travel from mauritius to reunion island

• Ferry from Mauritius to Reunion Tickets, Schedule & Fare

Cheap Mauritius to Reunion Island Ferry Online Booking

Reserve your cheap mauritius to reunion ferry tickets online..

Ferry from Mauritius to Reunion tickets online booking made easy. Unlike the Seychelles and Mauritius, its two Indian deep-sea neighbors, Reunion key attraction is its beaches. True, St-Gilles-Les Bains is packed with crowd during holiday periods and it is great and perfect beach. On the other hand, Reunion volcanic origins grant it is an amazing charming landscape, one characterized by deep canyons, high peaks, and plains. A Mauritius to Reunion day trip is possible. Express Mauritius to Reunion island ferry online ticket booking saving you money and time.

It is easy to travel from ferry Mauritius Reunion. The overnight journey takes around 12 hours. There are regular boat services from Mauritius to Toamasina and Reunion on the east coast. It departs about once every 2 weeks.

Other than that, you need to be lucky enough to get a ride on a yacht or cargo ship to surrounding islands and countries.

Ferry from Mauritius to Reunion, Attractions, Fares & Schedules FAQs

Mauritius to reunion day trip / places to visit:.

Placed in the east of islands are the plains, with volcanoes and heigh mountains. The plaine-des-Cafres and the desert volcano country with the Plaine-des-Palmistes are the most remarkable. There even is Volcano Road and there are many hiking trails to Cilaos and Pitaon-des-Neiges. The most remarkable viewpoint is at Plain-des Sabes. You can climb back up to some old craters and enjoy a even bigger view from the balcony which is three-hundred metres high.

Les Cirques

The Cirques of Reunion are a perfect example of geology with 3 big excavations a dozen kilometres in diameter, bounded by vertical almost unclimbable walls. For example, there is Cirque de Salazie, which can be accessed by road on the northeast coast. The vegetation here is very lush and waterfalls tumble down the mountains and in some locations even over the road. Salazie is the wettest of the 3 cirques that Reunion has and has even grips several worlds records for rainfall including the records for most rainfall in 1 hour and 1 day.

What is the affordable way to get from Mauritius to Reunion?

The affordable way to get from Reunion: express Mauritius to reunion island ferry cost $45 and takes 12 hours.

What is the quickest way to get from Mauritius to Reunion?

The fastest way to get from Mauritius to Reunion is to fly which costs $150 – $300 (return Mauritius to Reunion ticket price) and takes 1h 50m.

What is the travel distance of ferry Mauritius to Reunion?

The travel distance of boat Mauritius to Reunion is 233 km.

How long does it take from ferry Mauritius reunion?

It takes about 12 hours to Mauritius to Reunion Island ferry, including transfers.

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Is a terrible airline. The seats are tiny, staff are lazy and rude. Everything is a mission for them and they always take forever. Check in and passport control is enough to turn you off Mauritius all together. Let alone the airline. Mauritius is gorgeous and a must visit if you could avoid the airport and Air Mauritius.

Check in and passport and security time’s appalling Not enough staff for the volume of flights departing.

The crew were great as usual. The flight was rescheduled two hours later but delayed by more than an hours to load cargo. The was upsetting because I missed scheduled meetings in Johannesburg.

Though the food was very good ,I think the portions were too big. It was hard to manage everything on that small table. And you really don't feel like eating too much on a long flight. Just a suggestion and it would save you some money too.

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Mauritius, Réunion & Seychelles

Blessed with superlative landscapes and idyllic beaches, and rich in activities and culinary experiences, Mauritius, Réunion and the Seychelles offer the best cure for the blues. These Indian Ocean islands are some of the most sought-after on the planet, encircled by beaches of astonishing beauty and backed by forested interiors ripe for exploration. The waters that surround the islands have a color all their own – a blend of turquoise, lapis lazuli and emerald – and shelter extraordinary marine riches. The food, too, is a highlight of any visit here, alongside the cultural mosaic of life out in the ocean. Throw in some of the most luxurious retreats anywhere on earth, and it becomes clear that this could be one place where the moniker "paradise" doesn't overstate things.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Île aux Aigrettes

This popular ecotourism destination is a 26-hectare nature reserve on an island roughly 800m off the coast. It preserves very rare remnants of the coastal…

Anse Lazio, on the northwest tip of the island, is picture-perfect everywhere you look and often turns up in lists of the world's most beautiful beaches…

Anse Maquereau

Quite possibly the world's most beautiful beach, petite Anse Maquereau is flanked by granitic monoliths, backed by palms and caressed by waters of the…

Anse Marron

Perhaps the most stunning natural pool and beach combo on the planet, Anse Marron sits nestled behind Gaudíesque granite boulders at the remote southern…

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens

After London's Kew Gardens, the SSR Gardens is one of the world's best botanical gardens. It's among the most popular tourist attractions in Mauritius and…

Vallée de Mai

Gorgeous World Heritage–listed Vallée de Mai is one of only two places in the world where the rare coco de mer palm grows in its natural state (the other…

Vallée de Ferney

Protecting a 400-year-old forest, this reserve is an important habitat for the Mauritius kestrel, one of the world's most endangered raptors, and a visit…

Blue Penny Museum

Although dedicated to the world-famous Mauritian one-penny and two-pence stamps of 1847, the Blue Penny Museum is far more wide-ranging than its name…

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Oct 13, 2014 • 5 min read

There is no questioning the beauty of Mauritius' beaches. And the famous powder white sands, which slope gently into sapphire blue waters, have long lured…

Mauritius, Réunion & Seychelles and beyond

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Cheap flights from Mauritius Island to Réunion

Good to know, popular airports near mauritius island.

• Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) Mauritius Island 30 min 17 km

Popular airports near Réunion

• Roland Garros Airport (RUN) Saint-Denis 1 hr 18 min 25 km
• Aéroport de Pierrefonds (ZSE) Saint Pierre 1 hr 28 min 25 km

Frequently asked questions about flying from Mauritius Island to Réunion

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• London RUB 76,849 Aug 23 — Aug 26 1 stop 20 hr 10 min Saudia
• New York RUB 112,235 Jun 21 — Jun 24 1 stop 20 hr 55 min Air France, Air Mauritius
• Singapore RUB 92,264 Jun 13 — Jun 17 1 stop 9 hr 55 min Malaysia Airlines, Air Mauritius
• Paris RUB 67,090 Nov 29 — Dec 2 1 stop 19 hr 35 min British Airways

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Whirlwind trip of Reunion, want to get in as much as we can - Reunion Island Forum

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We land at 11am and are planning to get as much done in the time we have.

Please let me know if this looks do-able and if I have left anything out :) We are planning to pack in as much as we can and then rest and relax when we get back to Mauritius

Day1: Land – drive to Hell-Bourg (overnight)

do an afternoon walk/ explore – Brides Veil waterfall

Day2: visit the forests in the morning

Rafting near St Benoit (RandoAqua) in the early afternoon

See Piton de la Fournaise -sundowners

Should we overnight – St Benoit/ Plaine des Caffres or St Pierre

Day3: morning free (explore where we stayed the night)

Afternoon tour Lava Tunnel (Kokapat)

Overnight: St Pierre

Day4: early morning Helli ride

Scenic drive to Cilaos

lunch & afternoon short walk/hike

Day5: drive to Saline les Bains

Day6: Fly out to Mauritius at 12am

2 replies to this topic

D2 I'd stay Bourg Murat area. Allows you a trip to the viewpoint into Grand Bassin on D3 morning.

There is really not much you can add to the itin, and you have included the main cirques to see...

-Erik> & [Sandya]

Thank you for your advice :) I really appreciate that. Always helps getting advice.

Many thanks

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Reunion Island Hotels and Places to Stay

• Holidays to Reunion Island

Holidays to Réunion Island.

The island of La Réunion is located in the Indian Ocean at around 175 km to the southwest of Mauritius. Réunion Island is an overseas department & region of France with a population of ~ 860, 000 inhabitants with French as its official language. Together with Mauritius and Rodrigues, Réunion Island forms the Mascarene islands – a group of islands that shares the same volcanic origin taking its name from Portuguese sailor Pedro Mascarenhas.

Holidays to Réunion Island tend to be a little be less farniente  and more active as compared to  holidays to Mauritius . The abundance of nature and its contrasting landscapes of plains, volcanoes, snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and cirques makes Réunion island an amazing destination to immerse in.

Our selection of places to stay in Réunion Island  consists mainly of homestays and guesthouses, handpicked by us based on their commitments to sustainability. Our itineraries will take you to discover Réunion Island through cultural tours, magnificent hiking trails, marine expeditions, and private curated local experiences.

A Land of Beauty, Nature & Adventure.

Our holidays to Réunion Island will take you deep into the heart of the island to discover the cirques, to explore the local gastronomy, to observe & learn about the marine wildlife, and to push your own boundaries through exhilarating adventures. We will take you on an extraordinary voyage to discover a land of contrasting beauty, from lunar landscapes to gorgeous beaches to mesmerizing peaks.

To get some inspiration on how your holidays to Réunion Island could look like, download our customisable itinerary below.

Download a sample Reunion holidays itinerary

The highlights of a holiday to Réunion Island

– Explore the 3 cirques  – Mafate, Cilaos, and Salazie are 3 calderas that have collapsed and molded by time, erosion and nature. While Cilaos and Salazie have access roads, Mafate can only be accessed either by helicopter or our preferred way – by hiking your way through it.

