If you’ve only got one day on La Réunion, this 13-stop loop covers the island’s greatest hits — without needing to drive yourself. It’s ideal for first-timers, cruise passengers, or anyone who wants a solid intro to the island’s coastlines, lava fields, waterfalls, and wild landscapes.

You’ll be picked up at your hotel or guesthouse, and then the tour begins along the west and south coast:

• Stop 1: Le Souffleur – a natural blowhole that shoots ocean spray into the air

• Stop 2: Étang Salé – black sand beach from volcanic olivine

• Stop 3: Le Gouffre – wave-battered volcanic fissure

• Stop 4: Manapany viewpoint – lush coastline and lava pool

• Stop 5: Langevin River – with the stunning Grand Galet waterfall

• Stop 6: Cap Méchant – grassy cliffs, black rock, ocean spray — and lunch here

The afternoon continues along the east coast:

• Stop 7: Route des Laves – drive across hardened lava fields

• Stop 8: Notre-Dame des Laves – lava-surrounded church that survived the 1977 flow

• Stop 9: Pont de la Rivière de l’Est – historic iron bridge from 1894

• Stop 10: Sainte-Anne Church – intricate Catholic church, listed monument

• Stop 11: Niagara Falls (Réunion’s version) – best after rain

• Stop 12: Barachois, Saint-Denis – cannons and history at the capital’s seafront

• Stop 13: Cap la Houssaye – dry savannah and cliffside views to end the day

The pace is relaxed, with short walks and photo stops. No strenuous hikes, just solid explanations from the driver-guide (in English or French), private transport, and lunch included. Best for curious travelers, not thrill-seekers.

👉 Local tip: Weather flips fast here. Bring sun protection, a light rain jacket, and sneakers (not sandals).