Bassin des Aigrettes
A hidden gem with a spectacular waterfall and a refreshing natural pool, offering an adventurous escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Bassin des Aigrettes
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem with a spectacular waterfall and a refreshing natural pool, offering an adventurous escape.
"Absolutely stunning place - go visit all three Bassins, the hike is not very hard!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Good hiking shoes are essential for navigating the unofficial paths and potential hazards. Avoid flip-flops!
💧 Prepare for a Wet Entry
Access involves going under a gate with a metal bar, meaning you'll likely get wet. Pack accordingly and secure your belongings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Enchanting Waterfall
Main pool area
An impressive waterfall cascades into a beautiful, clear natural pool, creating a truly magical and refreshing oasis.
Refreshing Natural Pool
At the base of the waterfall
Take a dip in the crystal-clear, cool waters of the pool. It's the perfect spot to relax and cool off after the hike.
Lush Tropical Surroundings
Surrounding the basin
Surrounded by bamboo and tropical trees, the vibrant greenery enhances the serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Unofficial Access & Safety First
Respect Nature & Water Source
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Good hiking shoes are essential for navigating the unofficial paths and potential hazards. Avoid flip-flops!
💧 Prepare for a Wet Entry
Access involves going under a gate with a metal bar, meaning you'll likely get wet. Pack accordingly and secure your belongings.
🎒 Pack Light & Smart
Large backpacks may not fit under the access gate and will get wet. Carry only essentials.
🌿 Leave No Trace
This is a vital water source. Please be respectful, don't litter, and help preserve its natural beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Good hiking shoes are essential for navigating the unofficial paths and potential hazards. Avoid flip-flops!
💧 Prepare for a Wet Entry
Access involves going under a gate with a metal bar, meaning you'll likely get wet. Pack accordingly and secure your belongings.
🎒 Pack Light & Smart
Large backpacks may not fit under the access gate and will get wet. Carry only essentials.
🌿 Leave No Trace
This is a vital water source. Please be respectful, don't litter, and help preserve its natural beauty.
📸 Drone Photography Allowed
Capture stunning aerial views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bassin des Aigrettes is a stunning natural gem with an impressive waterfall and a refreshing pool, often considered the best of the 'Trois Bassins'. However, access is officially forbidden and requires navigating unofficial, potentially hazardous paths, including a wet entry under a gate. Visitors praise its beauty but caution about safety and the need for proper footwear.
"Beware that this location access is forbidden you will have to get around fances, follow unmarked and unmaintained paths and be very careful of hazards (falling rocks, broken ridge, ...).
That being said, the bassin des Aigrette is well rewarding and definitely worth the trip. It's the best of the 3 by far (hence also the most crowded).
If you plan a hike here, come prepared with good shoes! Avoid flip flops or coming with too young children, it is dangerous and not reasonable."
Gabriel D. (Vader)
"Definitely one of my favorite place in Reunion. Water is little a bit cold, but that’s normal, and is super clean. We was swimming all day. It’s starting to be popular place. Worth to visit."
Vojkan Dimitrijevic
"Absolutely stunning place - go visit all three Bassins, the hike is not very hard :)"
Mariana Bondu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is officially forbidden, but unofficial paths exist. You'll typically park and follow unmarked trails. Be prepared for a short hike that may involve getting wet to pass under a gate with a metal bar.
Street parking is generally available near the unofficial access points.
The hike is described as not very hard, but it can be challenging due to unofficial paths and the entry point. Good shoes are crucial.
It's not recommended for very young children due to the dangerous access and uneven terrain.
Yes, Bassin des Aigrettes is often visited alongside Bassin Cormoran and Bassin Malheur, forming the 'Trois Bassins' area. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no official entrance fee as access is forbidden. However, be aware of the unofficial nature of the visit.
Access is officially forbidden, so there are no set opening hours. Visitors go at their own risk.
Access is forbidden due to safety concerns, including potential falling rocks and unstable terrain, and because the water is important for local water supply.
No, as access is unofficial and forbidden, no advance booking is required or possible.
Be discreet and respectful. Understand that you are visiting an area with restricted access.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities are admiring the waterfall, swimming in the refreshing natural pool, and enjoying the lush tropical surroundings.
While many visitors swim, the water can be cold and the area has unofficial access. Swim at your own risk and be aware of your surroundings.
The water is described as a bit cold, which is normal for natural pools.
It can get crowded, especially as it becomes more popular. Visiting on weekdays or in the morning can help avoid the largest crowds.
The area around the waterfall and the pool offer stunning photographic opportunities. Drone shots can capture the scale of the landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no facilities like restaurants or cafes directly at Bassin des Aigrettes. It's a natural site.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks, but it's crucial to pack out everything you bring in to keep the area clean.
You'll find restaurants and cafes in the nearby town of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.
Expect Creole cuisine, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits in the restaurants around Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.
Yes, it's a good idea to pack snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours enjoying the area.
📸 📸 Photography
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography.
Yes, drone photography is possible and can provide spectacular aerial views of the waterfall and its surroundings.
Popular shots include the waterfall plunging into the pool, people swimming, and the lush tropical greenery.
While there are no official photography restrictions, be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and landscape. A waterproof bag for your camera is advisable due to the potential for splashes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Unofficial Access
This unofficial access means you're responsible for your own safety. The terrain can be uneven, and there's a risk of falling rocks. Therefore, wearing appropriate footwear like sturdy hiking shoes is paramount. Flip-flops or sandals are strongly discouraged, as they offer little protection and grip.
Despite the access challenges, the reward is a stunning natural pool and waterfall. The community emphasizes the importance of respecting the environment. Since it's a water source, leaving no trace and avoiding pollution are critical to preserving this beautiful spot for everyone.
The 'Trois Bassins' Experience
+2While the hike to each basin is generally described as not very hard, the overall experience of visiting all three can be a delightful way to spend a few hours exploring the natural landscape of Reunion Island. Visitors often recommend visiting all of them to appreciate the diversity of the area.
When planning your visit to the 'Trois Bassins', it's wise to allocate sufficient time to explore each one. Remember that the access conditions and safety precautions mentioned for Bassin des Aigrettes apply to varying degrees to the other basins as well. Always prioritize safety and environmental respect.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit