Reunion

Réunion is a remarkable island department of France, lost in the Indian Ocean to the east of Madagascar. Its uniqueness lies in the striking combination of European influence and a vibrant Creole culture, shaped by African, Indian, and Chinese traditions. The administrative capital of the island is the bustling city of Saint-Denis, where you can feel the pulse of local life and begin your exploration of this exotic corner.

Réunion's nature is its greatest treasure. The island, which is of volcanic origin, astounds with its dramatic landscapes: from active volcanoes, such as the famous Piton de la Fournaise, to lush tropical forests, deep ravines, picturesque waterfalls, and inviting beaches. Here you can explore wonderful nature parks, such as the Jardin de l'État in the capital, or go hiking on one of the many trails. The climate on the island is tropical, making it an attractive year-round destination, although the rainy and cyclone seasons should be taken into account.

Réunion offers an incredible variety of activities for tourists: from trekking along mountain paths and canyoning to diving in coral reefs and paragliding over breathtaking landscapes. Beyond its natural wonders, the island charms with its authentic atmosphere, delicious Creole cuisine, and the hospitality of its local people. Given the island's diverse Muslim community, many restaurants offer halal food options. Mosques and prayer facilities are also available, particularly in cities like Saint-Denis. Towns such as Saint-Pierre on the south coast also offer their own unique attractions and leisure opportunities.

As an overseas department of France, the official currency of Reunion is the euro (EUR). Banknotes in circulation range from €5 to €500 and feature various European architectural styles, with windows and gateways on one side and bridges on the other, symbolising openness and connection between the nations of Europe. Euro coins have a standard European design on one side and a national design, which in this case is French, on the reverse.

If you are arriving from a country outside the Eurozone, such as the UAE, you can exchange your currency at banks or official exchange offices (bureaux de change). These are found in major towns like Saint-Denis and at the airport. It is advisable to compare rates and commission fees before exchanging money; banks typically offer more favourable rates than airports or hotels. Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, shops, and petrol stations. However, it is always useful to carry a small amount of cash for minor purchases at markets or in smaller establishments, especially in more remote areas.

When planning your trip to Réunion, it's essential to understand the visa requirements in advance. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates holding a UAE passport, a visa is not required for short-term stays of up to 90 days. Réunion is an overseas department of France, but it is not part of the Schengen Area, and its visa policies are different.

Regardless of your nationality, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in Réunion. It is also highly recommended to carry return or onward travel tickets, proof of accommodation, and a travel insurance policy to cover any potential expenses on the island. For residents of the UAE who hold passports from other countries, visa requirements will vary based on your nationality, and you should check with the French consulate or an official visa processing centre for the most current information. As visa rules can change, it is strongly advised to verify the latest entry requirements on the official websites of French embassies or visa centres before your travels.

Reunion's time zone is UTC+4. This is the same as Gulf Standard Time (GST) in the UAE, so you will not experience any time difference. This makes it convenient to plan your flights and stay in touch with family and friends back home.

The primary way to get to Reunion is by air. For travellers from the UAE, the most common route involves a connecting flight, as there are currently no direct services. The island is served by international airports, the main one being Roland Garros Airport, located near the capital, Saint-Denis.

Flights from the UAE, particularly from Dubai International Airport (DXB), are operated by several airlines with connections typically made in Mauritius (MRU), Nairobi (NBO), or Johannesburg (JNB). Key airlines on these routes include Emirates, Air Mauritius, and Kenya Airways. The total journey time, including layovers, usually starts from around nine and a half hours.

Although Reunion is an island, there are no regular passenger ferry services from the African continent or the Middle East. However, the island is sometimes included in the itineraries of international cruise liners, offering a unique way to arrive by sea as part of a longer voyage. This option is more of a travel experience in itself rather than a primary means of reaching the island.

When planning your trip to Reunion, it is advisable to book your flights well in advance. This is especially true if you plan to travel during peak seasons, such as the major UAE public holidays (like Eid) or European school holidays. Early booking not only helps in securing better fares but also ensures availability on your preferred flights.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main airports on the island:

Reunion Island is a destination of incredible contrasts, offering something special for every traveller. It boasts both lively coastal cities and quiet settlements nestled amongst volcanic landscapes and tropical forests. Visitors will discover cultural centres with colonial architecture, as well as resorts with beautiful beaches and ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

The island's capital, Saint-Denis, is its main administrative and cultural hub. This city is known for its vibrant Creole architecture, bustling markets like the famous Grand Marché, and a beautiful waterfront. Here, you can delve into the island's history, visit museums, and enjoy the atmosphere of a true Reunionese city. For Muslim travellers, Saint-Denis is home to the Noor-e-Islam mosque, the oldest in France, and offers numerous halal dining options.

Other popular destinations include Saint-Pierre on the south coast, often called the "southern capital". This city is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, a stunning beach, and a lagoon perfect for water sports. It also features the impressive Atyaboul Massadjid mosque, which welcomes visitors and has guides available. Further east, you will find Saint-Benoît, surrounded by lush vegetation. It serves as a gateway for exploring the unspoilt nature of the island's east, with trails leading to waterfalls and into the Marsouins River valley.

Reunion, an emerald island in the Indian Ocean, offers travellers not only magnificent beaches and volcanic landscapes but also a host of interesting places to visit. There is something for everyone here, from tranquil parks to bustling shopping centres.

