Car rental in Salazie

In the heart of La Réunion, the cirque of Salazie is a haven of greenery and freshness. It’s the most accessible of the island’s three cirques, the wettest, and by far the most luxuriant. Renting a car with Tropicar allows you to dive into this magical landscape, admire spectacular waterfalls and explore Hell-Bourg, the only village in La Réunion listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.

Between waterfalls and enchanted forests

From the very entrance of the cirque, the scenery sets the tone: the road passes under the “Pisse en l’air” waterfall before following the Rivière du Mât. Salazie is a true kingdom of water, with iconic falls such as the Bridal Veil (Voile de la Mariée), Cascade Blanche and Trois Cascades. These natural wonders cascade down the cliffs, blending seamlessly with the lush vegetation.

By car, you can easily reach these breathtaking panoramas and explore the many hamlets that make up the cirque: Grand-Ilet, Ilet à Vidot, Mare à Vieille Place… Each reveals a different facet of Salazian life.

Hell-Bourg: timeless Creole charm

No visit to Salazie is complete without stopping in Hell-Bourg. Perched at 930 meters, this Creole village is a jewel of architecture and authenticity. Its colorful wooden houses, flower gardens and guétalis (traditional verandas) recall its past as a thermal spa resort once favored by the island’s bourgeoisie.

It’s also the perfect base for hikes to Piton d’Enchaing, the Bélouve forest or the spectacular Trou de Fer. Between walks, you can visit the historic Maison Folio, the Indian Ocean Instruments Museum, or simply wander through its charming streets.

A land of adventure and tradition

Salazie is paradise for hikers. The GR R1 trail crosses the cirque, as do paths leading to Col des Bœufs or into Mafate. The cirque is also known for canyoning, with famous spots like Fleurs Jaunes. Whether with friends or family, these aquatic adventures can be enjoyed safely with professional guides.

To recharge, nothing beats a hearty Creole meal in a local guesthouse, often featuring chouchou (chayote), the cirque’s iconic crop. Salazie is also alive with crafts, culture and popular celebrations like the annual Fête du Chouchou.

Easy access for a unique escape

From Saint-André, it takes barely twenty minutes by car to drive through the lush gorges of the Rivière du Mât and into Salazie. Although landslides can sometimes occur during the rainy season, the road remains generally safe and accessible.

Salazie is the perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay. Staying in a guesthouse in Hell-Bourg or Grand-Ilet means fully enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the refreshing mountain air. It’s the ideal chance to disconnect, breathe in the pure air of the Highlands and savor nature in all its splendor.