Reunion Island, a department of France, is breath-taking and spectacular. Deep canyons expel fast-flowing rivers, hundreds of waterfalls cascade in veils down the mountain sides and vertical cliffs reach for the sky. Wow ! Reunion lies 800 km east of Madagascar and 220 km south west of Mauritius. Reunion has two volcanoes. The older is inactive Piton des Neiges (3069 m) which last erupted 20,000 years ago. It has three massive crater valleys called cirques. The other volcano is the active Piton de la Fournaise (2632 m). It last erupted in April 2007. Volcanic activity is constantly and closely monitored.

Our tour group wends their way to the two volcanoes; the first sparsely populated with farming communities and their charming Creole villages and, the second raw and harsh with wide open landscape and strong colours. You will explore the villages, immerse in the culture have a chance to walk onto the lava field. October is not a rainy month in Reunion - in fact it is the driest month.

Mauritius is as flat in profile as Reunion is vertical. This is our well-earned chance to relax on the coral sands, swim in the clear and safe turquoise waters and venture to the nearby towns to get a feel of Mauritian lifestyle. Stephen Ryan, the leader, takes you on a hilarious local bus trip to the botanic gardens and busy port followed by some retail therapy at the colourful market.

You will travel in a small group, maximum of 16 people, escorted by Australian guides and local naturalist guides.

To see some of our photographs go to the Reunion & Mauritius Image Gallery.