Reunion Island: 4-hour quad bike tour with lunch

If you’re craving a mix of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of local flavor, this 4-hour quad bike tour in Réunion could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally thrown a leg over the bike, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of an experience packed with stunning views, exhilarating drives, and memorable moments.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its ability to combine off-road excitement with panoramic vistas from high-altitude viewpoints. Second, the inclusion of a delicious local lunch in the lush hills offers a relaxing break amidst adventure. And third, the chance to explore diverse environments—from sugar cane fields to forests—ensures you’ll experience Réunion’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

One consideration? The tour’s minimum group size (three quads) might mean some flexibility is needed in planning. Plus, the price — at $469 for up to two people — is a bit on the higher side, but it includes quite a bit of value, from gear to lunch, and the video footage.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and don’t mind a little dirt or adventure on their trip. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a personalized, exciting way to see parts of Réunion often inaccessible by other means.

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Key Points

Spectacular Views: From Maïdo to Saint-Paul Bay, expect unforgettable panoramas.
Diverse Landscapes: Ride through sugar cane fields, forests, and high-altitude terrain.
All-Inclusive Price: Gear, guide, lunch, and even video footage are included.
Group Size & Flexibility: Departure minimum of three quads, with a maximum of six, perfect for small groups.
Physical Requirement: Suitable for those comfortable with riding and outdoor activity, but not for pregnant women or those with back or mobility issues.
Timing & Duration: Starts at 9:30 a.m., returning by late afternoon, giving ample time for scenic stops and a relaxed lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What’s in Store

This quad tour begins bright and early with a meeting point at 9:30 a.m., ready for a 10 a.m. departure. The trip covers approximately 65 km over four hours, climbing to an altitude of up to 2,200 meters—a perfect way to see the island’s impressive elevation changes and scenery.

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The Ride and Scenic Highlights

Crossing sugar cane fields is one of the first sights, where the lush green stretches seem endless. The guide, Les Quads de la plaine st Paul, is praised for their professionalism, making new riders feel safe and confident. As you wind through the landscape, you’ll pass through Cryptomeria forests, where the tall, native trees add a mystical touch to the ride.

Lovers of panoramic views will adore the Maïdo viewpoint, a highlight of the tour. From this vantage point, you’ll gaze down on Saint-Paul Bay, with the coastline unfurling in the distance. Multiple reviews mention how “breathtaking” the vistas are, especially as the sun hits the volcanic terrain and the lush greenery below.

The Hike and Additional Stops

While the main focus is the ride, the tour also includes a short hike suitable for all levels, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and take in the scenery from ground level. Expect to be rewarded with more stunning views and the chance to take some photos.

Lunch in the Hills

After several hours of riding and sightseeing, your group will stop for lunch at a hilltop restaurant. Here, you can relax and enjoy local Creole cuisine, often praised for its fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The meal is included in the price, as are drinks, making it a stress-free break. Many reviewers note the friendly atmosphere and the chance to savor Réunion’s culinary delights amid stunning natural surroundings.

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Video and Photos

A bonus is the footage of your ride, taken with a GoPro, which the guide will edit and send via WeTransfer the following day. This adds a fun keepsake to remember your adventure—especially since some reviews mention how great it is to relive the ride with high-quality clips.

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What to Expect: Practical Insights

The tour is designed for those who are comfortable on a quad bike, with the maximum total weight on the quad being 200kg. You’ll need a valid driver’s license if you choose to drive, and wearing closed-toe shoes and pants (not leggings or shorts) is essential for safety and comfort.

The group size is small, with a minimum of three quads—meaning you’re not likely to be part of a large, impersonal crowd. The tour operates in French, but the guides are typically friendly and accommodating, making communication straightforward.

Included in the price are helmets, gloves, fuel, and a guide—so there are no hidden costs. You might want to bring a waterproof or biodegradable sunscreen, water, a charged smartphone, and a change of clothes just in case you get dirty or want to freshen up after the ride.

Who Should Avoid This Tour?

Due to safety and physical considerations, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or anyone with back issues or mobility impairments. It’s also not recommended for those over 243 lbs (110 kg) or with recent surgeries or health conditions like epilepsy.

Timing & Flexibility

The experience runs from roughly 10 a.m. to late afternoon, with a flexible return time between 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Cancelation is straightforward—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—offering some peace of mind if your plans shift.

The Value Proposition

At $469 per group (up to two people), the price reflects the all-inclusive nature of the tour: guidance, gear, fuel, lunch, drinks, and even the video footage. Considering the personalized experience, the scenic diversity, and the high-quality photos and videos, many might find this worthwhile.

It’s particularly attractive for those wanting a more adventurous way to explore Réunion’s landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. The included lunch and video are bonuses that add to the feeling of a well-rounded day.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or friends who enjoy outdoor activities and don’t mind riding in a slightly rugged environment. It’s ideal if you want to see the island’s high-altitude views and experience a taste of Réunion’s wild side.

If you’re looking for a relaxed sightseeing day, this may not be the best option, as it’s physically active and involves some dirt and adventure. But if you’re craving an active, scenic, and fun experience, you’ll likely find this quad tour a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a driver’s license to participate? Yes, you need a valid driver’s license if you plan to drive the quad bike. It’s essential for safety and legal reasons.

Is the tour suitable for children? The minimum age is 8 years old, so it’s mainly for older children and adults. Smaller children aren’t allowed.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable, long pants (avoid leggings) and closed-toe shoes, like tennis or walking shoes. Bring clothes that can get dirty and a change of clothes afterward if needed.

Are meals included? Yes, a local lunch and drinks are included, offering a chance to relax and enjoy Réunion’s cuisine in a scenic setting.

What is the maximum weight allowed? The total weight on the quad bike should not exceed 200 kg, which is good to keep in mind if you’re on the heavier side.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this experience available in languages other than French? The tour is operated in French, but guides are friendly and helpful, making communication easier.

Final Thoughts

A 4-hour quad biking trip around Réunion delivers more than just a ride — it’s a full-blown adventure through some of the island’s most striking landscapes. From the sugar cane fields to the dizzying heights of Maïdo, you’ll get a taste of Réunion’s rugged beauty, all while feeling the exhilaration of controlling your own vehicle.

The included lunch in the hills adds a satisfying break, letting you savor local flavors with panoramic views as your backdrop. With the videos capturing your ride and the small-group setup, this experience offers personalized attention and memorable moments.

This tour is especially well-suited for couples or small groups who love outdoor pursuits and scenic drives. If you’re comfortable on a quad, don’t mind some dirt, and want a day packed with adventure and awe-inspiring vistas, this could be a highlight of your trip.

In essence, it’s a practical, fun, and scenic way to see Réunion’s diverse terrain — a true adventure for those seeking a memorable, active day on the island.