4-Day Reunion Island Adventure: Food, Wine and Outdoor Fun with Friends

Reunion Island

4 days

Food and wine

Outdoor activities

Friends

Off the beaten path

About Reunion Island

Reunion Island, a French overseas territory, is a unique blend of tropical paradise and European charm. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, it offers stunning landscapes with lush forests, towering volcanoes, and pristine beaches. The island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, paragliding, and diving. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Pitons, Cirques and Ramparts of Reunion Island, or relax in the coastal towns with Creole architecture. The island's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its diverse cuisine, a fusion of French, Indian, and African influences. With its warm, welcoming locals and year-round tropical climate, Reunion Island is a captivating destination for a unique holiday experience.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Volcanic Landscape

Morning

Start your day with a hike to the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the volcanic landscape.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies such as 'carri' (a type of curry) and 'rougail' (a spicy tomato sauce), complemented by local wine.

Afternoon

Explore the Lava Tunnels formed by past eruptions. Guided tours are available, providing an exciting and educational experience.

Dinner

Savor a traditional Creole dinner featuring dishes like 'boucané' (smoked meat) and 'gratin chouchou' (a casserole made with a local vegetable).

Evening

Stroll through the streets of Saint-Denis, the capital of Reunion Island, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Day 2

Beach Day and Local Market Visit

Morning

Visit the colorful market in Saint-Paul. Here, you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to local crafts.

Lunch

Have lunch at a beachside eatery, enjoying fresh seafood and 'Dodo', the local beer.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beautiful Beaches of Saint-Paul. Try water sports like surfing or snorkeling.

Dinner

Enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner with a variety of meats and seafood, paired with local wines.

Evening

Experience the local music scene with a live 'séga' performance, a traditional music and dance style of Reunion Island.

Day 3

Adventure in the Mafate Caldera

Morning

Embark on a guided tour of the Mafate caldera, a remote and picturesque area accessible only by foot or helicopter.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning natural beauty of the caldera.

Afternoon

Continue exploring the caldera, visiting small isolated villages and enjoying the tranquility of the area.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local 'gîte' (guesthouse), enjoying home-cooked Creole cuisine.

Evening

Spend the evening stargazing. The lack of light pollution in Mafate makes it an excellent spot for astronomy.

Day 4

Botanical Garden and Art Museum Visit

Morning

Visit the lush Jardin de l'Etat in Saint-Denis, a beautiful botanical garden with a variety of tropical plants.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local café, trying 'bouchons' (steamed dumplings) and 'samoussas' (stuffed pastries).

Afternoon

Explore the Musée Léon Dierx, a museum showcasing modern and contemporary art.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner on the island with a fusion of French and Creole cuisine, paired with local rum.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a local 'Rhum arrangé' bar, where you can taste different varieties of infused rum.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

1
Piton de la Fournaise

One of the most active volcanoes in the world, offering hiking trails and stunning views.

Attractions

Landmarks

2
Lava Tunnels

A natural formation created by flowing lava, which can be explored through guided tours.

Attractions

Tours

3
Beaches of Saint-Paul

Beautiful tropical beaches with clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beaches

4
Mafate caldera

A volcanic caldera in the central part of the island, accessible only by foot or helicopter.

Attractions

Landmarks

5
Jardin de l'Etat

The oldest botanical garden on the island, home to a variety of exotic plants.

Parks

Gardens

Attractions

6
Musée Léon Dierx

A museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art, housing works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Gauguin.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

7
'Rhum arrangé' bar

A bar specializing in 'Rhum arrangé', a traditional Reunion Island rum infused with local fruits and spices.

Food and Drink

8
Saint-Denis nightlife

The capital city of Reunion Island, Saint-Denis, offers a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Entertainment

9
Saint-Paul market

A bustling local market where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and sample traditional Reunion Island cuisine.

Shopping

Food and Drink

10
Séga performance

Traditional music and dance performance of Reunion Island, known as Séga.

Cultural Experiences

Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cari Poulet

A popular dish in Reunion Island, Cari Poulet is a chicken curry made with turmeric, garlic, onion, and thyme. It is often served with rice and represents the island's blend of Indian and Creole influences.

Rougail Saucisse

Rougail Saucisse is a traditional dish made with smoked sausage, tomatoes, onions, garlic, turmeric, and chili. It is a staple in Reunionese cuisine and showcases the island's love for spicy and flavorful dishes.

