Réunion is a small volcanic island and a French region located in the Indian Ocean.
Every year, during the austral winter, humpback whales migrate through the Indian Ocean, towards the eastern coast of Africa. After having lingered around Antarctic cold water for feeding and fatten, they move to warmer and calmer water to breed and give birth to their calves. Therefore, it is possible to spot many of them from July until October. Most of them are only on transfer, heading to the eastern coast of Madagascar but about one hundred whales have chosen to roam around the western coast of Réunion and Mauritius islands.

Megaptera novaeangliae is among the most social of the great whales – and certainly the most musical.  Humpbacks are the least shy (or least afraid) of humans.  Careful and respectful approach can lead to memorable time of interaction : coming across these majestic mammals in their natural environment is always a unique and privileged moment and a must-see.

Right now, Reunion island is probably one of the best places in the world to observe and to swim with Humpback whales.  Conservationists and professionals are taking a long-term approach to whales to ensure that these unique spectacles can be preserved in the future. The authorities have set up regulations, as to how to approach the whales, and launched the O²CR label (Observation Certified Manager of Cetaceans in Reunion).
It is possible to snorkel and to take underwater pictures, but it is forbidden to free-dive, to scuba-dive and to enter the water when there are whales’ watchers around.

Every day is different.  One day, the whales could be flirty and interested in interacting with us. Other days they may be mating or courting and have no interest in us. This is why we have organized this tour over several days.
Climate conditions are usually excellent, with the temperature of the ocean going from 23 to 25°C during that season, and visibility from 10 to 40 metres.
In addition to the water’s activities, we have organized easy trekking to the iconic volcanic area of Piton de la Fournaise, the large basaltic shield volcano, and a visit to a distillery of rum.