Welcome to Reunion Island – a paradise located in the Indian Ocean where the volcanic landscapes paint a vivid backdrop to unending miles of stunning beaches. Home to an active volcano and extinct peak, Reunion Island has been created by Mother Nature’s most powerful forces over several million years. On Reunion Island you can witness an abundance of wildlife as you explore the three Cirques of Mafate, Salazie, and Cilaos. Soak up the sun on the pristine beaches that line the island’s coast or explore its vibrant culture in nearby villages. Whether you’re looking for serenity or adventure, you’ll find it here on this captivating island – the perfect destination for any nostalgic getaway.
Revered by nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Reunion Island – off the east coast of Madagascar – was formed from a unique blend of the ocean, the air and the tectonic forces of earth. From its pristine white-sand beaches to undulating mountain terrain and untouched rainforest, this paradise offers some of the world’s most spectacular natural beauty. Known for its gargantuan “cirques” – or natural amphitheater’s – steep slopes carved by raging rivers, craggy peaks and ripe vegetation, a visit here is an unforgettable experience. Come explore this incredible island filled with adventure and surprises at every turn.
Things to do
Reunion Island is a magical paradise, filled with vibrant culture and natural beauty. On the island you will find abrupt mountainous terrain, lush green vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. The highest peak on Reunion is Piton des Neiges, an impressive volcanic mountain that has been standing strong for thousands of years. Experience the power of nature as you take to the skies during a helicopter or microlite tour over Reunion. Soar above these dramatic landscapes and take in stunning views of this unique geographical identity. For those looking for an adventure, challenge yourself by taking a two-day climb to reach the summit of Piton des Neiges and watch the sun rise over Reunion from its highest point – an experience you will never forget.
Activities
- Whale and dolphin watching
- Take a sip of the local dodo beer
- Taste the poulet bitume
- Reunion Island’s volcano Le Piton de la Fournaise
- Natural History Museum
- Wander through the Saint-Paul’s market
- Creole food
- Tour of La Saga du Rhum museum
- Musée de Villèle
- Most incredible scenery
- World’s most active volcanoes
- Hike in the cirques
Getting around
By Air: Saint Denis (RUN) is the primary airport of Reunion is , a hub for most airlines arriving from Europe and Africa.
By Bus: There are buses a available across the island.
By Shuttle or Taxi: There are various shuttle and taxi services available.
By Bicycle: You are able to hire a bicycle quite easily when on the island.
By Car: You can find reliable, trustworthy local and international care-hire companies that you can easily find when you arrive at the airport outside the terminals where you can a hire a vehicle to explore and get around the island independently.
By Foot: You can access the hiking trails, however is some of the hiking trails are not easy to access there are various other forms of transport one can hire other than a car such a 4×4, motorbike, bicycle, motorhome.
Culture
Reunion Island (in French, La Reunion ) is made up of a multicultural diverse society. Made up of inhabitants that stem originally from France, China, India, Mozambique, Madagascar, and lastly the Comores. Islanders use their ethnic origins to define themselves as Z’oreilles (born in mainland France), Cafres (African ancestry), Z’arabes (from Gujarat in northern India), malabars or Tamouls (from Tamil Nadu southern India), Malgaches (from Madagascar), Chinois (from China), Comores (from Comores), Creoles blancs (white landowners) or Petits blancs (poor rural whites living in the highlands). When using the term today, Creole also applies to those with a mixed ethnic background. Administratively, all the residents of the island are French citizens.
What is the weather like
The Island has a hot sub-tropical climate with sea temperatures that hardly drop below 23°C. The dry season is May to October, with temperatures 20-25°C. The interior uplands have an almost temperate climate. November to March is more humid, with most rain and occasional cyclones in January and February. Reunion is known for its torrential rainfall, and it is advisable to avoid the monsoon.
What to pack
- Warm clothes and a waterproof jacket
- Sunglasses
- Swimming Costume
- Sun Screen
- Hiking clothes (if you plan on going hiking or staying up in the mountains).
- A pullover or jersey
- Windbreaker
- Sunhat
- Shorts/Summer clothes/dresses
- Camera
- Snorkeling Gear
- Medical Aid travel kit
- Spare batteries, plug adaptors and charging equipment
- A good pair of Binoculars
- Bug repellent
Currency
Reunion uses the Euro as its official currency (it is like a mini France on an island). You will find that there are plenty of banks and ATMs on the island, and most shops and hotels accept major credit cards. Always make sure that you find out what the bank charges will be to use your credit card overseas. We would recommend that you have some smaller notes/coins in Euros so that you can use it for tipping.
Vaccinations
When travelling abroad it is always recommended that you are up to date with all your primary boosters. A quick visit to your local travel clinic can assist you with all the necessary advice and vaccinations.
- Diphtheria
- Hepatitis B
- Tetanus
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A
Travel Tips
Make sure that you have travel insurance that contains a medical emergency plan when travelling abroad, just in case of a medical injury/illness. Its very important to find out if there are any restrictions when travelling with medication abroad. This island has areas of very high altitude, it is important to take care to avoid ill effects of being at altitude. This can cause Acute Mountain Sickness, a potentially life-threatening condition. This island is home to many mosquitos and as important as it is to reapply sunscreen so should one make sure that they are applying some form of mosquito repellent. Before going to bed, check your body for ticks to avoid getting sick.
