Réunion: An exotic island that you didn't know existed

And most people don’t know about it. In 2015, Réunion Island saw 405,000 curious travellers visit, whilst its topographical sister island, Hawaii, saw 8,6 million people visit. Réunion Island, literally and figuratively, is waiting to erupt, and it promises an answer to those on a pursuit for new, exciting, and exotic adventure travel experiences.

Living up to their reputation of pioneering travel, Ker & Downey Africa have recently launched Réunion Island as one of their premium destinations. Punctuating the warm Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Madagascar and southwest of Mauritius, the bewildering island boasts thrilling adventure experiences. Be it from 40m below the ocean’s surface to 3000m up in the air.

What this small island lacks in size, at just 2,512 km², it certainly makes up with adventurous experiences.

A very active volcano

The Piton de la Fournaise, or “Peak of the Furnace”, is one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. And what an experience it is crossing the lunar landscape to reach the summit of the age-old, mystic volcano. Peering down, and into, the magma filled crater from the air as a helicopter dices through the air is a picture that’ll never be forgotten.



Hiking

“Adventure Island” has over 1000km’s of hiking trails just waiting to be explored. The calderas and volcanoes are what most are after, but any one trail may lead through lush forests, undulating hills, deep valleys and to one of the many dramatic, serene waterfalls.

Ever heard of Mafate? Of course not. It’s a somewhat incommunicado village within one of the 3 calderas. No roads, no cars, just bliss. Accessible only by foot.

Canyoning

A fusion of adrenaline, adventure and the land. It’s raw. With a wetsuit, shoes, helmet and lifejacket, embark on a hike up Takamaka before climbing and rappelling to the bottom of the river canyon. Leap off of waterfalls, float down rapids, and slip through rock pools.



Rum

There are many other adventures awaiting on Réunion Island. From the paragliding off La forêt des Hauts to the powerful river rafting in the rivière Sainte Suzanne, mountain biking down the Megavalanche Trail to the fluorescent underwater world, and, of course, the cultural blend of the Creole tongue that lights up this island.

But first, rhum. One doesn’t need to be a pirate traversing the 7 seas to enjoy the flavoured rhum of this island. Infused with fruits and spices, it’s slug-it-down good.

Réunion Island is an adventure, and it’s intense.

More information: Ker & Downey Africa / Réunion Island