WizardTrip · Your next experience
Explore the Lava Tubes of Piton de la Fournaise
Venture into the fascinating world of the 2004 lava flow tunnels at Piton de la Fournaise, located in Sainte-Rose. Our specialized volcanology instructors will guide you through this unique underground experience. Embark on a 2.5-hour hiking and caving adventure within an accessible, recent lava tunnel. This easy-level circuit is suitable for ages 5 and up and showcases exceptional basalt formations, including lava waterfalls, vitrified walls, benches, and lava stalactites and stalagmites. Enjoy personalized attention in small groups, with a maximum of 8 participants per guide, ensuring both safety and a convivial atmosphere. High-quality, specialized caving equipment will be provided for your comfort and safety. Capture memories with a complimentary photo report and enjoy a refreshing aperitif at the conclusion of your visit. Tours are available in French and English. Please note that participants must be able to crawl on all fours for approximately 15 meters, demonstrating sufficient mobility for this activity.
Activity essentials
- Explore a unique and recent lava tube.
- Discover exceptional geological formations.
- Guided by specialized volcanology and speleology experts.
- Small group sizes for a personalized experience.
- Suitable for families with children aged 5 and up.
- Includes a photo report and aperitif.
Meeting point and return
The meeting point is the parking area of the 'Vierge avec son Parasol' (Virgin with the Parasol) in Sainte Rose.
This parking area is located within the large burnt area on the lava flows.
There is a Yellow Car bus stop nearby.
The tour concludes at the same meeting point: the parking area of the 'Vierge avec son Parasol' in Sainte Rose.
This parking area is situated in the large burnt area on the lava flows.
There is a Yellow Car bus stop nearby.
Hello and thank you for your reservation.
The meeting point is located between Saint Philippe and Sainte Rose, at the 'Vierge au Parasol' car park.
IMPORTANT: This parking is NOT the one in front of the church of Piton Sainte Rose. It is located on recent lava flows in the 'Grand Brûlé' area.
Directions from the North: Follow signs for Saint Benoît - Sainte Rose - Bois Blanc. After the Bois Blanc rampart, once in the enclosure, you will find the guide at the first parking lot on the right of the RN2 (opposite the Car Jaune bus stop 'Vierge au Parasol').
Directions from the South: Follow signs for Saint Pierre - Saint Joseph, then Saint Philippe - Le Tremblet. Pass the first lava flow on the RN2 (2007 flow) and continue for approximately 6 km. You will find the guide in a parking lot on the left of the road (facing the Car Jaune bus stop 'Vierge au Parasol').
For this 2.5-hour underground hike, please bring:
- Trousers and a t-shirt (preferably old ones, as there's a risk of tearing).
- Hiking or sports shoes.
- A light sweater if you tend to feel cold (the temperature is around 23°C with some drafts).
- A small backpack containing 1 to 1.5 liters of water per person.
- Your camera, if desired.
- A change of clothes to leave in the vehicle for your return.
On-site, you will be equipped with knee pads, gloves, a helmet, and lighting.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Best regards,
The Rando Volcan team
What is included
A photo report and aperitif are offered at the end of the visit.
Helmet, gloves, knee pads, and a powerful headlamp are provided.
Professional local guides with expertise in speleology and volcanology.
Small groups with a maximum of 10 people per guide.
What is not included
Gratuities for instructors are optional.
Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included.
Food and beverages, apart from the offered aperitif, are not included.
Activity options
Discovery of the lava tubes 2004 of Piton de la Fournaise
Duration
3 h à 4 h
How to use your ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One ticket per booking.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, please ensure you cancel at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Activity itinerary
Start of the underground exploration
Bureau Rando Volcan - Tunnels De Lave Reunion
4 h
Your journey begins at the Bureau Rando Volcan - Tunnels De Lave Reunion.
You will discover the world's youngest accessible lava tunnel.
The total duration of this stage is approximately 4 hours.
Location of the lava tunnels
Piton de Fournaise
passage sans arrêt
The lava tunnels are situated within the extensive lava fields in the Sainte Rose region.
This part of the tour involves a passage without a stop at Piton de la Fournaise itself.
How to prepare for your experience
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Bring a change of clothes as you might get dusty or damp.
Stay hydrated by bringing at least 1 liter of water per person.
Listen carefully to your guide's instructions for safety.
Be prepared for some crawling and moderate physical activity.
Check the weather forecast and dress in layers.
Practical information
Public transportation options are available nearby.
This activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.
This activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers.
This activity is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
The minimum age for participation is 5 years.
The environment can be abrasive and cutting.
Young people under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Baby carriers are prohibited.
Compulsory items to wear: waterproof jacket (Kway), long trousers, t-shirt, closed shoes (preferably high-top), spare clothes, and a minimum of 1 liter of water per person.
Visits are possible in French or English (note that not all guides are fluent in English).
Visits may be canceled in case of meteorological vigilance.
Outings are confirmed with a minimum of 3 participants.
This activity is not recommended for individuals with back problems.
This activity is not recommended for individuals with knee problems.
This activity is not recommended for individuals with asthma or heart conditions.
This activity is not recommended for pregnant women.
This activity is not accessible to people with reduced mobility or wheelchair users.
Participants must be able to walk on all fours for approximately 15 meters, indicating sufficient mobility to join the activity.
Who is this activity suitable for?
Adventurous travelers
Families with children (minimum age 5)
Nature enthusiasts
Geology and volcanology buffs
Descend into the heart of a volcanic marvel and witness the spectacular formations within the 2004 lava tubes of Piton de la Fournaise.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age for this activity is 5 years old.
What should I wear for the lava tube tour?
You should wear long trousers, a t-shirt, and hiking or sports shoes. A light sweater is also recommended. A change of clothes for after the tour is advised.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included. You will need to arrange your own transport to the 'Vierge au Parasol' car park in Sainte Rose.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Visits can be canceled in case of meteorological vigilance. You will be informed if this is the case.
Do I need to be very fit to do this tour?
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. You need to be able to walk on all fours for about 15 meters.
What equipment is provided?
You will be provided with a helmet, gloves, knee pads, and a powerful headlamp.
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