Exploring the wild south of Réunion: our advice

Le Sud Sauvage de La Réunion is a very special part of the island, where nature reigns supreme between the Indian Ocean and the lava flows of the Piton de la Fournaise. Less touristy than other parts of the islandThe region offers contrasting landscapes, secret beaches, lush vegetation and breathtaking activities. From Saint-Pierre to Saint-Philippe, via Saint-Joseph, here are our tips for discover the most beautiful places in the Sud Sauvage.

Le Sud Sauvage: where exactly on Réunion?

The wild south of the island is not an exact location, but rather an area of Réunion stretching from the north to the south. from Saint-Pierre to Sainte-Rose, via Saint-Joseph and Saint-Philippe, and including Piton de la Fournaise.

As for its wilderness status, this area owes its name to its still very natural landscapesdespite increasing urbanisation. And to its stormy coastsespecially around Cap Méchant!

How do I get to Sud Sauvage?

There are no trains or trams on Réunion, but there are several bus networks that are used extensively by the locals. To get to Saint-Pierre or Saint-Philippe from Saint-Denis, you can take your own car (1-hour journey) or hire one, take the bus (Yellow Bus - 2 hour journey) or a taxi.

Saint-Pierre: the gateway to the Sud Sauvage

Saint-Pierre is the the largest town in the south of the island and is an excellent base for exploring the south. With its lively seafront, colourful markets and black and white sandy beaches, the town combines modernity with Reunionese traditions.

Things to do, see and visit in Saint-Pierre :

- Strolling along the seafront and enjoy the lagoon-side restaurants and bars.

- Visit the large fairground market Saturday mornings for a guaranteed immersion in local flavours.

- Relaxing on the beach in Terre SainteA small cove along the lagoon, perfect for swimming.

- Visit the Rum Museuma cultural site not to be missed on the island

Now it's on to Saint-Joseph via the RN2!

Before arriving in Saint-JosephWe recommend 2 stops:

• One at Petite-Ile, to admire the Grand Anse beach(Please note that swimming is only permitted in the landscaped pool, which is under construction until 2026). Here you can enjoy a snack or a picnic, Creole-style.

• One at Mapany-les-Bains, for its pool set into the ocean by a barrier of rocks. It's a beautiful spot, and this time swimming is allowed! Near the pool, there's also a path offering exceptional views of the surrounding wild coastline.

Saint-Joseph, a rendezvous with the wild

Saint-Joseph is at the heart of the Sud Sauvage, where nature reigns supreme.

Visit a few ideas of places to see and things to do:

Admire the original Yellow Cape

In Saint-Joseph, take a break at the Marine de VincendoThis charming pebble beach is ideal for relaxing (swimming is not recommended due to the risk of sharks). From here, take the coastal path leading to Cap JauneA fascinating geological formation at the foot of Piton Vincendo. This cliff, recognisable by its ochre hue, has been shaped over time by the erosion of lava flows flowing into the ocean.

Making the most of the assets of the Rivière Langevin

At St Joseph, you have access to Langevin Riverone of the most impressive sites in the region. The river meanders between the mountains, offering sublime scenery. Things to do in the area :

• Take a swim and picnic on its shores

Along the banks of the river, you can stop for a picnic and enjoy a drink. enjoy several freshwater pools to refresh yourself in an idyllic setting.

- Admire the Grand Galet waterfall (also known as the Cascade Langevin)

With its many streams of water falling into a natural pool, the majestic waterfall is easily accessibleTake the Grand Galet road, which runs alongside the river for just over 10 km.

The waterfall is a must-see for photo enthusiasts. You can then head to the Jar and Z'hirondelles pools.

Saint-Philippe: between lava flows and tropical forests

Saint-Philippe is a a land of contrastswhere the lava flows of the Piton de la Fournaise meet the lush vegetation of the primary forests.

• Take the "route des laves", a route not to be missed

To discover the Saint-Philippe's volcanic landscapetake the emblematic Route des Laves. This section of Route Nationale 2, linking Piton-Sainte-Rose to Saint-Philippe, has been covered on several occasions by flows from Piton de la Fournaise. During the spectacular eruption in 2007, the road even had to be rebuilt. Along the way, you'll cross the " Grand Brûlé "This coastal area is located in the Enclos Fouqué, the caldera formed by the volcano.

• Admire the panorama from Cap Méchant

This natural site, bordering the Indian Ocean, offers a breathtaking panorama of basalt cliffs sculpted by the waves. Perfect for a picnic or a contemplative break, the Cap Méchant There is also a children's play area and a landscaped relaxation area.

• Take a walk in the Mare Longue forest and explore the Caverne Gendarme (Gendarme Cave)

Saint-Philippe is home to the Réunion's largest tropical forestthe last remnant of the island's primary forest. After two centuries of massive deforestation, less than 7 % of the original tropical rainforest remains, mainly in this region.

This is the Mare Longue forest. This lush, warm and humid forest is home to signposted trails for exploring this unique landscape, where roots intertwine with basalt rocks. You'll also find a rich biodiversity, with native and endemic plant and animal species such as Réunion's birds.

After a 45-minute walk through the forest, you will reach the entrance to the Caverne GendarmeThis is a lava tunnel formed 250 years ago when Piton de la Fournaise erupted. For a completely safe exploration, we strongly recommend that you are accompanied by a potholing guide.

• The Garden of Perfumes and Spices

A haven of peace, this jbotanical garden offers a sensory journey through aromatic and medicinal plants. Discover local spices such as vanilla, cinnamon and turmeric.

• Swimming at the Baril pool

Close to the Garden of Perfumes and Spices, stop off for a refreshing drink. swimming break in the Saint-Philippe seawater poolBaril les bains" pool. With a surface area of 700m2 and seating for up to 250 people, the pool overlooks the sea. A playground and picnic area are nearby.

Sainte-Rose, lava survivor

Sainte-Rose, situated on the east coast of Réunion, is a small town well worth a visit for :

• The Church of Notre-Dame-des-Laves

Having miraculously escaped a lava flow in 1977, this church is a powerful reminder of the eruptionIt is still etched in the memories of the people of Réunion. Visit the church and the free museum nearby to find out more about its history and that of the 1977 coulée.

• The lava tunnels

Explore the Sainte-Rose lava tunnel (2004 flow) and the 2007 pouring offers a fascinating journey to the heart of Réunion's volcanic history. These underground galleries, shaped by the eruptions of Piton de la Fournaise, reveal spectacular basalt formations and bear witness to the power of natural forces. Accompanied by a guide, you'll discover a unique landscape, with vaults sculpted by molten lava and unusual textures frozen in time.

• L'anse des Cascades

If you fancy a picnic under large coconut palms, with a view of waterfalls or the ocean, l'Anse des Cascades in Sainte-Rose is the place for you. A wooden footbridge takes you along the waterfalls of the nearby cliff. There is also a small traditional dry fishing port and a restaurant. A place that's as beautiful as it is relaxing.

Piton de la Fournaise: giant of the wild south

You can't visit the Wild South without exploring the Piton de la Fournaiseone of the world's most active volcanoes. To admire this giant of fire, you can drive to the Bellecombe pass. From here, there are trails that will take you close to the crater, from Formica Leo to the Dolomieu crater. We recommend that you read our dedicated article on access points and viewpoints of Piton de la Fournaise.

So, are you ready to discover a land of adventure, lush forests, lava flows, secret beaches and refreshing waterfalls? We're waiting for you in the Sud Sauvage !