Samoussas

Samoussas are small, triangular pastries filled with meat, fish, or vegetables. They are a popular street food in Reunion Island, reflecting the island's Indian influences.

Bouchons

Bouchons are small dumplings filled with pork and served with a spicy sauce. They are a popular snack in Reunion Island and represent the island's Chinese culinary influence.

Gratin de Chouchous

Gratin de Chouchous is a baked dish made with chayote, a type of squash, cheese, and béchamel sauce. It is a traditional side dish in Reunion Island and showcases the island's French influences.

Rougail Tomate

Rougail Tomate is a spicy tomato salsa made with onions, garlic, and chili. It is a common accompaniment to main dishes in Reunion Island, reflecting the island's love for spicy foods.

Pain Bouchon

Pain Bouchon is a sandwich made with bouchon dumplings and spicy sauce. It is a popular breakfast food in Reunion Island, showcasing the island's unique blend of flavors.

Bonbons Piments

Bonbons Piments are spicy fritters made with lentils, onions, and chili. They are a popular snack in Reunion Island and represent the island's Indian and Creole influences.

Ti' Punch

Ti' Punch is a cocktail made with rum, lime, and cane syrup. It is a popular drink in Reunion Island and showcases the island's rum production.

Dodo Beer

Dodo Beer is a locally brewed lager in Reunion Island. It is a popular drink among locals and tourists alike, representing the island's brewing tradition.

Café Bourbon Pointu

Café Bourbon Pointu is a locally grown coffee in Reunion Island. It is known for its unique flavor and aroma, showcasing the island's coffee production.

Rhum Arrangé

Rhum Arrangé is a rum infused with fruits and spices. It is a traditional drink in Reunion Island and represents the island's love for flavorful and potent drinks.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Reunion Island is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. During this period, the weather is cooler and less humid, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach visits, and exploring the island's stunning landscapes. However, if you're interested in whale watching, the best period is from June to September when humpback whales migrate near the island.

How to get around

Car Rental

Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to get around Reunion Island. The island has a well-developed network of roads, including a coastal highway and mountain roads. Car rental companies are available at the airport and in major towns.

Bus

Reunion Island has a public bus system, known as Car Jaune (Yellow Bus). These buses cover most of the island, including popular tourist destinations. However, they can be less frequent in remote areas.

Taxi

Taxis are available in Reunion Island, especially in urban areas and at the airport. They can be a convenient but more expensive option for getting around. It's advisable to agree on the fare before starting the journey.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Reunion Island. However, local alternatives may exist, and carpooling is quite common among locals.

Bicycle

Reunion Island offers several cycling routes for both casual riders and professionals. Bicycles can be rented from various outlets across the island.

Hiking

Given the island's stunning natural beauty, hiking is a popular way to get around. There are numerous trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Always ensure you're well-prepared and informed about the weather conditions.

Helicopter

For a unique perspective, helicopter tours are available on Reunion Island. These provide breathtaking aerial views of the island's diverse landscapes, including its volcanoes and waterfalls.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Things to know about Reunion Island as a first time visitor

1

Reunion Island is a French overseas territory, so the official language is French. However, many locals also speak Creole.

2

The currency used on the island is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

3

Reunion Island is located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar and southwest of Mauritius.

4

The island has a tropical climate. The average temperature ranges from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C).

5

Reunion Island is known for its active volcanoes. It's safe to visit, but always heed local warnings and restrictions.

6

Driving is on the right side of the road. If you plan to rent a car, an international driving permit is recommended.

7

The island is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. However, be aware that some species, like the mosquito that can carry dengue fever, can pose health risks.

8

Reunion Island is in the Southern Hemisphere, so its seasons are opposite those of the Northern Hemisphere.

9

The island's tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is also widely available.

10

Reunion Island is a multicultural society with influences from Africa, India, Europe, and China. Respect for local customs and traditions is appreciated.

11

The island is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing, and paragliding. Always follow safety guidelines and respect the environment.

12

Reunion Island is in the UTC+4 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time.

13

The island has a well-developed healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for emergencies.

14

Reunion Island has a high cost of living compared to mainland France, so budget accordingly.

15

The island's cuisine is a blend of French, Indian, Chinese, and African influences. Try local specialties like cari (a type of curry) and rougail (a spicy tomato sauce).

16

Reunion Island has a dress code that is generally casual, but it's respectful to cover up when visiting religious sites.

17

The island has a reliable public transportation system, but services can be limited in remote areas.

18

Reunion Island is a popular destination for whale watching between June and September.

