The Best Tropical Islands: Reunion

Reunion is unknown to many of the world’s travelers. This unique island in the middle of the Indian Ocean is simply one of the most intriguing spots on earth. With an active volcano on its south coast, 17 miles of warm, welcoming beaches in the west, and lots of mountains and forests in between, Reunion Island offers a little bit of everything to its travelers.

Quick Facts
Capital: Saint Denis
Population: 793,00
Size: 2,512 km²
Power Outlets: 230V/50Hz
Official Languages: French
Currency: Euro
Time Zone: GMT +4
Religion: Catholic, Hindu, Muslim
Calling Code: +262

When to go: The peak tourist seasons is from late June to early September. Cyclones are prevalent in February and March. The drier winter months are the most favorable for hiking.

Cost and Budgeting
Reunion is moderately expensive. Meals start at €10 and rooms begin at €20 euros. High end hotels start at €100 per night. Activities, such a paragliding, usually being at €60 euros. Overall, a trip to Reunion can be done quite cheaply if you stay in moderate accommodation and do not have a lot of expensive meals.

Things to Do and See in Reunion

Visit a Volcano- Reunion’s rugged interior is formed by Salazies Mountain in the west and the Grand Brule Mountain in the east, where visitors will find the island’s still-active volcano, the Piton de la Fournaise.
Check out the cirques- The island’s three cirques dominate the topography of the interior portion of Reunion. Often described as natural amphitheaters, cirques (a volcano that collapsed upon itself) offer not only amazing photo opportunities but also hiking adventures and wildlife sightings.
Hike- Reunion has amazing lush, green forests where you’ll view birds, hike through gorges, view amazing and abundant waterfalls.
Surf- The lively town of St Leu is the perfect location for avid surfers.
Scuba Dive/Snorkel- There are a few reefs off the cast that offer spectacular view of African tropical fish and coral among the turquoise blue water.
Visit Jardin de l’Etat - This is a beautiful botanic garden where you can sit down and relax. It has a nice collection of plants and trees from the local islands in the region. There is also a natural history museum located in the gardens.
Venture to the Aquarium - In the town of St. Gilles les Bains there is an impressive aquarium complex that is basically an underwater zoo. A great place to take children or spend several hours of your day.
Practice your Photography Skills- There are a lot of beautiful wild orchids,which some of the locals cut and then sell down below in the village of hell-bourg. Perfect opportunity to get some very pretty photos or bring your field guide so you can try and identify some of plants.

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