Africa
Reunion
French overseas department with volcanic hiking, beaches and EU infrastructure, safe and well served. French (and Creole) dominates and prices are Metropolitan-France level; public transport is limited.
- CurrencyEURUS$1 ≈ €0.89Details
- English1/5RareDetails
- PlugsType C, E230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency112Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18 · All emergencies 112
- Tap waterYes, drinkableTap water is safe in most towns; after cyclones, locals sometimes advise boiling during flooding.Details
- LGBTQ+Marriage equalityFrench law applies, including same-sex marriage; attitudes are more conservative than mainland France, but the island is generally accepting.Details
- DrivingOn the rightEU licences are valid; most others are valid for up to a year with a French translation or IDP.
Where to go in Reunion
3 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saint-Gilles-les-BainsTown | 4/5 | $2,250–3,380 | May–Nov | — |
| Saint-DenisCapital city | 4/5 | $2,030–3,040 | May–Nov | — |
| Saint-PierreCity | 4/5 | $2,030–3,040 | May–Nov | — |
When to visit Reunion
May–November is drier and cooler, best for hiking and whales (July–September). December–April is hot and rainy; cyclone season peaks January–March.
Good to know
Entry
- French rules apply: EU/Schengen citizens need only ID; many others are visa-exempt for 90 days but Réunion is outside the Schengen area.
- Visa and entry rules differ from mainland France; confirm with French authorities before booking.
- Direct flights from Paris and Mauritius; no separate arrival card.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Swimming and surfing are banned outside designated zones due to sharks
- Drug offences carry French penalties
- Camping outside designated sites is restricted
Etiquette
- Greet with 'bonjour' before any request
- Respect nature reserves and marked trails
Tipping
Service is included; leaving small change is optional.
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.