of Europe also increased to an unprecedented 32,400 (a 49% increase). The jump is mainly explained by the increase in German visitors, Swiss and Belgian visitors accounting for 77% of tourists from the rest of Europe. For the first time, the number of German visitors exceeded the threshold of 10,000. Tourist numbers Tourism is a major contributor to Réunion's economy. In 2014, 405,700 foreign tourists visited the island. Despite this, the island does not experience mass tourism. The island has impressive natural features inland, but these natural tourist attractions are not well known. In order to boost its tourist industry, the authorities in Réunion heavily promote the country in France and at travel and tourism conferences throughout the world, and diversification of Réunion's tourist industry is a high priority. The tourist industry promotes the island's environment and encourages outdoor activities and ecotourism. Réunion's peak tourist season is from late June to early September, with another busy period from October to early January. In 2001, 424,000 tourists visited Réunion, creating a revenue of €271.5 million. The number of tourists visiting Réunion decreased in 2004 because of the high cost of flights to the country and competition from the tourist attractions of Mauritius and Seychelles. The 2005 Chikungunya epidemic in Réunion was reported by the French media, which caused a loss of confidence among tourists. Tourist bookings decreased by more than 60% during 2006 and early 2007. One-third of the island's population was infected with the virus by 2007. Large efforts were made to kill the island's mosquito population, and the tourist industry began to recover. The island's status as an overseas department of France has benefited its infrastructure. Tourist attractions Réunion's tourist attractions are not well known, and include its favourable climate and impressive scenery. The island's topography is very mountainous, with mountains that can be as high as 3,000 m (9,842 ft) close to the coast. The island has many natural tourist attractions, including Piton des Neiges (the highest point on the island), lava cliffs, and deep canyons. Another tourist attraction is the active shield volcano Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The collapsed calderas of Cirque de Cilaos, Cirque de Mafate, and Cirque de Salazie also draw tourists. The Le Maïdo viewpoint is located at an altitude of 2,205 m (7,232 ft) and has excellent views of the coast. There is good