Réunion Travel Guide
Discover Why You Should Visit Réunion
Why Visit Réunion?
Réunion, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Known for its volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and dramatic cliffs, it offers a unique blend of tropical beauty with European sophistication.
The island combines the best of France with a rich Creole culture, offering delicious cuisine, scenic hiking, and vibrant street life, all surrounded by the majestic Indian Ocean.
Ideal for: Hikers, surfers, nature enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone looking to experience France with a tropical twist.
Must-Know Facts
Capital/Major City: Saint-Denis
Language(s): French (official), Réunion Creole widely spoken
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Best Time to Visit: May to November (dry, cooler season ideal for outdoor activities)
Fun Fact: Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, is a major attraction and safe to hike with guidance
Top Things to Do
Hike the calderas of Cirque de Mafate, Cirque de Salazie, and Cirque de Cilaos
Visit Piton de la Fournaise and trek across volcanic craters
Relax on black and white sand beaches in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains
Explore waterfalls and botanical gardens in Salazie
Experience local culture in markets and food stalls in Saint-Paul and Saint-Denis
Local Culture & Lifestyle
Réunion is a blend of African, Indian, European, and Chinese heritage, making for a rich cultural landscape filled with music, dance, and celebration.
Traditional Maloya and Séga music can be heard during festivals and local events, while Catholic, Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist traditions coexist harmoniously.
Islanders value family, food, and community, with a laid-back yet passionate approach to life.
Food & Drink Highlights
Street Food: Bouchons (steamed dumplings), samoussas, grilled meats, achards (pickled vegetables)
Restaurants: Serve a fusion of French, Creole, and Indian cuisine featuring rice, lentils, and spicy sauces
Drinks: Fresh tropical juices, local rum, rhum arrangé (flavored rum), espresso
Desserts: Banana fritters, coconut tart, sweet cassava cakes
Main Dish & Culinary Symbols
Signature Dish: Cari (Creole-style curry, often with chicken or seafood)
Common Ingredients: Rice, lentils, turmeric, ginger, garlic, seafood, plantains
Culinary Culture: Meals are hearty and often spicy, cooked in large pots and served with love and laughter
Symbols & Icons of the Area
Natural Icons: Piton des Neiges, Piton de la Fournaise, coral reefs, volcanic calderas
Cultural Icons: Hindu temples, Creole houses, street markets, traditional instruments like kayamb and roulèr
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path
Takamaka Valley for rainforest hikes and waterfalls
The village of Hell-Bourg in Salazie for Creole heritage and mountain views
Cap Méchant for dramatic cliffs and ocean sprays on the southeast coast
Shopping & Souvenirs
What to Buy: Vanilla, essential oils, Creole spices, woven baskets, local rum, artisanal crafts
Where to Shop: Saint-Paul market, Saint-Leu craft shops, Saint-Denis boutiques
Getting Around
Public Transport: Reliable bus system in urban areas
Car Rentals: Best option for exploring mountainous regions and remote areas
Taxis: Available in cities but can be expensive for long distances
Walkability: Excellent in towns and hiking areas, but terrain can be steep in parts
Travel Tips
While French is spoken everywhere, a few Creole phrases are appreciated
Hiking gear is essential if exploring volcanoes and calderas
Sun protection and insect repellent are must-haves
It’s part of the EU, so European SIM cards and currency are accepted
Where to Stay
Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in Saint-Denis and coastal towns
Mid-range: Boutique hotels and mountain lodges with Creole character
Luxury: Beachfront resorts and spa hotels in Saint-Gilles and Saline-les-Bains
Unique: Eco-lodges, volcanic-view bungalows, and family-run Creole villas
Sample 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Saint-Denis, explore colonial architecture and local cuisine
Day 2: Day hike in Cirque de Mafate or Salazie, visit waterfalls and Creole villages
Day 3: Trek Piton de la Fournaise and relax in thermal baths near Cilaos
Day 4: Chill on the beach in Saint-Gilles, enjoy snorkeling or a sunset catamaran cruise
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