Reunion Island

Miles Willis
Jul 23
5 min read

Réunion Island: The Indian Ocean’s Best-Kept Secret for South African Travellers

If you're a South African traveller yearning for an island escape that blends French flair with volcanic drama, lush rainforests, world-class hiking, and vibrant Creole culture — Réunion Island may be the paradise you've never considered. Nestled between Madagascar and Mauritius, this French overseas department remains one of the least discovered gems in the Indian Ocean, yet it offers a kaleidoscope of experiences unlike any other island destination.

Why South Africans Should Visit Réunion

While Mauritius and Zanzibar may be the obvious go-to island breaks for South Africans, Réunion offers something different. It’s not about all-inclusive beach resorts (though there are beautiful beaches), but rather about adventure, nature, and culture in a compact and accessible format. Réunion is perfect for travellers who want more than sun, sea, and sand – it's ideal for hikers, nature lovers, foodies, families, and culture seekers.

And the best part? No visa is required for South African passport holders for stays up to 90 days.

Getting There from South Africa

There are no direct flights from South Africa currently, but getting to Réunion is relatively simple. The most popular and cost-effective route is via Mauritius (with Air Mauritius or FlySafair from Johannesburg, Durban, or Cape Town), followed by a 45-minute connecting flight to Saint-Denis (Réunion’s capital) with Air Austral or Air Mauritius.

Flight times to Mauritius are around 4 hours, and onward to Réunion is less than 1 hour, making it a manageable journey even for families with kids.

Quick Tip:

When planning your Réunion trip, consider a 2-in-1 holiday with a stopover in Mauritius to enjoy the beach resort experience before or after your Réunion adventure.

Top Highlights and Experiences

1. Piton de la Fournaise – One of the World’s Most Active Volcanoes

You can hike around a volcano crater, feel the steam beneath your feet, and marvel at the surreal Martian-like landscapes. The Piton de la Fournaise is safe to visit and offers marked hiking trails suitable for moderate fitness levels. If the volcano is active, you might even witness lava flows – a once-in-a-lifetime sight.

2. Cilaos, Mafate, and Salazie – The Island’s Famous “Cirques”

These three natural amphitheatre-like calderas are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, carved by ancient volcanic activity and now draped in rainforest and waterfalls. Mafate is only accessible on foot or by helicopter, which makes it feel like a true explorer's paradise. Cilaos, with its charming French town, hot springs, and high-altitude vineyards, is a must-visit.

3. Saint-Gilles-les-Bains – Réunion’s Beach Hub

The west coast is where you’ll find the island’s best beaches, calm lagoons, and coral reefs. This is the perfect area for snorkelling, sunbathing, and family-friendly swimming, particularly at L’Hermitage Lagoon. The area is also dotted with cafes, beach bars, and upmarket hotels.

4. A Blend of Cultures

Réunion is a unique melting pot of French, Creole, Indian, Chinese, and African influences. You’ll hear French and Creole spoken side-by-side, see colourful temples next to colonial churches, and taste this fusion in the island’s cuisine.

5. Adventure Activities

• Paragliding over the coast• Canyoning and zip-lining in lush gorges• Scuba diving and snorkelling with turtles and tropical fish• Helicopter tours over the volcano and cirques• Surfing (only in designated safe areas due to sharks)• Trail running and mountain biking – Réunion is a sports haven!

Food & Drink

The cuisine is a delightful blend of French refinement and Creole spice. Think rougail saucisse (spicy sausage stew), cari (Reunionese curry), fresh seafood, and plenty of rice, lentils, and chillies. French wines, baguettes, and cheeses are readily available – it is France, after all.

Make sure to sample:

Bouchons – Dumpling snacks often served in baguettes
Samoussas – Spicy triangle snacks sold on street corners
Rhum arrangé – Homemade infused rum, a local specialty

Accommodation

Accommodation ranges from luxury beach resorts and boutique hotels to charming guesthouses and mountain lodges. For South Africans seeking adventure with comfort, a popular itinerary might include:

3 nights in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains (beach & lagoon relaxation)
2 nights in Cilaos or Salazie (hiking & culture)
2 nights near Piton de la Fournaise (volcano exploration)

Some recommended spots:

LUX Saint Gilles* – The island’s only 5-star beachfront resort
Palm Hotel & Spa – A romantic escape near the southern cliffs
Le Relais des Cimes – Budget-friendly charm in Hell-Bourg (Salazie)

Getting Around

A rental car is highly recommended to explore the island at your own pace. Roads are well-maintained but very winding in the highlands. Be prepared for mountain switchbacks and narrow passes – but the views are well worth it.

Alternatively, private transfers and guided day tours are widely available. Public transport is limited and best used within towns.

Driving Tip:

South Africans will be pleased to know that Réunion drives on the right-hand side, but signs are in French. GPS or Google Maps is a must.

Weather & When to Go

Réunion has a tropical climate:

May to October (winter) is dry, cooler, and best for hiking and volcano treks.
November to April (summer) is hotter and more humid, with a higher chance of cyclones – though it’s still a great time for beach stays.

If you're planning a family trip during South African school holidays, July or December work well. July is ideal for exploring inland areas and escaping the heat.

Budget & Costs (in ZAR)

Réunion is not cheap, thanks to its French pricing structure and use of the Euro, but it is still manageable for South Africans with smart planning.

Approximate peak season pricing (per person):

Return flights ex JNB: From about R16,220 per adult
7-night mid-range stay (B&B): From about R20,000 per adult sharing
Car hire: About R5,000 per week
Meals: About R150 – R300 per person (local snacks to restaurant dining)

For couples or families who prefer packages, IslandStays offer tailor-made itineraries including flights, car hire, and accommodation.

Travel Tips

Currency: Euro (€) – best to get some cash but cards are widely accepted.
Language: French and Creole – basic English is spoken in tourist areas.
Safety: Very safe for travellers; just swim only in designated beach areas due to shark risks.
Health: No vaccinations required. Tap water is safe to drink.

Final Thoughts

Réunion Island is an underrated jewel that combines the wild beauty of a volcanic island with European comforts, Creole soul, and adventure around every corner. For South African travellers who’ve done Mauritius or Zanzibar and want a thrilling, authentic island experience, Réunion delivers in every way.

Whether you’re hiking into a lost-world caldera, sipping chilled rosé on a black-sand beach, or flying over an active volcano, Réunion will stay with you long after you’ve left.