Réunion, France

Réunion Island is a unique jewel in the Indian Ocean, combining French sophistication with wild, volcanic landscapes. From lush cirques and dramatic waterfalls to active volcanoes and remote villages, the island offers an extraordinary mix of adventure and culture. Its vibrant Creole culture, tropical flora, and rugged terrain make it a playground for nature lovers, hikers, and curious travellers alike.

This Réunion travel guide is crafted for anyone wanting to experience the island beyond its postcard images. Whether planning a road trip around Piton de la Fournaise, a hiking expedition on the Bras Rouge trail, or a cultural visit to Saint-Denis Réunion, this guide highlights the best Réunion sightseeing, hiking trails, and local flavours for a truly immersive experience.

How to Get to Réunion Island

Réunion Island is accessible via Roland Garros Airport near Saint-Denis, the island’s capital. Air Austral offers direct flights from Paris and other French cities, while connections from Mauritius and Madagascar are also available.

Once on the island, renting a car is highly recommended for Réunion road trips, as public transport is limited and many attractions, like the cirques or Piton Sainte-Rose, are spread across mountainous terrain. For a unique perspective, Réunion helicopter tours with Corail Hélicoptères offer breathtaking views of Piton des Neiges, Trou du Fer, and Iron Hole waterfalls.

Exploring Réunion’s Natural Wonders

Volcanoes and Hiking

Piton de la Fournaise is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and a highlight of any Réunion itinerary. Trails around Le Grand Brûlé allow hikers to witness lava flows and rugged volcanic landscapes safely. Piton des Neiges, the island’s highest peak, rewards hikers with panoramic views over the three cirques—Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Cilaos, and Cirque de Mafate—each offering distinct landscapes, villages, and hiking experiences.

For experienced trekkers, the Grande Randonnée Réunion trails weave through lush forests, waterfalls, and volcanic ridges. Bras Rouge trail, in particular, leads past the Saint-Etienne River and dramatic cliffs, providing both challenge and spectacular scenery.

Waterfalls and Scenic Highlights

Réunion is home to some of the Indian Ocean’s most impressive waterfalls. Trou du Fer, also known as the Iron Hole waterfalls, plunges into a deep gorge surrounded by dense rainforest. Other must-see falls include the cascading waters near Hell-Bourg village in Cirque de Salazie and the verdant streams around Cirque de Cilaos.

Villages and Creole Culture

The island’s villages give a glimpse of Creole culture in Réunion. Hell-Bourg, with its colonial houses and local markets, is a charming stop in Cirque de Salazie. Piton Sainte-Rose showcases lava-influenced architecture and Notre Dame des Laves, a church partially preserved by past eruptions. Sampling local dishes like chou chou gratin or tasting bibasse fruit offers insight into the island’s culinary heritage.

Réunion Road Trips and Nature Tours

Driving around Réunion allows travellers to combine hiking, sightseeing, and beach visits efficiently. Popular routes include trips through Cirque de Cilaos, along the coastal road to Saint-Pierre, and excursions to Piton de la Fournaise and Le Grand Brûlé. For a higher vantage point, Réunion helicopter tours provide an unforgettable aerial view of volcanoes, cirques, and waterfalls.

Nature tours often focus on spotting endemic wildlife, such as the tenrec of Réunion, and exploring tropical forests, river gorges, and volcanic landscapes safely with local guides.

Things to Do in Tórshavn

• Hike Piton des Neiges and trails in Cirque de Mafate
• Explore Piton de la Fournaise and Le Grand Brûlé
• Visit Trou du Fer (Iron Hole waterfalls)
• Discover Hell-Bourg village and local Creole culture
• Enjoy Réunion nature tours and spotting endemic species like the Réunion tenrec.
• Take a helicopter tour with Corail Hélicoptères for panoramic views
• Road trip through Cirque de Salazie and Cirque de Cilaos
• Taste local dishes such as chou chou gratin and bibasse fruit

Where to Stay

Accommodation on Réunion Island offers a diverse range of options to suit all types of travellers. For first-time visitors, staying in Saint-Denis, Réunion, is a convenient choice. The city is the island’s administrative and cultural hub, providing easy access to restaurants, local markets, museums, and the airport. Staying here allows travellers to enjoy urban comforts while planning excursions to the island’s volcanic landscapes, cirques, and waterfalls. Evening strolls along the city streets reveal a mix of French and Creole influences, giving a gentle introduction to the island’s culture.

For those seeking more comfort and scenic surroundings, luxury hotels near Saint-Gilles and along the western coast are ideal. These properties often feature modern amenities, swimming pools, and panoramic ocean views, making them perfect for travellers who want to combine adventure with relaxation. Many resorts also offer guided tours, wellness services, and direct access to beaches, creating a convenient base for exploring Réunion’s natural wonders, including Piton de la Fournaise and Le Grand Brûlé.

Budget-conscious travellers are well catered for on the island. Guesthouses and smaller hotels in towns such as Cilaos or Hell-Bourg offer a more authentic and local experience at affordable rates. These lodgings provide a chance to immerse yourself in Creole culture in Réunion, interact with locals, and enjoy easy access to nearby hiking trails, waterfalls, and cirques. Overall, Réunion Island’s accommodation options balance comfort, convenience, and cultural experience, making it easy to plan a trip that suits your style and budget.

Tips or Practical Advice

• Rent a car for Réunion road trips; public transport is limited.

• Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing for hiking on volcanoes and trails.

• Carry sufficient water and sun protection on longer hikes.
• Respect local Creole customs, especially in small villages.
• Book Réunion helicopter tours in advance for the best time and views.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q: Is Réunion Island safe for travellers?
Yes, it is generally safe, but exercise caution on hiking trails and in volcanic areas.

Q: How many days are recommended for a Réunion itinerary?
Seven to ten days allow a full exploration of cirques, volcanoes, and coastal areas.

Q: Do I need a car on Réunion Island?
Yes, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island

Q: When is the best time to visit Réunion?
April to November is cooler and drier, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Q: Can I do a helicopter tour on Réunion Island?
Yes, companies like Corail Hélicoptères offer aerial tours of volcanoes, waterfalls, and cirques.

Conclusion

Réunion Island is a destination for adventurous souls and culture enthusiasts alike. Its volcanic landscapes, hidden waterfalls, Creole villages, and hiking trails make every day a discovery. Whether exploring Piton de la Fournaise, hiking the Bras Rouge trail, or savouring local dishes in Hell-Bourg, the island offers a travel experience unlike any other.

For more immersive and off-the-beaten-path destinations like Réunion, explore The Peace Destinations for thoughtfully curated travel guides.