Dry Season
From May to November, the weather is cooler and less humid, ideal for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Réunion
Réunion, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, offers stunning landscapes, volcanic mountains, and a rich cultural tapestry. Beyond its capital, Saint-Denis, the island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Fabimaru · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best monthsMay to November
- AirportsRoland Garros Airport (RUN), Pierrefonds Airport
- TransitCar rental recommended; public buses available
- Power230V, Type C and E plugs
- TippingNot mandatory, rounding appreciated
- LanguageFrench, Creole
01
When to go
The best time to visit Réunion is during the dry season from May to November, when the weather is cooler and less humid.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
From December to April, expect higher humidity and rainfall, particularly in the east.
Transitional Periods
March to April and November to December are transitional months with variable weather.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural hub
Saint-Denis
The capital city, known for its vibrant markets and colonial architecture.
Busy city life may not suit those seeking tranquility.
Beach
Saint-Gilles-les-Bains
A popular beach resort area with beautiful lagoons and water sports.
Can be crowded during peak season.
Nature
Cilaos
A picturesque mountain village famous for its hiking trails and stunning views.
Access requires navigating winding roads.
Scenic
Salazie
Known for its lush greenery and waterfalls, perfect for nature walks.
Less developed, offering a peaceful escape.
Highland
La Plaine des Cafres
A highland area with a cooler climate and access to hiking routes.
Higher altitude may not suit everyone.
Relaxation
Etang-Salé
A coastal area with black sand beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Less nightlife compared to other areas.
Cultural
Saint-Pierre
A vibrant town known for its markets and cultural events.
Can be busy, especially on weekends.
Historic
Bourbon-Lancy
A quaint village with historical significance and local charm.
Limited amenities compared to larger towns.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Cari
A traditional curry dish, often made with chicken or fish, found in local eateries.
→ Try it with rice for a complete meal.
Rougail Saucisse
A spicy sausage dish that is a local favorite, available at street food stalls.
→ Best enjoyed with a side of lentils.
Boudin
A blood sausage popular on the island, often served during local festivals.
→ Look for it at local markets.
Gâteau Patate
A sweet potato cake that is a beloved dessert, found in bakeries.
→ Perfect for a snack on the go.
Samosas
Fried pastries filled with meat or vegetables, commonly sold by street vendors.
→ Great for a quick bite.
Chouchou
A local vegetable often used in salads and side dishes, available in markets.
→ Try it fresh for the best flavor.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Piton de la Fournaise
An active volcano offering hiking trails and stunning views.
Cirque de Mafate
A remote caldera accessible only by foot or helicopter, known for its breathtaking scenery.
Le Maïdo
A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the island and the ocean.
Salazie Waterfalls
A series of stunning waterfalls located in the Salazie region.
Saint-Denis Market
A bustling market showcasing local produce, crafts, and cuisine.
L'Ermitage Beach
A beautiful beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
Cilaos Lookout
A viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Cilaos valley.
Maison de la Vanille
A plantation where visitors can learn about vanilla cultivation.
The Pitons
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring dramatic volcanic peaks.
Grand Bassin
A sacred lake surrounded by lush vegetation, significant in local culture.
Le Port
A lively harbor area with shops and restaurants, great for a stroll.
Anse des Cascades
A picturesque area with waterfalls and picnic spots.
Pointe au Sel
A scenic coastal area known for its salt flats and birdwatching.
The Botanical Garden
A garden showcasing the island's unique flora and fauna.
The Volcano Museum
A museum dedicated to the island's volcanic activity and geology.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Roland Garros Airport
The main international gateway to Réunion, connecting to various destinations.
Pierrefonds Airport
Serves domestic flights and some regional connections.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is the best way to explore the island at your own pace.
Public Transport
Buses operate between major towns, but schedules can be limited.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and E plugs are used; the standard voltage is 230V.
Cash
Euros are the official currency; credit cards are widely accepted.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.
Language
French is the official language; Creole is also widely spoken.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A stay of at least a week is recommended to explore the island fully.