Reunion Island packs serious adventure into its compact French-island frame. The best tours here focus on three key experiences: full-day volcanic explorations, guided lava tunnel adventures, and cultural heritage visits. I’m especially fond of the private western region tours, which combine local culture with stunning landscapes. The Salazie area tours showcase the island’s lush interior, while the Piton de la Fournaise volcano tours deliver raw geological drama. These excursions work well for both families and thrill-seekers, with expert guides who know their stuff. Let’s look at our favorite Reunion Island tours.
Key Points
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Reunion Island offers a diverse range of guided tours, including a full-day island tour, lava tunnel exploration, private west coast excursions, Salazie region visits, and Piton de la Fournaise volcano treks.
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Tours are highly recommended by travelers, with excellent ratings and feedback, especially for the knowledgeable guides, engaging experiences, and well-organized itineraries.
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Accessibility and fitness requirements vary, with some tours not suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions, requiring moderate physical fitness.
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Tours cater to families with children, adventure enthusiasts, and travelers seeking unique natural experiences, though not recommended for those with significant medical restrictions.
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Advance reservations are advised due to limited tour group sizes, with flexible cancellation policies and potential group discounts available.
Full Day Tour of Reunion Island With Breakfast
The full-day tour of Reunion Island with breakfast offers travelers a comprehensive introduction to this diverse and captivating French island in the Indian Ocean.
With a stellar 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides great value at $133.75 per person. Accommodating a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour includes pickup from coastal addresses, breakfast, bottled water, outdoor activities, and lunch.
Praised for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, the tour showcases stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and cultural insights. Travelers note the tour’s effectiveness in communication, even with language barriers.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for pregnant women. This tour is an excellent choice for visitors seeking an immersive experience of Reunion Island’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour of Reunion Island With Breakfast Review
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Guided Tour of the 2004 Lava Tunnels
Exploring the captivating 2004 lava tunnels on Réunion Island offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the island’s dynamic volcanic history.
This guided tour, operated by Tunnel de lave: reunionmeretmontagne, has earned an impressive 100% recommendation rate from 255 travelers. Priced at $69.55 per person, the tour departs from the parking lot for the 2001 lava flow, just a short drive from both St Gilles and St Denis.
Guests are provided with essential safety and comfort equipment, including helmets, gloves, and headlamps, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.
While moderate physical fitness is required, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, guests can expect personalized attention and insights from the knowledgeable guide.
Boasting 5-star reviews, this lava tunnel tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Réunion Island’s remarkable volcanic landscapes.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of the 2004 Lava Tunnels Review
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Half-Day Private and Guided Excursion of the West of Reunion
This half-day private and guided excursion offers travelers an immersive exploration of the stunning western region of Réunion Island.
Boasting a 100% traveler recommendation based on 13 reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an in-depth look at the island’s natural wonders. Priced at $373.44 per group (up to 8 people), the tour provides exceptional value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.
Pickup is available, with the driver holding a sign with your name, and the tour begins at 8:00 am.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals and infant seats. Most travelers can participate, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
Positive feedback from previous guests, such as “Gregory is amazing and the best guide we ever had,” further highlights the excellence of this tour.
With Réunion Island’s breathtaking landscapes and a knowledgeable guide, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: Half-Day Private and Guided Excursion of the West of Reunion Review
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Private Tour of Salazie With a Driver Guide
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Réunion Island‘s stunning Salazie region can embark on a private tour led by a knowledgeable driver-guide. This 3-4 hour excursion offers a comprehensive glimpse into the island’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Guests will visit the captivating Voile de la Marie waterfall, a typical Creole hut, and a music museum, gaining valuable insights along the way. For a more personalized experience, the tour also provides the option to explore a bourbon vanilla plantation or the island’s capital, Saint-Denis.
Transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with on-board Wi-Fi, travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive while being catered to with bottled water. Priced from £179.95 per person, the tour caters to groups of 1-8 and is compatible with cruise passengers.
With a stellar 4.8/5 rating based on 6 reviews, this private Salazie tour promises an unforgettable journey through Réunion Island’s captivating landscapes and cultural treasures.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Salazie With a Driver Guide Review
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Private Tour of Reunion Island With a Driver Guide
A private full-day tour of Réunion Island with a knowledgeable driver-guide offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Priced from $262.16 per person, the 5-6 hour tour departs from hotels or residences in the west and south of the island, providing a comfortable, air-conditioned journey.
With pickup at 8:00 am, guests can expect to experience the island’s diverse natural wonders, from lush forests to volcanic peaks, all while learning about its history and traditions.
The tour includes private transportation, WiFi, bottled water, and a delicious lunch, making it an all-inclusive experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
With 5-star reviews praising the exceptional guide knowledge, this private tour is an excellent way to discover the best of Réunion Island.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Reunion Island With a Driver Guide Review
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Private Tour of Cilaos With a Driver Guide
Explore the scenic Cilaos region of Réunion Island on a private tour with a knowledgeable driver-guide.
This 3-4 hour tour departs from the west and showcases the area’s 400 winding bends along the Cilaos road. Visit the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Neiges, La Roche Merveilleuse panoramic terrace, and an embroidery workshop to learn about the local culture.
Enjoy breathtaking views from various vantage points and stop at a nearby beach on the return trip.
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and Wi-Fi access. Your French-speaking driver-guide will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly, and service animals are welcome.
Pricing starts at $224.70 per person, with flexibility for group size. With a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews, this Cilaos tour is highly recommended for its beautiful landscapes and friendly guide.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Cilaos With a Driver Guide Review
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Piton De La Fournaise Volcano Private Tour With a Driver Guide
Though Piton de la Fournaise is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, this private tour offers a safe and immersive experience in the heart of Reunion Island’s volcanic landscape.
Over 9-10 hours, you’ll journey from the Cafres Plains through a volcanic forest and the Plains of Sands, culminating in a hike to the volcano’s crater.
The personalized tour includes a Creole lunch and rum tasting, along with insightful commentary from your private driver/guide.
Boasting a 100% traveler recommendation based on 10 reviews, this tour provides a flexible itinerary and comfortable, air-conditioned transportation.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates strollers and infant seats.
Priced from $224.70 per person, the experience is available for groups of 1-8 passengers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Embark on this extraordinary exploration of one of nature’s most powerful and captivating wonders.
Read our full review: Piton De La Fournaise Volcano Private Tour With a Driver Guide Review
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Maïdo Sunrise Excursion + Breakfast
Travelers seeking an enchanting start to their day on Réunion Island won’t want to miss the Maïdo Sunrise Excursion + Breakfast. This private tour offers a chance to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the island’s stunning landscapes.
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a delightful breakfast of pastries, fruit juice, and hot drinks. Alcoholic beverages are also available for those who wish to indulge.
The tour’s opening hours are from 4:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Monday through Sunday, ensuring flexibility for visitors. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Infants can also be accommodated.
However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions. The Maïdo Sunrise Excursion + Breakfast has received exceptional reviews, with a perfect 5.0-star rating based on the available feedback.
Read our full review: Maïdo Sunrise Excursion + Breakfast Review
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Sum Up
Reunion Island offers a wealth of natural wonders and cultural experiences for visitors. From the stunning volcanic landscapes of the Piton de la Fournaise to the lush, verdant valleys of Salazie, there’s something to captivate every traveler. Whether you prefer a guided tour or a more independent exploration, Reunion Island’s diverse range of excursions ensures there’s an adventure to suit every interest and preference.