One of the jewels of the island's capital is the Jardin de l'État (Garden of the State). This historic botanical garden, founded in the 18th century, once served to acclimatise plants brought from all over the world. Today, it is a beautiful place for a walk among exotic trees and flowers, a true oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the island's administrative centre.

Also in the capital is the Parc de la Trinité (Trinity Park). This is a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists, where you can enjoy nature, have a picnic, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features well-maintained paths and green lawns, creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.

For fans of outdoor activities and panoramic views, the Parc du Colorado (Colorado Park) is spread out on the outskirts of the capital. It offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Its higher ground provides breathtaking views of the coast, making it an excellent spot for photo opportunities and enjoying nature.

If you find yourself in one of the lively towns on the island's southern coast, do not miss the opportunity to visit the Saint-Pierre Shopping Centre. This is a modern complex where you can find a variety of shops and boutiques, as well as cafés and restaurants. It is an excellent place for shopping, buying souvenirs, or simply enjoying your time. Many of the larger food courts in Reunion offer halal options, and prayer facilities can often be found within or near major shopping areas.

The best time to visit Réunion is during the cooler, dry season, which runs from May to November. During this period, the weather is most favourable for outdoor activities: temperatures are comfortable, there are plenty of sunny days, and the humidity is lower. It is the ideal time to explore the island's famous volcanic cirques (Mafate, Salazie, Cilaos), climb the Piton de la Fournaise volcano, and enjoy the beaches on the west coast. A huge advantage of this season is the opportunity to watch humpback whales, which migrate to the shores of Réunion from June to October. However, it is worth noting that this is the peak tourist season, so prices for flights and accommodation may be higher, and popular trails and beaches can be more crowded.

The hot and humid season in Réunion occurs between December and April. During this time, air temperature and humidity are significantly higher, with frequent heavy but usually brief downpours. The highest probability of tropical cyclones is from January to March, which could affect travel plans. Despite this, travelling in the low season has its advantages: there are considerably fewer tourists, accommodation prices can be lower, and the island's nature is on full display in all its emerald glory. In December, the island hosts the vibrant Festival Liberté Métisse, which commemorates the anniversary of the abolition of slavery. It is important to remember that Réunion is known for its microclimates: the west coast is generally sunnier and drier, while the east coast receives more rainfall. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast for specific areas before and during your trip, especially if you are planning to go hiking in the mountains.

The culture of Reunion is a vibrant mix of European, African, and Asian traditions, which is reflected in the daily lives and customs of the islanders. Greetings here are typically warm and friendly. A handshake is common, and between people who know each other well, kisses on both cheeks ("la bise") are customary, just as in France. It is polite to use "Monsieur" or "Madame" when addressing people. The locals are very hospitable; if you are invited into a home, it is good manners to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as sweets, flowers, or a small souvenir from your country. Although the official language is French, Reunionese Creole is widely spoken. Knowing a few phrases in French will be greatly appreciated.

In daily life on Reunion, respect and politeness are highly valued. There are no special dress code requirements in public places, and the style of dress is usually casual and relaxed. However, when visiting religious sites—such as churches, mosques, or Tamil temples—one should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Beachwear is appropriate only at the beach or by the pool. At the dining table, European rules of etiquette are followed; it is customary to wait until everyone has been served before starting to eat. Given the island's diverse population, many restaurants offer halal food options. It is considered impolite to speak loudly or draw excessive attention to oneself. Also, always ask for permission before taking photographs of local residents.

One of the most significant holidays on the island is Fèt Kaf, celebrated on the 20th of December. This day commemorates the abolition of slavery and is marked by colourful processions, music, dancing, and cultural events that reflect the island's rich heritage. French national holidays, such as Bastille Day on the 14th of July, are also widely celebrated. By showing interest in and respect for local traditions, you can immerse yourself more deeply in the unique atmosphere of this amazing island and make your journey even more memorable.

Reunion is an island that offers an amazing variety of entertainment to suit all tastes. Fans of outdoor activities will be delighted by the volcanic landscapes, which are ideal for hiking and trekking, especially around the famous Piton de la Fournaise volcano. Canyoning and paragliding are popular here, and the coastal waters offer opportunities for diving among coral reefs, surfing and, in certain seasons, whale watching. The island is truly made for outdoor adventures.

The cultural programme on Reunion is also rich. You can discover the unique Creole culture and visit small but interesting museums dedicated to the island's history, its traditional sugar production, or its volcanic activity. It is also worth visiting the colourful botanical gardens and spice plantations. For family holidays, the safe lagoon beaches on the west coast are perfect, as are the numerous nature parks. In the towns, including the capital Saint-Denis, you can find galleries and enjoy local festivals or concerts. The island has a significant Muslim heritage, and most large towns have a mosque, with the Noor-e-Islam Mosque in Saint-Denis being the oldest in all of France, completed in 1905.

In the evening, Reunion offers a relaxed atmosphere in its many restaurants and cafés, especially in coastal cities like Saint-Pierre and, of course, Saint-Denis. Here you can enjoy live music and try Creole and French cuisine; halal options are widely available, as a local authority certifies establishments. When it comes to shopping, popular souvenirs from the island include aromatic vanilla, various spices, essential oils, and local handicrafts. For unique gifts, be sure to visit the colourful markets or small shops in the towns.

Planning a trip? That's wonderful! To avoid any financial surprises during your travels, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we highly recommend monitoring the latest rates, both before you depart and throughout your trip. You can use the data provided below for this purpose, as we monitor exchange rates 24/7 to provide the most current information.