The Top 12 Things To Do And See On Reunion Island
One of France’s four overseas departments, Reunion Island is a three-million-year-old volcanic island located in the Indian Ocean. We’ve curated a list of the top 12 things to do on Reunion Island, from traditional tourist favourites to quirky alternatives.
Go whale and dolphin watching in the Indian Ocean
The shores of Reunion Island are home to many marine mammals. Many diving schools, as well as other establishments, offer sessions of whale and dolphin watching. Among the mammals you will get to see are blower dolphins, spotted dolphins, humpback whales, and the Risso dolphins, a species discovered off the shores of the island in 2003. Animal lovers are reassured, the O²CR label will help you choose an institution that is respectful of the animals and their habitat.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Take a sip of the local dodo beer
Although rum is the island’s alcohol of choice, beer amateurs will find a refreshing alternative, Bourbon beer, most commonly called Dodo beer because of its logo.
Taste the poulet bitume
Reunion Island also has its share of street food. Make up your own picnic on your way to the beach and buy a poulet bitume or poulet la route (literally, road chicken), a tasty marinated then grilled chicken that you can buy on the side of the road.
Walk up to the base of Reunion Island’s volcano Le Piton de la Fournaise
A (still) very active volcano, the 2,632 meter-high Piton de la Fournaise is a must-see on the island. Appreciate the lava-shaped landscapes as well as flamboyant vegetation while hiking on the volcano’s side. If you are not a big fan of hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking are great options too.
And for the volcano-obsessed out there, the Cité du Volcan Museum is more than recommended. 4D cinema, panoramic film and a lava tunnel replica will entertain both adults and children.
The Natural History Museum
Building, Museum
The Natural History Museum’s incredible collection of Indian Ocean flora and fauna is a must-see. Not only is the museum’s collection now classified as a historical monument but also the neoclassical architecture of the building as well as the botanical gardens surrounding it.
Wander through the Saint-Paul’s market
Market, Street Food
Creole food
Reunion Island’s cuisine has been influenced by Indian, Creole, and African cuisines plus many others. There is no better way to discover the island’s multicultural background than by trying the island’s typical dishes, such as rougail, samosas, massalé, carri or curry.
Sunbathe
For a more relaxing time, head to one of the island’s incredible beaches where pristine water meets golden sand. From sunrise to sunset, whether you like white sand beaches or black volcanic sand beaches, Reunion Island won’t let you down.
Compulsory items: Hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water
Take a tour of La Saga du Rhum museum
Distillery, Museum
Dive into the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean
If you are feeling adventurous, diving is an activity you don’t want to miss. The island’s rich and diverse ocean wildlife will blow your mind, whether you visit the south, east or west areas of the island. Since 2007, the island’s underwater ecosystem has been protected by the creation of the Natural Marine Reserve.
Bonus: You will finally get to use this underwater waterproof camera you had (almost) forgotten about.
Go hiking
Take a hike and explore Reunion Island’s UNESCO-recognized cirques and peaks. Since 2010, the island’s peaks, cirques, and ramparts are part of the natural World Heritage Sites. Pick a trail, pack your bag and go on an adventure.
Musée de Villèle
Museum
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.
KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
