Reunion Island's Piton de la Fournaise erupts again

The Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is Reunion's biggest tourist attraction. It is possible to observe safely by following the instructions issued by authorities of the island. It is a spectacular sight for any traveller and - remarkably - is situated in the Reunion National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the most studied volcanoes in the world, monitored closely by the international scientific community.

Getting up close to the eruption

The eruption of Piton de la Fournaise is visible from Pas de Bellcombe but the closest viewing point is at the Piton Partage, a 2km walk (or 30 - 45 minutes) from Pas de Bellcombe. The National Gendarmerie and the National Forestry Office (ONF) are responsible for ensuring safety on the ground.

Where in the world is Reunion Island?

Reunion Island is a French overseas department. It is a small island in the southern Indian Ocean, just off the east coast of Madagascar and only 45 minutes from Mauritius by air, but you can fly direct from most major centres around the globe such as Paris and Bangkok, Marseille, Mauritius, the Seychelles, Rodrigues, the Comores, Madagascar and Johannesburg. In fact, for South Africans Reunion Island is a mere four hour flight journey from Johannesburg with Air Austral.

La Reunion is also not your typical island destination, offering more than just rest and relaxation - Reunion's inhabitants hail from ten different countries and the native Creole culture is blossoming on the island. It is an outdoor and adventure mecca, boasts a plethora of land-living and marine wildlife, and the creative and artisanal offerings are out of this world.

From lunar landscapes to clear blue lagoons and lush tropical forests, French-Indian Ocean Island Réunion is the ultimate travellers island.

Don't believe us? Check out this clip: