walk through incredible volcanic landscapes. This adventure will not only allow you to enjoy breathtaking views, but also to learn a lot thanks to your experienced guide’s explanations.
To fully enjoy this excursion, you need to be in good physical shape, and this activity is not open to children under 12.
You need to book your guided ascent of Piton de la Fournaise now by clicking the button below:
On the other hand, if you are lucky enough to spend your 10 days in Reunion during an eruption, the enclosure will be closed. But don’t worry, in that case you will still be able to walk around the enclosure to find a viewpoint over the lava flows.
And as someone who has already witnessed this incredible show, I can tell you it’s something you should see at least once in your life!
For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, there is also a more technical 7-hour hike on Piton de la Fournaise. It will take you to the summit of the volcano using little-known and rather rough trails.
This Expert level excursion will allow you to discover even more surprising landscapes and enjoy a real feeling of solitude on the volcano, far from busy paths and other hikers.
Click below to book your off-the-beaten-path guided hike at Piton de la Fournaise:
After such an exciting day, you will really need some rest. If you don’t have the energy to drive, you can stay overnight near the volcano. I have found the best places to stay in the area for you, just below in the next paragraph.
And if you’re ready to hit the road again, you will only need 35 minutes to get back to your accommodation in Saint-Pierre.
Where to stay near Piton de la Fournaise?
Here are my recommendations for accommodations near Piton de la Fournaise:
- Côté Volcan: a small modern and cozy hotel, located less than 1 km from Cité du Volcan. Rooms are carefully decorated, and some even have a balcony so you can enjoy the view. Location is ideal whether you’re heading to or coming back from the volcano. Prices start at 94€ per night for a double room.
- Fleur de Vanille: charming hotel with remarkable decor, surrounded by a beautiful exotic garden. Only a 20-minute drive from Cité du Volcan, it’s the perfect hideaway to relax after a day of adventure. You will find a refreshing pool, comfortable terraces and spacious rooms with incredible decor. From 100€ per night for a double room.
Step 6 – Bebour-Belouve Forest and Salazie cirque (2 days)
The next morning, it’s time to leave south Réunion and head back inland, direction Salazie. After Mafate and Cilaos, it’s the 3rd and last cirque you really need to see during your 10 days in Réunion!
Day 8: Bebour-Belouve Forest
Start with a morning walk in Bebour-Belouve Forest, which stretches between Salazie and Cilaos cirques.
This vast tropical forest is a remarkable example of Réunion’s unique biodiversity, with a large variety of endemic plants.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional biodiversity, it offers great hikes for all levels.
Trails are well marked and most of them are easy to do with children.
Be sure to check the weather and gear up properly before setting off on your adventure.
Insect repellent, hats, and plenty of water are essential!
If you want to explore the forest in depth, you can also choose to go on a guided hike. It’s the best option to discover the forest’s strong points while enjoying the knowledge of a passionate local guide.
You will meet your guide at Salazie viewpoint and then set off for 5 hours of adventure, with plenty of explanations about the nature and history of this fascinating forest.
Between gravel paths and forest tracks, you will be guided through the forest all the way to majestic Trou de Fer waterfall. On the way, you will see many points of interest, like this impressive tree, guardian of the forest, nicknamed “Queen of Tamarinds“.
Book your guided hike in Bébour-Bélouve Forest now directly by clicking the button below:
In the afternoon, head to your accommodation in Salazie and use the rest of the day to relax and/or go for a walk around (I planned a long hike to explore the cirque for the next day!).
Where to stay in Salazie?
You’re looking for the best places to stay in Salazie? Here are the ones I recommend:
- Bec’Roz: immerse yourself in the heart of Salazie by staying with locals in a charming Creole house. You will find cozy and comfortable rooms, perfect for an authentic and friendly experience. You can enjoy garden and terrace in a lovely setting at the foot of mountains. Prices start at 70€ per night for 2 people.
- Les lodges de Salazie: modern individual houses for rent, from 40 to 70 m², with terrace and garden, nestled in mountains. Ideal if you love nature, they are a real haven of peace. Location is perfect to explore many hiking trails in the cirque. From 105€ per night.
- Sarana Hotel & Spa: 9 km from Salazie, this 4-star hotel offers you a luxury getaway with outdoor pool, breathtaking mountain view, spa and a restaurant well-known for its delicious food, especially breakfast. Double rooms available from 214€ per night.
Day 9: hiking in Salazie cirque
It’s already the second to last day of your 10 days in Reunion! So don’t waste any time, wake up early and go discover magnificent Salazie cirque.