– Marine expeditions –    Go whale watching in a respectful and conscious setting. Whales migrate to the Indian Ocean to mate and calve during the southern winter season, you can observe them off the coast of La Réunion.

– Hike the highest peak of the Indian Ocean –  Culminating at 3071 m above sea level, ascending the snow-capped Piton des Neiges is a hike that will mesmerize you with its breathtaking views and landscapes.

– Paraglide your way from the hills down to the coast. A lifetime experience of thrill, freedom, and awe.

with our team, we will reach back to you to start crafting your trip together.

Why book your holidays to Réunion Island with us?

Our itineraries in Réunon island will take you off the beaten track to exhilarating encounters and the discovery of radically contrasting landscapes that will leave you in awe.

All our holiday experiences in Réunon island are created with sustainable travel practices in mind. From offsetting the carbon footprint to empowering local communities and more.

CURATED INSPIRATION FOR YOU

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6 reasons to visit Reunion Island while in Mauritius

• 6 reasons to visit Reunion…

Linked by history and proximity, it’s often said that Reunion and Mauritius are sister islands. Aside from the many things they have in common, there also a number of key differences to explore. While Mauritius is known worldwide for its beautiful beaches, Reunion is primarily a hiking destination, remarkable for its challenging terrain. So why not take advantage of being in Mauritius and hop over to Reunion?

1. The islands are very close

It would be a shame to travel all the way to Mauritius and skip the chance to visit Reunion. It only takes about thirty minutes to fly between the two islands as they’re merely 200 km apart, so if you’ve travelled all the way to the Indian Ocean, why not visit both?

2. One of the world’s most active volcanoes

Reunion, like Mauritius, is a volcanic island. It emerged from the ocean floor 2 to 3 million years ago, and today is the only Mascarene island to have an active volcano.   You can actually explore two volcanoes during a trip to Reunion: Piton des Neiges, which formed the island, has been dormant for more than 20,000 years. Meanwhile Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world – there were more than 60 eruptions between 1998 and 2019! With a little luck you might see an eruption during your trip. In any case you can always admire recent lava flows from the Routes des laves road, or venture down into the lava tubes.

3. Beaches in Mauritius, hiking in Reunion

Reunion is best known for its hiking trails , nearly all of which offer breathtaking views. The island has more than 1,000 km of well-signposted paths, so whatever your ability you’re sure to find something to please. You can opt for short walks such as those at Savane , Cap Jaune or Grand Etang, but experienced hikers will want to climb to the top of Piton des Neiges or trek the trails of car-free Mafate .  

4. Sample Creole cooking, Reunion style

Although you may think the fare of the sister islands is similar, each is actually distinct. A melting pot of influences from Indian, Chinese, African, and European settlers created a fusion cuisine, but the blend did not come together in the same way in Reunion and in Mauritius. For example, locals on each island have their own way of preparing bouchons (steamed mini-dumplings) and samosas . The chilli-based Mauritian snack “gâteau piment” has its Reunionese equivalent: “ bonbon piment ”. The staple dish of cari also has different flavours. Those with a sweet tooth should sample macatias , sweet potato cake, and other mouth-watering Creole desserts. Tempted? Head to a local market, restaurant, or snack bar to taste and compare for yourself! 

5. Land of waterfalls 

Did you know that France’s tallest waterfall is found in Reunion? It’s called Trou de Fer and actually consists of several rivers that tumble together 725 metres down a sheer cliffside. A viewpoint can be reached after an easy – but often muddy – hike. Two other Reunion Island waterfalls are amongst France’s highest: Bras Magasin (647 metres) at Takamaka, and Cascade Blanche (640 metres) near the road between Saint-André and Salazie. The island is also home to other photogenic waterfalls such as Cascade Niagara at Sainte-Suzanne, and Cascade Grand Galet at Saint-Joseph.

6. From summits to sandy shores: a wealth of landscapes and climates

On an island of only 2,512 km 2 you’ll be surprised to find such a wide diversity of landscapes and micro climates . At an elevation of more than 2,000 metres at Le Maïdo you can watch the sunrise in the mountains, with near-freezing temperatures during the southern hemisphere winter . Yet barely a few miles below you can relax on a sun-soaked beach, where temperatures are always pleasantly warm whatever the season. Reunion has about 30 kilometres of white- and black-sand beaches, including twenty-two kilometres of lagoon protected by a coral reef. So in the space of a single day you can make the most of the cool highlands as well as the tropical temperatures on the coast.

To discover the best of Reunion Island take a look at our wide range of sightseeing tours .

Author:  Elite Tour Réunion

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Things I Wish I’d Known Before My Travel to Reunion Island | A Guide You Will Appreciate

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

It was dark when our plane descended through the clouds and landed on Réunion Island. It was slightly disconcerting arriving after dark. I couldn’t see the beaches, the mountains, or anything that looked remotely tropical. Instead, aside from the humidity, I could very well have arrived in Europe, which technically, I had.

