On top of the Indian Ocean…

Admit it, when you think about the Indian Ocean, what comes to your mind first and foremost, are the beautiful beaches, the sun loungers in the shade of coconut trees, turquoise lagoons and exotic fruits. But the Indian Ocean islands can not be reduced to this... Whether you are a deckchair specialist or a thrill seeker, whatever your lifestyle, whatever you want to discover, one sure thing is that you will find in the Indian Ocean what you are looking for. You may never have thought of it but bear in mind that the Indian Ocean mountains - which are amongst the most beautiful in the world - are at your fingertips…

Reunion Island is probably the destination that has the Indian Ocean’s, and maybe even the world’s, best rock climbing spots. Home to an active volcano, Reunion island has a multitude of mountains where climbing routes have been marked. Routes from Level 3 (low) to Level 8 (very difficult) were marked mainly in the north and west of the island. The Gaillards Cliffs in Saint Paul, in the West of the island, have a bit more than 45 routes that are not very high and accessible to all levels. They are thus ideal for beginners who want to discover this sport. Ouaki Zamal Cliffs in the southwest enjoy long and pretty high routes of medium to high level. This spot is recommended for climbers who already have some experience. The Piton du Sucre in Cilaos, located in the center of the island, offers a totally different rock as the place was a magma chamber 3,000 years ago. Calcification led to a great site that should only be considered by experienced climbers. As long as you are accompanied and well equipped, whatever your climbing level, you will find happiness in Reunion Island.

There are also several spots where it is possible to practice rock climbing in Mauritius. Most of them are located in the west of the island. The main site is known as the Belle Vue Cliffs. There, you can climb La Pointe aux Caves cliff, where you can observe the Albion lighthouse. Supervised by professionals who will introduce you to the basic techniques of rock climbing and provide you with all the necessary equipment, you can try five routes of different levels. If you want to get higher up, go for the mountains of Pieter Both or Corps de Garde, which peak at 720 and 820 meters above sea level. These two spots are particularly known for their spectacular views of the West Coast. We advise you to climb (very) early in the morning to watch a spectacular sunrise.

Seychelles is not necessarily the destination of choice for rock climbing, but you will find some interesting spots including the site of Anse Source d'Argent on the island of La Digue. There, you will not be climbing marked routes but blocks of granite, up to 15m high. You will find interesting paths level 6 and 7. On the island of Praslin, paths of 150 to 250 meters long have been developed so that rock climbing addicts can climb the beautiful black Seychelles granite.

As for Madagascar, it has beautiful mountains to climb like Montagne des Français in Antisiranana, located north of the country. There are also 180 tracks of all levels and styles that await you: rock walls, plunging slopes and gigantic stalactites. Note that on the islands of Nosy Anjombavola and Nosy Andatsara, there are 80 tracks where it is forbidden to climb alone because the sites are protected. But excursions are organized daily to see these spectacular natural rock walls carved by time. So, what are you waiting for ? Come climb to the top of the Indian Ocean...