Things to do in Reunion’s Highlands: sports and exploring

Venturing into Reunion’s Highlands, means leaving behind mildness of the coast for a land where nature reigns supreme. Here man is just a guest who has learned to live with the elements. Its very isolation is what makes it so wild and adventurous. In the Highlands, you push yourself to the limit as you enter an unspoiled countryside. Discover our top 5 things to do in the Highlands.

1. Hiking in Les Makes national forest

In the island’s highlands, in Les Makes national forest, we fight our way between the highland tamarinds and cryptomerias, iconic trees which found refuge on this extremely fertile volcanic soil. At sunrise, we are surrounded by mist which gives us the feeling of floating. The unique smell of these conifers fills the air. At the end of the hiking paths, you will discover a breathtaking view over the cirque of Cilaos.

1. Hiking in Les Makes national forest

In the island’s highlands, in Les Makes national forest, we fight our way between the highland tamarinds and cryptomerias, iconic trees which found refuge on this extremely fertile volcanic soil. At sunrise, we are surrounded by mist which gives us the feeling of floating. The unique smell of these conifers fills the air. At the end of the hiking paths, you will discover a breathtaking view over the cirque of Cilaos.

2. Paragliding in the Saint-Leu Highlands

In the Highlands, the tropicbird is king. It flies over pitons and mountain peaks before disappearing behind a rampart. The island’s mountains hold no secrets for him. What better way to discover these hidden treasures than by flying over them. At the end of the road to Les Colimaçons, in the Saint-Leu Highlands, Rémi awaits intrepid adventurers. He is going to introduce them to the joys of paragliding by showing them how to follow the updrafts. Take-off from the side of a mountain and land at the edge of a lagoon.

Seen from the sky, the island is even more beautiful!

Meet Rémi who will accompany you on the big jump!

3. Downhill mountain biking on Le Maïdo

Le Maïdo has a surprise up its sleeve for thrill seekers. From this splendid balcony over the cirque of Mafate, steep forest roads and paths descend to the coast. From the summit, you can do the whole descent on a mountain bike and end up pedalling by the sea. These steep slopes are a great experience, combining adventure, discovery and thrills.

Discover mountain biking

4. Horse riding on the plains

An equestrian escapade to discover the island

There are so many ways to explore a place, some more original and unexpected than others. At Plaine des Palmistes, it is of course possible to roam the many hiking trails on foot. But you can also leave your heavy boots behind and climb on the back of a horse. A different way to discover the lush green landscapes, to appreciate the dizzying waterfalls and to admire the flight of the marsh harriers.

5. An evening in the cabaret des hauts

An important aspect of the Highlands is the friendly and cheerful nature of its inhabitants. Surrounded by dense vegetation you can hear the sound of Creole music. These tunes, that echo around the cirques, come from Cabaret Pat’Jaune. Originally from Plaine des Cafres, Pat’Jaune are an iconic band and part of the culture of Reunion’s Highlands. As well as cultural immersion an evening spent listening to their traditional music and enjoying their Creole cuisine is a great way to make new friends.