Things To Do
in Reunion
Réunion is a stunning French island located in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes ranging from lush forests and towering mountains to active volcanoes, notably the Piton de la Fournaise. It is a melting pot of cultures, blending African, Asian, and European influences, evident in its vibrant music, diverse cuisine, and varied architectural styles.
This island paradise offers a plethora of activities for adventurers and nature lovers, with its sprawling hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and pristine beaches, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and thrill.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Cirque de Mafate. The views are stunning, and you'll have the chance to encounter local flora and fauna.
Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the many scenic spots throughout the cirque. After resting, continue exploring the various hiking trails that offer unique perspectives of the valley.
Return to your accommodation for a well-deserved dinner. Enjoy local Creole cuisine while watching the sunset over the mountains.
Head to the beautiful beaches of Saint Gilles for a relaxing morning. Enjoy sunbathing or taking a dip in the warm Indian Ocean.
Grab lunch at a beachside restaurant and sample some fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon trying out water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
Stroll along the beach as the sunset paints the sky with vibrant colors. Dinner at a nearby restaurant will provide a perfect end to your beach day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with diverse landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and volcanic terrain.
- Rich cultural diversity influenced by various cultures, including French, Indian, African, and Chinese.
- Various outdoor activities available, such as hiking, surfing, and diving.
- Pleasant tropical climate year-round, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
- Unique cuisine that blends various culinary traditions, offering an exotic taste experience.
- Relatively high cost of living and travel compared to other destinations.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly in remote areas.
- Language barrier for those not fluent in French, which is the official language.
- Potential for natural disasters like cyclones and volcanic eruptions.
- Tourism infrastructure may not be as developed as in other popular destinations.
Best Activities in Reunion
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes in the three cirques of Reunion - Cilaos, Salazie, and Mafate, through a network of hiking trails.
Visit the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes, and discover the lunar-like landscapes of its surroundings.
Discover stunning waterfalls such as Grand Galet, Trou de Fer, and Langevin for a refreshing and picturesque experience.
Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the clear waters off the coast of Reunion, offering diverse marine life and coral reefs.
Experience the thrill of flying over the rugged terrains and coastal areas of Reunion, known for its excellent paragliding and hang gliding opportunities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Reunion with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Reunion
Visit one of these nice places.
The highest peak in Reunion, offering breathtaking views and a great photo opportunity.
A remote and stunning natural amphitheater, perfect for capturing unique and picturesque landscapes.
A dramatic waterfall cascading into a deep ravine, providing a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
A rugged coastline with rugged cliffs and crashing waves, creating a dramatic setting for impressive photos.
Food in Reunion
Reunion Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Creole dish made with smoked sausages, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. It is often served with rice or lentils. Best enjoyed at local Creole restaurants such as Chez Loulou in Saint-Pierre.
Must-Try!
A traditional Reunionese chicken curry infused with turmeric, ginger, and cloves, providing a delightful balance of flavors. It can be savored at La Marmite in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.
Reunion Island is renowned for its exquisite Bourbon vanilla, which is often used to flavor desserts like crème brûlée, ice cream, and tarts. These delectable treats can be found at many patisseries and cafes across the island.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Reunion better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of Reunionese flavors, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls selling samosas, bouchons (dumplings), and refreshing tamarind juice.
Feast your senses at this vibrant market brimming with colorful fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Visitors can indulge in freshly grilled fish, tangy achards (pickles), and sweet potato cakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Reunion, it is customary to greet others with a warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Reunion. It is customary to address older individuals with proper courtesy and to give them precedence in social situations.
Reunionese culture values modesty in attire, especially in religious or formal settings. It is respectful to dress modestly and avoid overly revealing clothing.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Reunion with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Reunion
Ensure a smooth experience
In Reunion, tipping is not a common practice, as service charges are usually included in the bill at restaurants. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional, it is appreciated to leave a small tip as a gesture of gratitude.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Reunion, especially in smaller establishments and markets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. It is advisable to carry some cash for making purchases in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Reunion.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Reunion as the weather is usually dry and sunny. Temperatures are mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Expect heavy rainfall during this season, which can lead to lush green landscapes and impressive waterfalls. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Reunion at Night
Hiking in Reunion
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active volcano and one of the most popular hiking destinations on Reunion Island, offering trails with stunning volcanic landscapes.
A remote volcanic caldera that can only be accessed by hiking, featuring breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Known for its dramatic mountains and scenic trails, Cilaos offers various hiking routes with picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.
The highest peak in the Indian Ocean, this hike offers a challenging trek with rewarding panoramic views from the summit.
A beautiful forested area with numerous trails, perfect for those looking for a more relaxed hiking experience surrounded by nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Reunion through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Reunion by plane.
The main international airport serving Réunion, located in Sainte-Marie.
Located on the nearby island of Mauritius, this is the closest major international airport approximately 45 minutes away by plane.
The main international airport of Madagascar, located about 1,050 km from Réunion.
Located on the island of Mayotte, approximately 300 km from Réunion.
Also known as Roland Garros, it is essentially the same airport and serves as the primary hub for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising individuals of French descent as well as those with mixed European and Reunionese heritage.
A significant group, primarily composed of individuals of African and Malagasy descent, reflecting the island's historical connections to slavery and the African diaspora.
This group includes descendants of Indian laborers who migrated to Reunion during the colonial period, primarily of Tamil, Muslim, and Hindu backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group, primarily linked to immigrants who arrived in the 19th and 20th centuries, mainly from the Canton region of China.
A minority group consisting of individuals from the nearby Comoros islands, reflecting migration patterns in the Indian Ocean region.
This includes various other smaller communities, including those of Middle Eastern and European descent.
The Soul of Reunion
Discover the essence of Reunion through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Réunion Island, with numerous local leagues and competitions.
Rugby union has a significant following, with local clubs participating in national tournaments.
Played both indoors and on the beach, volleyball is a favorite recreational activity.
Track and field sports are common, with various events being organized throughout the year.
Cycling is popular, with many enthusiasts participating in races and bike tours around the island.
Basketball attracts many players and fans, with local clubs and competitions.
With its beautiful coastline, Réunion is a destination for surfing enthusiasts.
Handball is played at both competitive and recreational levels on the island.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Reunionese cuisine predominantly features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes on the island offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often incorporating an array of fresh vegetables, legumes, and tropical fruits.
Individuals with gluten intolerance can find several dining options in Reunion, with restaurants and cafes increasingly catering to gluten-free diets by providing alternatives such as rice or cassava flour.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Reunion with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reunion.