Piton de la Fournaise, volcanic cirques and Creole beaches
La Réunion, a French overseas department and region in the Indian Ocean, is a stunningly beautiful volcanic island nestled between Mauritius and Madagascar. Dominated by the Piton de la Fournaise (2,631 m), one of the world's most active volcanoes, the island offers breathtaking landscapes: the three natural cirques of Cilaos, Mafate and Salazie, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, make for exceptional hiking terrain. The west coast unfurls its lagoon beaches sheltered by a coral reef — Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, l'Hermitage and Boucan Canot beach. The island's Réunion Creole culture, a blend of European, African, Indian and Malagasy heritage, shines through in its cuisine (caris, rougails, samoussas) and traditional music (maloya). Intense and full of contrasts, La Réunion combines volcanoes, tropical forests and a turquoise lagoon in just 2,512 km².
Hotels in La Réunion
Creole cuisine, cari, rougail
Piton de la Fournaise, cirques, lagoon
Piton de la Fournaise, volcanic cirques and Creole beaches
| Capital | Saint-Denis |
|---|---|
| Area | 2 512 km² |
| Language | French |
| Currency | Euro |
| Visa | French ID card |
| Best time to visit | June – November |
The best time to visit is June – November. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
French national ID. Always check current entry requirements before travelling.
Flights serve La Réunion. Check available transport options from your departure point.
Piton de la Fournaise, volcanic cirques and Creole beaches. La Réunion, a French overseas department and region in the Indian Ocean, is a stunningly beautiful volcanic island nestled between Mauritius and Madagascar.