Salazie is the greenest cirque of the 3. It’s nicknamed “cirque of 1000 waterfalls” and it really features several majestic waterfalls (including famous Voile de la Mariée waterfall), lush vegetation, kilometers of walking paths and lovely Creole villages.
You definitely won’t miss Hell-Bourg, listed among the most beautiful villages of France!
To explore Salazie, the best is to venture onto its many hiking trails.
You have several routes to choose from, well marked, with different lengths and difficulty levels, most of them starting from Hell-Bourg or Grand Ilet.
Here are some of the best hikes to do in Salazie:
- 3 Waterfalls hiking trail: short and accessible to everyone, 2.5 km – 1h walk
- Ascent of Piton d’Anchaing: difficult, 7 km, 2h30 to 3h30 walk
- Col des Bœufs trail: moderate, 11 km, 4h30 walk
- Mare à Poule d’Eau loop: very easy, 3.5 km, 1h walk
Before you leave, you should really study the route, check the weather, and get properly equipped (water, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, waterproof clothes, hat, food…). Also keep in mind that night falls early in Reunion (between 5 pm and 7 pm depending on the season).
If it’s your first time in Salazie and you want to avoid dealing with logistics, you should hire a local guide for a more chill experience.
You won’t need to worry about the route and you will discover hidden gems of the cirque while being sure you don’t miss anything.
With a passionate guide, you will go for a 13 km day hike across the cirque. On the program in particular:
- Visit of picturesque Hell-Bourg village
- Crossing of beautiful cryptomeria forest in Salazie
- A well-deserved swim in a hot spring
- Breathtaking viewpoints over Piton des Neiges
This 6h guided hike will allow you to really enjoy lush nature and unique culture of Salazie while learning a lot.
You shouldn’t wait to book your guide, especially if your travel dates are already set! To do so, it’s easy, you just need to click on the button below:
Then head back to your accommodation for another night in Salazie.
Step 7 of your 10 days in Reunion: East coast (1 day)
Day 10: Saint-Benoit, Saint-André, rafting on Marsouins River
I suggest ending this 10-day Reunion itinerary with a visit of East coast of the island.
This region, very different from the others, is characterized by its wild coastline, volcanic landscapes, humid climate, waterfalls and pools as well as its plantations of sugar cane and vanilla.
From Salazie, drive to Saint-Benoît, about 40 minutes away. It’s the 2nd largest municipality in Reunion Island.
Best things to do and see in Saint-Benoît:
- Bassin Bleu, a beautiful natural pool with turquoise water
- Takamaka waterfalls, for a grandiose view over ravines and waterfalls from viewpoint
- Small village of Sainte-Anne, 20 minutes away, with pretty colorful Creole houses
- Sainte-Anne church, which some consider the most beautiful church in Reunion
- Ilet Bethléem, a riverside pilgrimage site with a lovely chapel
- Grand Étang site, for a peaceful walk
- Marine de Saint-Benoît, to admire view over Indian Ocean
If you love water activities and thrills, you can also go for a rafting session on Marsouins River in Saint-Benoît.
It’s one of the strong points of a stay in East Reunion.
The Rafting Réunion team is waiting for you at Ilet Coco for this adventure. You will get on board a 6-seat raft or, depending on water level, a 2-seat canoe-raft, with a state-certified instructor to guide you.
Get ready for a thrilling descent through the river’s powerful rapids. For about 1h45, you will navigate under the watchful eye of your instructor, for a safe adventure.
Whether you’re with family or friends, you should definitely try this activity if you like this kind of water excursion!
You need to book your spots in advance. To do so, you just have to click on the button below:
You can then continue your trip to Saint-André, located just 20 minutes by car from Saint-Benoit.
Best things to see in Saint André:
- Sugar cane plantations
- Distillerie de Savanna and Bois-Rouge sugar factory
- Temple du Petit Bazar
- Ruins of Champ-Borne church
- Temple du Colosse
- Parc du Colosse, a great playground area for children
- Vanille Roulof plantations
After this short road trip on East coast, it will be time to catch your return flight. Saint-Denis airport is located less than 20 minutes from Saint André.
And if you still have one more night, you can either go back to Saint-Denis or book a room in Saint André. You will then be very close to the airport for your flight the next day.
Where to stay in Saint-André in Réunion Island?
