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Reunion Island Bucket List: Volcanoes, Beaches, and French Island Charm

Just a four-hour flight from Johannesburg, Reunion Island offers an extraordinary blend of tropical beauty and French flair.

2.2min read

Published 11 July 2025

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

Just a four-hour flight from Johannesburg, Reunion Island offers an extraordinary blend of tropical beauty and French flair.

It’s a place where lush rainforests meet volcanic peaks, where white-sand beaches give way to charming Creole villages, and where you can spend your morning hiking through jaw-dropping landscapes and your afternoon sipping wine by the sea. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or something in between, Reunion is a bucket list destination in every sense.

In this blog

Where to Go on Reunion Island

Reunion may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to the sheer diversity of landscapes and wildlife. Start in Saint-Denis, the island’s capital, known for its colonial architecture, local markets, and village-like charm. It’s a great introduction to the island’s French-Creole culture and a base for exploring the north.

The island’s west coast is all about sunshine and sea views. Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is the go-to beach town. If you like the typical Indian ocean island paradise you’ll be delighted with the golden sands, calm lagoons, and plenty of water activities like snorkelling and paddleboarding. Inland, you’ll find the jaw-dropping Cirque de Mafate, a caldera formed by a collapsed volcano that’s only accessible on foot or by helicopter. It’s one of the most unique hiking destinations in the world.

As you venture further down south, the scenery gets wild and dramatic. Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes dominates the landscape. You can hike around the rim or take a guided tour across the lunar-like terrain. Be warned though…it’s only for the brave!

The eastern side of the island is jungle-like and tropical, with rainforests, waterfalls, and a more off-the-beaten-track experience. Or should we say even more off-the-beaten-track?

What to Do on Reunion Island

There’s the obvious attraction of lazing around by the ocean or pool and spending your days snorkelling in the calm lagoons around Saint-Gilles, where protected coral reefs and marine life thrive. So yes, you could spend most of the day admiring the beaches, it would be a shame to miss out on everything else this gorgeous little island has to offer.

A visit to Cilaos or Salazie, two of the island’s three cirques, will reward you with hot springs, charming guesthouses, and some of the most scenic drives you’ll ever experience. You can also take a rum distillery tour or visit one of the island’s botanical gardens to learn more about the local flora.

If you're an adrenaline junkie, Reunion Island delivers in spades. You can hike up the slopes of Piton de la Fournaise, explore ancient lava tunnels, or paraglide over the island’s interior. The island is also a paradise for trail runners and cyclists, with well-marked routes that wind through every type of terrain imaginable.

Reunion Island Food: The Must Eats

Reunion’s food is a delicious mix of French, Creole, Indian, and Chinese influences. Carri - a spiced stew usually made with chicken, fish, or seafood - is the island’s signature dish. Usually, it’ll be served with rice, beans, and rougail, a spicy tomato-based condiment.

Street food is a big part of the culture. Don't miss the chance to explore little local markets where you can try Creole delicacies like samosas, fresh vanilla, and tropical fruits. And make sure you keep an eye out for bouchons (dumpling-like snacks often served in a baguette with chilli sauce) and sweet treats like bonbons coco – or coconut candy, literally translated. For dessert, don't miss out on anything made with the island’s famous vanilla, or try a scoop of tangy passionfruit sorbet.

When to Go (And for How Long)

Reunion is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to November, when the weather is cooler and perfect for outdoor adventures. The wet season from December to April is warmer and more humid, but it's still a beautiful time to enjoy the island’s waterfalls and rainforests.

A five- to seven-day trip gives you enough time to explore the highlights, from beaches and volcanoes to hikes and local towns. If you want to slow things down and add in a few extra beach days or longer hikes, ten days is ideal.

Where to Stay on Reunion Island

Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or something with local flair, Reunion has some incredible accommodation options:

Hotel le Recif – A charming three‑star resort, set in three hectares of tropical gardens, featuring Creole-style villas, two pools, on-site restaurants, and easy access to beach activities
LUX Saint Gilles* – The only five-star resort on the island. It has a prime location on a white sandy beach, along with great food and all the amenities you could want.
La Villa Delisle – A five-star boutique hotel, blending Creole-style elegance with modern amenities—including two restaurants, a spa, pool, and on-site casino—just steps from the lagoon

Flight Centre’s Expert Tips for Reunion Island

Mpume Conco is one of our experts at Clearwater Flight Centre. Her insider tips will help Reunion newbies come to the island totally prepared for all situations!

Mpume says that La Plage des Brisants is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. But on top of that, she also has some tips on what your Reunion Island holiday wardrobe should look like, and a couple of safety tips to keep in mind.

Mpume’s Tips on What to Wear:

Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing suited to the tropical climate.
Bring layers for cooler evenings or excursions to higher altitudes.
Activewear and comfortable shoes are essential for hiking and exploring.
Swimsuits and cover-ups are perfect for beach days.

Reunion

Expert tip

Don’t forget essentials like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to stay protected from the sun.

Mpume

Conco

Mpume’s Safety Notes:

Be mindful of shark activity around the island. Always adhere to local regulations and warnings regarding swimming and surfing.
Many beaches and areas have restrictions in place for safety reasons, so it’s important to stay informed.

Book Your Reunion Island Adventure with Flight Centre

Reunion Island might be close geographically, but it feels like a world away. Let Flight Centre take care of the logistics so you can focus on exploring one of the Indian Ocean’s most magical islands. Whether you're after hiking, beach days, or a mix of both, we've got you covered with flexible packages and expert advice.

From daydream to dream holiday - your centre for travel makes it happen.

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

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*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Prices are in ZAR and are correct as at the date of publication & are subject to availability and change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until the dates specified unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person. We charge an Online Booking Fee for flight bookings made online. These fees are charged in addition to the advertised price and displayed fares. View Booking Terms and Conditions for more information.

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