Excursion Cirque of salazie & vanilla plantation tour at Pointe Des Galets

Vanilla Plantation

Depart the pier for a one hour 15 minute drive to a Vanilla Plantation located in St. Andre. It was at the turn of the 19^th century that the Mexican orchid vanilla planifolia was introduced to Reunion Island. Used by the Aztecs to flavor their cups of cocoa, Spanish conquistadors exported it to Europe. The French decided to grow it on Reunion Island, then known as Bourbon island. The French initially named the island Bourbon Island to honor the fall of the House of Bourbon during the French Revolution. In this regard vanilla produced here in the Indian Ocean has been known as Bourbon vanilla since 1964. Vanilla is by far the most consumed flavor of ice cream. It is a key component in Coca Cola and is widely used in baking, perfumes and aromas. 75% of the global production of vanilla comes from Madagascar and Reunion., especially the bourbon vanilla. For more than 20 years, the vanilla creepers planted on Reunion remained infertile, with no insects or birds able to pollinate it's flowers. In 1841, Edmond Albius, a slave and budding botanist, discovered the secret of manual fertility, using a pike to lift up the wall separating the flowers male and female organs. The global cultivation started in 1841.

Voile de la Mariee Waterfall

Also called the "Bridal Veil Falls" it is located at approximately 500m in altitude along the mountainous rampart that separates the cirque Salazie and the plateau forest Belouve. Legend states that the falls were formed from the tears of a father who lost his daughter down a deep precipice.

A photo stop will be made at the waterfall before your one hour 15 minute return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Vanilla Plantation, Voile de la Mariee Waterfall

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking with a few steps to negotiate. It is suitable for guests with limited mobility but not for those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight comfortable clothing, and flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended.