Ah, Réunion Island! A volcanic jewel shimmering in the Indian Ocean, where dramatic peaks kiss cottony clouds, where waterfalls cascade into emerald pools, and where the scent of vanilla hangs heavy in the air.
For French tourists seeking an escape that blends breathtaking natural beauty with a touch of the familiar, a five-day road trip in Réunion is the perfect recipe for adventure.
Before you embark on your adventure, a little preparation goes a long way. As an overseas department of France, Réunion offers French citizens the significant advantage of being a domestic destination. This means no need for visas, currency exchange, language translation, or major cultural adjustments. A valid French national identity card is sufficient for you to enter and stay on the Island for an unlimited period. It feels like a trip within France but with a tropical twist.
Book your flights well in advance, especially if travelling during peak season around July to August and December to January. Airlines in Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Paris Orly Airport (ORY) offer direct flights to Roland Garros Airport (RUN) near Saint-Denis, the island’s capital. The average flight time from Paris to Réunion is approximately 11 to 11.5 hours. This can vary slightly depending on the airline and weather conditions.
It is also advisable to reserve your accommodation ahead of time. Réunion offers a range of options, from charming guesthouses and boutique hotels to luxurious resorts. Since this tour involves driving to various places, you might need to book different accommodations based on your itinerary.
Make sure that you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, cancellations, and loss of belongings. Consult your doctor about any necessary vaccinations or health precautions. While malaria is not a risk, dengue fever can occur, so bring insect repellent.
Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Include swimwear, hiking shoes, comfortable walking shoes, a light raincoat, and a jumper or fleece for cooler evenings in the highlands. The sun can be intense, so bring high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
Driving in Réunion Island should feel quite familiar as it adheres to French traffic laws and regulations. It’s like driving back home. However, there are still important aspects to consider for a smooth and safe journey.
Make sure that your driving licence has been valid for at least one year. An international driving permit is generally not mandatory for stays of up to one year. However, some car rental companies might still request one and could have a minimum driving age of around 21. It is always a good idea to check with them directly beforehand.
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are usually signposted and are in kilometres per hour. Be mindful of these limits as they can change frequently and drastically, especially in mountainous regions. Just like in France, priority is often given to vehicles coming from the right unless indicated otherwise.
Seat belts are compulsory for all occupants of the vehicle. It is against the law to use a mobile phone while driving unless using a hands-free device. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 grams per litre of blood (0.2 g/l for drivers with probationary licences). If you plan to drink, assign a designated driver who will stay sober.
Of course, to go on a road trip, you will need a car. Booking your rental car in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider the type of vehicle you will need. Given the mountainous terrain, a more powerful car might be preferable, particularly if you plan on exploring the island’s interior.
Check the car rental agreement thoroughly, paying attention to the insurance coverage and any excess charges. It is recommended to have insurance as road conditions and risks can differ from mainland France. Familiarise yourself with the general geography of the island and plan your route.
Road conditions in Réunion Island are generally good, with well-maintained national and departmental roads. However, the island's volcanic and mountainous nature means that many roads are narrow and winding, with significant elevation changes. Exercise caution on these routes, especially if you are not accustomed to such driving conditions.
Night driving in mountainous and rural areas can be hazardous. During the rainy season, which typically occurs around the summer months, heavy rainfall can lead to road closures due to flooding, landslides, and rockfalls, especially in the highlands. Always check local traffic reports before embarking on a journey, especially if heavy rain is forecast.
The coastal road around the island is a major route and can become congested, especially during rush hours in larger towns like Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre. Parking is generally free, except in some tourist areas or private car parks. Pay attention to parking signs and avoid parking in areas that would obstruct traffic.
Now that you're all set, let's dive into your exciting five-day road trip itinerary! Réunion, often called the "Island of Intense Beauty", offers a fantastic array of activities catering to diverse interests, from challenging hikes up the cirques to relaxing sunbaths on the golden beaches. No matter your preferences, the island provides an unforgettable and diverse travel experience.
Upon arrival at Roland Garros Airport, collect your rental car and head towards Saint-Denis, the island's bustling capital. Explore the charming streets, beginning with a stroll along the Barachois, a scenic waterfront promenade lined with cannons.
Visit the Jardin de l'État, a beautiful colonial-era garden with exotic plants and historical monuments. Immerse yourself in local culture at the Grand Marché, a vibrant market overflowing with colourful textiles, spices, vanilla, and local crafts. Allow ample time to soak in the atmosphere, try local snacks, and pick up some souvenirs.
Indulge in a delicious Creole lunch at one of the many “tables d'hôte” (homestle restaurants). Savour local specialities like “rougail saucisse” (sausage stew) or “cari poulet” (chicken curry). After lunch, take a short drive to the Temple Tamoul Narassingua Peroumal, a stunning and intricately decorated Hindu temple—a testament to the island's diverse cultural heritage.