Réunion is a tiny little piece of France in the Indian Ocean! I somehow made my way through customs and immigration, collected my bag, and found my taxi, all without speaking a word of English; before setting off into what, for me, was a completely unknown destination.

I’d gone to Réunion Island to take part in Xterra Réunion, an off-road triathlon race, and had done absolutely no research about my destination before I boarded my flight. I’m here to tell you now some of the things I wish I’d known before I’d got there. But first, some basic facts:

Things I Wish I’d Known Before My Travel to Reunion Island

1. location.

Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean is an overseas department/region of France. It is located approximately 340 miles east of Madagascar and 109 miles southwest of Mauritius .

2. Population

As of January 2021, Réunion had a population of 858,450.

3. Language

As in the rest of France , the official language of Réunion is French. In addition, a majority of the population speaks Réunion Creole.

4. A Brief History

Little was known about the island, which was uninhabited prior to the arrival of the Portuguese, who landed here in 1513. In the 1640s, the island was occupied by the French, who claimed it as their own, renaming it Ile Bourbon. The island was renamed Réunion in the 18th century and became prosperous, along with the nearby island of Mauritius, because it was on the shipping routes between Europe and Asia. Sugar plantations, worked by slaves imported from Africa, formed the major sector of the island’s economy. Slavery was abolished on December 20, 1848 (a date celebrated annually on the island), though indentured workers continued to be brought to Réunion from other places, predominantly South India. The island was a French colony until 1946 when it was granted the status of “Overseas Department.” Réunion is now one of the most far-flung parts of the European Union.

5. How To Get There

It isn’t easy to get to Réunion; there are few travel options and most of those are expensive.

One option is to fly from Mauritius; the flight is only 45 minutes. A one-way ticket from Mauritius to Réunion costs around 80 euros (around $93).

Option two would be to take an Indian Ocean cruise. That way you could combine Réunion with Madagascar , Seychelles , and Mauritius, though this would mean you wouldn’t have much time to totally experience the island.

The third option would be to look for a cheap flight. The cheapest is usually via Paris. A one-way ticket can be as little as 150 euros (around $175), which isn’t much for a 12-hour flight!

6. Best Time To Go

The best time to visit Réunion Island is May–November when the weather is generally dry and cool. It starts to get hot and rainy from November–April. Réunion is known for its torrential rainfall, so it’s advisable to avoid the monsoon season.

7. Getting Around

Possibly the most daunting experience of my entire Réunion visit was collecting my rental car on day one! Unaccustomed to driving on what was, for me, the “wrong” (left) side of the road and the “wrong” (left) side of the car, I was nervous as I took possession of the little white Peugeot that was supposed to get me around for the next few days. I don’t have a great reputation with my family for certain aspects of my driving, particularly reverse! While I think their comments about my driving are vastly exaggerated, I was still rather apprehensive when it came to getting behind the wheel. For those of you not used to left-hand drive, be forewarned.

8. What To Eat And Drink

Réunion offers a wide range of exotic food and drink. Eating is one of the favorite Réunionese activities and mealtimes are family occasions. The island is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities. Indian, Chinese, French, Malagasy, and mainland African dishes have all been absorbed into and contributed to the island’s cuisine, making the local food interesting and exotic, but not too spicy or bizarre.

My top suggestions for what to eat and drink on Réunion include:

• A taste of French bakery and sweetness in the shape of baguettes , croissants, pain au chocolat , and macaroon s of all flavors and colors
• Poulet bitumine is a deliciously crispy chicken found in little roadside stalls all over the place. The name literally means “tarmac chicken.”
• Chou-chou is originally a South American vegetable (part of the gourd family); it’s best smothered in white sauce and cheese, and then grilled — called chou-chou gratin.
• Rougail is a delicious chili sauce you’ll find on the side of most dishes: a bit bitter, a bit sour, a bit salty, and a lot spicy!
• Carri is a regional specialty, a Creole dish in which Indian spices and local ingredients like meat, poultry, fish, or seafood are simmered together.
• Bourbon, the local beer, is affectionately referred to as the Dodo. It comes in an adorable little “medicine bottle” shape, and is the absolute perfect thing to drink after a busy day.
• Rhum arrange is rum infused with pineapple, litchi, cinnamon, or even orchid flowers; it’s dangerously delicious!
• Ti’ punch is straight rum, some sugar, and a little lime. The first time I tasted this, I thought the barman had made a mistake! I’m not accustomed to drinking a glass of straight rum, but by the end of my visit ti’ punch and I were firm friends.

Things To Do On Réunion Island

Visit an active volcano.

