12 day itinerary
La Reunion
Itinerary
Absolutely, I'd love to help you plan your 12-day adventure in La Réunion! Get ready for an exciting mix of stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, delicious cuisine, and cultural experiences. Here's a suggested itinerary for your trip:
Day 1: Arrival in Saint-Denis
- Arrive in Saint-Denis, the capital city of La Réunion
- Explore the historic center, visit the Barachois waterfront area, and try some Creole cuisine for dinner
Day 2: Saint-Denis to Saint-Gilles
- Drive to Saint-Gilles on the west coast
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of Boucan Canot or Hermitage
- Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a beachfront bar
Day 3:
- Take a guided hike or helicopter tour to explore the remote , a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Stay overnight in a gîte (mountain lodge) for a unique experience
Day 4: Saint-Gilles to Saint-Pierre
- Drive to Saint-Pierre, a charming coastal town
- Visit the colorful Saturday market and try local street food
- Relax on the black sand beaches of Saint-Pierre
Day 5: Piton de la Fournaise
- Visit Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes
- Hike to the crater or take a scenic drive around the volcano
- Visit the volcano museum to learn about the geology of the island
Day 6: Cilaos
- Drive to Cilaos, a picturesque mountain village known for its thermal baths and hiking trails
- Explore the village, visit the embroidery workshops, and relax in the natural hot springs
Day 7: Salazie
- Visit the lush Cirque de Salazie, known for its waterfalls and tropical vegetation
- Hike to the Voile de la Mariée waterfall and explore the charming village of Hell-Bourg
- Try some traditional Creole dishes for dinner
Day 8: Saint-Pierre to Saint-Philippe
- Drive to Saint-Philippe on the southern coast
- Visit the Cap Méchant cliffs and the lava flows of the Grand Brûlé
- Enjoy a seafood dinner overlooking the Indian Ocean
Day 9: Beach Day in Saint-Leu
- Relax on the beaches of Saint-Leu and try some water sports like surfing or snorkeling
- Visit the Kelonia Marine Turtle Observatory to learn about sea turtles
Day 10: La Plaine des Cafres
- Explore La Plaine des Cafres, a high plateau known for its scenic views and agricultural landscapes
- Visit a tea plantation and learn about the island's tea production
- Enjoy a traditional Creole lunch at a local restaurant
Day 11: Saint-Denis
- Return to Saint-Denis for your last day
- Visit the Jardin de l'État botanical garden and the Léon Dierx Museum
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city
Day 12: Departure
- Depending on your flight time, you can squeeze in some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport
I hope this itinerary gives you a good mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences during your 12 days in La Réunion. Enjoy your trip!