Tourism in Réunion Island

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Indian Ocean Islands

Tourist attractions

Piton de la Fournaise

Region: Southeast

Nature (Active Volcano)

One of the world's most accessible and frequently erupting active volcanoes. Lava field trails are popular.

Piton des Neiges

Region: Central

Nature / Highest Peak

At 3,069m elevation, offers stunning 360-degree views and sea of clouds at sunrise. Overnight refuge stays followed by early morning summit climbs are typical.

Cirque de Cilaos

Region: Central Highlands

Nature / Cirque

One of the UNESCO World Heritage areas. Famous for hot springs and lentil dishes.

Cirque de Mafate

Region: Central Northwest

Nature / Cirque

Remote area accessible only by foot or helicopter. Known for stargazing and traditional villages.

Cirque de Salazie

Region: Central Northeast

Nature / Cirque

Green valley with countless waterfalls, deep gorges, and lush fern forests.

Hermitage Lagoon

Region: West Coast

Beach

Shallow lagoon protected by coral reefs, ideal for safe snorkeling.

Kélonia (Sea Turtle Observatory)

Region: Saint-Leu

Educational Facility

Facility where visitors can observe protected sea turtles up close.

Route des Laves (Lava Road)

Region: Southeast Coast

Scenic Road

Dynamic driving route showcasing black lava fields against deep blue ocean.

Jardin des Parfums et des Épices

Region: Saint-Philippe

Botanical Garden

Tropical garden filled with the fragrance of vanilla and spices.

Villèle Museum

Region: Saint-Paul

Cultural Heritage

Museum in a former plantation owner's mansion displaying colonial life.

Saint-Denis Cathedral

Region: Saint-Denis

Historic Architecture

Neoclassical church completed in 1841. Beautifully illuminated at night.

Langevin Waterfall

Region: Saint-Joseph

Waterfall

Spectacular waterfall cascading in multiple streams.

Canyoning Adventure

Region: Saint-Gilles

Outdoor

Mecca for canyoning with waterfall dives and rope descents.

Saint-Paul Market

Region: Saint-Paul

Market

Friday and Saturday morning seaside market. Spices and handicrafts abound.

Suggested itineraries

Three-Day UNESCO Cirque Trekking

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Cilaos, Mafate, Piton des Neiges Summit

Day one explores Cilaos cirque with hot springs and town walks; day two helicopter to Mafate followed by trails; final day dawn summit of Piton des Neiges before returning to Saint-Denis. Stay in mountain huts and Creole guesthouses.

Five-Day Island Circle Drive: Sea and Volcano

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Route des Laves, Hermitage Lagoon, Piton de la Fournaise, East Coast Waterfall Tour

Clockwise island loop by rental car. Combine volcano crater hikes, black sand beaches, and local eateries.

Two-Day Culture and Culinary Short Stay

Duration (days): 2

Highlights: Villèle Museum, Saint-Paul Market, Rum Distillery Tour, Creole Cooking Class

Weekend traveler focused on history and food culture, ending with purchases of local rum and vanilla products.

Travel tips

  • November to April is cyclone season. Check latest weather and cancel mountain trails early if needed.
  • UV rays are very strong. SPF 50+ sunscreen and hats are essential.
  • Mountain areas are cool in mornings and evenings, so bring fleece even in summer.
  • Public transport is limited to buses with infrequent schedules. Rental car is convenient for groups.
  • Right-hand traffic and speed limits same as mainland France. Speed cameras are common.
  • ATMs concentrated in major towns. Withdraw extra cash before heading to mountain areas.
  • Tap water is safe, but bottled water is affordable if preferred.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen without UV absorbers is recommended for coral protection.
  • Restaurants typically serve lunch 12:00-14:00 and dinner 19:00-22:00.
  • Commercial rum 'Rhum arrangé' is high-proof, try small amounts first.
  • Official hiking routes marked yellow/white-red. Watch for landslides after rain.
  • To prevent shark incidents, swim only at lifeguarded beaches; avoid river mouths and open bays.
  • Wi-Fi limited to hotels and cafes in some areas. SIM cards available at airport and large supermarkets.
  • Pharmacies marked by green cross. Sunday duty rotation, check in advance.
  • Learn "Merci beaucoup" and "Mi aime a ou" (Creole thank you) for a good impression.

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