The Gulf

The Etang-Salé chasm, a curiosity from Réunion

The Gouffre or Gouffre de l'Étang-Salé is a natural corridor of basalt rock, a heritage of volcanic eruptions, about a hundred meters deep in the coast. Locate southwest of the Reunion Island, the Gouffre welcomes the raging waves of the Indian Ocean. Right next to the Gouffre de l'Étang-Salé, you will find a small path heading south which leads to the Roche des Oiseaux site, a small point where large rocks gather.

Take a trip to Étang-Salé beach and enjoy its black sand, it is the largest on Reunion Island. Next to the marina, a coral reef protects swimmers from the strong swells of the Indian Ocean, this is the Pirogue basin. Cool off in the lagoon of the intense island and equip yourself with a mask and a snorkel to contemplate the underwater fauna.

You will find a small fishing port near the Pirogue basin. Watch from the pontoon the return of the Reunionese fishermen and if the fishing has been good, you may be able to leave with your evening dinner. Some fishermen sell their fish directly in the port, you will feast with a succulent curry zourite or beautiful grilled sea bream.

Stop at the Crocodile Farm and observe one of the largest and fiercest reptiles, the Nile crocodile. You will have the opportunity to follow their feeding on Wednesdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. Take a walk in the botanical garden of the farm and admire the different plant species in Réunion.

For more than visits to Reunion consult our interactive map of Réunion.