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Sitting in the middle of the Indian Ocean lies Réunion Island, or as I like to call it, French New Zealand.

Like the island nation down under, it’s a land of contrasts and extreme beauty. The coast is lined with sandy beaches. The interior of Réunion is mountainous and boasts the highest point in the Indian Ocean, Piton des Neiges.

The landscape of towering cirques (french for calderas) has been formed by violent volcanic activity. These calderas offer amazing hiking opportunities with

One of the most popular treks is Cirque de Mafate. The trek typically begins from the villages of Cilaos or La Nouvelle, where hikers embark on a multi-day adventure through rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes.

Every step offers a new perspective on this remote and pristine wilderness, from steep ascents to winding trails and river crossings.

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