5-Day Family-Friendly Culinary and Outdoor Adventure in Reunion Island

Reunion Island

5 days

Grande Anse
Cirque de Mafate
Reunion Island
Coastline
Mare aux Joncs, Cilaos cirque,

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.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Capital City of Saint-Denis

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the local market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and try some of the local fruits and pastries.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Creole lunch. Try the local specialties like rougail saucisse, a spicy sausage dish, and cari poulet, a chicken curry.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely stroll in the Botanical Garden. Discover the island's unique flora and fauna, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Dinner

Have a picnic dinner at the beach. Enjoy the sunset while feasting on a selection of local cheeses, fruits, and wine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely walk along the beach. Enjoy the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves.

Morning

Start your day with a hike to the Piton de la Fournaise. Enjoy the stunning views of the active volcano and the surrounding landscape.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch at the top of the volcano. Enjoy the breathtaking views while eating a selection of local cheeses, fruits, and wine.

Afternoon

Visit the Volcano Museum. Learn about the island's volcanic history and the formation of the Piton de la Fournaise.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Creole dinner. Try the local specialties like rougail saucisse, a spicy sausage dish, and cari poulet, a chicken curry.

Evening

End your day with a stargazing session. Enjoy the clear night sky and the stunning view of the Milky Way.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the local market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and try some of the local fruits and pastries.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Creole lunch. Try the local specialties like rougail saucisse, a spicy sausage dish, and cari poulet, a chicken curry.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely stroll in the Botanical Garden. Discover the island's unique flora and fauna, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Dinner

Have a picnic dinner at the beach. Enjoy the sunset while feasting on a selection of local cheeses, fruits, and wine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely walk along the beach. Enjoy the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves.

Morning

Start your day with a hike to the Piton des Neiges. Enjoy the stunning views of the highest peak on the island and the surrounding landscape.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch at the top of the peak. Enjoy the breathtaking views while eating a selection of local cheeses, fruits, and wine.

Afternoon

Visit the Natural History Museum. Learn about the island's unique flora and fauna, and the history of the island.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Creole dinner. Try the local specialties like rougail saucisse, a spicy sausage dish, and cari poulet, a chicken curry.

Evening

End your day with a stargazing session. Enjoy the clear night sky and the stunning view of the Milky Way.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the local market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and try some of the local fruits and pastries.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Creole lunch. Try the local specialties like rougail saucisse, a spicy sausage dish, and cari poulet, a chicken curry.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely stroll in the Botanical Garden. Discover the island's unique flora and fauna, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Dinner

Have a picnic dinner at the beach. Enjoy the sunset while feasting on a selection of local cheeses, fruits, and wine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely walk along the beach. Enjoy the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Botanical Garden

1
Botanical Garden

A lush garden showcasing the island's diverse plant life.

Parks
Gardens
Piton de la Fournaise

2
Piton de la Fournaise

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

Attractions
Landmarks
Volcano Museum

3
Volcano Museum

A museum dedicated to the study and understanding of volcanoes, particularly the active Piton de la Fournaise volcano on the island.

Museums
Piton des Neiges

4
Piton des Neiges

The highest point on Reunion Island, popular for hiking and mountaineering.

Attractions
Landmarks
Natural History Museum

5
Natural History Museum

A museum showcasing the island's rich natural history, including its unique flora and fauna.

Museums

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cari Poulet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 8

Wed

WWII Victory Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

July 14

Sun

French National Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 11

Mon

Armistice Day

December 20

Fri

Abolition of Slavery

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Local currency

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory cards for camera

  • Travel adapter for plugs

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for the flight

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

  • Snorkeling gear

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!

MonthHi / 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.

Did you know?

Did you know that Reunion Island is a French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar and southwest of Mauritius?

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