Located within the Réunion National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you will find Piton de la Fournaise (The Peak of the Furnace), one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The volcano has had more than 150 recorded eruptions since the 17th century, with the most recent in April 2021.

Piton de la Fournaise is one of Réunion Island’s most popular tourist attractions and about 400,000 people visit every year. It is pretty accessible to all, whatever your age or fitness level. You can drive to the rim of the external crater and simply gaze at the peak in the distance. Or, if you have the time and inclination, you can climb it, starting from the waves lapping at its base in the Indian Ocean, and ultimately reaching its summit, which is often in the clouds.

A huge part of Réunion’s appeal is found high above sea level, inside the towering volcanic calderas left behind from the island’s violent volcanic history. These calderas, or cirques, offer amazing hiking opportunities and have more than 600 miles of hiking trails.

Piton de Neiges, or snow peak, was formed by the Réunion hot spot and emerged from the ocean about 200,000 million years ago. Now deeply eroded and inactive for the last 20,000 years, it is surrounded by three massive crater valleys: Mafate, Cilaos, and Salazie, all famous for their hiking routes. Of these three, Mafate is the most challenging, as it is completely inaccessible by road. The trails are definitely not for those suffering from vertigo and should not be hiked alone. Fortunately, I was accompanied by Nicolas Cyprien, a local Réunionese guide, who not only knew the way but also filled me in on all kinds of information as we headed off into the wild heart of the island. 

The Beaches

Whilst hiking and the outdoors may be the most popular reasons for visiting the Réunion island , you will inevitably end up on the beach at some point in your trip. Réunion has its fair share of idyllic beaches, here are a few spots to get you started:

• Plage de L’Hermitage is Réunion’s most popular beach and gets quite crowded over the weekends. The sand is as white as it gets, the water is crystal clear, and casuarina trees provide some shade. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear.
• Away from the crowds, Plage de la Salines is a perfect stretch of salt and pepper sand, just south of Plage de L’Hermitage. The beach is long, so it’s never hard to find a spot, and you can enjoy views that stretch all the way south to Saint-Leu. There are a few clear patches for swimming, but this is a great place for snorkeling. Sadly, the coral is mostly bleached, but there are lots of tropical fish.
• One of Réunion Island’s finest black sand beaches is Plage de l’Etang Sale , a prime spot for watching the sunset or mixing with the locals.
• Plage des Brisants , also known as surfer’s paradise, is famous for its waves. The beach’s fame does not stop with surfing though, a popular annual film festival is held here, so if you are a movie buff, look out for the announcements.

Pro Tip: A word of caution about swimming. Réunion Island has become so notorious for shark attacks, that swimming and surfing are banned outside the coral lagoon. Eleven people have died in shark attacks since 2011.

Visit St. Gilles

Once you’re done with the beach and are looking for some culture, St. Gilles is the place to be. Situated on the western side of the island, the town is known for its eclectic mix of art and cultural shows. The streets are lined with numerous bars and nightclubs, playing an array of music from jazz, rock, and dance music to traditional local music.

Shop At Saint-Paul Market

Saint-Paul Market runs from Friday morning to Saturday morning — a full 24 hours — and sells some of the most exotic fruits and vegetables you have ever seen. Food is not the only thing sold here though, the market is also famous for art and souvenirs.

Picnic At Langevin Or Trois Bassins

Langevin, a waterfall in the south of the island, is one of Réunion’s best-kept secrets. Alternatively, rent a canoe and head to Trois Bassins on the west coast. These are two of the island’s ultimate picnic spots and are well worth a visit.

Swim With Whales and Dolphins

Whale season on Reunion Island is from June to September, when these giants migrate down to the warmer Indian Ocean waters from the Atlantic to mate and give birth. There are companies like Duocean that organize boat trips to see and swim with these cetaceans.

Usually, the ideal places to see them are on the west coast, around the Bay of Saint-Leu. 

Blower dolphins and pantropical spotted dolphins are in these waters at any time of year, and diving schools can take you out to swim alongside them.  As you swim in big groups you are not at risk of shark attacks.

Visit Saga du Rhum

You can choose between a guided or independent visit to the museum inside the Isautier Distillery, the oldest one still in use on the island. The Saga du Rhum is a museum devoted entirely to Reunion’s rum. As with any distillery, there’s a bar where you can try Reunion’s various rums for free at the end. The rhum range includes “agricultural”, “traditional” and infused rum, or varieties that have aged in the cask for different periods.

Among other trophies, the Saga du Rhum Museum was also awarded the Accessibility Trophy in 2014 for the best museum on the island for the disabled.

So there you have it, my round-up of things to know about Réunion, and what to do while you are there. Have a great visit and enjoy!

How to Reach Reunion Island?

You will have to travel to Reunion Island by plane. The island has two airports: La Réunion Roland Garros airport near Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre Pierrefonds in the south of the island. There are three direct Air France flights to Reunion Island from mainland France.

