Vanilla Adventure: Reunion's Northern Coast & Beyond
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Port
La Possession, Reunion
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$199.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Drive from the pier to a local vanilla plantation by way of Réunion's northern coast, hugging the shoreline as you go. You'll pass through the island's capital, St-Denis, as well as the towns of Ste-Marie and Ste-Suzanne.
Reaching the east side of the island, continue to the Circle of Salazie, stopping at the vanilla plantation on Mt Roulof. Learn about vanilla and its production here since 1841, when Edmond Albius discovered how to pollinate the flower of the vanilla orchid by hand. You can buy essence and vanilla pods before you continue your drive.
Heading inland, visit the wild heart of Réunion. Driving through the green countryside of sugar cane fields, lychees and apple orchards, you will arrive at the spectacular Bridal Veil waterfall. After a photo stop here, the journey continues to a beautiful viewpoint and on to the quaint and unfortunately-named village of Hell Bourg. Before enjoying a typical Creole lunch at a local restaurant, you will have free time to explore the small town.
Your last stop will be in St-Denis, at the handicraft market or Maréchal Leclerc street mall, en route back to the ship. Although St-Denis is mostly modernized, its city center still retains the air of a tropical colonial town.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Terrain includes rough surfaces and steps. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Bring insect repellent.