Here is my selection of tested and approved accommodations in Saint André:
- Fleur de Passion: perfect for a romantic stay, this charming fully equipped bungalow offers comfort and privacy. You will find a convenient kitchenette, a walk-in shower and a lovely outdoor area with terrace and pool. Located in a quiet area in Saint-André, you will be warmly welcomed by very caring hosts. The location is ideal, 21 km from the airport. All that for only 75€ per night.
- La Case Floria: this guesthouse with mountain view is set in a lovely Creole house in Saint-André. Perfect for family vacation, it can accommodate up to 4 people. The house is nicely arranged, with simple and welcoming decoration. The terrace and beautiful flower garden are perfect to enjoy the outdoors. From 150€ per night.
Where to stay for a 10-day trip to Réunion Island?
If you’re planning a 10-day stay in Réunion Island, you have several options when it comes to accommodation.
You need to know that the island is small but driving times are often long, as most of the roads are small and there are a lot of traffic jams on main roads.
You might be wondering what’s best: booking a single accommodation and using it as a base, or changing hotels regularly?
To help you plan your trip, here are the 3 options to consider:
Option 1: Explore the island as a road trip with different accommodations at each stage
This option is perfect if you want to discover the island in depth without doing long drives every day. By changing accommodation at each new step, you will be able to visit several regions more thoroughly. However, this means packing and unpacking very often. If you go for this option, you should really travel light to make things easier.
Option 2: Stay in one place and explore from there
If you prefer to put down your luggage and not touch it again, choosing a central accommodation is ideal. For example, staying in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains in the West allows you to explore the island every day while enjoying a fixed base in a sunny seaside area. However, this option sometimes means longer drives to reach the more remote regions.
Option 3: Split your stay between two accommodations
An in-between solution is to book 2 accommodations. Start in the West in Saint-Gilles, then end your trip in the South in Saint-Pierre. This way, you limit driving distances while discovering two different sides of the island, without changing hotels too often.
Your choice depends on your needs. Options 2 or 3 are often ideal if you’re traveling with family, while couples or solo travelers might prefer the flexibility of a road trip.
Renting a car in Reunion Island for 10 days
To really enjoy your 10 days in Réunion Island, you absolutely need to have a car.
To find the best rental car at the best price, you should use Booking Cars, a comparison site I always use for my trips.
With Booking Cars, you will be able to:
- Easily compare offers from different rental companies: you get access to all car rental deals available in Réunion Island, sorted according to your criteria such as price or vehicle type.
- Benefit from full insurance included: travel with peace of mind thanks to full coverage that protects you during your whole stay.
- Get a quick refund: in case of incident, you benefit from express reimbursement.
- Cancel for free if you change your mind: if your plans change, you can modify or cancel your booking without fees up until the last minute.
Click below to compare offers and book your rental car in Réunion Island now:
Travel Insurance for Reunion Island: My Tips
If you want to travel to Réunion Island with peace of mind, you need to take out travel insurance that covers you in case of problem, especially if you need medical repatriation.
You can also protect yourself against baggage theft, flight delays and cancellations, and much more!
For me, having peace of mind when traveling is essential!
So if you want to go to Réunion Island safely and with complete peace of mind, you should choose one of the 2 travel insurances below (both include epidemic coverage – such as Covid-19 – which is very important!).
To subscribe, it’s very simple, you just need to click on the orange links below:
- ACS AMI Globe Partner: Medical and repatriation insurance
- Assur Travel Summum: High-end insurance (medical, repatriation, baggage theft, flight delay, cancellation and more!)
And you, what have you planned for your 10 days in Reunion Island?
Book your trip and save!
🚗 Rent a car
🗽 Book your tickets and guided tours
🏄 Book your sports activities
🚤 Rent a boat
🌍 Get travel insurance
🙎 Plan a tailor-made trip
✈️ Book your flight
Going to Réunion island? These articles will help you!
Discover all my articles about Réunion island: you will find all my travel guides here:
My detailed itineraries:
- 5 days in Réunion island – The ideal itinerary for a short stay on the intense island
- 1 week in Réunion island – The best itinerary to visit the island in 7 days
- 10 days in Réunion island – Plan your 9-10 days in Réunion easily
- 2 weeks in Réunion island – Everything you need to visit the intense island in 14-15 days
- 3 weeks in Réunion island – The perfect itinerary to tour the island in 20-21 days
Focus on the island’s must-see places:
- Saint-Denis: 17 best places to visit and things to do
- Saint-Pierre: Top 15 places and activities
- Saint-Gilles: Top 20 things to do and see
- Saint-Benoît: 14 best visits and activities
- Cilaos: Top 10 things to do and see in the cirque
Are you using Pinterest? Here’s the image to pin!
