Bourbon Excursions runs one quad rental session at Piton de la Fournaise, rated 5/5 across 16 reviews. The 3.5h ride covers volcanic terrain around one of the world's most active shield volcanoes, on Réunion Island. Labeled "Occasionally sporty", it suits riders with basic physical fitness rather than technical expertise. Book directly with Bourbon Excursions and confirm availability in advance, as a single daily slot fills fast.
The volcanic landscape offers raw, uneven ground with lava fields and steep gradients. The physical level is rated "Occasionally sporty", meaning bursts of physical effort are required but no prior off-road racing experience is needed.
Navigating the exposed lava flows closest to the active crater zone delivers the sharpest rush, with the volcano's caldera in direct view. The 3.5h duration gives enough time to reach the most dramatic sections of the route.
No prior experience is required. The "Occasionally sporty" physical rating means the session is accessible to beginners who are reasonably fit, though comfort with handling a motorized vehicle helps.
The session is guided in French only. Non-French speakers should prepare key safety terms in advance or arrange a translation resource before the ride.
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14°C | 211.3 mm | Poor |
| February | 14.1°C | 252.2 mm | Poor |
| March | 13.1°C | 358 mm | Poor |
| April | 12.6°C | 243.8 mm | Poor |
| May | 10.9°C | 174.3 mm | Possible |
| June | 8.9°C | 153.6 mm | Poor |
| July | 7.8°C | 116.6 mm | Possible |
| August | 7.6°C | 169.9 mm | Poor |
| September | 8.8°C | 113.4 mm | Possible |
| October | 10.5°C | 66 mm | Good |
| November | 12°C | 109.2 mm | Possible |
| December | 13.4°C | 146.2 mm | Possible |
Equipment
Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants to protect against volcanic grit and engine heat during the 3.5h session. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a light windproof layer, as Piton de la Fournaise sits at high altitude and conditions shift quickly.
Getting there
The meeting point is the car park of the service station at 172-184 Rue Alfred Lacroix, Le Tampon 97430, Réunion, accessible by car from Saint-Pierre in roughly 20 minutes.
Updated March 2026