Afterwards, consider a visit to the Musée Léon Dierx, showcasing a collection of European and local art. As the day closes, enjoy a lovely dinner, perhaps trying a restaurant with views over the illuminated Barachois. Check into your accommodation to prepare for another day!
For the second day, prepare to be mesmerised by the breathtaking beauty of the Cirque de Salazie, one of Réunion's three natural amphitheatres. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive towards the east coast and then inland towards Salazie. This takes around 40 minutes. The drive itself is a treat, with lush vegetation and glimpses of the dramatic landscape to come.
Your first major stop will be Hell-Bourg, a charming and colourful Creole village classified as one of France's "Most Beautiful Villages". Wander through its quaint streets lined with traditional Creole houses adorned with vibrant flowers. You can enjoy a traditional Creole lunch here. Many restaurants offer stunning views of the surrounding cirque.
After lunch, admire the numerous waterfalls that give Salazie its nickname, "the land of a thousand waterfalls". The most famous one is Cascade du Voile de la Mariée, a stunning sight where multiple streams of water cascade down the cliff face, resembling a bride's veil. It's easily visible from the road between Salazie and Hell-Bourg, and there's a short walk to get closer and take pictures.
In the evening, drive back towards the coast and check into your accommodation, preferably near Saint-André, where our next trip will begin. The drive from Salazie to Saint-André takes around 30 minutes.
The third-day itinerary takes you along the east coast, known for its vanilla plantations. Start your day with a visit to one of the plantations in Saint-André. Several plantations offer guided tours where you can learn about the fascinating process of cultivating and curing this precious spice, a significant part of Réunion's agricultural heritage.
Plantation de la Vanille Roulof is a family-owned plantation that has been dedicated to vanilla production for generations. They are unique as they handle all stages of production, from planting to selling the final product. Mr. Roulof, the owner, personally conducts guided tours of his farm, so you will get to hear firsthand experience from someone who has been involved in vanilla cultivation since childhood. The plantation has a shop where you can purchase their vanilla and other specialised products after your tour.
After a sweet trip to the vanilla plantation, enjoy a seafood lunch at a restaurant along the east coast, savouring fresh catches of the day. Once you are full, embark on a scenic 30-minute drive south along the coastal road towards Saint-Benoît, then inwards again to Grand Etang, the largest lake on Reunion Island, formed by a lava flow. It is a protected natural site where you can go hiking and horseback riding or simply enjoy a fun picnic in the middle of the lush forest.
Before nightfall, drive for around 40 minutes to Bourg-Murat in Le Tampon, the gateway to the Piton de la Fournaise volcano. Check in at your accommodation here and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
The fourth day is dedicated to exploring the awe-inspiring Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Start early by driving along the scenic Route du Volcan to the Pas de Bellecombe. This is the viewpoint overlooking the Enclos Fouqué, the caldera of the Piton de la Fournaise. From here, you can embark on a hike into the caldera.
A popular option is the hike to the main crater, Dolomieu, which takes around three to five hours, depending on your fitness level and the chosen path. It might seem like a challenging trek, but the lunar-like landscapes along the trail are worth it. Hikers who make the trek to the Dolomieu crater are often struck by this raw, powerful, and seemingly extraterrestrial scenery.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the unique scenery, then begin your descent from the volcano, taking in the changing light over the dramatic landscape. Be sure to check the volcano's activity status before your visit, and dress appropriately for varying altitudes and weather conditions.
After your tiring but fun volcanic adventure, it's time to unwind and enjoy the stunning west coast, known for its beaches and lagoons. Drive to the west and then go a bit north to check in at one of the hotels in L'Etang, Saint-Louis. This drive takes around 1.5 hours.
Start your day with a visit to Étang-Salé Beach, a remarkable stretch of coastline known for its black sand, a unique feature resulting from the island's volcanic origins, where basalt and coral mix. There is a protected swimming area located near the port, enclosed by a small coral reef, making it safer and calmer for families and swimming.
If you want more aquatic adventures, take a short drive north to the picturesque lagoon of Saint-Leu. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, paragliding, or simply relaxing by the turquoise waters and sunbathing on the white sand. Alternatively, you can visit the Kélonia, a sea turtle observatory in Saint-Leu, dedicated to the conservation of these fascinating creatures.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the ocean views. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains. Then, drive for an hour back to Roland Garros Airport for your departure.
Your road trip through Réunion Island promises an unforgettable adventure filled with dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, and the warm hospitality of its people. Here are some tips to have an enjoyable vacation.
The key to a smooth, hassle-free road trip is a well-thought-out itinerary and a reliable car! We have already listed your must-see places and must-do activities. Now, it’s time for you to choose a trusty companion for your self-drive adventure.
Finalrentals makes it easy for you to find your ideal ride in Réunion with a variety of vehicle options and a user-friendly platform. Reserving a car is easy and affordable, with no hidden fees. Book a rental car now and embark on a trip of a lifetime!
