Yearning for a truly unforgettable adventure, blending the thrill of the wild outdoors with the charm of a uniquely tropical island? Then dust off your hiking boots and pack your bravest spirit, because Réunion Island is calling!
This jewel of the Indian Ocean, a French overseas department, boasts dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and stunning coastlines. It’s a place where you can hike across ancient calderas, witness the raw power of an active volcano, and then unwind on a pristine beach, all in the same day. So, let’s get you prepared for an unforgettable volcanic escapade from Spain to Réunion!
Before you can feast your eyes on Réunion’s volcanic wonders, a little preparation is needed. Think of this guide as your explorer’s kit!
Great news! As Réunion is a French overseas department, being part of the European Union, Spanish citizens can enter for stays of up to 90 days without needing a visa. You only need a valid Spanish identity card or passport. Make sure it's valid for the duration of your stay and ideally for three to six months beyond, just to be on the safe side.
Keep printed and digital copies of your passport and other documents. Think of this as your backup plan in case of loss or theft. Your printed copies should be kept separate from the original.
There are no direct flights from any airport in Spain to Réunion's Roland Garros Airport (RUN) in Saint-Denis. However, there are several available indirect flights with a layover in Paris or other European cities. The flight duration is between 17 to 24 hours, depending on the layover time.
Réunion has a variety of accommodation options that suit various tastes and budgets. From swanky beachfront hotels to more budget-friendly “gîtes” and self-catering apartments, there's something for everyone. Whether you're after a luxurious resort with a beautiful view of the Indian Ocean or a simple spot to lay your head after a day of adventuring, Réunion's got you covered, providing a comfortable home for your island escapades.
Booking your flights and accommodation is highly recommended to get the best deals and ensure your slots, especially during the peak season from late June to September. If you travel during the shoulder months from April to May, you might also get cheaper prices.
The official currency is the Euro (€), so no need to worry about exchanging your currency. Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions, especially in the more developed areas. However, it's a good idea to have some Euros in cash for smaller purchases, tips, and in case card machines are temporarily out of order. Local markets and small shops usually prefer cash.
While French is the official language, you’ll find that many people in tourist areas speak English. However, learning a few basic French phrases will certainly be appreciated and enhance your interactions. Bonjour, merci, and au revoir go a long way!
Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations and health precautions. While no specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry from Spain, they might recommend certain ones based on your individual health and travel stle. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are often advised. Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue and Chikungunya are present, so use mosquito repellent.
It’s always wise to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and loss of belongings. Adventure activities like hiking can carry inherent risks, so ensure your policy covers these. Check the policy details carefully to understand what's covered and what isn't.
Réunion’s climate is tropical, but the mountainous regions can get surprisingly chilly, especially at higher altitudes. Pack light, breathable clothing for the warmer days, but also include layers like a fleece jacket and waterproofs. Sturdy hiking boots are an absolute must for exploring the volcanic terrain.
Bring swimwear, sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a small first-aid kit. A reusable water bottle is also essential for staying hydrated on your adventures. Of course, don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!
While mobile phone coverage is generally good in populated areas, it can be patchy in more remote regions, especially in the cirques. Downloading offline maps on your phone or bringing a dedicated GPS device can be very helpful for hiking and exploring.
Now for the exciting part! Réunion Island is a volcanic playground, offering a range of experiences for all levels of adventurers. It boasts two main volcano massifs and three beautiful cirques ready for you to discover!
No volcanic adventure in Réunion is complete without a visit to the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Even when it’s not erupting, the landscape is otherworldly. The drive to the viewpoint overlooking the main caldera is an experience in itself. You’ll traverse the Plaine des Sables, a vast, lunar-like plain of reddish sand. It feels like driving on Mars! Stop at viewpoints along the way for incredible photo opportunities.
From the Pas de Bellecombe, several hiking trails lead into the caldera. The most popular is the hike to the Dolomieu crater, providing a close-up view of the volcano’s summit. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and check trail information before you set off. The views from the top are simply breathtaking.
Before or after your visit to the volcano, make sure to explore the Cité du Volcan (Volcano House Museum). This interactive museum provides fascinating insights into the geology of Réunion and the Piton de la Fournaise, with engaging exhibits and simulations.
Réunion’s dramatic landscape is also defined by three vast, ancient volcanic calderas: Cirque de Mafate, Cirque de Salazie, and Cirque de Cilaos. Each offers unique scenery and hiking opportunities.
The Cirque de Mafate is the most remote and arguably the most spectacular of the three. Accessible only on foot or by helicopter, it’s a haven for hikers. Numerous trails crisscross the caldera, connecting charming, isolated villages. Multi-day treks here are an unforgettable experience, offering stunning views of towering cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
The Cirque de Salazie is more accessible by road. It’s known for its lush vegetation and numerous stunning waterfalls, including the breathtaking Voile de la Mariée (Bride’s Veil). Enjoy scenic drives, short hikes to viewpoints, and a visit to the charming village of Hell-Bourg. This village gives a fascinating glimpse into the island's colonial past with its traditional Creole architecture, period furniture, and lush gardens filled with exotic plants.
The Cirque de Cilaos is famous for its dramatic peaks. It’s a hub for adventure activities like canyoning and rock climbing. After a challenging hike, you can relax in the thermal baths of Cilaos, known for their therapeutic properties. The winding road to Cilaos offers spectacular panoramic views, but be prepared for numerous hairpin bends!
Piton des Neiges, meaning "Snow Peak" in French, is the highest point on Réunion Island and indeed the entire Indian Ocean, soaring to a majestic 3,070 metres. Unlike its fiery neighbour, it is a dormant volcano, having not erupted for over 20,000 years. It's a massive, eroded shield volcano that played a key role in the formation of the island, and its name is a bit misleading as it's rarely capped with snow despite its height.
For the truly adventurous, a climb to this volcano’s summit is an unforgettable feat. This dormant volcano offers panoramic views of the entire island on a clear day. The ascent typically involves an overnight stay in a mountain refuge and a sunrise summit hike. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience.
For those wanting to witness the sunrise from the summit, you can stay overnight at the mountain hut located about an hour's walk below the peak. Waking up early at the gîte and making the final ascent in the dark to witness the sunrise from the "roof of the Indian Ocean" is a highly rewarding experience, painting the island in glorious colours.
To make the most of your volcanic adventure while staying safe, keep these tips in mind:
To truly explore the diverse landscapes of Réunion Island at your own pace, renting a car is highly recommended. It gives you the freedom to reach trailheads, viewpoints, and charming villages that might be less accessible by public transport.
Consider the type of vehicle you might need. While a small car is fine for most coastal roads, a vehicle with higher clearance might be preferable if you plan on venturing onto some of the more rugged mountain roads, particularly those leading to the Cirque de Cilaos.
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, as in Spain, so no worries! Be aware that mountain roads can be narrow and winding. Drive cautiously and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Traffic on the roundabout has priority. You must give way to vehicles already circulating within the roundabout. Indicate your intended exit as you approach the roundabout.
So, Spanish explorers, are you ready to answer the call of this fiery island? Réunion promises an adventure that will ignite your senses and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the heart of the Piton de la Fournaise to the verdant depths of the cirques, an unforgettable experience awaits. Rent a car on Finalrentals and enjoy exploring!
