Reunion Island 4 Day Itinerary

Reunion Island 4-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Saint-Denis and the surrounding area

  • Morning: Arrival at Roland Garros Airport (RUN) in Saint-Denis, the administrative capital of Reunion. Get settled and have breakfast at a local café.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Notre-Dame de Bon Secours church, the historical center of Saint-Denis, and the Maison du Whisky, where you can learn about the local rum production. Take a stroll around Place des Lices, a vibrant market selling local produce, spices, and handicrafts.
  • Evening: Head to Boucan Canot for a sunset dinner overlooking the Indian Ocean. Try the island’s famous Creole cuisine.

Day 2: Visit Salazie Highlands

  • Morning: Rent a car (recommended) or join a guided tour to explore the Salazie Highlands. Start with the beautiful Mare-aux-Fouques, a volcanic crater lake.
  • Afternoon: Discover the picturesque village of Hell-Bourg, known for its colorful houses and local market. Visit the Église Saint-Exupéry and explore the surrounding tea plantations.
  • Evening: Relax at Haut Bois waterfall, take a dip in the natural pool, or hike the nearby trails. Return to Saint-Denis for dinner.

Day 3: Explore the Cirque de Salazie and Cilaos

  • Morning: Head to the Cirque de Salazie, a spectacular volcanic amphitheater. Stop at the Grand Erre viewpoint for panoramic views of the cirque.
  • Afternoon: Continue your journey towards Cilaos, a charming mountain village known for its dramatic landscapes. Visit La Grotte des Chateau, a natural limestone cave.
  • Evening: Dine at a local restaurant in Cilaos, then return to Saint-Denis or your accommodation for the night.

Day 4: Relax and explore Saint-Gilles-les-Bains

  • Morning: Travel to Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, Reunion’s most famous beach destination. Spend the morning relaxing on the black sand beach or participating in water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or windsurfing.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Lava Chasm (Gouffre de la Roulette) and take a guided tour to learn about the island’s volcanic history. Alternatively, explore the nearby Saint-Leu village for local artisanal shops and restaurants.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or return to Saint-Denis for one last taste of Creole cuisine before departing the next day.

Travel Essentials:

  1. Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Reunion Island, as public transportation can be limited outside of Saint-Denis. Alternatively, guided tours are available for those who prefer not to drive.
  2. Accommodations: There are various accommodation options on Reunion Island, from hotels and guesthouses to vacation rentals. Book in advance during peak travel seasons.
  3. Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days in Reunion Island as part of the Schengen Area. Consult your local embassy or consulate to confirm requirements for your specific nationality.
  4. Money: The official currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
  5. Language: French is the official language, but Creole is also spoken by many locals. English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic phrases can be helpful.
  6. Weather: Reunion Island has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) year-round. Pack lightweight clothing, a waterproof jacket for rainy days, and comfortable walking shoes.
  7. Safety: Exercise the usual precautions when traveling. Some areas of Reunion Island have experienced volcanic activity in the past, but it is generally safe to visit. Always stay informed about local conditions and follow the advice of local authorities.

Enjoy your trip to Reunion Island! Embrace its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine for an unforgettable travel experience.