Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pickup from your coastal accommodation (Saint-Pierre, Saint-Leu, Saint-Gilles, etc.). Once you’re comfortably seated in an air-conditioned minibus, you’ll head for one of Réunion Island’s most iconic sites: the Cirque de Cilaos.
Along the way, you will travel along the famous “400-Bend Road,” a spectacular route carved into the mountain that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding ravines, waterfalls, and peaks. You will stop en route to enjoy a local breakfast of coffee, juice and pastries in a friendly atmosphere.
Upon arrival in Cilaos, you will be immediately captivated by this Creole village perched 4,000 feet (1,200 metres) above sea level and surrounded by majestic peaks. Accompanied by your guide, you will set off to discover the must-see sites of the cirque: the Roche Merveilleuse, a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the surrounding mountains, the small, flower-filled streets of the town centre, the picturesque church, and the local craft shops, where you can admire the famous Cilaos embroidery.
You will also have some free time to stroll around at your leisure, take photos, sample a Creole speciality at one of the local small restaurants (meal not included), or simply enjoy the tranquility of this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon, you will take a leisurely drive back to your accommodation, enjoying the mountainous scenery one last time. This full-day excursion to the Cirque de Cilaos will leave you with lasting memories of untamed nature, Creole culture, and breathtaking panoramas.