Begin your journey in Les Makes, a picturesque village situated in the heights of the island. Walk amidst the lush greenery of the National Botanical Conservatory of Mascarins, which houses rare and exotic plants. The Conservatory offers a beautiful panoramic view of the western coast of the island.
Cilaos, a village nestled in the mountains, is famous for its mesmerizing natural beauty. Drive down to La Roche Merveilleuse, a viewpoint that offers a 360-degree view of the cirque. Relax and unwind in its natural, mineral-rich hot springs reputed for their therapeutic and medicinal properties.
Visit Saint-Pierre, a coastal town that is popular for its beautiful beaches, lagoon, and corals. You can indulge in numerous water activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. The town also has several museums, and the Temple Tamoul Narassingua Perournal will give you a glimpse of the Tamil heritage of the island.
Explore Saint-Denis, the lively capital of the island. Visit the stunning Jardin de l’Etat, a botanical garden established in the 18th century. Wander through the streets and take in the architectural masterpieces such as the Creole-style villas.
La Plaine des Cafres is a region of the island located in the central highlands, home to one of the most active volcanoes on the island, Piton de la Fournaise. Head to the L'Observatoire volcanologique du Piton de la Fournaise and learn about the volcano’s activity while taking in the incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Wander through the charming village of Hell-Bourg, famous for its Creole-style architecture that dates from the 19th century. You can visit La Maison Folio, a museum that showcases the region's history and culture. Venture out to Cascade du Voile de la Mariée, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by verdant greenery.
The last day of your trip can be spent relaxing on the beaches of Saint-Leu, known for its turquoise lagoon and coral reefs. You can go snorkeling or diving to explore the region's rich underwater world. If you want to stay on land, you can hike in the lush rainforests surrounding the beaches.
If you're planning to explore the island on your own, renting a car is the best option for convenience and flexibility. You can expect to pay around €30-€80 per day depending on the type of vehicle and rental company. Taxis can be expensive, especially for long distances, and public transportation options are limited on the island. Keep in mind that the island is mountainous, and some areas can have narrow and winding roads, so plan your routes accordingly.
If you have more than seven days in La Réunion, consider spending extra time relaxing on the beaches or hiking in the national parks. For a shorter itinerary, you can skip some of the destinations, but keep in mind that each location offers its unique experience.
The primary airport serving Reunion island is Roland Garros Airport (RUN), which is located 7km east of Saint-Denis, the capital. The airport operates flights to and from several major cities, including Paris, Johannesburg, and Mauritius.