Things To Do
in Reunion
Réunion Island is a lush, volcanic landmass in the Indian Ocean and an overseas department of France. It blends Creole culture, rugged mountains, and dramatic lava landscapes with tropical beaches and turquoise lagoons. The island showcases three famous cirques—Salazie, Cilaos, and Mafate—each offering unique hikes and cliffside villages.
Visitors are drawn by warm hospitality, spicy Creole cuisine, and year-round outdoor adventures set against a background of dramatic natural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the vibrant capital city of Saint-Denis, where you'll be greeted by colorful Creole architecture and lush gardens. Take a leisurely stroll down Rue de Paris to admire the historical buildings. Don't forget to sample local pastries at a quaint café before diving into your adventures.
Visit the Musée Léon Dierx to immerse yourself in the island's artistic heritage, featuring works by local and European artists. Explore the bustling markets and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you shop for souvenirs and local delicacies. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional Creole restaurant to savor the flavors of Reunion.
Wind down your first day with a sunset walk along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the views of the Indian Ocean. Explore the vibrant nightlife in Saint-Denis, where you can find local bars and live music to enjoy. Indulge in a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant with fresh seafood and local specialties.
Begin your day early with a drive to the picturesque village of La Possession and catch a boat to the remote Cirque de Mafate. Enjoy breathtaking views as you hike through lush landscapes, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Stop for a picnic lunch amidst nature's beauty and recharge for the trek ahead.
Continue your hike to discover the hidden hamlets of Mafate, such as Marla and La Nouvelle, where time seems to stand still. Interact with the locals, learning about their way of life and the stunning natural environment they inhabit. Capture the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site with your camera at every turn.
Head back to your accommodation and relax after a rewarding day of hiking. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner, perhaps featuring local dishes like rougail saucisse or cari, at a cozy guesthouse. Reflect on the day's adventures as you prepare for another exciting day ahead.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short distance) | $12-25 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly staples) | $40-80 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning volcanic landscapes and varied microclimates within a compact area
- Rich Creole-French culture with warm hospitality and fantastic seafood
- World-class hiking, waterfalls, and accessible beaches
- Strong value for the level of scenery and adventure available
- Some rural areas have limited public transport and amenities
- Volcanic activity can restrict access to certain trails with short notice
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some travelers
- For a French territory, some services and dining options can be pricier than mainland Southeast Asia or Africa
- "Bonzour! Kijan ou yé?" - Hello! How are you?
- "Eskize mwen, souple?" - Excuse me, please?
- "Mèsi anpil" - Thank you very much
- "Ki pri sa?" - What is the price?
- "Mwen pa byen pale Kreol." - I don’t speak Creole well.
- "Kot ou soti?" - Where are you from?
Places to Visit in Reunion
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic overlook of Mafate’s lush caldera with dramatic sunrises and sweeping valley views.
Lava fields, crater walls, and moonlike landscapes ideal for wide-angle and landscape photography.
Sharp sea cliffs, surf, and dramatic Atlantic light—the perfect place for seascapes.
Coastal rocks, turquoise water, and lighthouse architecture with good sunset lighting.
Calm turquoise lagoons, palm textures, and reflective water for tranquil coastal photography.
Food in Reunion
Reunion Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant chicken curry served with rice and chili peppers, a staple of Creole cooking.
Must-Try!
Spicy sausage with a chunky tomato-onion sauce, typically served with rice or lentils.
A stuffed flatbread filled with ground chickpeas, often accompanied by chutney and curried vegetables.
Steamed pork dumplings with a delicate texture, commonly found at local markets and snack stalls.
Triangular fried snacks filled with meat or vegetables; a popular street-food option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling Sunday market famous for fresh produce, spices, tropical fruits, and savory street foods.
A daytime market area offering fresh vegetables, fish, and Creole snacks in a lively urban setting.
Seafood stalls and casual eateries along the waterfront; ideal for tasting grilled fish and local sidra.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite French greetings (Bonjour) or Creole salutations are welcomed; a friendly, relaxed tone is appreciated.
French is the official language; Réunion Creole is widely spoken. Use basic phrases in French or Creole when possible.
Casual wear is fine in most places, but modest dress is respectful when visiting religious sites or villages.
Respect local customs, ask before photographing people, and avoid loud behavior in quiet neighborhoods or ceremonial sites.
Keep the natural areas clean; do not litter, respect trails, and follow safety guidelines near volcanic or coastal hazards.
Safety
Tipping in Reunion
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; it’s common to round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good. Small tips for guides and hotel staff are appreciated but not obligatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns and tourist hubs; cash is still useful in markets and rural areas. ATMs are common; Euro (€) is the local currency, with prices typically shown in euros or local equivalents.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December–February brings hot, humid days with sudden tropical showers. Expect colorful sunsets and lush vegetation; sea can be lively, making snorkeling favorable in protected lagoons.
March–May offers mild temperatures and decreasing rainfall; great for hiking without excessive heat and for exploring the circuses before the wetter season returns.
June–August cools down and nights can be breezy; days are usually pleasant and dry, perfect for volcano treks and scenic drives, though higher elevations may be cooler.
September–November warms again; increasing humidity and the chance of tropical showers, with vibrant landscapes and active wildlife viewing.
Reunion at Night
Hiking in Reunion
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The island’s highest peak with a challenging multi-day route through forests and high-altitude terrain.
Accessible day hikes from Maïdo viewpoints offering sweeping views into Mafate’s rugged heart.
Lush trails around Salazie with waterfalls and verdant vegetation, ending in charming village settlements.
A dramatic canyon hike featuring deep gorges, waterfalls, and technical sections guided by experts.
Airports
How to reach Reunion by plane.
Located near Saint-Denis, this international airport handles many flights to mainland France and other destinations; car rentals and taxis are readily available.
Located near Saint-Pierre, a secondary gateway with regional connections and convenient access to the south and west coasts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority influence on culture, language, and cuisine, reflecting a blend of African, Indian, European, and Malagasy ancestry.
A significant portion of the population with contributions to culinary and cultural traditions.
French and other European ancestors contribute to education, governance, and cuisine.
Smaller communities with distinct cultural influences and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal towns offer surf schools and consistent waves suitable for beginners to intermediate surfers.
Numerous trails in the cirques and along volcanic landscapes attract hikers of all levels.
Coastal launch sites provide aerial views of the island’s coast and inland scenery.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Creole dishes can be adapted; look for lentil or chickpea-based curries, Dholl puri, and rice with beans. Request no seafood stock and confirm cross-contamination in markets.
Rice is central to many meals; avoid wheat-based breads where possible and check for gluten in sauces or bouillon cubes.
Clearly communicate any allergies in French or Creole (e.g., ‘Mwen gen alèji; silvouplé, pa manje lògòd’). Carry translation notes for beurre, nuts, and shellfish.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reunion.