Reunion Island is a volcanic island full of pools and waterfalls. It is located in the western part of the Indian Ocean. To date, there are more than 300 of them, most of them accessible. This myriad of waterfalls can be explained in part by the island’s topography and climate.

These streams of water are dug through the sides of volcanoes. One of them, the Piton de la Fournaise, is still active. It therefore happens that the water, following its path, rushes down from certain heights. It is at this precise moment that waterfalls are created, the result of chance and nature.

This particular natural phenomenon is a real natural heritage. Many of them are located in the Reunion National Park. The latter has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010. It covers up to 40% of the island.

As you can see, when it comes to waterfalls in Réunion Island, you will be spoilt for choice. So we decided to give you some of our favourite stunts in Reunion Island. To do this, we have gone off the beaten track and away from sites where the tourist pressure is too great.

The Niagara Waterfall in Reunion Island

Our journey starts near Saint Denis. To the east of the city is the Niagara waterfall (yes, you’re not dreaming). It is 25 metres high and its flow varies according to the rainfall.
What makes the Niagara Falls so special is its proximity to the ocean coast.
When you discover this waterfall, don’t forget to bring a swimming costume! The waterfall flows into a pool, which you can swim in.

The White Waterfall

Following the coastline, you will come to the Bassin de la Paix and the Bassin de la Paix. However, we will come back to these two basins later. Before that, we suggest you make a diversion inland. Between the Niagara Falls and the Peace Basin is the White Waterfall. This little detour will allow you, during a hike, to discover a waterfall of a different size. There, the water falls from a height of 640 metres. This waterfall is the 3rd largest in France. A hiking trail will take you to see this magnificent spectacle.

“Bassin la Paix” and “Bassin de la Mer”

Back on the coast you can finally head for the Bassin de la Paix and the Bassin de la Mer. These pools are located on the River des Roches. This river is very popular with canyoneers. Once again, swimming is possible in these pools. The only condition is to stay away from the waterfalls for safety. More generally, the surrounding area is also particularly interesting to explore. A hiking trail leads you to more quiet and isolated pools and waterfalls.

Langevin Waterfalls, the gate to the National Parc of Reunion Island

Then, follow the coast to the south of the island!
There, it is time to go inland little by little. This will allow you to discover the unique fauna and flora of the Reunion National Park.
Start by marvelling at the Langevin waterfall. The particularity of this waterfall is that it flows over a huge wall of water. Easily accessible, it is very popular with the Réunionese. It has many pools, which once again are ideal for swimming. And you will also find, further downstream, the Cascade du Trou Noir known for its pool.

Bridal Veil Waterfall

After that you have to go further north and inland. There you will find the Bridal Veil waterfall. This waterfall, together with a dozen others, flows down dizzying rock faces. There are two paths available to you. The first one will take you upwards, in order to obtain unique panoramas. The second will take you to the foot of the waterfalls. Both shows are unique, remarkable and worth the diversions.

“Bras Rouge” waterfall

In dry weather, go and discover the Bras Rouge waterfall. It is located further north, and still further inland. You will then get closer to the Piton des Neiges.
To get there, take the Sentier des Porteurs de Cilaos. After an hour’s walk, you’ll get there!
There, basins dug into the rock by the flow of water await you. These pools will appear as a real reward for your efforts, in a unique setting.

Three Rocks Waterfalls, the enchantment of Reunion Island

Finally, go to the Three Rocks waterfall. This waterfall will be like no other you have ever seen. It is by climbing even further north from the Bras Rouge waterfall that you will reach it. It is located between Roche Plate and Marla, very close to the Piton des Neiges too.
The water comes from the Galets river. It flows over large flat stones, polished by the constant flow of water. The river then flows into a narrow but very deep canyon.
This unusual place will be the highlight of a trip, which we are sure will amaze you.

Throughout this journey, you will be confronted with natural wonders. Most of them are now protected and supervised. There are a thousand other enchanting waterfalls in Réunion. So, when you discover new places, still unknown to the major tourist circuits, the best way to preserve them is to remain vague about their precise location when you communicate on social networks. This way you will protect the eco-systems and the local people while continuing to be amazed.

In addition, most waterfalls are accessible on foot and do not require combustion vehicles. So, choose to visit the waterfalls off the beaten track. And the magic of the island’s waterfalls will live on for a long time.