If you’re dreaming of a bird’s-eye view of Réunion’s incredible landscapes, a helicopter tour over the island’s three famous cirques might just be the highlight of your trip. While we haven’t flown ourselves, this experience has garnered enough praise and intriguing details to make it a compelling choice for travelers craving authentic, scenic adventures.
What makes this tour appealing? First, the breathtaking vistas of Cilaos, Mafate, and Salazie are truly unique—most of these sites are only accessible on foot or by helicopter. Second, the experienced pilots provide engaging commentary that turns a simple flight into a mini-lesson on Réunion’s geography and natural wonders. Lastly, the modern, comfortable helicopters promise a safe and smooth ride.
One thing to consider is the duration, which is just 36 minutes — so it’s a quick glimpse rather than a deep exploration. But if you’re after a memorable, photo-worthy experience that captures the essence of Réunion’s rugged beauty, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who love scenic flights, photography, or want a hassle-free way to see multiple sites in a short time.
Key Points
- Spectacular Views: Fly over the island’s three iconic cirques, capturing unforgettable landscapes from the air.
- Expert Commentary: Pilots share fascinating facts and stories throughout the flight, enriching the experience.
- Comfort & Safety: Modern helicopters ensure a smooth, secure ride for all participants.
- Accessible Natural Sites: Perfect for those who want to see remote areas like Mafate, usually only reachable on foot.
- Timing & Group Size: Flights last about 36 minutes, with scheduled departures between 6am and 11am; a minimum of 5 participants is required.
- Value & Cost: At $329 per person, it offers a chance to see Réunion’s highlights from above, making it a worthwhile splurge for scenic lovers.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
Looking for more options in Saint Pierre Reunion? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting with the Cirque de Cilaos
The adventure kicks off over Cilaos, famous for its dramatic cliffs and towering peaks, including Piton des Neiges, the highest point in the Indian Ocean at 3,071 meters. From the helicopter, you’ll see the deep ravines and steep canyons that make Cilaos such a striking sight. One reviewer, Philippe, appreciated the professionalism of the pilot Joel and the warm welcome at the hangar, setting the tone for a comfortable experience. The views here promise a sense of majesty that’s hard to match on land, especially given the inaccessible nature of the terrain.
Flying over Mafate – The Wild Sanctuary
Next comes Mafate, an area only reachable by foot or helicopter, known for its untouched wilderness and steep ridges. From the air, you’ll get a clear view of its lush vegetation and secret valleys, offering a sense of isolation that’s hard to find elsewhere. The flight over the Piton Maïdo provides a particularly striking panorama of this wild terrain. Christophe, another traveler, called this part “superbe et inédit,” highlighting the rarity of experiencing Mafate from above.
The Dazzling Cirque de Salazie and Trou de Fer
The journey continues into Salazie, celebrated for its verdant landscapes and impressive waterfalls. Flying over the Trou de Fer, a 300-meter-deep chasm surrounded by cascading waterfalls, is often described as a highlight. The Voile de la Mariée, a 500-meter-high waterfall—literally “the Bride’s Veil”—is a stunning feature that adds to the magical scenery. Reviewers find this part especially photogenic and awe-inspiring, with the waterfalls creating a dramatic contrast to the lush greenery.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Leg: Plaine des Cafres
As the flight winds down, the helicopter soars over Plaine des Cafres, a high plateau offering sweeping views of the Bras de la Plaine river and surrounding volcanic landscape. This provides a fitting conclusion, giving travelers a broad perspective of Réunion’s diverse topography before heading back to Saint-Pierre.
What To Expect During the Flight
- Duration & Group Size: The 36-minute flight is shared, meaning you’ll be flying with other participants, which can be a fun communal experience or a cozy, personal adventure depending on the group.
- Pre-Flight Experience: You’re welcomed at Saint-Pierre airport with the option of coffee or tea and briefings from the pilot—some pilots, like Joel, are notably professional and engaging.
- Photography & Sightseeing: Bring your camera or phone—photos of the cirques, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks will be stunning. Be aware that selfie sticks, tripods, or bags are not allowed onboard for safety reasons.
