Rafting on Réunion Island: Inflatable boats in a tropical forest

You steer the inflatable boat down the Marsouins River through the forest.

Rafting on Réunion Island's Marsouins River puts you in command of an inflatable boat or sit-on kayak in a tropical forest, with a live guide leading the descent. The nautical base sits on 5000 square meters with river access, a picnic area and full facilities. Children from age 6 can join, and the activity suits both families and athletic groups.

The experience

The Marsouins River descent centers on your choice of boat: inflatable rafts that fit one or two people, or individual rigid sit-on kayaks designed for learning kayaking safely. An experienced guide leads the route and stays with your group throughout. The river passes through a tropical forest setting unique to Réunion, ending at the Sisters Basin where you can take in the view before heading back to the base.

Safety gear (vest, helmet, paddle and wetsuit) comes with the activity. After the descent, you'll shower and change in the facilities on-site, then gather for an offered aperitif. The whole experience runs about four hours. The route works for families with younger children and for groups doing team building or seminars, as well as for anyone seeking a more active water adventure.

What’s included

• Safety gear (vest, helmet, paddle and wetsuit).
• live guide in English, Spanish or French.
• shower, toilet and changing room facilities.
• picnic area and barbecue access.
• aperitif after the descent.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 08:30 and 12:30

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (6 to 12 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and French

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Rando Aqua Réunion

Is this one for you?The descent asks for a moderate level of physical fitness and comfort in the water, so it suits active families and groups rather than those seeking a passive experience. The four-hour timeframe and river conditions mean you're in the water and paddling for most of the morning or afternoon.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and French.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 12 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I choose between a raft and a kayak on the Marsouins River?

Yes. Inflatable boats seat one or two people of your choice, while sit-on kayaks are individual rigid boats designed for learning kayaking in complete safety. You pick which suits you when you book.

What's included in the rafting activity?

The activity includes a live guide, safety vest, helmet, paddle and wetsuit; a picnic area and barbecue facilities on the base; shower, toilet and changing rooms; and an aperitif after the descent.

What should I bring or wear for rafting?

Bring a swimsuit and closed shoes such as sneakers. The operator provides the wetsuit, vest, helmet and paddle, and there are changing rooms and showers at the base.

How long does the rafting activity take?

The full activity takes about four hours, including the river descent, the view at Sisters Basin, and time to shower and change before the aperitif.