Réunion Island Vacations — The Volcanic Jewel of the Indian Ocean
France
Réunion Island is one of the Indian Ocean's most extraordinary and underrated destinations — a French overseas territory with a dramatic volcanic landscape, world-class hiking trails through the extraordinary cirques of Cilaos, Mafate, and Salazie, an active volcano (Piton de la Fournaise), and a vibrant Creole culture. Réunion is often called 'the island of intense' for the extraordinary concentration of natural wonders in a small area.
Why Visit Réunion Island?
- ✓Piton de la Fournaise — one of the world's most active volcanoes
- ✓Cirque de Mafate — accessible only by foot or helicopter
- ✓Grand Raid — one of the world's most challenging trail running races
- ✓Piton des Neiges — the highest peak in the Indian Ocean
- ✓Saint-Gilles-les-Bains — the main beach resort with a beautiful lagoon
Things to Do in Réunion Island
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
Piton de la Fournaise Hike
Hike to the crater of Piton de la Fournaise — one of the world's most active volcanoes, with extraordinary lava fields and caldera views.
Cirque de Mafate Trekking
Trek through the extraordinary Cirque de Mafate — accessible only by foot or helicopter, with stunning mountain scenery and remote villages.
Helicopter Tour
Take a helicopter tour over the extraordinary volcanic landscape — the cirques, the volcano, and the dramatic coastline.
Saint-Gilles Beach
Relax on the beautiful beach at Saint-Gilles-les-Bains — a protected lagoon with excellent snorkelling and water sports.
Creole Village Tour
Explore the extraordinary Creole villages of the cirques — traditional architecture, local cuisine, and a warm welcome.
Canyoning
Go canyoning in one of Réunion's extraordinary canyons — the island has some of the world's finest canyoning routes.
Ready to book your Réunion Island trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in Réunion Island
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Fine Creole
Le Reflet des Îles, Saint-Denis
Réunion's most celebrated restaurant — exceptional modern Creole cuisine using local ingredients.
Traditional Creole
Case Créole, Cilaos
A beloved restaurant in the extraordinary cirque of Cilaos — exceptional traditional Creole cuisine including rougail saucisses and carry poulet.
Seafood
Le Vieux Port, Saint-Gilles
A beautiful seafood restaurant on the harbour at Saint-Gilles — exceptional fresh fish and lobster.
Where to Stay in Réunion Island
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
Iloha Seaview Hotel
Mid-RangeA beautiful hotel on the west coast — excellent views of the Indian Ocean, good food, and a perfect base for exploring the island.
Le Récif Hotel, Saint-Gilles
Mid-RangeA comfortable hotel near the beach at Saint-Gilles — good facilities and a perfect location for beach holidays.
Gîtes de Mafate
BoutiqueSimple mountain gîtes in the Cirque de Mafate — the only accommodation in this extraordinary remote cirque, accessible only by foot.
Planning Your Réunion Island Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
May through November — the dry season with pleasant weather and the best conditions for hiking. December through April is the cyclone season.
🌤️ Climate
Tropical with a dry season (May–November) and a wet season (December–April). The highlands are cooler than the coast.
✈️ Getting There
Connecting flights from Calgary to Roland Garros Airport (RUN) near Saint-Denis via Paris, Johanne travel time approximately 24–28 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions — Réunion Island
Is Réunion Island good for hiking?
Réunion is one of the world's great hiking destinations — the GR R1 and GR R2 trails through the cirques are extraordinary, and the Piton de la Fournaise hike is one of the most spectacular in the world.
Do Canadians need a visa for Réunion Island?
Réunion is a French overseas territory, so the same visa rules apply as for France. Canadian citizens can visit visa-free for up to 90 days with a valid passport.
Is Réunion Island a beach destination?
Réunion has beautiful beaches on the west coast (Saint-Gilles, Saint-Leu), but it is primarily known for its extraordinary volcanic landscape and hiking. It is a perfect destination for active travellers.
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Book Your Réunion Island Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Réunion Island vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your Réunion Island Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your Réunion Island travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.