19

The island is home to several endemic species, including the Reunion harrier and the Reunion cuckooshrike. Always respect local wildlife.

20

Reunion Island has a strong music culture, with genres like maloya and sega being popular. Don't miss the chance to experience a live performance.

Basic French to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Bonjour	bohn-zhoor	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Au revoir	oh reh-vwahr	Saying goodbye
Please	S'il vous plaît	see voo play	Making a request
Thank you	Merci	mehr-see	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Oui	wee	Agreeing or affirming
No	Non	nohn	Disagreeing or negating
Excuse me	Excusez-moi	ex-koo-zay mwah	Getting attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Je suis désolé	zhuh swee deh-soh-leh	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Parlez-vous anglais?	par-leh voo ahn-gleh	Asking if someone speaks English
I don't understand	Je ne comprends pas	zhuh nuh kohn-prahn pah	Expressing confusion
Where is...?	Où est...?	oo eh...	Asking for directions
Bathroom	Toilettes	twah-let	Looking for a bathroom
Help	Aide	ed	In case of emergency
Food	Nourriture	noo-ree-toor	Looking for food
Water	Eau	oh	Looking for water
Hotel	Hôtel	oh-tel	Looking for a hotel
Taxi	Taxi	taxi	Looking for a taxi
Airport	Aéroport	aeroport	Looking for an airport
How much does it cost?	Combien ça coûte?	kohn-byehn sah koot	Asking for the price
Can I pay with a credit card?	Puis-je payer avec une carte de crédit?	pwee-zhuh peh-yeh ah-vek oon kart deh kreh-dee	Asking to pay with a credit card

Packing List

Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Light jacket or sweater
Hiking shoes
Flip flops
Hat
Sunglasses

Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Contact lenses and solution

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and addresses

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and adapter
Camera
Memory cards
Portable power bank
Headphones

Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader
Travel guide and map
Umbrella
Beach towel
Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Reunion Island, located in the Indian Ocean, is known for its tropical climate which can be quite diverse due to its varied topography. The island experiences two main seasons: the hot, rainy season from November to April and the cooler, dry season from May to October. During the hot season, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) along the coast. This period is also characterized by heavy rainfall, especially in the east and in the highlands. It's important to note that this is also the cyclone season, so it's advisable to stay updated with local weather forecasts. The cooler season, on the other hand, sees temperatures dropping to around 20°C (68°F) along the coast. In the highlands, it can get quite chilly with temperatures falling to around 10°C (50°F) or even lower during the night. This is the best time to visit if you're planning on hiking or exploring the island's stunning landscapes. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack a variety of clothing options. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the coastal areas, while warmer clothing may be necessary for the cooler highlands. Don't forget your rain gear, especially if you're visiting during the rainy season. Lastly, always remember to protect yourself from the sun. The UV index in Reunion Island can be high, so ensure you have sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin and eyes. Enjoy your visit to Reunion Island!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	31° / 23°	January is the hottest month in Reunion Island, with temperatures reaching up to 31°C. It's also the wettest month, so pack your rain gear.
February	31° / 23°	February is also quite hot and wet, with temperatures similar to January. It's a great time for indoor activities and exploring the island's cuisine.
March	30° / 23°	March sees a slight decrease in temperature but it's still quite warm. The rainfall starts to decrease, making it a good time for outdoor activities.
April	29° / 21°	April is the start of the cooler season, with temperatures dropping slightly. The weather is generally pleasant, making it a great time to explore the island.
May	27° / 19°	May is relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 27°C. The weather is perfect for hiking and exploring the island's natural beauty.
June	25° / 17°	June is one of the coolest months in Reunion Island. The weather is generally dry, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
July	24° / 16°	July is the coolest month in Reunion Island, with temperatures dropping to 16°C. Despite the cooler weather, it's a great time to explore the island's scenic beauty.
August	24° / 16°	August is similar to July in terms of temperature. The weather is dry and cool, making it a great time for hiking and sightseeing.
September	25° / 17°	September marks the start of the warmer season. The weather is pleasant and it's a great time to enjoy the island's beaches.
October	27° / 19°	October sees a slight increase in temperature. The weather is generally pleasant, making it a great time to explore the island.
November	29° / 21°	November is quite warm with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 29°C. The weather is perfect for beach activities and exploring the island's natural beauty.
December	30° / 22°	December is one of the warmest months in Reunion Island. The weather is generally dry, making it a great time for outdoor activities.