Things To Do
in Saint-Benoît
Saint-Benoît is a charming town located on the eastern coast of Reunion Island, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean. The town is known for its lush green landscapes, picturesque waterfalls, and volcanic mountain views. Saint-Benoît also features a colorful market where visitors can sample local fruits, spices, and handicrafts.
With its tropical climate and friendly atmosphere, Saint-Benoît is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
- "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): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the lush forests of La Réunion National Park, where you can enjoy stunning views and diverse flora. Don't forget to bring your camera for unforgettable photography opportunities.
After lunch, visit the Takamaka distillery to learn about rum production and taste some local varieties. The scenic surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon.
End the day with a sunset view at the nearby beaches. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant while listening to the sound of waves crashing.
Visit the local market in Saint-Benoît to experience the vibrant culture and sample fresh tropical fruits. Engage with vendors to learn about their products and traditions.
Explore the historical sites, including the Church of Saint-Benoît, to understand the local heritage. The architecture reflects the island's colonial history, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
Enjoy a cultural evening by attending a traditional dance performance. Sample local dishes at a nearby restaurant to round off your cultural experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastline
- Pleasant tropical climate ideal for outdoor activities
- Rich cultural heritage with a mix of Creole and French influences
- Access to diverse wildlife and nature parks
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals
- Limited accessibility compared to mainland France
- Potential for cyclones during the rainy season
- Higher cost of living relative to average salaries
- Job opportunities may be limited, especially in specialized fields
- Tourism can lead to seasonal fluctuations in economy and jobs
Best Activities in Saint-Benoît
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vanilla plantation and learn about the vanilla cultivation process.
Discover the lush vegetation and beautiful landscapes while hiking in the Bras-Panon forest.
Enjoy a peaceful picnic and scenic views at Cascade Niagara, a beautiful waterfall in the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint-Benoît with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint-Benoît
Visit one of these nice places.
A visitor center with views of the Piton de la Fournaise volcano and surrounding landscapes.
A historic site with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and the Indian Ocean.
A botanical garden offering scenic views of lush vegetation and aromatic plants.
Food in Saint-Benoît
Saint-Benoît Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Creole dish consisting of sausage stewed in tomatoes, onion, ginger, and spices. It's a staple comfort food in Reunion.
Must-Try!
This is a classic Reunionese chicken curry prepared with a blend of local spices, herbs, and served with rice or grains. It's a must-try for visitors.
A flavorful peanut soup often served with breadfruit, yams, or cassava. It's a popular dish that showcases Reunionese creativity in blending flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint-Benoît better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Saint-Benoît Market is a vibrant hub offering a variety of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can enjoy exploring stalls selling samosas, bouchons, and refreshing tropical fruits.
While strolling through Saint-Benoît, be sure to sample bouchons (savory stuffed pastries) and samosas from street food vendors. These delicacies are perfect for experiencing the local flavors on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to be mindful of and show respect for the cultural traditions and customs of the people in Saint-Benoît, Reunion. This includes being aware of local etiquette, dress codes, and social norms.
Greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the familiarity of the relationship. Politeness and respect are highly valued, so be sure to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions.
When dining with locals, it's important to wait for the host to indicate where you should sit and to start eating. It's also polite to try a bit of everything offered and to express enjoyment of the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Benoît with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Benoît
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Saint-Benoît, Reunion. In most cases, a service charge is already included in the bill, so tipping is not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service, you may leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation, but it is not obligatory.
Payment in Saint-Benoît, Reunion is mostly done in cash, and credit or debit cards are also widely accepted in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets. It's always best to inquire about the accepted payment methods before making a purchase or dining at a restaurant.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint-Benoît.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for beach activities and water sports. Expect warm temperatures and occasional rainfall.
Great for hiking and outdoor activities. Expect mild temperatures and less crowded attractions.
Ideal for whale watching and exploring the island. Expect cool temperatures and occasional showers.
Perfect for nature enthusiasts and blooming flora. Expect pleasant temperatures and refreshing breezes.
Saint-Benoît at Night
Hiking in Saint-Benoît
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque natural amphitheater with lush landscapes, waterfalls, and numerous hiking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
A beautiful waterfall located in the heart of the Cirque de Salazie, accessible via scenic hiking trails that provide exceptional photography opportunities.
One of the world's most active volcanoes, featuring hiking paths that lead to the crater and unique volcanic landscapes.
A serene lake surrounded by lush vegetation and hiking trails, perfect for nature walks and picnics.
A charming trail that takes hikers through the beautiful orchard landscapes of Saint-Benoît, ideal for a peaceful walk.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint-Benoît through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint-Benoît by plane.
The main international airport serving the island of Réunion, located approximately 10 kilometers from Saint-Benoît.
A smaller international airport located on the nearby island of Mauritius, around 220 kilometers from Saint-Benoît.
The main international airport of Mauritius, located about 220 kilometers from Saint-Benoît, offering numerous flights to various countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Saint-Benoît is of mixed ethnic backgrounds, including Creole, Malagasy, Indian, and French descent.
A significant portion of the population identifies as Creole, a group that has roots in the early settlers of Reunion Island.
The Malagasy community represents a substantial part of the demographic, tracing their heritage back to Madagascar.
A notable demographic group in Saint-Benoît, the Indian community contributes to the cultural diversity of the region.
The presence of individuals with French heritage is evident in Saint-Benoît, reflecting the colonial history of the island.
The Soul of Saint-Benoît
Discover the essence of Saint-Benoît through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is a highly popular sport in Saint-Benoît, often played in local clubs and schools, fostering community engagement.
Rugby has a strong following in Saint-Benoît, with several local teams participating in regional leagues.
Basketball is widely played among youth in Saint-Benoît, with neighborhood courts available for casual and competitive play.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular in schools and among local clubs, promoting fitness and competition.
Given its coastal location, surfing is a popular water sport in Saint-Benoît, attracting both residents and tourists to its beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Benoît.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes are prominent, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as tofu-based curries, lentil stews, and vegetable stir-fries. It's advisable to inquire about the cooking methods and ingredients used for dietary compatibility.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at certain eateries. Fresh seafood, rice-based dishes, and tropical fruits are usually safe choices. Communication with restaurant staff regarding dietary needs is recommended for a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint-Benoît with these cultural adventures.