- Weather & Timing: Flights are scheduled between 6am and 11am, with takeoff times confirmed the day before based on weather conditions. Clear skies are ideal for the best views.
Important Practicalities
- Minimum Participants: The flight requires at least 5 people to operate. If your group is smaller, you might be grouped with others.
- Weight & Pregnancy Restrictions: Passengers over 110 kg might be asked to reschedule for safety reasons. Pregnant women past 28 weeks need a medical certificate.
- Preparation: Arrive 30 minutes early, and consider anti-motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to dizziness.
- Prohibited Items: Smoking, alcohol, self-stick tripods, and bags are discouraged onboard.
Price & Value
At $329 per person, this tour offers a condensed but scenic view of Réunion’s most dramatic sites. For many, the price is justified by the exclusivity and the opportunity to capture spectacular photos. Comparing it to land-based tours, it’s a fast way to “see it all” from a perspective that’s otherwise impossible, especially given the difficulty of accessing some areas on foot.
Real Traveler Insights
Philippe praised the professionalism of pilot Joel and the warm welcome, making the experience comfortable from start to finish. Christophe called the flight “superbe et inédit,” emphasizing how special it was for his family. Meanwhile, Martin simply described it as “génial,” capturing the joy of a memorable aerial adventure.
However, it’s worth noting that Kevin’s experience was marred by a last-minute cancellation, which highlights the importance of flexible planning and understanding that weather or operational issues can disrupt scheduled flights. The provider offers a full refund if canceled at least two days in advance, so keep that in mind when booking.
Who Will Love This Experience
This helicopter tour is best suited for scenic lovers and photography enthusiasts eager to see Réunion’s iconic landscapes from above. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick yet breathtaking overview of the island’s volcanoes, waterfalls, and rugged terrain without the physical exertion of land-based explorations.
It also works well for small groups or families, especially those looking for a special activity in Saint-Pierre. However, it’s not suitable for people with claustrophobia, epilepsy, or certain weight/health restrictions. If you’re pregnant past 28 weeks or have altitude sickness, check with medical advice before booking.
The Sum Up
A helicopter flight over Réunion’s 3 cirques offers a remarkable way to see the island’s most stunning natural features in a short amount of time. The combination of breathtaking views, engaging commentary, and the thrill of flying makes it a memorable experience worth considering for your trip. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique adventure, this tour provides a visually spectacular overview of one of the world’s most dramatic volcanic islands.
While it’s a bit pricey, many travelers find that the stunning scenery and the exclusive perspective justify the cost. The experience is best for those who seek a convenient, high-impact sightseeing adventure and don’t mind the short duration. If the weather cooperates, what awaits is a window into Réunion’s wild, rugged beauty that’s hard to match through any other means.
FAQ
How long does the helicopter flight last? The flight is approximately 36 minutes, giving you a quick but thorough overview of Réunion’s main cirques and waterfalls.
What sites will I see? You’ll fly over the Cirque de Cilaos, Mafate, and Salazie, with views of Piton des Neiges, lush valleys, deep chasms like Trou de Fer, and impressive waterfalls such as Voile de la Mariée.
Is the flight shared with others? Yes, the helicopter can accommodate multiple participants, making it a semi-group experience, which can be more social or intimate, depending on your group size.
What should I bring? Remember your passport or ID, sunglasses, and camera. Selfie sticks, tripods, and bags are not allowed onboard.
Can I book for a specific time? Flights are scheduled between 6am and 11am, with the final time confirmed the day before, depending on weather conditions.
Is it suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues? Pregnant women over 28 weeks need a medical certificate; those with claustrophobia, epilepsy, or over 120 kg should consult with the provider beforehand.
In the end, this helicopter tour offers a distinctive way to experience Réunion’s iconic landscapes, capturing the island’s wild beauty in a fleeting, awe-inspiring 36 minutes. It’s a high-value activity for travelers eager for adventure, stunning photos, and a memorable story to tell.
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