The Trou de Fer ('Iron Hole') is Réunion's most spectacular canyon — a sheer 300-metre abyss plunging into the rainforest interior, fed by a thundering multi-tiered waterfall. Combine a private helicopter overflight with a guided rainforest hike to the canyon rim for a double hit of drama.
What to expect
The helicopter departs Saint-Paul and crosses the volcanic plateau before the canyon suddenly opens beneath you — a vertiginous green-walled gorge cloaked in permanent mist. After landing, your private nature guide leads you through dense tamarind and tree-fern forest on the Grand Étang trail to the official viewpoint, where the waterfall cascade drops nearly 200 m in a single plunge. The air is cool, perfumed with jungle, and the sound is elemental. Return drive passes the vanilla-and-rum scenery of the east coast.
Good to know
Combined helicopter + hike is a full-day excursion (7–8 hours). The rainforest trail is moderately demanding — wear grippy hiking shoes and bring rain gear. Book helicopter and guide separately in advance. Trou de Fer is best visited April–November when rainfall is lower.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Reunion — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Reunion
- Piton de la Fournaise: Private Volcano Summit Drive & Hike
- Cirque de Mafate: Private Helicopter Overflight & Landing
- Piton Maïdo: Sunrise Private Drive to the Island Rooftop
- Cascade de Grand Galet (Langevin): Private Canyoning Descent
- Temple Tamoul Shri Maha Badra Karli & Creole Saint-Denis Culture Walk