French Southern Territories 7 Day Itinerary

July 19, 2024

French Southern Territories: A 7-Day Itinerary

Arrival: Land at Roland Garros Airport (RUN) in Saint-Denis, the capital city of Réunion Island.
Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Visit the historic town center, including the Cathedral of Saint-Denis and the Museum of Réunion.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Creole dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Morning: Drive to the Cirque de Mafate, a stunning natural amphitheater surrounded by mountains.
Afternoon: Hike to the top of Le Maido, offering breathtaking views of the island.
Evening: Return to Saint-Denis and enjoy the local market, where you can find handicrafts and try street food.

Morning: Fly from Réunion Island to Port-aux-Français on the Kerguelen Islands (approximately 2.5 hours).
Afternoon: Explore the French research station, including the museum and the botanical garden.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at the local cafeteria, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Morning: Take a guided boat tour to see the unique wildlife of the Kerguelen Islands, including elephant seals, fur seals, and sea lions.
Afternoon: Visit the Rallier du Baty Peninsula, known for its scenic hiking trails and stunning coastal views.
Evening: Return to Port-aux-Français and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Morning: Fly from Kerguelen Islands to Saint-Paul Island (approximately 2 hours).
Afternoon: Explore the island’s capital, Saint-Paul, including its historic center and the Museum of Saint-Paul.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants, serving fresh seafood.

Morning: Fly from Saint-Paul Island to Amsterdam Island (approximately 1.5 hours).
Afternoon: Visit the Martin-de-Viviès Base, a French research station, and explore the island’s scenic coastal routes.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at the local cafeteria, offering stunning views of the surrounding ocean.

Morning: Fly back to Réunion Island (approximately 2.5 hours) and connect to your international flight.

Things to Know

Visa Requirements: French citizens do not need a visa, while other nationalities should check with the French Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
Transportation: Flights between islands can be booked through Air Austral or Air Tahiti. Car rentals are available on Réunion Island and Saint-Paul Island.
Currency: Euro (€) is the official currency, although some establishments may accept other currencies.
Language: French is the official language, but many locals also speak Creole and some English.
Climate: The French Southern Territories have a subtropical climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Pack accordingly.

Tips and Essentials

Packing: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable hiking shoes, and layers for cooler evenings.
Health and Safety: Take necessary precautions against sunburn, heat exhaustion, and sea sickness.
Responsible Travel: Respect the unique wildlife and natural environments of the French Southern Territories. Follow local guidelines and regulations to minimize your impact.

Accommodation

Réunion Island: Choose from a range of hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments in Saint-Denis and surrounding areas.
Kerguelen Islands: Accommodation options are limited, with priority given to researchers and scientists. Book in advance through the French Polar Institute or local tour operators.
Saint-Paul Island: Select from a range of hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments in Saint-Paul and surrounding areas.
Amsterdam Island: Limited accommodation options available, book in advance through the French Polar Institute or local tour operators.

Tour Operators

Local Tour Operators: Book guided tours and activities with reputable local operators, such as Réunion Island Tourism or Kerguelen Islands Tourism.
International Tour Operators: Consider booking a package tour with an international operator specializing in French Southern Territories travel.