Are There Active Volcanoes on Reunion Island?

Yes, Reunion Island is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, the snow-capped Piton de Fournaise. The interesting fact is that France has as many active volcanos as Iceland, albeit in its overseas territories and departments.

Why Visit Reunion Island?

Not as well-known as nearby Mauritius, Reunion Island is one of the most intriguing spots on earth. With its extraordinarily varied terrain that includes coral reefs, waterfalls, lush forests, rare birds, and plant life, this little-known gem is a dream destination for ecotourism and adventure sports. 

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Reunion Island?

Ideally, you should go during the dry season from May to early November. Scuba diving and snorkeling are most popular between April and November. The impressive humpback whales stop off near Reunion during the breeding season, between August and October.

Where to Stay on Reunion Island?

Saint-Gilles-Les-Bains in the west is where the best beaches and stunning beach bars are. There’s a local weekend market and some great restaurants. Also, Saint Pierre on the south coast is one of the most dynamic cities on the island.

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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The beautiful landscapes and easy living here bewitch travellers... To the east of Madagascar, Mauritius and Reunion are some of the best-known islands in the Indian Ocean. Cruises to Mauritius or Reunion are to be experienced on land as well as at sea, with dives in the fish-rich waters, stunning beaches and walks through the surprising natural surroundings. 

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Must-Sees - Mauritius and Reunion

Idyllic islands in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius and Reunion are ideal for nature lovers who can spend time by the water or on the lush reefs. Here are a few unmissable activities to do when you're on these two islands.

The Essentials - Mauritius and Reunion Island

Whether you spend your time by the sea or decide to venture into the lush inland greenery, a trip to Mauritius or Reunion will always amaze and provide a change of scenery. Here is some useful information to help you prepare for your trip.

Explore Mauritius and Reunion Island

The secrets of vanilla

Fly over Reunion in a helicopter

There's nothing like taking to the skies for an intimate helicopter ride to realise just how sumptuous Reunion's panoramas are. During a 45-minute flight, you can see the island's most impressive landscapes: the Salazie, Mafate and Cilaos cirques formed inside the Piton des Neiges, behind the island's creation. Other marvels: the Trou de Fer canyon, the Piton de la Fournaise, the Plaine des Cafres plateau, Dimitile mountain and the beaches and lagoon of Saint-Paul.

Visit Chamarel and try local rum - Mauritius

The independent Chamarel rum distillery has unique skills, mastering all aspects of production from sugar-cane growing to distilling and barrel ageing. It makes for a nice stop-off where you can also have something to eat. Nearby are the Chamarel Earths : a contrasting landscape in seven colours from ochre to purple. This geological curiosity may have been created by volcanic ash containing different shades of mineral oxides and revealed by centuries of erosion. En route, the 100-metre Chamarel Waterfall only adds to the getaway's charm.

Go to the Piton de la Fournaise - Reunion

The Piton de la Fournaise is always approached with a mixture of solemnity and excitement. With its 2,600-metre peak, this is one of the world's most active volcanos. As you climb, there are various viewpoints looking out on incredible panoramas with lush and lunar landscapes. From the Nez de Boeuf, the view over the volcanic ravines and Piton de la Fournaise massif gives a good feel for this lava giant's importance. The Pas de Bellecombe crater (2,310 metres high) offers a commanding view of the volcano's active crater. Absolutely amazing. Those who are interested will enjoy a visit to the Cité du Volcan where you can experience what an eruption is like for yourself.

Marvel at the power of nature, Cirque de Salazie - Reunion

The Cirque de Salazie provides a real sound and light show. Here, nature stimulates the senses. The majestic landscapes sometimes hide in the mist. Water flows everywhere, creating music that is gentle - or wilder. An infinite palette of greens paints the landscape. From the road to the cirque, in the middle of Reunion, there is adventure to be had. The "Pisse en l’air" waterfall deposits right on the tarmac. Then there is a network of impressive falls in a lovely setting made up of valleys and plunging inclines. Among them is the famous Voile de la Mariée (Bridal Veil Falls) and Cascade Blanche : one of the world's highest at 640 metres tall.

Explore the Lagon de la Saline lagoon in a kayak - Reunion

Located in the west of Reunion, Trou d'Eau beach in the Lagon de la Saline is one of the island's superb beaches and ideal for various water sports. One of the best ways to explore this coastline protected by coral reef is to climb aboard a glass-bottomed kayak for a guided tour. The experience will give you the opportunity to learn more about how this coral barrier formed and the species that live here: all 3,500+ of them!

Port Louis - Mauritius

The bustling capital of Mauritius, Port Louis is best experienced like a local rather than a tourist. To gauge the city's pulse, head to the central market . The colourful stalls are packed with spices, exotic fruit and vegetables, herbal teas for curing illness and crafts that make perfect tourist souvenirs. Indian, Chinese, Creole... The sellers reflect Mauritius's cultural diversity caused by the island being located on the route to India. The Citadel (Fort Adelaide), built from the 13th century by the French, has magnificent views over the city's bay.

Dos. Mauritius and Reunion locals are always noticeably happy. The least you can do to be polite is smile back at them. Don'ts. On Mauritius and Reunion, only wear your swimsuit on the beach. On Mauritius, nudism and going topless are prohibited.

Unique features

The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden , also known as Pamplemousses, on Mauritius was the world's first tropical botanic garden , coming after the citrus and vegetable garden founded in 1735. The man behind it was Pierre Poivre: a famous botanist who planted trees from all over the world here. Having been added to over the years, the plant collection is still one of the world's most comprehensive today.

Essential phrases

Mauritian and Reunion cuisines reflect the Indian and Chinese cultural influences of past centuries. Pork dumplings, rice-based dishes and samosas all evoke this heritage. However, the two islands also have their own Creole recipes. Rougail , a dish with a tomato, onion and garlic sauce, is one you must try. In Reunion, it is made with sausage, while in Mauritius, it is fish-based. Chilli sweets or chilli fritters are also well-loved snacks. These slightly spicy concoctions are made from yellow or split peas, dried chilli and herbs.

In the spotlight

The iconic native bird of Mauritius, the dodo died out over 300 years ago. This was the first animal to suffer the devastating effects of human influence. Fearless and unable to fly, dodos didn't have any predators until the Dutch arrived. The birds were then chased by the sailors and their eggs eaten by rats and pigs brought over on the boats. Studies carried out in 2017 by palaeontologists at the University of Cape Town on fledgling bones revealed a little more about the dodo. They could grow to a metre in height and weigh between 9 and 14 kg . " Their feathers, which were grey-brown from September to March, became downy and black between April and July to prepare them for the new breeding season, " indicates Géo magazine.

Books. In 2017, J.M.G Le Clézio published Alma : a novel evoking the island he holds dear. His Breton ancestors set up home on Mauritius in the 18th century and the author considers himself to be a French-speaking Mauritian writer. Alma retraces what happened to members of the Felsen family, which divided into two branches: one noble and one shameful. Jérémie from the noble side is to set out in search of the dodo, the island's symbolic bird, which is destined to disappear due to human activity. Will he come across Dominique, a disabled outcast born on the "wrong side" of the family? The book raises lots of questions about family heritage, the destruction of nature, slavery...

Music. Dating from the time of slavery, sega is the traditional Afro-Mauritian music found across the Indian Ocean including on Reunion. The lyrics inspired by everyday life are accompanied by typical instruments like the ravanne (a kind of drum), the triangle and the maravanne (pieces of reed or sugar cane lined up and filled with gravel). Jean Alphonse Ravaton , known as "Ti Frère" (Little Brother) (1900-1992), is considered the "king of Mauritian sega".

Film. Brought together in front of François Truffaut's camera in Mississippi Mermaid (1970), Catherine Deneuve (Marion) and Jean-Paul Belmondo (Louis Mahé) play a destructive game. She is a dangerous seducer. He is in love with her, and completely transfixed. She will take everything he has, and he will be ready to give it all up for her... The plot unfolds with a stunning Reunion backdrop, before ending in the south of France.

Facts and figures

The Piton de la Fournaise on Reunion is considered to be one of the world's most active volcanoes. Since 2010, an eruption has been registered every 9 months ... This also makes it one of the most closely monitored volcanoes.

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Reunion island.

Reunion Island which forms part of the Department of French overseas territorie  is located in the Mascarene archipelago about 700 km east of Madagascar and 170 kilometers southwest of Mauritius. The Island is also a member of the Vanilla Islands. It has 250 km of coastline and  Piton des Neiges rises up to 3070 metres ,the highest peak of the Indian Ocean. Its relief is marked by the only active volcano in the Indian Ocean, including the Piton de la Fournaise and the presence of a large mountainous area.

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Rougail Saucisse Civet de zourites Civet de lapin à la créole Filets de poissons boucanés Morceaux de viande boucanée Chatini pommes d'amour Le chop suey Usually accompanied by rice, the most common dishes are the curry. They are almost served with beans such as Cilaos lentils.

Places to visit

Saint Denis - The capital with its Creole houses, market, museums and colonial buildings. Sainte Suzanne – Niagara Cascade Sainte Suzanne and pond The vanilla plantation of Bras Panon Saint-Gilles- les-Bains for its beaches, bars, restaurants, discothèques...etc Circuses - Cilaos, Salazie, Mafate The volcano The St. Paul market L’Etang Sale - The most beautiful black sand beach

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2025 Africa Cruises: Discover Madagascar, Zanzibar & South Africa

From the panoramic views from Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa's landscapes are as varied as its history and culture. Experience them on a cruise vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or it's your first time on the high seas, there's a cruise to Africa that's right for you.

Ports of call on a cruise to Africa include some of the most sought-after vacation spots on the continent. Norwegian also offers a range of exciting shore excursions so you don't have to lift a finger planning your next adventure. Just kick back, relax, and enjoy Norwegian's cruising experience. Keep reading to find out about some of the different ports you can experience on Norwegian's cruises to Africa in 2025 .

Ready to start planning? Explore all Africa cruises .

Cape Town, South Africa

As the country's oldest and most vibrant city, Cape Town offers a host of exciting activities. Visit Robben Island, where former South African president and activist Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for nearly three decades. Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Enjoy birdwatching on a hike through more than 1,300 acres of lush natural areas at the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. At the ever-popular V&A Waterfront, you can spend the day shopping and dining along the edge of the harbor.

Mombasa, Kenya

Mombasa is a mosaic of African, Indian, and Arabian cultures. Delve into the turquoise waters at Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve for waterskiing, snorkeling, and diving. You'll find stunning coral reefs and undersea shipwrecks to explore. Get off the beaten path at Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, and get up close and personal with African wildlife, such as giraffes, elands, oryx, and ostriches, as they roam their natural habitat. At Shimba Hills National Reserve, discover African elephants, sable antelopes, Sykes' monkeys, and more.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

For the ultimate beach paradise, look no further than Nosy Be island off the northwest coast of Madagascar. Formed by volcanic activity, Nosy Be's lush, forested landscapes feature numerous craters and crater lakes. Nosy Be translates to Big Island, and this biodiversity hotspot lives up to its name. It's the ultimate outdoor playground for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Discover the heavenly scent of ylang-ylang on a plantation tour. Cast a line on a deep-sea fishing excursion. Hike the rainforest trails at Lokobe National Park in search of lemurs and chameleons.

Port Louis, Mauritius

At the heart of Port Louis , the lively capital of Mauritius, lies the Citadelle (Fort Adelaide). Built by the British in 1840 atop a towering hill, this basalt fort provides panoramic views of the city. Within walking distance, you'll find Champs de Mars, a thoroughbred horse racing track where you can enjoy an exciting day at the races. Stop by the Blue Penny Museum, which offers a detailed look at the art and history of the island. Wrap up your visit to Mauritius with a stroll along Le Caudan Waterfront, which features shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

RELATED CRUISES: 12-Day Africa from Mauritius to Cape Town: South Africa & Madagascar 14-Day Africa from Mauritius to Doha: Seychelles, Madagascar, Oman & UAE 21-Day Africa from Cape Town to Barcelona: Namibia, Angola & Ivory Coast

Port Victoria, Seychelles

Victoria , on the island of Mahé, is the capital of Seychelles and the republic's largest city. More than 200 plant species grow here naturally, and about 80 are found nowhere else on the planet. For this reason, the National Botanical Garden is a must-see attraction on your Africa cruise to Seychelles. Another top spot for cruisers is the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a natural palm forest that has remained nearly unchanged since prehistoric times. The reserve is home to the world's largest intact forest of coco de mer palm trees, which boast the biggest seeds in the plant kingdom.

Safaga, Egypt

Situated along the Red Sea, Safaga's hot desert climate, crystal-clear waters, and soft, white-sand beaches make it an ideal year-round port of call. Best known as a health and wellness destination thanks to the therapeutic properties of the local sand and mineral springs, Safaga is the perfect cruise port to relax and unwind. Alternatively, you can take part in various watersports, such as windsurfing, diving, or kitesurfing, in Safaga's warm waters. You can even take a day trip to Luxor, where you can delve into ancient history at the nearby Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.

Walvis Bay, Namibia

If you're hoping to glimpse wildlife on your cruise to Africa, Walvis Bay is the place for you. Situated at the edge of the Namib Desert, the town features a large lagoon, salt pans, and a bird sanctuary that attracts a diverse range of species. In the summer months, more than 150,000 migrant birds call the area home. Other animals you might spot in Walvis Bay include seals, dolphins, and whales. More adventurous cruisers can take a quad ride through the desert or try sandboarding.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Located just 22 miles off the coast of east-central Africa, Zanzibar consists of a chain of tropical islands. Its pristine beaches and colorful markets make it a favorite cruise vacation destination. Explore the diverse marine life among the coral reefs on a snorkeling adventure. Wander through the labyrinth of historic streets in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Unguja island. Sample the local flavors on a culinary tour through a spice farm.

These stunning cruise ports are just a few of the incredible destinations you can enjoy on a Norwegian cruise to Africa. Whether you're a history buff, sunseeker, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or adventurer, Norwegian offers a host of itineraries for Africa cruises in 2025 .

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