Things To Do
in Saint-Benoît
Saint-Benoît sits on Réunion's east coast, where lush tropical landscapes meet the turquoise Indian Ocean. The town is known for its vibrant markets, colonial-era architecture, and a laid-back Creole atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to nearby rivers, canyons, and vanilla plantations that color the region.
With a humid tropical climate and warm hospitality, Saint-Benoît offers year-round outdoor adventures and cultural immersion.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
The town wakes with a gentle rhythm as the morning air carries a hint of vanilla from nearby farms. You pause at a sidewalk café to savor a rich Reunion coffee and plan a stroll through the colorful markets and riverside paths.
A coastal promenade leads to the harbor where fishing boats return with their nets and stories. The scent of grilled street food mingles with tropical breeze as you wander between stalls and lively conversations.
A warm Creole dinner settles into your memory with spices and stories from locals. You end the day listening to gentle waves and letting the island's soft night sounds lull you toward a restful sleep.
The day begins with a walk along a shaded path where palm fronds murmur above and distant birds compose a morning chorus. You pause to soak in the scent of rain-washed earth and plan a visit to a village spice market to sample vanilla and pepper.
A guided hike along a forested river reveals emerald pools and hidden cascades that invite a few playful splashes. Along the way, locals offer fresh fruit and warm smiles, turning a trek into a shared memory.
Dinner celebrates Creole flavors with a dish of curries, fish, and jasmine rice, accompanied by a sweet lime sorbet. The night closes with music drifting from a small venue, inviting a reflective stroll back through quiet streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch or dinner at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚗One-way taxi ride | $6-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush landscapes, tropical beaches, and year-round pleasant weather
- Warm, welcoming Creole culture and vibrant markets
- Some rural areas require car travel and winding mountain roads
- Nightlife outside main towns can be limited
- "Bonzour" - Hello
- "Kouma i lé?" - How are you?
- "Mersi" - Thank you
- "Silvouplé" - Please
- "Kot-la?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Saint-Benoît
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping view where the sun rises over turquoise waters, ideal for long-exposure seascapes.
Dense green walls, hanging vines, and a waterfall—perfect for lush, moody forest photography.
Colorful stalls, fresh produce, and candid market life—great for street photography.
Cliff faces along the coast with seabird colonies and dramatic ocean backdrops.
Food in Saint-Benoît
Saint-Benoît Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken curry served with rice and rougail or achar, reflecting Creole spice blends.
Must-Try!
Smoked sausage in a chunky tomato-based relish, often enjoyed with rice.
Raw fish marinated in lime juice with coconut milk, onions, and chili; a refreshing staple.
Breadfruit gratin baked with cheese and herbs, a comforting East‑Coast favorite.
Fried pastries and bite-sized snacks filled with vegetables or meat, popular from market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market with fresh fruit, spices, street snacks, and local crafts—great for breakfast or a quick bite.
Casual stalls offering samoussas, bouchons, manioc chips, fresh fruit juices, and tropical treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' in daytime or 'Bonzour' in Creole; a friendly handshake is common.
Dress modestly in urban spaces and religious sites; light, breathable clothing is practical in tropical heat.
Ask before photographing people; show appreciation for Creole cuisine and crafts; practice patience in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Benoît
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is customary in restaurants and bars when service is good.
Credit cards are widely accepted in towns; cash is still common for small stalls and rural spots. Currency is the Euro (EUR).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent brief showers; the south-facing coast is sunny, and cyclones can occur in the Pacific season. Pack light clothing, rain gear, and sun protection.
Milder temperatures with comfortable humidity; occasional cool evenings and persistent clouds in the mornings. Great for hiking with less heat.
Saint-Benoît at Night
Hiking in Saint-Benoît
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike along a lush east-coast ravine with viewpoints over the valley.
Forest path with ferns, birds, and easy access to mountain scenery.
Coastal hike with sea views, cliffs, and seabird colonies.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Benoît by plane.
Main international airport near Saint-Denis; drive time from Saint-Benoît varies with traffic.
Domestic and regional flights; an alternative gateway to the island near Saint-Pierre.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse, long-standing community blending African, Malagasy, Indian, and European roots.
Significant presence influencing cuisine and services.
Visitors contribute to the local economy, especially during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played across clubs and schools; matches are common on weekends.
Popular local sport with community clubs and school teams.
Extensive trails through forests, ravines, and cliffside viewpoints.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Benoît.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; ask for vegetable curries, lentil-based dishes, and sides of rice or plantain. In Creole kitchens, request no fish or meat and confirm the use of ghee or oil if you avoid dairy.